In July of 1885 the rail line from Eureka to Burnell's (Alton) was completed. On July 3, 1888, the town of Slide-Springville's name was changed to Fortuna. In 1893 the railroad constructed a depot at the foot of 7th Street where the station master's home still stands.
The Northwestern Pacific Railroad abandoned the post in 1965 and the city of Fortuna purchased the station and transformed it into the Fortuna Depot Museum. The museum is dedicated to keeping alive the history of Fortuna and the Eel River Valley. The museum contains the history of the Eel River Valley. Collections include memorabilia from railroad, farm and war eras, including large locks, spark plugs, and barbed wire displays. There is an extended doll collection as well as many types of fishing gear and lures.
The museum is open daily June 1 to Labor Day and is closed Monday and Tuesday the rest of the year. Admission is free.