Discovery Train facts for kids
| Established | 22 July 1978 |
|---|---|
| Dissolved | 7 July 1980 |
| Location | Canada |
| Type | Mobile museum |
| Owner | National Museums of Canada |
The Discovery Train (called La Découverte in French) was a special mobile museum. It was a train that traveled all over Canada. The National Museums of Canada operated this unique museum.
From 1978 to 1980, the train helped Canadians learn about their country's history. It was like a traveling classroom on wheels!
Contents
What Was the Discovery Train?
The Discovery Train was a big, red and white train with about 20 cars. It journeyed across Canada, visiting many towns and cities. Imagine a museum that comes right to your town!
Many of the train cars had a past life. Fifteen of them were used for a similar train called the American Freedom Train. That train toured the United States from 1975 to 1976. After its tour, the National Museums of Canada bought these cars. They were then changed to fit the Discovery Train's exhibits.
How the Train Was Made Possible
Making such a large traveling museum needed a lot of help. Many groups worked together to make the Discovery Train a reality.
The Canadian National and Canadian Pacific railroads helped a lot. They moved the train across the country for free! This was a huge help for the project.
Several companies also gave money to support the train. The Royal Bank of Canada, Labatt Breweries, General Motors of Canada, and the Great-West Life Assurance Company each donated C$400,000. Other groups like The Devonian Group and The Richard Ivey Foundation also contributed. There was even a C$100,000 gift from someone who wished to remain anonymous.
A company called Richard Williams Studios even made a commercial for the train. This helped tell people about the exciting new museum.
Impact of the Discovery Train
During its two-year journey, hundreds of thousands of Canadians visited the Discovery Train. People from all over the country explored the exhibits. They learned new and interesting facts about Canada's rich history. It was a memorable way for many to connect with their heritage.
External Links
- Learn more about the Canadian Discovery Train
- See photos of the Discovery Train
- The Discovery Train at Canada Modern Museum
- Watch "Once upon a Train: The Discovery Train, Year One" from the National Film Board of Canada
