All Aboard: Preserving Komoka’s Railway Legacy
Komoka’s railway history dates back to 1854 and the original sta- tion was constructed by Great Western Railway, a company later taken over by Grand Trunk Rail- way, GTR. The Komoka Railway Museum was born out of a desire to preserve this important legacy. And now they’re taking on anoth - er major project and asking for the community’s help.
By 1858, Komoka had become a main train hub between Sarnia and Windsor lines. The original station was moved to another location in Komoka. That origi- nal building still exists in the middle of a modern house built around it on Huron Street. In 1891 Canadian Pacific Railway (CPR) built a new station on Komoka’s north side. This ten-room station was in use until it was demolished in 1969. The GWR/GTR station, built in 1958, later used by CN (Canadian National), lasted until 1940 when it was dismantled and replaced with a station hauled in from Gobles. It’s that imported railway station, Komoka’s third, that operated until 1974 and now stands at the Komoka Railway Museum. In the 1970s, community members got together to raise funds to purchase and move and renovate the station to what is now the museum’s site, 131 Queen Street. Notes written by the late Ron Davis, a dedicated local historian and railway enthusiast, are at the museum chronicling the area’s history and this major undertaking. The site adjacent to the Komoka Community Centre also boasts a restored 1913 Shay steam locomotive and hundreds of railway artifacts available for close inspection. There’s also a small Longwoods flag stop station. The museum opened in 1986, making 2026 its 40th anniversary year. And they’d like to celebrate with another expansion and more acquisitions. There are plans to add one building and an Ron Davis
early 1900s box car. The Komoka Station building also requires some maintenance. Museum memberships are available and donations are gratefully accepted as they hope to complete this work in the spring. The Komoka Railway Museum is about more than the history of local rail transportation. It’s a look at how Komoka was settled, visited, and the way it grew over the decades. With the first Komoka rail station opening more than 170 years ago, there’s a lot to learn about the history of the area we call home. Komoka, the cat, was found under the station platform 12 years ago. She is the station mascot.
Picture of map showing sites of interest in Komoka.
Warm Moments, Bright Memories At Riverstone Retirement Residence, the new year is a time to savour comfort, connection, and the joy of shared moments. From delightful desserts to meaningful conversations, our community makes every day feel warm, welcoming, and wonderfully bright. Call 519-474-4410 to book your personal tour today!
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KKD Villager Jan/Feb 2026
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