The History
Most grain elevators built before 1930 shared the same basic architectural features. These structures were typically of similar size and height, featuring cribbed construction, an elevating leg, a driveway, an engine shed, and an office. The annex, which was added later, increased the grain storage capacity of these elevators.
The coal shed served as a storage facility for coal used by the residents of Nanton and the surrounding district, as well as for the trains. Today, few of these historic structures remain intact. What makes the Nanton elevators unique is that both the annex and the coal shed are still standing and are now owned by the Society.
The first grain elevator in the Town of Nanton was built in 1905 by the Nanton Grain & Lumber Co. Over the years, the town expanded its grain storage capacity, eventually boasting a total of seven elevators lined up in a row. Today, only three of these historic elevators remain standing. These surviving structures, constructed in 1927 and 1929, are the last of the original seven and serve as a lasting tribute to Nanton's rich agricultural heritage.
Our Society
In early 2001, the community of Nanton learned that the town's three remaining grain elevators were slated for demolition. Determined to preserve a piece of their history, community members rallied under the cry, "Save One." By April 2002, their efforts led to the formation of the "Nanton and District Grain Elevator Historical and Cultural Society."
The Society was established with a clear mission: to preserve and restore the three grain elevators in Nanton, and to collect and exhibit artifacts related to the rich history of grain elevators. Their work ensures that these iconic structures and their stories remain a vibrant part of the community's heritage.
Photography by Lori Stuart
By 2004, thanks to the dedicated efforts of the Society, the group proudly took ownership of the three remaining elevators and the surrounding lands. To generate additional funds, they sold two steel grain silos that same year.
In 2005, the Society continued its fundraising efforts to repair and paint the exteriors of the three standing elevators. With generous contributions and personal loans from “Friends of the Elevators,” they successfully raised the necessary funds to complete the much-needed restoration. As a result, these towering structures were transformed into vibrant landmarks, catching the eye of visitors who photograph them daily as they explore the Nanton community.
For nearly 100 years, these grain elevators served both pioneering farmers and the current generation of farmers who continue cultivating the land and producing valuable crops. Originally, all the elevators were serviced by the Canadian Pacific Railroad, with a single set of tracks running up to the elevators.
In the 1990s, the tracks were twinned, providing each of the three elevators with two sets of tracks for loading grain cars. Although the rail tracks have since been removed, the original rail beds remain in place as a testament to this rich history.
Drawing from its successful experiences of opening the elevators to the public, the Board of Directors is confident that the Discovery Centre will offer Canadians and tourists from around the world a unique opportunity to explore the history of grain elevators. This includes understanding the vital roles of grain farmers, the railway, and the various organizations that collectively shaped the prairie farming history of Canada. The farmers, elevators, and railway shared a deeply interconnected relationship, each relying on the other for success.
At the Discovery Centre, visitors will have the chance to engage with history firsthand. They can touch and explore historic elevator artifacts, gain insight into the various grains handled by the elevators, and experience interactive displays and guided tours. The inner workings of an elevator will be brought to life through an operational model and a tour of the actual structure. This immersive experience will be further enriched by outdoor exhibits showcasing authentic farming and grain elevator equipment, along with planned live plots of the many grain varieties historically stored in the elevators.
In 2006, during the May and August long weekends, the Board of Directors opened the doors of the orange elevator to the public, offering visitors a rare opportunity to explore its interior. These open-house events were a resounding success, drawing a significant number of curious visitors and generous donations. People of all ages attended, including young families eager for their children to learn about the history and workings of grain elevators.
Many visitors remarked that, despite driving past these prairie giants for years, they had never ventured inside and had no idea how they operated. Once inside, guests were immediately engaged with hands-on, interactive grain displays and guided tours of the elevator. The tours featured key elements such as the bucket elevator, grain bins, weight scales, and man lift, along with a variety of artifacts meticulously gathered and researched by the Society. The experience left a lasting impression, offering a unique glimpse into the inner workings of these iconic structures.
Photography by Lori Stuart
Photography by Lori Stuart
Photography by Lori Stuart