Thursday, July 21, 2011

Today, we stopped by the train museum beside the highway leading from Saskatoon to Rob and Ellen's. We have driven by it many times, and weren't quite sure what to make of it -- at first glance, it looked like it might be just a collection of old train cars that one could go and look at. However, when we actually took the time to check it out, we were very pleasantly surprised.

First, we were met by a friendly museum guide, who took us on a trip down the rails on a "jigger", or small rail car used to make repairs.

Everyone had a good time riding the jigger.

Once we got to the end of the line, we were able to look around an old railway station that had been restored.

But first, Sam had to take a seat on a nearby passenger car

On our way into the train station, Natasha noticed this helpful sign

Sam, Dave and Natasha taking turns as conductors.

The baggage room in the train station

Some lilies outside the train station

Once we left the train station, it was time to check out the many, many trains that were ready and waiting to be explored.

Sam checking out the power plant car

The dining portion of another car

A Saskatoon Transit trolley car

There was also plenty of opportunity to just wander around, and check out the sights...

Checking out the tracks

Operating the switches, levers, and signals

Having a chat on and old-fashioned telephone

A view south towards Rob and Ellen's, Pike Lake, and beyond

Sam driving yet another train.
Dave liked the picture on the right because of its striking similarity to a certain Tragically Hip album.

One last view down the tracks, towards all the sights we had just seen.

All in all, we had a great time, and were very glad that we stopped by!