Niagara model train club searches for new home after being derailed from Pelham

A model train club in Niagara was handed a one-way ticket out of town, after they received an eviction notice to find a new home.

The Greater Niagara Model Railroad Engineers (GNMRE) say the Town of Pelham notified them about vacating a municipal heritage building in Fenwick, because of needed repairs for a new tenant.

Since the 1970s, there has been no stopping of these trains at the Quaker Meeting House in Fenwick.

However, the GNMRE says their model, known as the “Fenwick Central”, and real-life personnel, need a new home or else they may have to park the freight for good.

“If we can’t find a place to move to, suitable to build the proper layout and support our membership, we may be faced with the end of our organization and that would be a real shame,” said James Whitaker, the President of the GNMRE.

Whitaker says after 52 rent-free years — while covering the utilities and repair bills at the century old heritage building — the Town of Pelham voted in favour of the club’s eviction, due to the building needing major upgrades, to make way for a new community centre.

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“The Town of Pelham says they’re committed to finding one (new home) for us, but we don’t know if they will find something for us,” Whitaker said. “They can’t give us something they don’t have.”

The organization says they’re open for a relocation, but moving the “Fenwick Central” will not be an easy task, nor an inexpensive one.

A representation of southern Ontario during between the 1950’s and ’60’s, the Fenwick Central has dazzled locals with its fine model detailing of towns, landscapes and plenty of freight carrying all types of raw goods, before heading back to the railyard.

The club says dismantling the model and all of the technical equipment will cost thousands for an organization of 22 people, who pay monthly dues and accept donations to survive.

Pelham staff told CHCH News in a statement, “The Pelham team and members from the GNMRE last met in late October, and the Pelham team have been exploring options since. The town is currently working to arrange a follow up meeting in January to review viable locations and alternatives.”

To locals in Fenwick, they want the town’s best kept secret to stay.

The Town of Pelham says until renovation plans and a timeline are confirmed, the club is allowed to use the building.

The model train club says they’re hosting two open houses this weekend, hoping to engage with the community about its future.

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