The year 1982 saw the official opening after completion of construction and landscaping, and the office opened. An interpretive display was completed. The project included a budget of $163,335. The name was changed from Old Strathcona Station to Calgary and Edmonton (1891) Station in 1983. The first public show, a quilting exhibition, was held in April 1983.

The Station is used as an office and meeting place for the League and has been rented out numerous times for events. Special events were held, such as an Old Fashioned Christmas Party, garage sales and art exhibitions. In 1985, the Station held tours and teas for seniors. During Volunteer Week in April 1986, a special display of a miniature railway and a collection of dolls and toys took place. Starting in 1991, a family Easter party has been held, and the committee has participated in the Old Strathcona Silly Summer Parade.

In 1989, a museum guide was hired with the help of a Summer Temporary Employment Program grant to keep the Station open from June through August to the public and for guided tours.

In 1998, the Friends of the C&E was formed and incorporated as a nonprofit society. The society plans for the future maintenance and ongoing good health and development of the C&E museum and building in conjunction with the League.

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