Development of the Canadian Museum of Rail Travel (1976-2003)

Cranbrook, British Columbia, is a relatively small community of just under twenty thousand people. That a very specialized railway heritage collection is to be found here rather than in a large city or a national capital may seem surprising, but it shows what can be done by just one person with a vision and dedication who is able to inspire the people around him. The result — a world class historical railway collection in the midst of a mountain town.

It may also be surprising to learn that the story doesn't really begin until the mid 1970's, rather late for locating prime examples of old passenger train equipment. But then, the project was originally going to involve only a car or two—nothing specific, just enough to give the town an added reminder of its railway heritage.

What follows is the story of how the museum has evolved over the years, and how it became one of the premier attractions of the British Columbia Rockies.