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The Midland Simcoe Railway
Location: The line is located in South Central Ontario, extending between the Georgian Bay communities of Port McNicoll and Midland. One third of the line operated over Canadian National tracks.
History: The history of the Midland Simcoe Railway (MSR) has its roots in the formation of a small industrial line known as the Midland Terminal Railway Company, a project that was formed in 1903 by the Great Lakes Transportation Company of Midland to construct a line from its ore furnaces just outside of the community to Grand Trunk tracks in both Midland and Penetanguishene. While some construction was initiated, little happened with the project until the mid 1920's. It was at this time that large new grain elevators were built along the harbour in Midland. Looking to expand its influence in the area beyond Port McNicoll, the Canadian Pacific purchased a portion of the company and entered into negotiations with the Canadian National in hopes of securing running rights into Midland. It was at this time that the name of the company was changed to the Midland Simcoe Railway. Negotiations were difficult, however, an agreement was reached in February 1928 that allowed the CPR running rights into Midland over 2.2 miles of track. All that remained to be completed was the construction of a railway that led from the Port McNicoll yards west to the CNR tracks. In January 1930, the MSR was leased to the Canadian Pacific for a period of 999 years. The company disappeared as a corporate entity in 1956.
Approximate Mileage: 3.2 miles, 2.2 of which was over Canadian National tracks.
Current Status: The line was abandoned at the same time as the Canadian National tracks into Midland in 1994. All tracks have been lifted.
Principle Stations: Port McNicoll and Midland.
Remaining Stations: The only station that remains on the line is the CNR Midland station which can be found in its original location at Bayshore Road.
Last Updated: December 31, 1997
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