While the construction date of the depot is still somewhat of a mystery, it is believed to date from the 1880's or 1890's, and could possibly be the oldest depot in the state (Canby is currently the oldest known depot).

     With the exception of the depot, most of the commercial district was destroyed by fire in 1903. It was originally located 3 blocks south of its current location, and moved to West First St. in the 1960's, where it became a seed storage warehouse. It was subsequently donated to the City of Halsey by Smith Seed Co.

     The City of Halsey was interested in a multi-purpose building that would serve several functions: City Hall, Youth Center, and Sheriff Sub-station. When the depot became available, city officials hoped that it might fulfill their goal. While not being restored to total historical accuracy, the existing depot/freight house will eventually be the top floor of a 2-story building. A display of railroad equipment is also planned. The total cost of completion is estimated at one million dollars. The cost of the half-mile move to its current location by Rainbow Construction was $16,000.