Thomas among the leading railway divisional centres, in point of equipment, on the American continent and no effort has been spared either by the Michigan Central Railway or the contractors to make both the buildings and the equipment the most up-to-date possible to obtain. This new industrial building also impacted the community economically, employing more than 400 workers at its peak. The Elgin County Railway Museum has been housed in the 52,000 square foot building since it's incorporation in 1989, and purchased the property in 2010. Elgin County Railway Museum Mission Statement:To preserve, teach, and display to the public the rich heritage of the railroads and their role in the development of St. Thomas and Elgin County.The railway has been part of St. Thomas since the completion of the London and Port Stanley Railway in 1856. More than 26 railways have passed through the city.more...See more text