Some residents of Vermilion are actively involved in the preservation efforts of a historic CN train station located in Vermilion Provincial Park, following its closure to the public in 2023 due to safety concerns.
The station, which has stood in the community for over 120 years, has served as a central hub for various community gatherings, including weddings, birthday celebrations, and events for the Vermilion Nordic Ski Club. While the ski club still utilizes a room for ski maintenance, there is currently no space for members to warm up after outdoor activities.
Jan Scott, a member of the newly established CN Station Preservation Society, shared that the idea to preserve the station emerged gradually after its closure. Community support for the preservation initiative was evident during an initial meeting where approximately 40 individuals expressed interest.
Constructed in 1905, the station played a pivotal role in Vermilion’s history, serving as a ticketing center, telegraph station, and transport hub for both passengers and freight. Subsequent renovations in 1937 saw the addition of essential amenities such as water, electricity, sewage, and gas. Following its closure in 1979, the building was relocated to Vermilion Provincial Park.
The building’s ground floor currently features a spacious living area, a kitchen, and a washroom, with additional office and boardroom spaces on the second floor, potentially available for public use if the building undergoes renovation and reopens.
Efforts to save the structure coincide with ongoing discussions between the province, the Town of Vermilion, and community members regarding the building’s future. Assessments conducted in 2023 identified significant infrastructure issues rendering the building unsafe for public access. Subsequent maintenance work in 2024 addressed drainage and window issues to prevent further deterioration.
Plans are underway for the potential transfer of the building to the town, with collaborative efforts aimed at exploring renovation options. Situated within Vermilion Provincial Park, the CN station shares the park’s space with various recreational amenities, including soccer fields, baseball diamonds, a spray park, playgrounds, and a campground.
The town’s involvement in park operations since 2025, encompassing campground management, mowing, snow removal, and general maintenance, underscores its commitment to the park’s upkeep. Mayor Robert Snow emphasized the importance of maintaining the park’s provincial designation, highlighting its role in attracting visitors and offering recreational opportunities to residents.
Recognizing the CN station as a significant historical landmark, Snow emphasized its symbolic value as an icon of Vermilion’s heritage, drawing people to the community and fostering economic development.