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The Grand Trunk
Railway arrived in Wingham in1872. The construction of the link
between Wingham and Kincardine including that of the bridge would have
taken place between 1872 -74. In 1909 it became apparent that the
original bridge which was made of wood was not strong enough to carry
the heavier steam engines required for the freight trains traveling to
Kincardine. A decision to replace the bridge with a new steel
construction was made. The structure, which still stands today,
officially opened in 1915.
Background
The Kincardine Subdivision is located in an area where economic
activity consists of agriculture, cattle farming, and light industry.
Stations situated on the line are Atwood (M. 5.94), Ethel (M. 13.03),
Brussels (M. 18.60), Bluevale (M. 25.49), and
Wingham (M. 29.66). The major user of the line is Premdor Inc.
(hereinafter Premdor), a manufacturer of cedar doors and wooden
shutters. Premdor used rail to bring in lumber from British Columbia
and the Western United States.
History of the Line
The Kincardine Subdivision was built by the Wellington, Grey, and
Bruce Railway Company, and was opened for operations on December 29,
1874. On August 12, 1882, the Wellington, Grey and Bruce Railway
Company became part of the Great Western Railway Company system
amalgamating with the Grand Trunk Railway Company of Canada. On
January 31, 1923, they became part of CN.
Location of the Line
The Kincardine Subdivision begins at mile 27.9 off the CN Newton
Subdivision at the station of Listowel situated at mile 0.00. From
Listowel, it extends in a general northwest direction to Wingham at
mileage 30.34.
Description of Service
Prior to 1987, local freight service was provided on an as-required
basis. Since January 1, 1987, rail service on the subdivision has been
limited to once a week way freight service operating from Stratford to
Wingham.
Rails were removed in the late
80's when service from Palmerston was ended. |
