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Caption: The ever ongoing exterior restoration of the CN Melville, SK station is evident in this June 8, 2022 photo, as it was during two previous trips on The Canadian in March of 2020, and December 2021. Scaffolding and leaning ladders still adorn the outside of the building behind a Frost security fence as passengers from VIA #2 mill about the puddled platform enjoying some fresh air and leg stretching. Meanwhile, a crew change is taking place up ahead at the lead locomotive. Of note, at the upper right corner of this photo is the original coal oil marker lamp hanger bracket still attached to the end of the Skyline car. I noticed a number of these brackets still adorning a variety of these old stainless steel cars on The Canadian equipment, and cars assigned to the Churchill trains as well. On many cars, these marker lamp fixtures had been removed and patched over with a stainless steel plate.
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Great photo, lots of passenger activities on the platform. The concrete tie curbs stones are a nice addition. Always good seeing station restorations taking place.
Very nice to see the exterior renovation of the old Melville station is continuing, it is a very nice and historical structure. The last time I stretched my legs at this Canadian stop/locomotive crew change was over a decade ago and this station building was crumbling and looking forlorn and neglected. Any idea who is responsible for the renovation and what use may await this structure ? The platform is an embarrassment; VIA can spend thousands $$$$ on new & renovated stations on the Windsor – Quebec corridor, but nary a nickel here. Thanks for posting, John
Thanks for acknowledging the photo guys! ???? The station was declared a national historic site in 1992. In 2010, the Melville Rail Station Heritage Association acquired the title to the station building. They plan to restore both the interior and exterior of the station.
What an adventure you are having Paul! Great posts! – Ken
Thanks Ken. I’m thoroughly enjoying my rail travels since retiring in 2018. Another cross-Canada trip coming up in October. I’m hoping VIA’s mask mandate will be gone by then. ????