Written By Jan Sims
KOMOKA - The Komoka Railway Museum recently welcomed everyone “all aboard” to celebrate a milestone. It was 40 years ago, on July 1st 1986 that the museum officially opened at the site beside the Komoka Community Centre. “We want to celebrate the vision that all those men and women had to start the museum,” says curator Dan Oatman.
The museum celebrates the area’s past as a railway hub, and recalls local history as well. “Historians tell us there was at one time, 15 operating inns in Komoka,” says Oatman.
Back when the museum first opened at the site, it contained one building. That was followed by the acquisition of a caboose and baggage car. “So, it’s evolved and we’re still growing,” says Oatman.
Many items are on display at the museum, including telegraph keys, spike hammers and pullers, and lanterns, as well as a vintage railroad safe and a baggage sleigh. A highlight for visitors is the 1913 Shay steam locomotive, which has been lovingly restored. People can also browse through a collection of books, photos and newspaper clippings.
The museum hopes to secure funds to bring two historic buildings to the site. “One of them was the maintenance building and was actually part of the Komoka station building,” says Oatman. It’s hoped that additional space will enable the museum to get more items out of storage and on display.
The anniversary celebration also included information from Operation Lifesaver, which is an initiative to make kids aware of rail safety.
