Like many local Albertans, Michelle Hauser knew little of the Canadian Northern Society before starting her position as their Managing Director. A year into her grant-funded position, her knowledge of the historic rail station stretches far beyond the old railway tracks. “Every day I learn something new,” says Michelle. “We’re a best kept secret.” 

The volunteer-run Canadian Northern Railway Depot, located in the heart of Camrose’s heritage district, was established in 1911 and was once a fully functioning, major railroad station. Today, it serves as a robust community centre, preserving its history through a variety of historical sites and events.

From the White Elephant gift shop and the self-serve tearoom to the archive library and heritage gardens, The Canadian Northern Society hosts a variety of immersive experiences for visitors of all ages. “It’s like stepping back in time,” says Michelle. 

Michelle explains that there is so much history to uncover at the station and almost as many ways to experience this significant time in Alberta’s past: “Our mission is capturing history and building community.” 

We’re proudly providing Canadian Northern with the power to grow awareness of our community’s rich history — and support its bright future.

If we’re going to say shop local, we need to stay local. I’m a firm believer in that. The work Sheldon and his team have done here is phenomenal, neat, quick and they’re right on top of it; from start to finish.

- Michelle Hauser, Managing Director, Canadian Northern Society