My first impression of the elevator in Truax was: "the incredible hulk!" I've seen lots of elevators on the prairies but never one quite so singularly massive.
It was quickly built in late 1964 to replace the elevator that had recently burned down. Grain farmers really were the backbone of the community at the time and it was essential that they have an outlet for their harvest, hence some urgency in its construction. The "flat top" design isn't a common sight so it was a treat to see. The building was recognized as a Municipal Heritage Property in 2003.
In passing...just east of town I crossed over the remains of the old rail line that runs past the elevator. As you can see, the rails are gone but for some unknown reason the ties were never pulled up. It is what it is and now it looks like a good place to take a dog for a walk.
Information courtesy of Canada's Historic Places.
Photographed in Truax, Saskatchewan on January 26, 2022.
I suppose pulling up the ties would be a massive chore which could explain why they were left in place. Certainly makes for a good walking trail and no doubt snowmobilers use it too.
ReplyDeleteThanks MA. No matter what it's used for now there won't be any trains to watch out for.
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