Restored caboose ready to welcome visitors at Prince Albert Exhibition

“It was becoming quite worn and tired, and we knew that we wanted to have this piece of history continued,” Despins said. “We wanted to keep it going for future generations so that all can use it and enjoy it.”

The restoration project began in 2024 and was led by PAEX staff member Wayne Despins, with assistance from a work crew from the Saskatchewan Penitentiary.

“The boards were all rotten, and so we completely refurbished it with brand-new wood,” Despins explained. “Then we went to the inside and completely gutted it. Any concerns of mold and those types of things were addressed.”

Additional contributions came from local businesses and volunteers. Derek Campbell installed new flooring, while building materials were supplied by Econo Lumber. Local artist Colby Lavigne carefully repainted the CN logo and car numbers, restoring the caboose’s historic appearance.

“It was really nice to have a woman’s touch,” said Despins. “She came in and painted the CN logo as well as the numbers on the side, and we’re so proud to have had her do that for us.”

The CN logo and car numbers were carefully repainted by Colby Lavigne, bringing the caboose back to its historic appearance. (Image Credit: Prince Albert Exhibition Association/Facebook)

While many residents view the caboose as a decorative landmark, it continues to serve a practical purpose during events at the exhibition grounds. The structure is often used by announcers, judges and officials during agricultural shows, including heavy horse and beef cattle competitions.

Despins said visitors will have an opportunity to see inside the restored caboose during this year’s Prince Albert Exhibition.

“It’s a curiosity for people,” she said. “It will be open during the summer fair.”

The restoration is part of a broader effort to preserve historic structures on the grounds. Despins said visitors may soon notice fresh numbers being painted on the cattle car located west of the caboose, while restoration work on the exhibition’s octagonal building is expected to be the next major project.

The renewed caboose comes as PAEX prepares for its annual exhibition, which runs Aug. 5 to 10.

This year’s fair will feature chuckwagon and chariot races, a beef cattle show, a heavy horse show and performances by Outlaw FMX freestyle motocross riders. Organizers are also introducing a new Kids Play Zone in the Armory building, along with a petting zoo and the midway, which will feature approximately 35 rides.

“We have a full-blown display of events happening,” Despins said. “There’s going to be lots for people to see.”

Festivities begin Aug. 4 with a community pancake breakfast sponsored by Northern Lights Casino and SIGA from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m., followed by the annual exhibition parade at 6 p.m.

The exhibition officially opens at noon on Aug. 5 and concludes with a fireworks display by Paradise Fireworks on Sunday evening.

“We’re looking forward to big crowds and a great event,” Despins said.

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panews@pattisonmedia.com

by paNOW Staff

Restored caboose ready to welcome visitors at Prince Albert Exhibition

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