History of The Venosta Train Car
The Venosta
1921 CPR PASSENGER TRAIN CAR
Our 1921 Canadian Pacific Railway heavyweight passenger car “Venosta” is what everyone asks about first. Originally known as the "Glen Otter", it was a four bedroom, 32 seat sleeper car. It was later modified and renamed the "Glenatha" in 1927, before it was named the "Venosta".
This 1st class sleeper is on static display outside the POMO Museum, which is the second CPR Station built as the Pacific Terminus Station. The station, built in 1908, is now located near the site of the original terminus of the CPR.
Wish to read more? Continue below for a detailed history of our Venosta Train Car.
Origin & History
Originally built by the Canadian Car & Foundry, the Venosta (current name) was one of 13 Glen series cars. In 1921, the Canadian Pacific Railway (CPR) named the car “Glen Otter,” then changed it’s name in 1927 to “Glenatha”. The Glenatha was a four-bedroom, 32-seat sleeper car, and operated until May of 1942. During the duration of its operation, the Glenatha went through several renovations, including in 1931 when eight of the 10-compartment cars built in 1921 were reconstructed and joined with six other cars—which were built new as 8 section/4 double bedroom sleepers.
In November 1964, the CPR removed the Glenatha from passenger service and refurbished the railcar to train railway employees. This was called the “Safety Instructional Car No. 49,” and was for usage in Calgary, Lethbridge, Medicine Hat, Red Deer and South Edmonton.
The Glenatha, and other “heavyweight” cars, were eventually removed from service due to operating expenses and, of course, the weight of the train on railway lines. As better building techniques and lighter materials like aluminum and stainless steel came into use, they became obsolete.
1987 Restoration
Restoration of the railcar began in the fall of 1987, with the assistance of volunteers from the Port Moody Heritage Society and the West Coast Railway Association. The restoration effort was massive and had several issues. For example, much of the interior had water damage, it was in need of new electric wiring for the heating, and lighting was added. The car was cleaned, new carpeting was added, and finally it was repainted and lettered in vintage CPR colours and script.
To keep up the historical charm, a fully functioning washroom was added, and two restored sleeping compartments were made. One compartment shows the top and lower berths set for night use. In the second compartment, the lower berth has been converted into a couch for day use and the upper berth is recessed into the wall. Past these compartments, a recreated dining area was designed for rental and public use.
Venosta Today
Today, the Venosta is available to explore, visit, or rent. It is decorated inside for seasonal themes, and we host special events such as Tea on the Train, Movie Nights, and more.
