Heritage Centre

As visitors step into the building, they are immediately immersed in Capreol’s proud and fascinating fire services history, which serves as a striking introduction to the town’s legacy. The centerpiece of this display is Capreol’s meticulously restored 1927 Gotfredson Bickle Firetruck, a true gem that offers a glimpse into the early days of firefighting in the community. Guests can marvel at its craftsmanship and historic significance, imagining the pivotal role it played in protecting lives and property nearly a century ago.

For those seeking a more hands-on experience, Pumper #4, a 1986 Ford Superior, invites visitors to climb aboard and step into the boots of a firefighter. This interactive opportunity allows individuals of all ages to feel the excitement and responsibility of firefighting, making it a memorable and educational experience. Together, these iconic vehicles vividly showcase the evolution of fire services in Capreol, honoring the bravery and dedication of its firefighters through the years.

The Nels and Jean Marquis Room houses the museum’s impressive Railsimulations Inc. locomotive simulator, offering visitors a truly immersive and hands-on experience. Guests are invited to step into the engineer’s chair, where they can take control of a realistic diesel locomotive and gain insight into the challenges and excitement of operating these powerful machines. This interactive exhibit provides a unique opportunity to learn about the intricacies of locomotive operations while enjoying a one-of-a-kind simulation that appeals to train enthusiasts and curious minds alike.

Take a journey through the lower level of the Heritage Centre, where history comes alive as you explore the town’s original jail. Step back in time to learn the intriguing stories of those who passed through its doors, including the unexpected tale of how a local grade five student found themselves inside the jail one memorable morning. This fascinating exhibit sheds light on the town’s past and invites visitors to uncover the unique and sometimes surprising events that shaped its history.

The building also serves as the proud home of the Sudbury Railway Modellers Club, a dedicated group of enthusiasts passionate about preserving and celebrating the art of railway modeling. Within its walls, visitors can marvel at an intricate and expansive HO Scale model railway layout, a true testament to craftsmanship and attention to detail. This remarkable display captures the charm and history of railways in miniature form, featuring meticulously constructed landscapes, lifelike locomotives, and authentic rail operations that bring the magic of train travel to life for visitors of all ages.

The upper level of the facility offers a rich array of attractions designed to engage visitors with the community’s diverse heritage. This area hosts several exhibits that delve into the social and political history of the region, providing a deeper understanding of its cultural evolution. Sports enthusiasts will particularly enjoy the Doug Mohns Heritage Room, which celebrates the town’s proud sporting legacy with memorabilia, photographs, and stories of local athletic achievements. Additionally, the upper level is home to the Dale A. Wilson Reference Library, a valuable resource for researchers, historians, and curious minds seeking more in-depth information about the area’s past. Together, these features create an informative and inspiring experience for all visitors.