History
Creation of the ASBL
Patrimoine Ferroviaire et TourismeTSP)" was founded on August 11, 1988.
Over the years, the collection has grown steadily, and now includes no fewer than 5 steam locomotives, 27 diesel locomotives, 8 electric locomotives, 17 coaches, several railcars, wagons and maintenance-of-way equipment.
Its rich collection is not limited to engine equipment, but also covers other areas such as track, signalling, documentation and more.
What makes TSP so special is the fact that, like many other countries, it offers trips in historical material on the network. This is complemented by a large number of previously unpublished publications.
The ASBL is made up of volunteers from different backgrounds, ages and genders. Everyone comes with their own skills and prerequisites.
These volunteers work in their spare time.
Why did you create the TSP ?
The TSP follows this idea by wanting to pass on Belgian railway knowledge and heritage to future generations.
The global context has shown that Belgium suffers from a lack of recognition of its heritage and history. The absence of a museum worthy of the name, and the lack of any official will to work in this very particular direction, demonstrated the urgent need for a different approach.
Other associations got involved earlier, but their actions are not sufficient to cover the vast field of railway heritage. The TSP 's action is therefore complementary to these associations, not in competition with them.
The TSP 's objective can be summed up in two key points: to preserve a collection for future generations, and to bring it to life as much as possible.
Who is TSP for?
TSP doesn't just target a select group already committed to the cause.
The target group is already mentioned in the TSP's raison d'être. It's the general public, not just a group of railway history buffs.
This can be identified as follows:
- Families ;
- People with reduced mobility;
- Schools ;
- Groups ;
- Couples;
- Individuals;
- Enthusiasts.
Why operate line 128?
A tourist line is a showcase for the ASBL.
The idea was to provide the association with its own framework in which to develop its equipment as it saw fit. The collection was so rich that the TSP was feeling cramped in its facilities.
What's more, with a tourist line, it's easier to reach a wider audience and showcase some of the heritage collected by the TSP.
The experience of other tourist lines in France and elsewhere shows the importance of having one's own line to develop profitable activities. Without a line of its own, heritage development is compromised.
La 128 was chosen for a number of reasons. But it was above all its location, general condition and potential that were decisive.
Current situation
The Bocq railroad is still under construction, and the activities and choices made do not yet ensure its sustainability.
It's worth remembering that the creation of the Chemin de Fer du Bocq was not initially motivated by the desire to turn it into a tourist railroad, but rather to make it a place for the circulation of restored machines in Saint Ghislain and Schaerbeek.
Line 128 has taken on a status within the ASBL that it didn't have before. This is mainly due to the impossibility of running on the network. This new situation has highlighted the need to redouble our efforts on the line.
Over the years, the Chemin de Fer du Bocq has become a national reference in terms of railway enthusiasts, with its various exhibitions, circulations, discovery days and annual festival featuring a wide range of steam, diesel and electric rolling stock.