The Station to reopen next month in Carrboro

The first 10 shows have been announced for the venue located in a historic train station in downtown. The Station, built in 1882, has a rich history of music. R.E.M. played its first show outside of their home state of Georgia at The Station in 1980. Elizabeth Cotton was inspired to write her famous folk song, Freight Train, in the early 1900s as tribute to the trains that stopped there, which she could hear at night from the bedroom of her childhood home.

In the past century, the space has been home to an assortment of businesses, only to return to its musical roots. The Station closed its door on Dec. 31.

"Our plan for The Station is to celebrate the musical moments that it’s been built on and host our own events for the history books," owner Andrew Moore said in a statement. "We are upgrading the sound, lighting, and acoustic treatments in the room so we can offer professionally-run and intimate shows in a unique space, that feels and sounds good, where bands and fans can get up-close-and-personal."

Shows kick off on April 7 with singer-songwriter Kamara Thomas and Blue Cactus. The venue will also be hosting "Secret Shows" each quarter. The headliners will not be announced until the day of the event. The first "Secret Show" is April 22 and tickets are on sale now.

In addition to the music, the bar will feature 10 beers on tap and craft cocktails made with fresh and locally-sourced ingredients, and a unique selection of house-made Bloody Mary's.The bar will be open Monday through Friday 5 p.m. until 2 a.m. and on Saturdays and Sundays noon to 2 a.m. There will be live music, DJs and other unique events Thursday through Saturday.

Moore also owns nearby restaurant, Venable.