On August 12, the Western Development Museum (WDM) in Moose Jaw will be holding their annual ‘Blow Off Some Steam’ event on their museum grounds.
This year’s event will take place from 11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. and everyone is welcome to attend.
At the event, guests will learn about the importance of steam power in the history of our province. As the Moose Jaw branch of the WDM is focused on the history of transportation, this is the perfect venue as plenty of historical examples are found on site.
To showcase the raw power of steam energy, the WDM will showcase their recently restored 75 Case steam traction engine at the event. The steam tractor is fully operational and demonstrates the sights, sounds, and the powerful feel given off from steam-powered equipment. What’s even more interesting is the fact that this restored tractor served its working lifespan on the same prairies we call home.
Weather permitting, guests will be able to take a ride on the museum’s K+S Potash Canada Short Line 101 steam train.
“This is the only operational steam locomotive in Saskatchewan,” explained Karla Rasmussen, programs manager at the WDM. There are other operational trains of different types, but the steam train is unique to the Moose Jaw branch of the WDM. The K+S Potash Canada Short Line 101 steam train has been in operation at the museum since 1978.
For riders, there is a limited seating capacity per trip and regular ticket fares apply. The WDM can be contacted for updated details on ticket pricing.
In addition to these events, the entire museum will host steam-themed events. These events include a coal scavenger hunt, conductor hat crafting, wooden toy trains, and putt-putt boats. Be sure to bring the entire family for a day of fun and learning at the museum.
For further information, the WDM can be reached at 306-693-5989 or by email at ajones@wdm.ca.
The Moose Jaw branch of the Western Development Museum is located at 50 Diefenbaker Drive.
