Selma-Smithfield, NC (SSM)
The historic Union Depot in Selma, North Carolina was built in 1924 to serve two railway lines: the Atlantic Coast Line Railroad and the Southern Railway. This important building nearly faced demolition in 1975, but thanks to community action it was saved and remains in use today.
Address: 500 East Railroad Street, Selma, NC 27576
Key Figures (FY 2024)
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Annual Ticket Revenue | $1,014,995 |
| Annual Station Ridership | 17,770 |
Ownership
- Facility: City of Selma
- Parking Lot: CSX Transportation (CSX T) / Henry Joseph Price
- Platform: CSX T / City of Selma
- Tracks: CSX T / North Carolina Railroad (NCRR)
Routes Served
- Palmetto
- Carolinian
Contact
For any inquiries about train fares and schedules, call 1-800-USA-RAIL (1-800-872-7245) or visit the official website.
History
The Union Depot was designed by architect A.M. Griffin and completed in 1924. It has a distinctive “V”-shaped layout because it served two railway lines crossing each other — the north-south Atlantic Coast Line and the east-west Southern Railway.
Selma itself traces its roots to the railroad industry. Although officially chartered in 1873, local history shows the town’s origin in 1867 when lots were first sold around the Mitchner station on the North Carolina Railroad (built in 1855).
In 1975, when there was a plan to demolish the depot, the city intervened, acquired the property, and ensured its preservation. The depot briefly operated as a museum in 1976 and became an active train station again in 1982 when the National Register of Historic Places added it. Additional rail services resumed in the 1980s and 1990s.
Renovations & Upgrades
- 2001–2002: The station underwent a major renovation ($3.4 million) which added landscaping, new sidewalks and parking, vintage lighting, and a refreshed waiting room with displays about the city’s railroad past. Funding came mostly from federal sources, with state and local contributions supplementing it.
- February 2024: A further project ($2.5 million) improved the station for safety, efficiency and accessibility: a new 325-foot concrete platform, additional lighting, guardrails and signage, plus accessible pathways from parking to the depot.
Local Significance & Community
The depot is more than a train stop — it stands as a symbol of Selma’s identity as a railroad town. It plays host to the annual “Railroad Days” celebration on the first weekend in October, featuring rail-themed displays and activities throughout downtown and at the station.
Nearby attractions include the Bentonville Battleground for Civil War history, the Tobacco Farm Life Museum and the live weekend show American Music Jubilee. A local historical note: the pharmacist Lunsford Richardson of Selma developed what later became the famous Vicks VapoRub.
Station Facilities
Building / Waiting Area
- No ATM available
- No elevator
- Pay phones available
- Quik-Trak kiosks for ticketing
- Restrooms available
- Unaccompanied child travel not permitted
- Vending machines onsite
- No WiFi service
- It is recommended to arrive at least 30 minutes before departure.
Baggage Services
- No Amtrak Express shipping service available
- No checked baggage service
- No baggage storage or carts
- No bike boxes, no ski bags
Parking
- Same-day parking is available (fees may apply)
- Overnight parking is available (fees may apply)
Accessibility Features
- Payphones accessible
- Accessible platform and restrooms
- Accessible waiting room and water fountain
- Same-day and overnight accessible parking available (fees may apply)
- Note: There is no high platform and no dedicated wheelchair ramp lift
Hours of Operation
| Service | Hours |
|---|---|
| Station Waiting Room | Mon–Sun: 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM |
| Ticket Office | No ticket office at this station |
| Passenger Assistance | Not available at this station |
| Checked Baggage Service | Not available |
| Parking | No dedicated hours specified |
| Quik-Trak Kiosk | Mon–Sun: 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM |
| Lounge | No lounge available |
| Amtrak Express (Shipping) | Not available |
Why Use This Station
- Centrally located in Selma, the depot is easy to access and offers important services for travellers.
- Its rich history makes it more than just a transit hub — it’s a community landmark reflecting Selma’s railroad heritage.
- Recent renovations have enhanced safety, accessibility and convenience for passengers.
- It serves two major train routes, offering meaningful service for both local and long-distance travel.
Plan Your Visit
Whether you’re using the station to travel or simply visiting for its historic value, allow yourself extra time to explore the architecture and displays in the waiting room. Call 888-929-3161 for any questions about services or accessibility.
Call to Action:
Have questions or need help planning your trip? Call 888-929-3161 now and speak to our team. ( Amtrak Deals )
