A fundraising screening of the documentary Locomotives of Bienfait will take place on July 23 at 2 p.m. at the Orpheum Theatre.
Bill Fraser, who directed and co-produced the production along with his wife Heather Mackenzie, said they are continuing with their campaign to support renovations for Locomotive No. 3522, which is located in Bienfait.
It’s one of three steam engines showcased in the documentary that used to haul coal for mining companies in the Bienfait area.
Built by Baldwin Locomotive Works in 1907, Engine No. 3522 finished its working life in 1965. It was one of the last commercially operated steam locomotives in Canada. Now it stands as a tribute to miners who worked the coal fields at the turn of the 20th century.
Locomotive No. 3522 has been on display for nearly 50 years, and it needs repairs, stripping, and paint.
Mackenzie set up a GoFundMe page last fall, and so far it has raised $2,815 of its $10,000 goal.
“We’re hoping this will push us over the top so to speak, and that we will have a little more money to give to the town to help with the restoration,” said Fraser.
The film premiered at the Orpheum last November with two screenings. Fraser said they attracted about 250 people to each showing.
“We’re hoping that people who hadn’t seen it the first time will come out, and even if you have (seen it), come out again,” said Fraser. “We’re hoping to have a nice big crowd, and that people will enjoy the film and contribute to our fund.”
He’s not concerned with the timing of the fundraiser, even though many people will be on summer vacation. This was a date that worked for all groups, including the Orpheum, and the July date gives them time to promote the screening.
Fraser and Mackenzie are also approaching various businesses in Estevan to see if they would like to donate items for a raffle. Proceeds from the raffle will go to the renovation fund for the locomotive.
Fraser noted they are partnering with Southeast Newcomer Services for the screening, and which allows the fundraiser to be one of the events for the Culture Pass promotion being offered by local cultural agencies this summer for Canada’s 150th birthday celebrations.
“We’re really happy to be part of the celebration of Canada’s 150th birthday, and to be contributing a little bit … to that Culture Pass, and to the history of the Estevan and Bienfait areas,” said Fraser.
