Dugald Train Wreck Disaster Tour

TBA

Price Per Person ( + GST)

Duration: 3+ hours long

Upcoming Dates or Bookings:
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1.204.406.6499
info@communityparamedicsservice.com

Excursion Overview

On September 1, 1947, 31 people lost their lives in one of Canada’s deadliest rail disasters when the Minaki Camper’s Special and the Continental Limited No. 4 collided head-on. What should have been a happy end to a post war holiday weekend turned into a tragedy, wiping out three entire families. Dozens more were injured.

Our summer-season excursion takes guests through the key venues connected to the crash, examining the physical sites, while discussing the personalities involved and the aftermath. Learn about the police and government investigations and how blame fell first on one man in particular.

The tour begins at the Springfield Library in Dugald, where guests will attend a curated slide presentation with the help of local archivists (subject to availability). The library is located directly across from the crash site, and guests will have the opportunity to view the outdoor memorial and existing plaques detailing the incident.

From Dugald, the tour continues through Transcona, tracing the lives of those connected to the event - including the home of the deceased train engineer, the CN rail shops where the trains were maintained, and the former site of Cook’s Funeral Home, where victims were initially taken.

The excursion concludes with a visit to Brookside Cemetery, where 22 unidentified victims are buried beneath a solemn monument that continues to serve as a space of reflection and remembrance.

This powerful tour offers a meaningful way to honour Manitoba’s local history and the lives forever changed by this disaster.

Timeline Breakdown

Stop 1: Pickup + Transport to Dugald
Guests are picked up at their residence or group location and transported to the Springfield Library in Dugald.

Stop 2: Springfield Library Slide Presentation
Enjoy a guided visual presentation highlighting the events of September 1, 1947. When possible, a local archivist or historian will join to share personal insights and materials related to the disaster. The library sits directly across from the crash site.

Stop 3: Dugald Crash Site + Memorial
View the outdoor memorial located near the former train station site. The current grain elevator stands where the original burned during the disaster. Several historical plaques offer further context. Guests able to exit the vehicle may walk to the station site remains.

Stop 4: Drive Through Transcona
– Pass the CN Rail Shops, where both trains were repaired and returned to service after the incident
– View the home of Engineer Gaylord Lewis, who died in the crash
– Pass by the site of the former Cook’s Funeral Home, where many victims were initially brought
– See the historic Engine 2747 display, similar to those involved in the collision

Stop 5: Refreshment Break
A short coffee stop allows time to reflect, discuss, and connect as a group.

Stop 6: Brookside Cemetery
Visit the dedicated burial site of 22 unidentified victims of the crash. The memorial includes a large stone monument and a plaque commemorating the tragedy. Guests will have time to pause, remember, and explore the site if they wish.

Return Trip
Guests are transported back to their original pickup location.

Professional Support

This excursion is proudly operated by retired and off-duty paramedics who bring years of front-line experience and a deep understanding of care, safety, and mobility needs. From boarding assistance to in-the-moment support, your group is in capable, compassionate hands every step of the way.

Accessibility First

Our vehicles are fully wheelchair accessible and equipped to accommodate walkers and other mobility aids. We also design each route with accessible entry points and museum stops, ensuring every guest can enjoy the full experience without barriers or discomfort.

Specialized Seating

For participants who need extra comfort, our excursions offer transfer-free wheelchair spaces and specialized seating that ensures a safe, stable ride. No need to transfer out of your chair - just board, settle in, and enjoy the journey with peace of mind.

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