Today, the community of Kensington celebrated the completion of $125,000 worth of restorations to the Kensington Train Station, a landmark familiar to fans of author Lucy Maud Montgomery and her character Anne Shirley.
“Canada’s New Government, through the Canada-PEI Municipal Rural Infrastructure Fund, is working with its partners to get things done for the people of Kensington,” said the Honourable Peter MacKay, Minister of National Defence and Minister of the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA). “Through this investment of more than $40,000, our government is supporting a project that ensures the Kensington Train Station continues to provide a unique tourism experience for many years to come.”
This century-old building, which was frequently used by the author and is similar to the station described in her book Anne of Green Gables, received upgrades through funding under the Canada-PEI Municipal Rural Infrastructure Fund (MRIF). The federal, provincial and municipal governments each contributed one-third towards the total cost of this project.
“The Kensington Train Station is one the Island’s National Historic Sites. It is an important part of our culture and our heritage, and the Government of Prince Edward Island is committed to its preservation,” said the Honourable Carolyn Bertram, Minister of Communities, Cultural Affairs and Labour. “Thousands of tourists from around the world visit this train station each year. As a tourism product, the train station supports Kensington’s economy and our government is proud to partner in projects that strengthen the social and economic well-being of our Island communities.”
The restoration work included replacing windows and roof shingles, repairing the chimney, liner, outside stucco, soffiting, painting and plumbing to make the building more energy-efficient. The project also included the addition of a wheel-chair accessible washroom facility.
“This important historic landmark contributes to tourism and economic growth in the region and we are pleased to work together with both the federal and provincial governments to ensure its ongoing preservation,” said Ivan Gallant, Mayor of Kensington.
The Kensington Train Station was constructed in 1905. It was designated a National Historic Site in 1978 as recognition of its distinct architecture and significant role in the Island's railroad history. The building now houses the PEI Railway Heritage Museum, the Indian River Festival Box Office, a Community Access Program (CAP) site and the Kensington Area Historical Society.