Footprints of the once mighty PRR and B&O. In 1901, the PRR and the B&O announced plans to build this landmark station and remove their smaller independent stations from the area where the Mall now exist. The station was built to handle the increasing crowds traveling to DC as well as to better represent the entrance to the Capitol city. Union Station onpened on October, 27th, 1908 and eventually served the Southern, the RF&P as well as the SAL and ACL. Today, it serves Amtrak, MARC, VRE and the Washington Metro. Word to the wise - if you should find yourself riding behind GG1 #4876- get a seat in the rear of the train!