RU Cabin Restoration Project

The restoration of RU Cabin, a historical switch tower in the heart of downtown Russell, KY, is critical to the preservation of a significant piece of Kentucky history, economic development of the community, and the expansion and attraction of new businesses to the community. 

RU Cabin once controlled the route and speed of trains traveling the largest CSX yard in the nation. The Russell Train Depot, with RU Cabin, were not just an integral part of transportation in Kentucky, but a leader in employment and economic impact within this community. The Russell Train Depot and RU Cabin closed in the 1990's and had since remained vacant, leading to deterioration and decay of the once bustling properties. The restoration of RU Cabin preserves a significant piece of Kentucky's Transporation History, as well as the local history of Russell. 

In 2022, the Train Depot, RU Cabin, and a retired C&O Bay-Window Caboose were leased by Kristen and Justin Matthews. The Train Depot was fully restored and transformed into Eridanus Brewing, a tea and tap house. Eridanus Brewing is the only brewery in the local region and has made a significant economic impact in the community. Eridanus Brewing has been featured in several local publications for its unique atmosphere and dedication to preserving the history of the Train Depot, becoming a must-visit tourism attraction for those visiting Russell. The City of Russell, in conjunction with a local nonprofit organization, Revitalize Russell, have been rapidly developing plans and implementing strategies to welcome in new businesses and both beautify and restore the community. Another major development is the Entertainment District in Russell. Ferry Street, where the Train Depot is located, will soon be transformed into an Entertainment District, allowing visitors to purchase a locally crafted beer from Eridanus Brewing and walk from shop to shop, and during local markets (during approved times, dates, and locations). Downtown Russell, Ferry Street, and Eridanus Brewing are on the verge of major opportunities, making this the most ideal time to restore RU Cabin.

The Train Depot and RU Cabin are the first view visitors see when entering Downtown Russell. Eridanus Brewing has created a heavy drive to the property. Ferry Street's addition of the Entertainment District will increase even more patrons to the property. The City of Russell and local nonprofit's efforts have made this the era of growth for Russell, KY. There has never been a better time to invest in RU Cabin.

RU Cabin is heavily deteriorated but is structurally sound. Its restoration will take a sizable investment financially, as well as in time and labor. But its history is far too rich and its potential far too great to sit any longer.

Carly Stout, owner of Sage & Root, and Kristen Matthews, owner of Appalachian Folkology have decided to take on that investment. 

Sage & Root is an eco-friendly local business that specializes in houseplants, plant accessories, locally crafted candles, ethically sourced crystals, and sustainable gift products. Appalachian Folkology is an eco-friendly holistic brand that creates hand-crafted and locally sourced herbal teas, salves, tinctures, and apothecary products. Appalachian Folkology is additionally the tea served at Eridanus Brewing. The two businesses spent 2022 collaborating and further expanding their customer base, while developing a business plan and restoration plan for RU Cabin.

While a retired, historical switch tower may seem like an unconventional host for a houseplant and tea shop, the idea of taking a dying property, and filling it with life, true green life, was nothing short of magic to us. 

RU will be restored and filled with this life. It will be lovingly maintained by the businesses for years to come. While it once oversaw the speed and safety of trains, it will now oversee a bustling downtown, community markets filled with local produce, plants, and flowers, and a community more dedicated than ever to the history and beautification of Russell, KY. 

FUNDING

RU Cabin's estimated restoration cost is between $60,000 and $70,000. The two businesses, in partnership with the City of Russell, are aggressively pursuing grant funding. However, there are several aspects of the restoration that will not be covered under the grant funding, as well as a matching portion to grant. This means that if grants are awarded to restore RU Cabin, the two small businesses will likely still have to invest between $20,000 and $30,000.

NOTE

This property will be leased, not owned by these small businesses. This investment is not solely for the benefit for these businesses, but for the community, economic development, and preservation of history. Carly and Kristen are passionate about these topics, and that's why they have chosen to take on this project.