Following their decision to close the Train and Station in June, owners Andy and Debbie Hess have decided to list the business for sale in hopes that a new owner can negotiate a lease with the Town of Saugeen Shores and once again allow the train whistle to blow as it rolls along the beach, harbour and North Shore Park.
See: Station owners announce closure
In a July 12 media release, The Saugeen Team, Re/Max Land Exchange Ltd. Brokerage announced the sale.
The train is a 24-gauge replica of a 1936 American Steam engine and was built locally by H.E. Schlenker & Sons Ltd in 1978. The train originally ran at Old Castle Farm, south of Windsor, and returned to Port Elgin in 1983. The Hesses bought The Station and the train in 1991 after the train had spent a number of summers locked in the station house.
Andy worked diligently to have the train run again beginning in 1992 and was recognized by the Port Elgin Tourist Association with a Special Award of Merit in the spring of 1992 for his efforts.
The Train has delighted thousands of riders as they rode the two mile track around North Shore Park and back to The Station. Many brides, wedding parties, birthday celebrations and family gatherings have ridden the train as part of their special celebrations.
In addition to the Train, the business includes the Station building, the train tracks as well as the mini-put, fixtures and chattels, listed at $499,000. Negotiating a new lease with the Town of Saugeen Shores would allow the train to continue to run at the Port Elgin Main Beach, the harbour and North Shore Park.
A second option would be to sell the train, the track and the related equipment and relocate them. This option is being offered for $299,000. While Andy and Debbie would prefer the train remain in Port Elgin, they believe it is necessary to explore all sales options.
The Station building and related items would be offered separately, however the Station will not be sold before the fate of the train is known.
It is the hope of all involved that the Port Elgin and North Shore Railroad will once again be operational at the Port Elgin Main Beach.
For more information, contact Scott Saunders, Broker, at 519-797-1755 or scott@saugeenteam.com.
