Ernestown railway station facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Ernestown
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The station in 1980.
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| Location | Canada |
| Coordinates | 44°13′02″N 76°45′17″W / 44.21722°N 76.75472°W |
| Construction | |
| Structure type | Historic railway station |
| History | |
| Opened | 1855 |
| Closed | circa 1973 |
| Previous names | Grand Trunk Railway |
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Heritage Railway Station (Canada)
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| Official name: Former Grand Trunk Railway Station | |
| Designated: | 1992 |
| Reference #: | 4551 |
| Official name: Ernestown Railway Station | |
| Designated: | January 11, 1999 |
The Ernestown railway station is located in Loyalist, Ontario, Canada. It is a very special old building because it is protected as a Heritage Railway Station. It is also protected under a law called the Ontario Heritage Act. This means it is an important part of Canada's history.
Contents
Why is Ernestown Station Special?
The Ernestown railway station is not just any old building. It is one of only a few original stations built by the Grand Trunk Railway that are still standing today.
A Glimpse into the Past: The Grand Trunk Railway
The Grand Trunk Railway was a very important railway company in Canada's early history. It helped connect towns and cities, making travel and trade much easier. The Ernestown station was built in 1855, which means it is over 160 years old! It stopped being used as a train station around 1973.
Italianate Style: A Unique Look
When the station was built, it was designed in a style called "Italianate." This style was popular in Britain in the 1840s for railway buildings. It often includes features like low-pitched roofs, wide eaves supported by brackets, and tall, narrow windows. The Ernestown station is one of only nine of these "first-generation" Grand Trunk stations that still exist.
Protecting Our History: Heritage Status
Because of its age and unique style, the Ernestown station is considered a "heritage" building. This means it is officially recognized as important to our history and culture. It is protected by two main laws:
- The Heritage Railway Stations Protection Act (from the Canadian government)
- The Ontario Heritage Act (from the Ontario government)
These laws help make sure that old buildings like the Ernestown station are preserved for future generations to learn from and enjoy.
