Burstall train station destroyed by fire on May long weekend

By Joan Janzen

Burstall's train station was destroyed in a fire which occurred on the May long weekend. The building, situated near the ball diamonds, burned down early Saturday evening, May 16th.

Fire destroys longtime community landmark. Photo by Sheila Johnson (via facebook)

According to Burstall's history book, the station with living quarters was built in 1929. A box car type station facility was erected, and it was around the nucleus of this station and the railway track that the town of Burstall began to form. During the fall season of 1928 and 1929, labourers were brought out west to help with the harvest, which was a great help during that year's abundant harvest.

The train station was in service until it closed in 1968. Later that year it was sold to the Lions Club at Burstall for $1.00. Prior to the station closing, the passenger coach and freight and express services were discontinued.