Museum and more

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. The station, built in 1905-1907, is now located near the site of the original terminus of the CPR.

ORIGIN & HISTORY

Originally built by Canadian Car & Foundry as one of 13 Glen series cars, it was configured with 10 compartments, entered service as Glen Atha and operated as built until May 1942. It was then completely rebuilt to increase sleeping capacity with 8 sections and 4 double bedrooms.  Eight of the 10-compartment cars built in 1921 were reconstructed and joined six other cars which were built new as 8 section/4 double bedroom sleepers in 1931. Glen Atha was renamed Venosta when rebuilt.

In November 1964, the CPR removed the Venosta from passenger service and refurbished the railcar as  railway employees Safety Instructional Car No. 49, for usage in Calgary, Lethbridge, Medicine Hat, Red Deer and South Edmonton.

1987 RESTORATION

Restoration of the railcar began in the fall of 1987, with volunteers from the Port Moody Heritage Society and the West Coast Railway Association. The restoration effort was massive. Much of the interior had water damage. New electric wiring for the heating and lighting was added. The car was cleaned, new carpeting added, and finally it was repainted and lettered in vintage CPR colours and script.

POMO MUSEUM EXHIBIT

A major part of the Venosta is now used to display historic railway pictures and artifacts and is now set up as a dining car.

When you walk inside, the first thing you’ll notice is the washroom, which is still a fully functioning washroom. As you walk along the very narrow hallway, you’ll see that the Venosta also features two restored sleeping compartments, set in 1920’s style.  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. The car also features a ladies powder room, with accessories from the 1920's. Past the bedrooms, you’ll enter the large, open, dining area of the car.

END OF SERVICE

The Venosta and other ‘heavyweight’ cars were eventually removed from service due to the expense of operating them and of course the weight. As better building techniques and lighter materials like aluminum and stainless steel came into use, they became obsolete. 

VENOSTA TODAY

Today, the Venosta is available to explore, visit or rent, and can be configured to accommodate seating and dining for 34. It is decorated inside for seasonal themes such as Halloween and Christmas. We host special events such as Game Day for Board games, special Tea events and other private functions.  

Check out more on the Venosta and the POMO Museum here:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Port_Moody_Station_Museum

http://www.okthepk.ca/dataCprSiding/articles/200403/moody00.htm