Canadian National Railway Station

The heritage value of the Canadian National Railway Station lies in its architecture and historic integrity from the time of construction. The station was constructed in 1928 according to the Canadian National Railway (CNR) standardized plan #100-184, similar to the design used for many of the third class stations built across the province during the period. The station design facilitated passenger and cargo traffic on the main floor, while providing living quarters for the station agent and family on the second floor. Since its construction, the station has not undergone significant alterations and retains many of the original materials.

The heritage value of the property also lies in its historic role as a transportation hub for the community. The introduction of the railroad in the late 1920s revolutionized the way to move people and goods moved into and out of the community. The railway was the dominant mode of transportation for the area until all-weather highways were constructed through the area after the Second World War.

The heritage value of the property also lies in its use as a museum. When the CNR closed the station in 1981, a community group took over the property and established a local museum. The building has since been used to display artifacts of historical significance to the town and district.

Source:

Village of Rabbit Lake, Bylaw 2/81.