The Government of Canada is investing $90,000 to enable the Northern Ontario Railroad Museum and Heritage Centre to restore a 1907 steam locomotive to ensure this unique, museum-quality artifact is safe, historically accurate and suitable for public display.
Located at Prescott Park in Capreol, steam locomotive #219 represents more than 100 years of local history and serves as a centrepiece for the Northern Ontario Railroad Museum and Heritage Centre.
Capreol was created as a result of the formation of a major CN rail divisional point and this important piece of local history captures the community’s contribution to the development and expansion of Canada.
Marc Serré, Member of Parliament for Nickel Belt, made the announcement on Dec. 2, on behalf of the Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development, and Minister responsible for FedNor.
“I am thrilled that the Government of Canada, through FedNor, is investing to help preserve the past and build a future for the Northern Ontario Railroad Museum and Heritage Centre," said Serré.
"Today’s announcement supports our goal to maximize the social and economic potential of local infrastructure assets that are important to the people of Northern Ontario and all Canadians.”
The FedNor investment, provided through the Canada 150 Community Infrastructure Program (CIP 150), will support local tourism by helping to preserve and protect this important community asset.
“This investment will help revitalize an important piece of local history that helps tell the tale of Capreol and our beautiful region," said Cody Cacciotti, Operations Manager, Northern Ontario Railroad Museum & Heritage Centre.
"Restoring steam locomotive #219 to its former glory will enhance tourism and strengthen the economy, while showcasing our community pride and local heritage.”
