The Society was chartered in 1978. In August, 1981, the Society had the original depot in the village moved to park district property to preclude its destruction. The Village of Winfield had purchased the property on which the building stood for parking and expansion of the Village Hall. The Village donated the building to the historical society, with the understanding that it would be moved.

The depot was the first building in Winfield and is the oldest remaining depot in the State of Illinois. It was built in 1849 in response to the completion of the Galena and Chicago Union Railroad in the area. Over the years it has served also as a post office, a tavern, general store and residence. For over seventy-five years it was the home of the Besch family. The depot was listed on the National Register of Historical Places, but was removed from the Register after it was moved.

The Society plan is to restore part of the building as a period depot museum to be called "Hedges Station" in honor of John Hedges, first stationmaster. Other portions will be developed as a museum focusing on the Winfield area, while the basement, which is new construction, will serve as a meeting room for the historical society and other civic groups.

The Winfield Historical Society board meets on the third Tuesday of each month at Hedges Station, and all who are interested are welcome to attend. For more information, please call President Adrienne Rose, 630-653-1489, or Vice President Tippi Friedrich, 630-653-4971.

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www.winfieldhistory.com/history.html