Streetcar No. 351 Windsor

Streetcar No. 351 is a cherished piece of Windsor’s history, embodying the city’s pioneering role in public transit. Built in 1918 by the Cincinnati Car Company, this 50-foot, 24,000-pound streetcar was part of the Sandwich, Windsor, and Amherstburg Railway (SW&A), which operated Canada’s first electric streetcar system. For years, it transported passengers along Windsor’s bustling streets, contributing to the city’s growth and connectivity. However, when Windsor transitioned to buses in 1938, the streetcar was retired and sold off, marking the end of an era2.

After its retirement, Streetcar No. 351 found a second life as a fishing bait shop and later as part of a cottage in Belle River. Hidden from view for decades, it was rediscovered in 2007 by local railway historian Bernie Drouillard. This discovery sparked a journey to preserve and restore the streetcar, which had become a rare artifact of Windsor’s transit history. In 2015, two local entrepreneurs, Van Niforos and the late George Sofos, acquired the streetcar and brought it back to Windsor, laying the groundwork for its restoration2.

The restoration of Streetcar No. 351 was a meticulous process, undertaken by RM Auto Restoration with support from public and private funding. Today, the streetcar is housed at the Legacy Beacon, a new riverfront attraction in Windsor’s Michael D. Hurst Legacy Park. This glass-fronted building not only showcases the beautifully restored streetcar but also serves as a community hub with a café, historical exhibits, and stunning views of the Detroit River2.

The unveiling of Streetcar No. 351 in April 2025 marked a significant moment for Windsor, celebrating its rich transit history and the resilience of its community. The streetcar is now the centerpiece of a permanent exhibit developed in collaboration with Museum Windsor, offering guided and self-guided tours that delve into its fascinating story. It stands as a testament to Windsor’s innovative spirit and commitment to preserving its heritage3.

Streetcar No. 351 is more than just a relic; it is a symbol of Windsor’s past, present, and future. Its journey from a vital mode of transportation to a hidden treasure and finally to a restored landmark reflects the city’s evolving identity. Visitors to the Legacy Beacon can not only admire this historic streetcar but also connect with Windsor’s legacy, making it a must-see destination for locals and tourists alike