Railways have long been a vital part of Cornwall’s rich history. At the heart of documenting, preserving, and celebrating this legacy is the Cornish Railway Society. This passionate community-based group ensures that future generations can appreciate the golden age of rail travel in Cornwall and Devon. Whether through photography, publications, or live events, the Cornish Railway Society continues to thrive as a leading voice in local heritage preservation.
A Brief History of the Cornish Railway Society
The Cornish Railway Society (CRS) was established to unite railway enthusiasts, historians, and photographers who are passionate about Cornwall and Devon’s railway past. Located in Redruth, the Society meets regularly at the Redruth Methodist Church Memorial Hall.
Their journey began with the mission to create a space for knowledge sharing and community-building. Over the years, CRS has evolved into a highly respected organization with a strong online presence and a loyal following.
What Is the Purpose of the Cornish Railway Society?
The main goal of the Cornish Railway Society is to preserve the memory and stories of railway development in the Cornwall and Devon regions. It achieves this through:
- A regularly updated website filled with historical information
- A large archive of photographs and maps
- Monthly meetings featuring guest speakers
- Special publications and a quarterly magazine
The Society actively encourages contributions from members and the public, creating a vibrant hub for anyone interested in railway heritage.
Membership and Community Engagement
CRS is a community-driven organization. Anyone can join, whether you are a seasoned railway historian or a young enthusiast. Membership fees are kept affordable:
- Individual: £10/year
- Couples: £13/year
- Juniors: £5/year
Members enjoy various benefits including:
- A quarterly magazine packed with articles, event news, and photographs
- Access to events, archives, and railtours
- A chance to contribute to the Society’s growing historical record
The Cornish Railway Society thrives on community participation. Volunteers help manage content, contribute photography, and organize events. This active engagement strengthens the Society’s mission and keeps it closely tied to Cornwall’s local identity.
The Society’s Website and Digital Archive
One of the standout features of the Cornish Railway Society is its incredibly rich and detailed website. This online platform includes:
- Historical timelines of Cornwall and Devon’s railway lines
- Extensive photo galleries and scanned documents
- Railtour reports and daily news updates
- An events calendar and links to related resources
The website follows UK copyright regulations strictly. All contributions are acknowledged, and permissions are granted where necessary. Visitors can explore the railway past through hundreds of pages, making it a must-visit for rail enthusiasts and historians alike.
Presentations, Railtours, and Events
Every month, the Society hosts meetings that feature expert guest speakers. These presentations cover various railway topics—from steam locomotives to the development of branch lines. Meetings usually take place in Redruth and are open to both members and guests.
CRS also maintains a Railtour Calendar, which highlights:
- Upcoming steam journeys like the Royal Duchy or English Riviera Express
- Excursions run by preservation groups across Southwest England
These railtours give members and the public a chance to experience historic railway journeys firsthand.
Key Projects and Local Preservation Efforts
The Cornish Railway Society is actively involved in showcasing and supporting heritage rail projects, such as:
The Helston Railway
A restored section of the original Gwinear Road to Helston line. Operated by volunteers, this heritage project revives an old route and offers scenic rides.
The Bodmin and Wenford Railway
This line features classic GWR steam locomotives and offers regular heritage journeys. CRS often covers events and milestones from this important railway.
St Blazey Engine Shed
Now a protected historic site, this engine shed contains a working turntable and serves as a link to Cornwall’s steam era.
By documenting these efforts, CRS plays an essential role in promoting awareness and appreciation of these preservation projects.
Educational and Cultural Importance
The Cornish Railway Society does more than showcase old trains. It helps preserve a vital part of Cornwall’s industrial and social history. The railways once served miners, fishermen, and farmers, connecting rural communities to towns and ports.
CRS educates the public about this transformation through:
- Archival photos
- First-hand accounts from former rail workers
- Historic maps and technical documents
These resources make Cornwall’s past accessible to all, whether for school projects, personal interest, or historical research.
How to Get Involved with the Cornish Railway Society
Joining the Cornish Railway Society is easy. Interested individuals can:
- Visit their official website
- Attend a local meeting in Redruth
- Email the membership secretary
Contributions are welcome in the form of photographs, personal stories, or volunteering at events. The Society is especially interested in:
- Digitized photo collections
- Recollections of local stations and rail services
- Information about disused or lost railway lines
Why the Cornish Railway Society Matters Today
In an age of digital speed and high-speed trains, it’s easy to forget the roots of railway history. The Cornish Railway Society reminds us of:
- The engineering marvels of the past
- The cultural impact of rail connectivity
- The communities built around train stations and branch lines
Their work ensures that these memories remain alive, not just in books, but in shared experiences and active education.
Conclusion: Keeping Railway Heritage Alive
The Cornish Railway Society plays a vital role in preserving Cornwall’s railway past. Through events, archives, and community engagement, the Society keeps this part of local history alive and thriving. Whether you’re a trainspotter, a history lover, or someone looking to learn about your heritage, the CRS is the perfect place to start your journey.
Explore their website, attend an event, or become a member—because the story of Cornwall’s railways is worth remembering, and the Cornish Railway Society is here to tell it.
