The Anten–Gräfsnäs Järnväg is a 12-kilometer narrow-gauge railway located in Västergötland, Sweden. Originally part of the Västergötland–Göteborgs Järnväg (VGJ), the line was constructed in the early 20th century and operated between 1900 and 1967 for passenger and freight services. It connected Gothenburg to Skara and played a vital role in regional transportation. The section between Anten and Gräfsnäs, which now forms the museum railway, was known for its scenic route along Lake Anten and through the Brobacka Tunnel.
As road transport became more dominant, the VGJ network faced gradual closure. By 1970, most of the line was dismantled, except for the Anten–Gräfsnäs stretch. In response, railway enthusiasts formed the Stora Lundby Järnvägsmuseum in 1965 to preserve the legacy of narrow-gauge railways. They began acquiring locomotives and carriages, and in 1970, the group moved its operations to Anten, where they could lease the remaining track from the Swedish State Railways (SJ).
In 1971, the group officially became the Museiföreningen Anten–Gräfsnäs Järnväg (AGJ) and began operating heritage train services. Over time, they expanded their collection to include steam locomotives from the early 1900s and diesel railcars from the 1950s. The railway became a living museum, offering summer rides and special events like Christmas-themed “Tomtetåg” trains. In 1999, the association purchased most of the railway from the state, securing its future as a cultural attraction.
The AGJ is not only a tourist attraction but also a recognized cultural heritage site. In 2010, a portion of the railway between Humlebo and Kvarnabo was officially designated a “byggnadsminne” (protected historic site) by the Västra Götaland County Administrative Board. The railway’s infrastructure, including stations, tunnels, and rolling stock, has been carefully preserved to reflect its historical authenticity.
Today, the Anten–Gräfsnäs Järnväg offers a nostalgic journey through Swedish railway history. The route passes through lush countryside, stopping at stations like Kvarnabo where visitors can observe traditional practices like water refilling for steam engines. The railway has also become a popular filming location due to its well-preserved vintage setting. With dedicated volunteers and a strong community spirit, AGJ continues to bring history to life on the tracks.
This historical summary was generated using AI and is based on verified sources, including Wikipedia and Västsverige tourism information.
