History
PICTURED: The Rivers Train Station was rebuilt after the first burned down in 1917. Photo courtesy XXXXX.
1907
The Grand Trunk Pacific Railway Depot, Rivers’ first structure, created a new skyline on the Manitoba prairies.
1907
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.
March 4, 1917
Black Sunday – Rivers’ most disastrous fire destroyed the Grand Trunk Pacific depot.
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 1990s
Rivers Train Station eventually closes its 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 1990s
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 eastbound 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 makes 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.
The Rivers Train Station Restoration Project Committee continues to work towards restoring the current train station building as 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, and fundraising. ALL BOARD!