Boyce Station
Courtesy of Daniel Case
22 August 2008
Location:
40°19′5″N 80°6′49″W
Description:
Boyce, situated at the intersection of Boyce Road and the Chartiers Branch tracks in Upper St. Clair, Pennsylvania, USA, stands as a disused train station with a rich history. Erected in 1900, this station not only facilitated rail operations but also served as a hub for a small community, housing a post office and general store.
Following a period of decline due to reduced rail traffic and the increasing dominance of automobiles in the surrounding area, Boyce Station underwent restoration in 1980. It stands today as a remarkable example of a rail station that once functioned as a local commercial center in the Pittsburgh region. Recognizing its significance, Boyce Station was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1982.
The structure itself is a T-shaped frame building resting on a concrete block foundation, boasting two stories and three bays wide. A 32-foot porch spans the length of the front facade, supported by chamfered wood posts. The interior retains much of its original character, with three rooms on each floor and additional space in the southwest addition.
The station's history is intertwined with the development of rail transport in the region, with its construction coinciding with the expansion of the rail line. Over the years, shifts in transportation preferences led to a decline in rail traffic, culminating in the cessation of passenger services in 1952. Ownership of the rail line changed hands multiple times, ultimately falling under the Pittsburgh and Ohio Central Railroad.
In 1980, Roland Ramsay, a corporate psychologist, recognized the potential of the station and purchased it for his consulting business. Learning about its historical significance, he undertook renovations to restore its original charm, eventually securing its place on the National Register. Today, Ramsay's company continues to operate from this historic site, preserving its legacy for future generations.
