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Black-and-white image of steam locomotive CN 2747.

HISTORY OF CN 2747

1926 - PRESENT

The working history of CN 2747 is incomplete.  As new information is collected, this will add to the interpretive value of the locomotive.  If you or someone you know has information on CN 2747, we encourage you to contact the Transcona Museum with this information.

A HISTORICAL TIMELINE OF CN 2747

April 19, 2021

Launched the "GET ON BOARD" capital campaign on the 95th anniversary of the construction of CN 2747. This campaign supports the development of a permanent structure over the locomotive.

December 2022

Construction work has begun on the enclosure structure over CN 2747. Anticipated completion during 2023.

1926 to 1960

Mainly used as a freight hauler, the locomotive first began operations in Alberta in 1926. In 1955, CN 2747 pulled troop trains from Wabowden to Churchill in northern Manitoba. CN 2747 later worked at The Pas in 1957.

March 1960

CN 2747 is placed on permanent outdoor display in Kiwanis Park (now, Rotary Heritage Park) along

Plessis Road.

December 2015

The Transcona Historical Museum acquires ownership of CN 2747 for $1.00 from the Midwestern Rail Association after one year of negotiations.

2018 to 2020

Volunteers begin preservation work on CN 2747.

In 2020, the engine and tender are blast-cleaned and repainted. This portion of the project is made possible by The Winnipeg Foundation and the Province of Manitoba Building Sustainable Communities Grant.

April 1926

CN 2747 was built at the Canadian National Shops at Transcona, Manitoba. It was the first steam locomotive built in Western Canada. Construction took 27 days.

1960

After 34 years of service, CN 2747 was retired. The Kiwanis Club puts forth a request to CN that the locomotive is brought back home to Transcona for its retirement. CN grants the request as"a token of the dedication of the citizens of the Town of Transcona."

March 1981

Ownership of CN 2747 was transferred from the Kiwanis Club to the Midwestern Rail Association.

May 2017

The Transcona Museum contracts GP Heritage Consulting to complete a condition report and assessment of CN 2747. The report has restoration recommendations and preservation needs of the historic locomotive. 

July 14, 2023

The City of Winnipeg and the Transcona Museum announce that CN will be the major sponsor for the CN 2747 Steam Locomotive protective enclosure with a contribution of $200,000 over four years.

January 31, 2024

The GET ON BOARD capital campaign is closed. Thank you to our generous supporters.

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