by Sylene Argent, Local Journalism Initiative
There was plenty to see and do over the weekend at the annual Essex Train Show, from shopping at local vendor tables for unique finds or rare model train parts, to looking over the interactive and intricate detail in the many, large model train displays set up inside the Essex Recreation Complex.
Heritage Essex – a local organization that maintains the historic Essex Railway Station – hosted the annual, weekend-long event. It is one of its major fundraisers of the year and also brings people from all over into the hub of the County.
Onsite, visitors were not only able to admire the time and effort put into setting up the displays, but also had a chance to take the controls, which was an especially big hit for the young enthusiasts who may now have a dream of one day becoming a model railroader or even pursue becoming a conductor or engineer.
There was also a kids’ area, where children were able to make train-themed art.
Thanks to the exhibitors, the annual Essex Train Show continues to draw visitors from all over the region – and beyond – to see the model train displays set up for the event. That includes members of the Windsor Modular Railroad Club, the London N’Gineers Model Railroad Club, the Essex County Model Train Club, and the Chatham Model Railroad Club.
Administrator for the historic Essex Railway Station, Marnie Aldridge, was pleased to welcome so many visitors to this year’s event, noting when the doors opened Saturday morning, the foot traffic was heavy throughout the gymnasium.
Heritage Essex maintains the historic Essex Railway Station. It also helps to preserve local history.
On May 7, 1873, the very first train rolled into Essex Centre on the tracks the Canada Southern Railway began to lay just a year earlier. The local rail line, which significantly contributed to Essex’s growth and led it to earning town status in 1890, was removed in 2012.
Aldridge noted more artifacts are on display at the Essex Railway Station, and urges everyone to stop by during business hours to learn more about Essex’s unique railroad history.
Looking ahead, Heritage Essex will be the host site for the annual plant sale on the Saturday before Mothers’ Day and plans to host a family fun day during the summer months. She is also planning to show train-themed videos during the Fun Fest weekend in July.
On the Saturday of the Fun Fest weekend, the annual Citizen of the Year will be announced. A banquet is held in the fall to honour that individual for their volunteerism, which is another major fundraiser for Heritage Essex. The banquet is assisted by the Rotary Club of Essex, the Essex Legion, and the Holy Name Knights of Columbus.
Aldridge urges everyone to start thinking of who they would like to nominate as the 2025 Citizen of the Year. Applications will be accepted starting sometime in June. More details will be announced in the near future.