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​Though World War One occurred in Europe, St. Thomas once came close to being on the frontline. The railway was critical in Canada’s war effort; it was needed to move men, equipment, and supplies across the country. As the Railway Capital of Canada, St. Thomas played a huge role in this aspect of the war effort. It was this that made our small Canadian city, an ocean away from the battlefield, a target for a bomb plot!
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When a town is as historic and old as St. Thomas, its heritage buildings make perfect haunting grounds for ghosts – or at least, tales of them. Our city’s extensive past provides us today with many legends, myths, and stories of spirits, and even a witch, that have been passed on from generation to generation. While they may be mere speculation, they are a part of St. Thomas and its history. Where able, check out some of these locations and keep your ear to the ground and eyes peeled for the paranormal. But remember that many of these places are private property, and should not be trespassed upon – especially with ghosts guarding them!
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Every year from May to October, communities across the province open doors to hundreds of historical buildings, museums, private homes, and other interesting venues. Many of the participating sites offer special activities, such as tours, exhibitions and demonstrations – all free of charge!

St. Thomas’ Doors Open is coming up Saturday October 15th from 10am-4pm and will feature some unique sites and activities.

This year, Doors Open St. Thomas will feature heritage landmarks. From the Old St. Thomas Church built in 1822 to the future Elevated Park (Michigan Central Railway Bridge), you will get a behind-the-scenes glimpse into St. Thomas' amazing built heritage and the sites celebrating that heritage.
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Culture Days is a not-for-profit organization that aims to build a "national network of cultural connections devoted to providing Canadians with opportunities to participate in, and appreciate, all forms of arts and culture.” For the past seven years, the last Friday of September has kicked off a three-day national celebration to increase Canadians' “awareness, accessibility, participation, and engagement” in their communities’ vibrant cultural life.

​Culture Days celebrations return this year from Friday, September 30th to Sunday, October 2nd, and there are tons of free, participatory arts activities happening across Elgin County for you to participate in!​
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The Michigan Central Railroad (MCR) Bridge is an icon of St. Thomas, and has been since 1929. It has been recognized as a National Historic Civil Engineering Site – and it’s no wonder why: the construction of this structure was an incredible engineering feat of its day. 

​At 855 feet long, with 13 concrete piers which rise 90 feet above the valley floor, the MCR Bridge is a marvel of Southwestern Ontario. At its peak, as many as 47 trains crossed the bridge daily, which contributed greatly to St. Thomas’s status as the Railway Capital of Canada. The railway was vital in the development of the city, which is why the bridge is so important to St. Thomas even today.

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St. Thomas’s favourite festival is back! Iron Horse Festival takes place Thursday, August 18th to Sunday, August 21st on the Elgin County Railway Museum grounds. There is so much going on at the festival this year – here are all of the amazing events and activities that you won't want to miss!
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There will be a Midway full of carnival rides for everyone from the extreme daredevils to the little ones! Take a spin on the festival’s many thrill rides, including Round Up, Scrambler, Frolic, Dragon Wagon Coaster, Hampton Cars, Funni Farm Fun house, Zoo Affair Spin ride, Merry go Round and more!

It is not down in any map; true places never are. 
- Herman Melville

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Reporting from the L&PS Station - home of Railway City Tourism. Join us as we explore a city where nature, culture, and rail heritage come together.​