How volunteers are keeping France's steam train heritage alive
Association has preserved Provence steam trains since 1975
Since its inception in 1975, the association Groupe d’Etude pour les Chemins de fer de Provence (GECP) has been dedicated to the preservation and promotion of steam trains in France.
“Its initial aim was advocacy: to defend and promote the Provence Railway, a 150km long metre-gauge line connecting Nice (Alpes-Maritimes) to Digne-les-Bains (Alpes-de-Haute-Provence), which, at that time, was threatened with closure like many regional lines,” said association secretary José Banaudo.
Saving the Train des Pignes
In 1980, the GECP launched the Train des Pignes historique with a steam locomotive and vintage carriages, some dating back to 1892.
“The goal was to attract new passengers to the line, to raise awareness of the line and the region it serves, and thus contribute to its renown and long-term viability.”
The future of the Nice-Digne line was secured in the early 2000s under the responsibility of regional authorities.
“Since then, the historic train has flourished, with a more frequent service, a growing number of volunteers and newly restored carriages, now carrying over 30,000 passengers annually.”
This success has led to the creation of four permanent positions, alongside volunteer roles, to strengthen the association's technical, operational and commercial functions.
“Compared to most other steam trains in France, which operate on former lines preserved after their closure, the Train des Pignes historique has a unique characteristic: it operates on a publicly operated line, where it must integrate with regular daily services,” said Mr Banaudo.
“This coexistence requires a good working relationship with the operating authority and adherence to stricter regulations, which are essential for ensuring reliability and safety.”
A lifelong passion
Mr Banaudo has always had a passion for steam trains.
“So much so that I've travelled to far-flung countries like Argentina, Kenya, Pakistan and China to see the last steam locomotives still in regular service,” he said.
Getting involved in the association has been a great way to meet like-minded people and build a sense of community.
“I’ve met people from all walks of life and all generations, united by a shared passion, and at the same time contributed to the preservation of one of the most beautiful railway lines in the French Alps.”
Preserving railway history
Today, the association restores, maintains and operates a collection of vehicles on the Train des Pignes line, the oldest dating back to 1888 and the most recent to 1966.
These include steam locomotives, diesel shunters, railcars, passenger cars and freight wagons.
It preserves and promotes the history of the Provence Railway through conferences, exhibitions, publications, documents and photos.
The eventual aim is to establish a heritage centre for the Provence network, which once extended over nearly 600km.
Mr Banaudo stressed the importance of preserving steam trains in France.
“The steam locomotive was the driving force behind the Industrial Revolution, and its widespread adoption profoundly shaped the evolution of society.
“Even though regular steam traction ceased in France in 1975, more than half a century ago, the locomotive remains a powerful symbol for people of all generations. How many people in their 40s or 50s say, ‘It reminds me of my youth’, even though they never experienced a regular steam train?
“Through film, literature and, today, AI, the steam locomotive is familiar to everyone, even children. That's why it's important that it can be shown in operation, and not just in museums.”
A family of volunteers
Members are drawn to the society for a variety of reasons, ranging from a passion for railways to an interest in mechanics or links to the local line and region.
“Each member contributes to the community according to their skills and interests. The group functions almost like a family, with its moments of joy, its disagreements, and its solidarity in the face of difficulties.”
It also works hard to attract a diverse range of members.
“The association certainly doesn't operate like a ‘retired railway workers' club’ but it has always strived to integrate young people and women into all its activities, without discrimination.”
How to get involved
For those interested in finding out more about steam trains in France, Mr Banaudo recommends visiting the website of Unecto, the French federation of tourist trains, to find a local association.
“Then, take a trip on that train to experience the atmosphere. Get in touch with volunteers who are on duty that day and don't hesitate to ask them questions: you'll usually connect with them easily.”
