Rivers
Train
Station
1.
Keepsake
Fundraising
2.
Station
History
3.
Grand Trunk
Pacific
4. 100th
Anniversary
Station
Photos
1.
Station
Cleanup 2007
2.
Prize Draw
2009
3.
Heritage
Puzzle
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RIVERS
TRAIN STATION HISTORY TIMELINE
In 1907 the Grand Trunk Pacific Railway
depot, Rivers'
first structure created a new skyline on the Manitoba prairies.
Simultaneously in 1907, the Grand Trunk
Pacific
trestle bridge at Rivers was constructed making it one of the longest
of its kind in western Canada during those times.
Black Sunday, March 4, 1917 - Rivers'
most
disastrous fire in which the Grand Trunk Pacific depot fell prey to
flames.
September 21, 1917 - a newly constructed
railway
depot was presented to the public with a station restaurant (The
Beanery) and a waiting-room dance.
Early 1990's - Rivers Train Station
eventually
closes it's doors completely after a gradual decline in services. From
a full service depot, to a whistle stop and back to a major boarding
depot, VIA travelers continue to board or arrive at Rivers depot.
Late 1990's - Rivers Train Station is
designated as
a federal heritage site.
Fall 2006 - A committee is formed to
save and
restore the Rivers train station. Initiated by the Rivers/Daly
Community Development Corporation, the Rivers Train Station Restoration
Project committee's mission is to restore Rivers Train Station to a
viable property for heritage preservation and economic development.
September 2008 - For the first time in
memory, all
trains east and westbound on the CN line through Rivers lay quiet for
24 hours as crews made significant upgrades to the trestle bridge at
Rivers.
September 9, 2008 - The Rivers train
'stationette'
officially opens after the closing of Brandon North station making
Rivers the only boarding station in western Manitoba for VIA passengers
traveling to points east and west. Close to 2,000 passengers board or
arrive on VIA at the Rivers depot annually. VIA and the RTSRP committee
anticipate those numbers to increase.
Present - the Rivers Train Station Restoration
Project committee continues to work towards restoring the current train
station building to be Canada's first 'green' heritage train station.
The method of restoration will be carried out following the most
environmentally efficient criteria. Funding for restoration is being
made possible through grants, corporate and individual support, as well
as fundraising. ALL BOARD!
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