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The Station Break is a designated community agency that advocates, promotes, and implements services appropriate to meet the on-going needs of the sixty plus population of Knox County. Enhancing the dignity of each person by allowing self-determination and independence in choices that provide for continued involvement in the community and in normal daily living activities within their own capabilities.
HISTORY
The depot on Main Street opened during the summer of 1905, its tracks parallel to Owl Creek*. The Columbus, Akron & Cleveland and the Pennsylvania Railroads were operating a joint venture in Mount Vernon.
The station was the center of action in the community. Each day eight trains left the station northbound for Cleveland and eight southbound for Columbus. The greatest amount of traffic was thought to be between Columbus and Mount Vernon. Passengers wishing to travel to Pittsburgh and New York City traveled north to Orrville and made connections at that main railroad crossing.
All mail came to Mount Vernon by train in those early days and that necessitated constant traffic to and from the Post Office. A horse drawn dray line operated from the depot, delivering packages, boxes, luggage to businesses, hotels, and residences.
The architecture of the station reflects an oriental influence in its roof lines, eave overhang and red tile roof. Its exterior has remained essentially unchanged except that it had a large wooden platform which extended to Main Street. The wood was replaced with concrete some years later.
The last passenger train to arrive and depart was Train #625 northbound to Akron-middle of June, 1952. The Station Break was dedicated February 16, 1975 and has been providing the community with service and a friendly meeting place, with the hope of continuing on well into the future.....
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