Description
The Trinity Train Loop is a narrow gauge train track that spirals around an incline in Goose Cove, Trinity, Trinity Bay. The designation is confined to the linear footprint of the track, and covers all original features which relate to the age, engineering and construction of the rail loop including: bed of the original narrow gauge (42″) track; spiral construction and rise in elevation of the loop; and location and dimensions of track line.
Statement of Significance
Formal Recognition Type
Registered Heritage Structure
Heritage Value
The Trinity Train Loop has been designated a Registered Heritage Structure by the Heritage Foundation of Newfoundland and Labrador because of its historical and engineering values.
Historically, the Trinity Train Loop is significant because of its association with the Reid Newfoundland Company. The Reid Newfoundland Company was responsible for constructing the rail system across the Island. In addition to owning and operating the railway for 50 years, the Reid Company also operated coastal steamers, owned the St. John’s drydock, operated the government telegraph system and developed the first hydro-electric power in the country. The company greatly influenced the development of Newfoundland as a whole.
The Trinity Train Loop is valuable due to its engineering and as a rare example of an exposed rail loop in Canada. This narrow gauge (42″) railway track is one of the few remaining in the province. The circumference of the track is 2012 m, turning approximately 310 degrees, passing under itself, and emerging 10.46 m lower.
Source: Heritage Foundation of Newfoundland and Labrador property file “Trinity – Trinity Train Loop – FPT 160”
Character Defining Elements
All original features which relate to the age, engineering and construction of the rail loop including:
-original narrow gauge track;
-spiral construction and rise in elevation of the loop, and;
-location and dimensions of track line.
Location and History
Community
Trinity, Trinity Bay
Municipality
Town of Trinity
Civic Address
Goose Cove
Construction (circa)
19700101 - 19700101
Builder
J.P. Powell (of Reid Nfld. Company), Reid Nfld. Company
Style
Other
Location
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