We're Closed Until Further Notice

Temporary Closure of Freeman Station

Burlington's Freeman Station will be closed until further notice during discussions with the City of Burlington re: dissolving the Friends of Freeman Station Corporation and planning with Museums of Burlington, for a viable and sustainable future.

Enter the Site

Our History

Burlington Junction

Since 1906, Freeman Station (formerly Burlington Junction Station) has been an essential landmark in Burlington, ON. Serving as a train station, museum, and community hub, connecting people through its unique architecture and rich history.

Past

The Once Heart of Burlington

Originally constructed by the Grand Trunk Railway (GTR) to connect Toronto and Hamilton, the Burlington Junction Station played a significant role in the city of Burlington's transportation history for more than 80 years. 

As train travel dwindled over time, the station eventually ceased operations in 1988 and fell into a state of disrepair, waiting for a new purpose to be discovered.

Present

Restored Rail History Measum & Venue

For over a decade, the Friends of Freeman Station have been dedicated to meticulously restore the station to its original state, utilizing authentic materials and techniques from the period of its original construction. 

Today, Freeman Station stands proudly as a museum and public space, providing  Burlington with an opportunity to experience and appreciate a significant piece of its history.

Historic coal train flat graphic
Railroad crossing sign flat graphic

1818

Joshua Freeman’s homestead became Freeman Village.

Photo Credit: Friends of Freeman Station

1855

Great Western Railway opens main line between Hamilton and Toronto.

Photo Credit: Library and Archives Canada

1882

Grand Trunk Railway takes over the Great Western Railway.

Photo Credit: Library and Archives Canada

1906

The second Freeman Station burns down, and current station was opened in the summer.

Photo Credit: Friends of Freeman Station Archives

1914

Burlington’s first contingent, Canadian Expeditionary Force, leaves the station in August.

Photo Credit: Friends of Freeman Station Archives

1923

Canadian National Railway (CN Rail) takes over Grand Trunk Railway.

Photo Credit: Friends of Freeman Station Archives

WWII (1939 - 1945)

Men and women leave Canadian stations on their way to World War Two front lines.

Photo Credit: Library and Archives Canada

1967

Ontario launches the GO Transit commuter system.

Photo Credit: Arthur Lightbourn & GO Transit

1988

CN Rail declares Freeman Station surplus and GO station moved east of Brant St.

Photo Credit: Friends of Freeman Station Archives

2005

Burlington acquires Freeman Station and moves it behind the Burlington Fire Dept. HQ.

Photo Credit: Friends of Freeman Station Archives

2011

The Friends of Freeman Station (FOFS) is incorporated.

Photo Credit: Friends of Freeman Station Archives

2013

Freeman Station is moved to its permanent home at 1285 Fairview St.

Photo Credit: Friends of Freeman Station Archives

2014

Basement foundation is poured, and station is lowered in place and stabilized.

Photo Credit: Friends of Freeman Station Archives

2015

Restoration includes connecting to city utilities, new interior, exterior, and roof.

Photo Credit: Friends of Freeman Station Archives

2017

On July 1, Canada Day, FOFS holds a grand opening celebration.

Photo Credit: Friends of Freeman Station Archives

2018-'20

Diorama begins to take shape and artifacts are displayed.

Photo Credit: Friends of Freeman Station Archives

2020

FOFS buys a 1913 CP Boxcar and a 1929 CN Caboose – both to be restored.

Photo Credit: Friends of Freeman Station Archives

2022

Restoration of caboose nears completion.

Photo Credit: Friends of Freeman Station Archives

2023

FOFS looks to the future of Freeman Station.

Photo Credit: Friends of Freeman Station Archives

Plan A Visit

Discover the history of the Burlington Junction.

Rent & host

Host your next event at Freeman Station.

Donate

Support and keep our mission on the tracks.

Contact

Get in Touch with the Friends of Freeman Station.