Gary Southgate’s dream of showcasing the stories of southwest Saskatchewan’s Frenchman River Valley came to life with the inauguration of Eastend Scenic Rail Tours. The journey, meandering through the picturesque riverbanks and eroded badlands, left Southgate emotional during the first public ride last month.
Hailing from North Battleford, Saskatchewan, Southgate, a farmer, has spent years assembling a collection of old trains and formulating plans to narrate the tales of the “Valley of Hidden Secrets.” His passion for trains dates back to his childhood, sparked by watching steam locomotives pass by in Biggar to North Battleford.
Starting his collection in 2013 with a 1929 Canadian Pacific Railway steam locomotive, Southgate transitioned to acquiring CN equipment to recreate the ambiance of the old Super Continental passenger trains. With an extensive collection of rail cars, he aims to restore and utilize them, preserving their historical significance.
Despite facing challenges, including disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, Southgate persisted in launching Eastend Scenic Rail Tours. Collaborating with Great Western Railway, the tours have been a success, attracting visitors from various parts of the country, including international travelers from Paris, France.
Southgate’s vision extends beyond the tours, with plans for an RV park, a museum, and a winter maintenance facility at the railyard. His determination to preserve history and create a unique experience for Eastend and beyond drives his relentless efforts, with optimism for the future of his venture.
