Gary Southgate’s dream of showcasing the captivating Frenchman River Valley in southwest Saskatchewan has come to life through Eastend Scenic Rail Tours. The journey began with a nostalgic train ride, leaving Southgate emotional and proud as the first public trip took place last month.
Hailing from North Battleford, Sask., Southgate, a dedicated farmer, has spent years meticulously assembling a collection of vintage trains to narrate the tales of the “Valley of Hidden Secrets.” His passion for trains dates back to childhood, when he was mesmerized by the sight of a steam locomotive passing through Biggar to North Battleford.
Starting with a 1929 Canadian Pacific Railway steam locomotive, Southgate later shifted his focus to acquiring CN equipment to recreate the ambiance of the old Super Continental passenger trains. Over the years, his collection has grown extensively, saving numerous rail cars from being scrapped and aiming to restore them for operational or museum purposes.
Despite facing challenges, such as disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and the logistical complexities of managing the tour while running a farm hundreds of kilometers away, Southgate remains determined. With the assistance of Great Western Railway staff, Eastend Scenic Rail Tours has successfully operated four trips this year and has four more scheduled, with one already sold out.
Southgate envisions expanding the tour’s facilities, including an RV park at the railyard, a museum showcasing antique train equipment, and a winter maintenance building. His ultimate goal is to ensure the preservation of history and create a unique experience for Eastend, the province, and all of Canada. Despite the challenges, Southgate remains optimistic about the future of his venture, acknowledging the need to secure the legacy of his passion for trains beyond his own lifetime.
