From Velocipede to Railbike

July 16 and 17, 2022

They are called velocipedes, handcars or inspection cars. They were once used for the maintenance of the tracks and railway equipment. Examples from the museum’s collection will be on display July 16 and 17.

In addition to the museum’s railway vehicles, on Saturday visitors will be able to assist demonstrations of a 1958 Pontiac model car from the Bytown Railway Society in Ottawa. The car will ride on its rubber wheel system and the metal wheel system that allows it to roll on the tracks.

The handcar, used at the beginning of the last century, has been transformed in the 21st century into a railbike. From being a utilitarian transportation equipment for workers, it has become a leisure activity for families. For the duration of the weekend, visitors will be allowed to take a picture on board the draisine on display in the Angus pavilion.

In addition, the short film The Railrodder, produced by the National Film Board of Canada in 1965 and starring Buster Keaton, will be shown continuously. This 25-minute silent film shows the famous comedian’s journey across Canada on a motorized railroad car.