The Arts Station

The Arts Station became more than a dream for a handful of art enthusiasts when Canadian Pacific Railway donated land and the old CPR building to the City of Fernie for use as a community arts centre.

The CPR Station was built in 1908 after Fernie’s second fire. It is known to be the last surviving first-class CPR station of this design, as this construction was built especially for the Crowsnest Branch Line.

In 1986, the Fernie & District Arts Council began the renovation and restoration of this remarkable piece of history. A new foundation was laid and the building moved to its new location a few metres from its original home. Most fixtures in The Arts Station are restored originals, while some are replicas.

In October 1990, after four years of hard work by many volunteers, The Station held its grand opening. The Fernie & District Arts Council now operates with more than 20 volunteers who put in hundreds of hours each month to provide many of the services available to members and visitors.