Temporary Closure Announcement
On behalf of the Elgin County Railway Museum (ECRM), our dedicated volunteers, and our valued members, we would like to share an important update with the community.
The ECRM has temporarily suspended operations, and at this time there is no confirmed reopening date. This decision was not made lightly. The temporary closure is due to building-related issues located outside of public areas of the facility. These issues did not impact public safety during recent operations or events. While we proceed with the next steps, the building will remain closed to the public, members, and volunteers, with limited staff access permitted only as required for essential purposes, while these matters are responsibly addressed.
The Museum has always been more than a collection of artifacts—it is a place where stories are preserved, shared, and passed on. In recent years, the ECRM has also grown into the heart of our community—a place where we came together to celebrate milestones, host events, welcome visitors, and gather around everything that makes St. Thomas and Elgin County special.
While today is a difficult day for our organization, we recognize that it is an even tougher day for our community, which has supported and embraced the Museum for generations. We extend our sincere thanks to the residents of St. Thomas and Elgin County for your continued encouragement, attendance, donations, volunteerism, and passion for preserving local railway history.
As we take this time to reflect, assess, and plan responsibly, the ECRM remains focused on developing a clear path forward that supports a sustainable and prosperous future for both the Museum and its historic building. Throughout this process, we are committed to ongoing communication, providing appropriate updates at key milestones, and ensuring our members and the community remain informed as work continues.
Further updates are anticipated in the Spring of 2026, as planning progresses and additional information becomes available.
Thank you for standing with us during this challenging time. Your understanding, patience, and continued support mean more than words can express.