Cranbrook Museums

The passenger train helped establish Canada'swest. The previous importance of the train is well reflected at this museum. The Museum concentrates on the great "Name Trains" - the deluxe hotel-on-wheels. The premier example is a complete restored luxury train from the 'Golden Age' of Rail Travel -- the complete 7-car set of the 1929 'Trans Canada Limited'. This train cost a fortune to build and was the ultimate in luxury, speed and service. Several other sets are also on display, offering insight into the luxury that was train travel. The impressive 2800 sq.ft. oak-paneled "Royal Alexandra Hall" is the restored former grand Cafe from the famous Royal Alexandra Hotel of Winnipeg, pride of the Canadian Pacific Railway from 1906 to its demolition in 1971. This large ornate Hall is the centrepiece of the large new Museum site and facilities. The museum adds new exhibits on an ongoing basis.