This station was originally built in 1906. Since COVID, there have been two significant additions to this wonderful historic rail house.
- The station now displays a caboose and boxcar; and
- Visitors with mobility issues can now see what’s going on in the basement diorama through a newly installed video link on the main level with video cameras in the basement.
From 1855 to the late 1950s, Freeman station serviced steam trains. It was the site of two devastating fires and several train accidents. The station we see today was built several years before steam power made way for diesel engines. Then highways were developed, and in 1988, the CNR declared Freeman Station surplus which had to be moved or demolished.
“In 2011 the City of Burlington found a temporary home behind the Fire Department headquarters, about 500 metres from its original location”, said Ed Keenleyside, President of Friends of Freeman Station. “It was about 2015 when a new foundation was prepared, and the station moved once again, to where it is today.”
According to Keenleyside, the Friends of Freeman Station operate and care for this important transportation hub.
“Despite no longer welcoming freight and passenger trains, we are proud to open our doors to the public, free of charge.”, he said.
For the Open House Schedule or to donate, click here.