Gary Southgate’s long-held dream of running scenic rail tours through the picturesque landscapes of southwest Saskatchewan’s Frenchman River Valley has finally become a reality. The first public ride for Eastend Scenic Rail Tours last month marked a significant moment for Southgate, a farmer from North Battleford, Sask., who has spent years collecting old trains and planning to showcase the stories of the “Valley of Hidden Secrets.”
Southgate’s passion for trains dates back to his childhood days of watching steam locomotives pass by. In 2013, he began collecting vintage trains and has since amassed a substantial fleet, primarily focusing on Canadian National (CN) equipment to recreate the ambiance of the old Super Continental passenger trains. His collection includes a 1929 steam locomotive once used by the Canadian Pacific Railway and historic rail cars like the Cape Tormentime car, previously used by Eleanor Roosevelt.
Despite facing challenges, such as disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and the logistical complexities of managing the rail tours while farming 360 kilometers away, Southgate remains determined. The tours, operated with the assistance of Great Western Railway staff, have garnered positive feedback and support from the community, with plans for additional trips and the development of amenities like an RV park and a museum of old train equipment.
Southgate’s ultimate goal is to preserve history, create a unique experience for visitors, and ensure the sustainability of the rail tours. With visitors from across Canada and even international travelers from Paris, France, he envisions a future where his legacy lives on through the continued success of Eastend Scenic Rail Tours.
