The closure of the Grahamstown station was particularly heart-breaking for Hennie Ferreira, a former railway station operating inspector.
The closure of the Grahamstown station was particularly heart-breaking for Hennie Ferreira, a former railway station operating inspector.
Ferreira worked on the Eastern Cape railroads for 40 years, first as an administrator before spending 20 years as an inspector overseeing all the stations from Alicedale to Port Alfred.
His job involved regularly visiting all the stations along the line, making sure all signals were in working order, safety regulations were adhered to and disciplinary matters were taken care of.
Ferreira held the Grahamstown station in high esteem, noting it as one of the best in area.
He describes it as a “very busy station” which had a locomotive depot containing many engines.
The locomotives were beautiful, he laments, describing the detailed trimmings each machine would have, with special attention given to the A-class carriages.
He laughs as he recalls how the engine drivers would compete with each other as each strived to have the most polished train.
Ferreira remembers the impressive signal system the Grahamstown station once had, indicating to the drivers whether or not they were permitted to enter the station and on which track.
The iconic signal box on Platform 1 ensured the smooth running of this process, yet all that remains of it today is a stump of stripped wires sprouting out of another cut cable.
The station itself was a hive of activity, with the local telegraph centre situated in the building. Any parcels that had to be sent out via train were also deposited there.
“Everything was so organised, and I was well-acquainted with everyone,” said the elderly inspector.
“All the people, all my colleagues – I miss them.”
Ferreira remembers a particular event filled with pomp and ceremony in the 1990s.
The famous Blue Train arrived during the National Arts Festival. It was a prestigious event where the red carpet was rolled out for the manager of the railway association and other important dignitaries who arrived on the illustrious train.
“I was there that day, and it was really something special.”
Ferreira has since retired in Port Alfred, and longs for the days of the train to return.
“I pray they will one day re-introduce the train service,” he says sadly.
