Resident steamed over ongoing vandalism to rail heritage
Growing up, Krista Smith loved going to Memorial Park to play on the trains but a recent visit has left her plenty steamed.
“It’s such a big part of Lindsay’s history,” said Smith who recently launched an effort to preserve the display at Memorial Park on Lindsay Street South.
“But when I was there with my boyfriend and his kids, I was really upset by all the graffiti and damages. It just breaks my heart that they look the way they do.”
Vandalism to the display has been an ongoing issue ever since the steam locomotive was moved from the former Shaft Machine building on the corner of Lindsay and Colborne streets to Old Mill Park on Kent Street East. The engine, along with other large railway artifacts including a second locomotive, several cars and a caboose, was later moved to Memorial Park.
In 2007, the Lindsay & District Model Railroaders club entered into a partnership with the City of Kawartha Lakes to assist with the preservation of the artifacts. The hope was to create a railway history interpretation centre, to be developed and promoted as a citywide tourist attraction.
“Historically, the Lindsay and District Model Railroad Club assisted with painting and some maintenance of the trains. In the past, the municipality would look after any vandalism concerns and would supply and purchase paint for the club to freshen up the trains, cover up graffiti, etc.,” explained City of Kawartha Lakes communications, advertising and marketing officer Bryan Reid. “The club had a few members that would come to Memorial Park and paint. They were a great resource pertaining to the history of the trains and colours based on the particular railroad companies. We were fortunate to have this partnership.”
However, this year, the group informed the city they would no longer be able to provide support. Any required or routine maintenance is now overseen by municipal parks and recreation staff.
Smith is willing to add her own proverbial “elbow grease” to the mix.
“And if I can get enough volunteers to help me … we could really make a difference,” said Smith noting 40 to 50 people could “do it all in one day.”
Smith has already begun compiling a list of people who are interested. She plans to ask the city to cover the cost of materials. Smith hopes to do touch ups and repairs every two years; annually if possible.
“I don’t think anyone wants the trains to go away,” said Smith. “It’s been used by people for family and wedding photos and barbecues.”
Anyone wishing to help out Smith is encouraged to contact her via Facebook or email kristas2899@gmail.com.