WCRA NEWS APRIL 2014

HERITAGE PARK BACK ON 10—5 DAILY OPERATION VOLUNTEERS put in 26,650 HOURS WCRA News, Page 2 GENERAL MEETING

The General Meeting of the WCRA will be held on Tuesday, March 25 at Rainbow Creek Station, Willingdon at Penzance in Burnaby, at 1930 hours. Entertainment to be announced.

ON THE COVER

Heritage Park volunteers pose for the camera of Dave Thomson on March 1, 2014 at the Park’s Volunteer Appreciation Day. Story on page 13.

APRIL CALENDAR

• West Coast Railway Heritage Park open daily 1000 through 1700k • Sunday, March 30—Squamish Winter Market, 1100—1600 • Friday, April 11 —Deadline for items for the May 2014 WCRA News • Sunday, April 13—Squamish Winter Market, 1100 to 1600k (final one for 2014) • Tuesday, April 29—WCRT Haida Gwaii tour departs • Tuesday, April 29—WCRA General Meeting, Rainbow Creek Station, 1930k

BCR SD40-2 #756 and WCRA’s FP7A 4069 bring freight through West in May 2000. The F will start hauling the Hudson Excursion for the season as the 2860 is sidelined.

The West Coast Railway Association is an historical group dedicated to the preservation of railway history. Membership is open to all people with an interest in railways past and present. We are a non-profit British Columbia society, registered as a Canadian charity. Membership prices are as follows, Please note that GST must be added to all fees: Senior $50 ($52.50), Individual $55 (57.75), Family $65 (68.25) E Members (electronic newsletter only) are $35 ($36.75) Senior, $40 ($42.00) individual and $50 ($52.50) family. Other categories are: - Junior Member (age 18 and under ) $ 30 ($31.50) - Sustaining Member $100 (tax receipt) plus membership type regular fee - Life Membership $700 ($735) individual life / $1,200 ($1,260) family life All memberships include the monthly newsletter, Heritage Park admission (except Special Events), mini rail rides and discounts on food and merchandise. The Association holds a monthly meeting on the last Tuesday of the month at 1930 hours in Burnaby at Rainbow Creek Station in Confederation Park. Apply through www.wcra.org or mail to WCRA, PO Box 2790 Stn. Term., Vancouver, B.C., V6B 3X2. WCRA News, Page 3 EDITORIAL

VOLUNTEERS MAKE US TICK

Following a major gathering of volunteers recently, and several other events and occasions, this month we make note of the contributions of the many volunteers that keep West Coast Railway Association working. It is their passion and commitment that make us what we truly are—a volunteer organization at our very roots.

By the numbers our volunteer efforts are impressive. In 2013, volunteers recorded 26,650 hours of service to the WCRA. Our hours have been tracked since 1993—and now total an impressive 481,309 hours over the past 20 years !

As one of our regular volunteers, John Jellis , pointed out recently when interviewed by Rick Mercer—”We need more volunteers!”. Rick got it! And we really do need you all. Every member out there can help in some way, and have a rewarding and fun time while at it.

Volunteering is available in a wide variety of roles. No matter what your particular interest or skill, you can put it to work for us. What I am doing right now, writing the newsletter counts. Helping at events, attending a board meeting, gardening, staffing a table at an event, being part of an operating crew on a train, or working on restoration—every activity that needs to be done can be done by a volunteer, and is counted in our tally of official volunteer hours.

Which leaves us with you. We need you help. Choose something you love to do. Have fun with others enjoying our hobby, yet creating a lasting impression on our guests. Come out and volunteer today—WCRA appreciates it, and you’ll be glad you came aboard. Don

ASSOCIATION NEWS

FROM THE ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

Chair Bob Philip called the meeting to order at 1935k with a quorum present at Rainbow Creek Station in Burnaby. Recording Secretary - Jeremy Davy: • After the approval of the agenda, the minutes of the Annual General Meeting of February 26, 2013 were approved • Chair Bob Philip reported on the operation of the board through 2013, noting five regular meetings and a couple of extra meetings held during fiscal 2013.He noted the hard work of staff and the board to get the refinancing completed. • Don Evans presented the slate of Directors for 2014—the Directors were approved by the membership for the 2014 year term. • Ken Tanner presented the interim financial statements to the membership and answered WCRA News, Page 4

questions about the Association's performance in 2013. He went on to present the budget for 2014. Both the financial statements and the budget were approved by the membership. • Ken Tanner presented his President's report, highlighting the work to complete a new mortgage facility for WCRA and the new restructured financial reporting system that started up for fiscal 2014. He also noted progress towards the re vamping of our website and computing systems. • Bill Johnston reported on Club Administration and Operations, noting that the society held 12 meetings in 2013 and published the newsletter every month. He reported on growth in visitor ship at the Locomotive 374 Pavilion which was up 5,300 over the year before to a total of 41,000. The archives has been working on several major projects, including the development of a PGE Historical exhibit led by Trevor Mills and the continued stewardship of our photographic collections led by Bob Hunter . Western Rails was held in March 2013, and membership continues steady. • Ken Tanner reported for the Collections Committee, noting that plans are underway for the development of a long term plan to restore the Royal Hudson. Restoration projects continue on BCER 960, CPR 8000, PGE #2 and the Northern Pacific flat car in accordance with our collection plan and priorities. Efforts are underway to get the recently received FP9A #6520 started up. • Gordon Bell reported on the Heritage Park noting growth to 52,250 guests in 2013 and the growth in major events—including the first Dinosaur Train and the Mystery of the Magic Pumpkin—adding to successful Day Out With Thomas and Polar Express events. Also new in 2013 was the relocation of the gift ship to the CN Roundhouse & Conference Centre, and the conversion of the Mac Norris Station to its railway station plan. • Gordon Bell reported on railway operations, noting that Robert MacBeth completed training as a locomotive engineer and Tomo’o Oshikawa as a track inspector—adding to our core operating skills. During 2013 we were recipients of an operational Shuttle Wagon to help move cars in and out of the roundhouse, as well as a fully restored Woodings speeder. • Bill Johnston provided a tours report, noting an active program coming for 2014 • The meeting was ended at 2045

FROM THE FEBRUARY GENERAL MEETING

Chair Bill Johnston called the meeting to order following the AGM, with a quorum present: • Gordon Bell noted the upcoming Volunteer Recognition event • Bill Marchant gave a report on the BCER 960 project, noting work on the rear truck • Bill Johnston noted that the Haida Gwaii tour has only a few spots left • Jeremy Davy asked for volunteers to help with Western Rails on March 16th • The Coming Events calendar was reviewed • Trackside reports were presented by both Ryan Cruickshank and Bill Marchant • Don Evans showed the new presentation on the rebuild of the 2860’s boiler • Entertainment was video of CPR SD40-2 locomotives WCRA News, Page 5 PLEASE RENEW YOUR MEMBERSHIP

If your address label reads 02 28, you need to renew now. If your label reads 12 31, this is your last issue. We need you as members—please renew. (J.D.)

MEMBER NEWS

Rob Misjak will be competing in Special Olympics Summer Games, swimming at the UBC Aquatic Center. The Dates are July 3rd through the 13th of this year. Rob came in first and won Gold in North Carolina for the Special Olympics in 1999. He pursues his love for swimming all year long to keep in shape.

Rob also comes up to the West Coast Railway Heritage Park every Monday and when he is not busy helping Dave or Tomo’o he is with the Monday Crew and has helped us with the 722, 714, 1817 , 1859 plus has helped with many events. We will all be cheering for you in July, Rob. (D.F.)

Sad news is that Eric Lawson of Bowen Island, who donated a Golden Glow headlight to WCRA last year fpr BCER 960, has passed away. Our thoughts are with Dorothy, who will continue as a WCRA member.

Best wishes go out to Bill Yeats in his struggle with prostate cancer. Bill has been a member for 30 years and provided many articles over the years on his experiences as a CPR engineer. Our thoughts are with you Bill.

NEW MEMBERS

The WCRA welcomes to membership Andrew DeBoda of Coquitlam (J.D.)

2013 VOLUNTEER HOURS

Thank you to those who have submitted their 2013 volunteer hours. At the end of the tally we have 26,650 volunteer hours recorded for 2013, up more than 2,000 from the year before. Thanks for all the volunteer work our members put in to keep BC’s railway heritage alive.

WCRA TRIVIA #303 - by Ryan Cruickshank

Where is the world's largest railroad spike located? (find answer on page 27) STRATEGIC PLANNING RETREAT PLANNED

The WCRA Board of Directors and senior staff are planning a Strategic Planning Retreat on April 13th. It is time for a major review as the key items from the current plan have pretty WCRA News, Page 6 much now all been achieved.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2014

Your Board of Directors for 2014 as approved at the AGM: • Gerry Burgess Vice Chair Vancouver • Douglas Chiasson Squamish • Don Evans Secretary WCRA elected • George Game WCRA elected • Greg Gardner Squamish • Bill Johnston WCRA elected • Robert MacBeth WCRA elected • Paul McCrea Vancouver • Craig McDowall Treasurer WCRA elected • Don Patrick Squamish • Bob Philip Chair Vancouver • Marian Robson Vancouver

There are three appointed vacancies remaining open, the board is working to fill these so we have a full complement of 15 directors.

COLLECTION

OPEN OBSERVATION CAR 598 CENTENNIAL

Continuing from our last issue….. In 1974 the BC Government was putting together the Royal Hudson Steam Train to operate on the British Columbia Railway between North Vancouver and Squamish. Seeking an observation car they approached the West Coast Railway Association and a lease was signed that would see the car join the consist of the train. The car was restored and named the Mount Garibaldi after the famous mountain that stands guard over the Squamish valley. Many thousands of people have enjoyed the spectacular scenery of Howe Sound from the seats on the Mount Garibaldi .

In the early 1980s, during a time of fiscal restraint, the lease was terminated and the car was returned to the collection of the West Coast Railway Association. Then, in the late 1990s BC Rail took over the operations of the Royal Hudson from the BC Government and once again approached the West Coast Railway Association with a proposal to operate the Mount Garibaldi on the Royal Hudson train. The car operated on the train until the final season of the Royal Hudson in 2001.

The car was in need of some extensive restoration work and modernizing so it could run for many more years. A major upgrade was undertaken. This work included replacing parts of the WCRA News, Page 7 old frame and replacing the trucks and brake system. Other updates included a new floor, roof and paint. A generous donor came forward to help see the project through and the car was named “Henry Pickering” after the donor’s grandfather, who worked for Canadian National and at one time in his career was station agent at Chilliwack.

When complete, the 598 went back to work, this time on lease to Rocky Mountaineer. It operated on a special Prince Rupert excursion train in 2004 and 2005, then joined the Whistler train service in 2006 - a service that it continues to operate to this day.

In 2014 the car will be 100 years old and will have travelled many hundreds of thousands of miles. It continues to delight and carry many happy travelers on its regular assignment these days with Rocky Mountaineer's Whistler Sea to Sky Climb service. (Russ Grycan photo)

ROYAL HUDSON RESTORATION PRESENTATION DEBUTS

A presentation showing the restoration of the Royal Hudson’s boiler and the locomotive's history has been put together and has been presented at a major conference, and is now also playing alongside the engine at its Squamish home.

West Coast Railway Association was invited a couple of years ago to present this work as a technical paper and educational presentation by the International Pressure Equipment Integrity Association (IPEIA) at one of its annual conferences. This cemented into a firm presentation slot at the IPEIA 2014 Annual Conference, held in Banff Alberta in February 2014, and work got underway to prepare the presentation.

WCRA News, Page 8

Leading this project in the creation of a PowerPoint that took one through the history of Royal Hudson 2860 was Don Evans . The presentation then has segments on how steam locomotion works, the three lives the 2860 has had, and a photo essay on the actual boiler restoration project by WCRA. There were many who assisted—Trevor Mills who was an active part of the boiler project, Singh Biln reviewed some aspects, Russ Grycan and Brian Manning from Heritage Park helped as well. Elevation Media supplied some video clips of the 2860 in action and it all came together.

The presentation to the conference was made on Friday, February 22 at the Banff Centre in Banff, Alberta and drew a good crowd of interested attendees—even though the time was in competition with the —USA men’s hockey game at the Sochi Winter Olympics. The presentation highlights the work that was undertaken in the restoration of the 2860’s boiler. Our work on this project is held in high regard—we should all be very proud of what was done to restore this classic locomotive to steam in 2006.

The presentation has now also been converted into dvd player format (Thanks Dave Thomson, Rob Fourchalk and team) and installed on a new flat screen that plays alongside the Royal Hudson on display in the CN Roundhouse & Conference Centre, adding a new interpretive dimension on steam and history to this icon of our collection. Next time you visit, be sure to check it out.

PGE #2 WORK CONTINUES

Work on the cab of PGE #2 is well under way and one of the things that is happening is the rebuilding of the engineman and fireman's cab windows, Last summer Trevor gave us a copy of the original manufacturers drawings and straight away we noticed the much smaller cab than is on the drawings... This is attributed to head-on collision sometime in her past and we knew that we do not have the original cab.

As work is progressing we now notice that the cab is quite likely from a small 'Shay' type gear logging locomotive. This cab with a larger engineer’s front and rear windows than the ones on the fireman's side is indicative of a 'Shay' locomotive where the boiler sits to the left (fireman's) side on the loci, and the working cylinders and drive gear train is on the right hand engineers side, thus permitting the larger engineman's windows, I also feel that this cab most likely came off a narrow gauge (3 foot) engine as the cab we have is quite small and had to be widened 18 inches to fit on the #2 when installed.

With the help of the Vancouver Island Railway History boys, and some of their old photo's, we are quite sure that #2 got her present larger tender in 1943 from the 1909 built 'Comox & Logging Railway Co;' locomotive #1, ex: Comox and Campbell Lake Tramway Co, #1 when she was scrapped in 1943 after 34 years of hard service..... Now where did that cab come from.??????? (D.F., M.L.) (photo page 9) WCRA News, Page 9

Watch a 4,000hp Locomotive Get Built by Hand in 1928 – Absolutely Amazing Video

- forwarded by Chris & Patricia Treadwell

No hype, no BS, no exaggeration, this video is friggin’ awesome. This is footage from 1928 news reels showing the construction of a massive 3,600hp locomotive in Canada (CPR 4-8-4 #3101). It made us want to smash our computer on the ground for the simple fact that computerized automation and design has killed lots of the skill sets used in this video. To see men building wooden bucks to come up with the actual shape of the engine, the huge boiler plates being formed, the massive connecting rods (drive rods) being forged by a press the size of a house and four brave guys, molten iron being poured into molds, the engine being literally lowered onto its axles, etc, is beyond description. It is 15-minutes of a window into a world that no longer exists and it is enthralling.

We are of course romanticizing the whole thing. These jobs were probably an 11 on a 0-10 scale of awful. From the heat and dust, to the ever present danger of sudden death from huge pieces of metal swinging around, we’re not able to place ourselves in this locomotive factory, but damn, it sure is amazing to watch these fellows go about their business.

WCRA News, Page 10

CPR #3101 is preserved today in Regina, SK, at IPSCO Inc. She was one of only two of this type built by the railway (who preferred Hudson and Selkirk class locos). Sister #3100 is at the Canadian Museum of Science and Technology. With over 3,600hp on tap and torque measured in planetary volumes, they typically hauled bevy passenger trains between and . They finished service in Western Canada after being converted to burn oil in 1956. http://bangshift.com/blog/watch-a-4000hp-locomotive-get-built-by-hand-in-1928- absolutely-amazing-video.html

BCER 960 REPORT

Pleased to report that good progress is being made on the rear truck refurbishment... Well, at least we've separated the truck frame from traction motors, equalizers are off and this week we removed journal boxes exposing the shiny axle ends. The latter just happen to be in pretty miraculous shape with no scoring.

We're in the process of cleaning and de rusting truck frame, motors, brake hangers, and other components with painting following up this process. All a bit tedious with no sandblasting, but doable with needle gun and wire wheels, plus, the required air filter masks and face guards. Some welding repair work on the equalizers needed and the vintage journal box brasses requiring attention possibly. We will do this after this initial truck work, proceed to clean out and fully inspect, plus seek to test traction motors 3 and 4. I may have something to report on this next month. Gotta love those spoke wheels, eh…

WCRA News, Page 11

As you can see by the picture, Bill is happily back on the job. (M. McG.)

ALCO HISTORIC PHOTOS ACQUIRED

Bill Marchant has acquired a book of Alco Locomotive prints, a source of locomotive prints from a catalog by the NRHS Mohawk and Hudson chapter of locomotive negatives from the Alco Schenectady factory, plus 10 predecessor builders. It covers1880 to 1969, steam, electric and diesel; 40 pages, about 200 negs per page, most 8"x10"; and has 1000's of world-wide RR customers by name; loco type, road number, date, order no. In addition it has 9 pages of Engineering prints and 2 of autos and trucks. Samples: Canada Central #1, 0-4-0t, 1880; Oregon Electric #24 (sister to our BCER 960), 1912, S874; Union Pacific C630 #2908, 1966, S3440. Contact Bill for print ordering info at [email protected] . I will donate it to the archives. (B.M.)

THANKS

• to Bill Brown of SRY for donating 2 very old big switch stands rescued from a shed near Huntingdon, and a heavy 2-man rail drill (4 to carry it and 2 to operate). Rare items now. • to Warren Rohn for a donation of 9 huge (3'x 12') CPR Mechanical Engineering prints of their steam locos; Pacifics, Hudsons, Northerns and Selkirks. Also about 25 beautiful big maps, all showing RR tracks, one of the lower mainland by the DND in 1972 in amazing detail (every siding and customer, most long gone) plus many provincial area maps along the RR mainlines. Also several UP calendars and lovely publicity photos, and lots of railfan collectibles such as timetables and directories.

FUNDRAISING

FEBRUARY REPORT

Central Hobbies Customers support the Royal Hudson Fund

Central Hobbies has, for the past many years, had a donation box next to their Cash Register where their customers can donate their spare change to the Royal Hudson Fund . The contents are regularly turned over to the WCRA. Recently of $80.00 was received. The Association deeply appreciates this initiative by Central Hobbies and the ongoing support from their Customers. (J.D.)

FEBURARY FUNDRAISING

Fundraising in February was rather slow, although we recorded many in kind donations from the end of 2013 as can be seen and a much appreciated renewal of a coach sponsorship. WCRA News, Page 12 Major Funding Receieved Coach Sponsorship renewal $10,000 General Donations $2,260 Debenture Interest Donation $3,775 In kind donations of volunteer mileage $21,197 Donation of photos, archives, signs etc. $11,010

Month Total $48,242 Year to Date Total $276,974 General Fund $258,784 Royal Hudson Fund $2,720 PGE Exhibit $15,000 PGE #2 $500 Other Significant Activities Continued work with bank and Ken on mortgage Presented Royal Hudson boiler restoration at IPEIA Conference in Banff Work recruiting new board members

WEST COAST RAILWAY HERITAGE PARK Home of the Royal Hudson

PHOTO CREDIT CORRECTION

The photo on page 11 of our last issue , of Rick Mercer at the Bent Spike Model RR, was taken by Chris Forget .

PHOTO NOMINATED FOR AWARD

The photo on the cover of the The Chief taken by Ben Lypka of Polar Express conductor Rob Payette looking in the window of a coach at some excited children has been nominated as a finalist for “Best Feature Photo 2013” in the annual Ma Murray Awards.

HERITAGE PARK HOLDS VOLUNTEER RECOGNITION LUNCH

The West Coast Railway Heritage Park held a special lunch to recognize its many volunteers on Saturday, March 1, 2014. A good turnout of more than 70 volunteers enjoyed the event, which was organized by Jeanene and Danielle , and hosted by Gord Bell . In addition to an enjoyable spread and great company, there were draw prizes, funny photos with props, and lots of good social time together. It was a very pleasant day!

The group posed by the Royal Hudson (see cover). WCRA News, Page 13

Five special awards were presented to local volunteers at the event—presenting the awards were directors Patrick, Gardner, Evans and MacBeth: (photos by Dave Thomson)

The Mascot (Endurance) Award—helping us with appearances of Bunker C Bear Brody & Alisa Gratton

Under 30 Volunteer Award—Tyler Kion (train operations, NP Flat car and more)

Junior Volunteer Award—Thomas Hodgson

Best Student Award—Emily Cadman WCRA News, Page 14

Family Award—Royce & Morgan, Celine and Rob Payette

DINOSAURS ARRIVE AT GIFT SHOP

The dinosaurs are here, as the gift shop at the West Coast Railway Heritage Park welcomes Buddy and his friends from Dinosaur Train to its stock of merchandise.

Drop in and pick up something unique and special at any time. Our gift shop is open every day from 10:00AM to 5:00PM (Dani F.) WCRA News, Page 15 BIRTHDAY PARTIES AT THE HERITAGE PARK

Another year and another round of special birthday parties that will be created at the West Coast Railway Heritage Park. Here are the packages for 2014.

374 PAVILION

The number of visitors to the historic locomotive in February totaled 1,889, down about 300 from the same month last year. This is undoubtedly due to the bad weather this February. The number of foreign visitors (mainly European) remains strong. We plan on maintaining our “Winter Hours” of 10:30 am to 3:30 pm until March 28 th and then revert to 10 am to 4 pm for the remainder of the season. We will be looking for some summer help at the pavilion in the form of a student, intern or similar. If you know someone who may be interested and especially if you would be willing to subsidize compensation, please let us know. WCRA News, Page 16

We are working on a program with the Yaletown Business Improvement Association and Tourism Vancouver regarding the stamping of Challenge Passports that will drive more people

to the area - to the benefit of all.

We are still looking for interested volunteers to occasionally assist in interpreting at the pavilion. An indoctrination program and free parking is provided. Please contact Bill Johnston at [email protected] for follow-up. (B.J.)

WEST COAST RAIL TOURS

2014 TOURS PROGRAM

West Coast Rail Tours is looking for new members on the Tours Committee. Every quarter the Committee will meet and review upcoming tours, marketing and revenue. We welcome any new ideas. Please email [email protected] if you are interested in joining!

West Coast Rail Tours is a fully licensed travel agency that supports the West Coast Railway Association and its members. We organize group tours and can book any of your independent travel including rail, air, coach and hotels. All commissions and income received goes towards our mandate to collect, preserve, and exhibit railway artifacts at our Heritage Park in Squamish. Give back to the WCRA by letting us book your travel for you!

BOOK NOW! Many 2014 tours are selling out fast! All of our tours include home pick-up and drop-off, all transportation (including flights rail and transfers), accommodation and most meals

Magic and Splendour of Haida Gwaii Due to the remote location of the Queen Charlotte Islands – our small tour bus is permitted in some restricted areas, a few seats still available Our most popular tour! This well guided tour explores the Queen Charlotte Islands, made up of quaint villages, secluded inlets, rainforests, and mystical beaches. You will experience the First Nations culture up close with museum visits, native dances and authentic feasts. Includes rail from Vancouver to Jasper, Prince George and Prince Rupert and then ferry to Haida Gwaii for 4 days, and fly back to Vancouver. April 29-May 8, 10 days from $2,499 WCRA News, Page 17

White Pass & Yukon Steam Spectacular Ideal for the true rail fan and historian!

Don’t forget your camera! Fly to Whitehorse and take a motorcoach to Skagway and board the restored Steam train

to Fraser Meadows and return. After a day in Skagway take the Yukon Adventure excursion up through White Pass Summit and on to Bennett for lunch. We end our journey in Carcross before being bused back to Whitehorse to visit the Copperbelt Railway and Mining Museum.

July 17-21, 5 days from $1699

Vintage Trains of the Colorado Rockies “Our hotel accommodations were excellent and the two-night stays relaxing. Coach travel with a superb driver Reuben (those hairpin bends with no visible edges)! and Carol, our very upbeat/informative guide who took care of all the details. Had we driven ourselves, we would not have seen half as much or learned as much. We highly recommend this Trains of the Colorado Rockies tour.” (The Treadwell’s, travelled, Aug. 2013)

Experience the majesty of the Colorado Rockies from four trains that celebrate the can-do spirit of the Old West. Scale Pike’s Peak on the world’s highest cog railway. Climb aboard an 1881 steam train for a journey through the San Juan Mountains. Travel the Trail Ridge Road, the highest continuous highway in the U.S., reaching 12,183 ft. Discover the ancient culture of the Anasazi Indians at Mesa Verde National Park. Relish cowboy culture in an evening of authentic dining and entertainment.

August 8-16, 9 days, from $2,949

Trains, Wineries & Treasures of Northern California, Visit Railtown in Jamestown, the California Province Railroad Museum and ride the Napa Valley Wine Train! Take in Fisherman’s Wharf, the Golden Gate Bridge and marvel at the beauty of Yosemite National Parks. Glide on the pristine waters of breathtaking Lake Tahoe on the M.S. Dixie II WCRA News, Page 18

paddlewheeler and discover some fascinating facts about train travel at Railtown and the California Rail Museum. Sip California’s wines at a wine tasting and relax on one of the most

plush historic trains, in a Pullman car, aboard the Napa Valley Wine Train.

October 20-28, 8 days from $3,099

Alpine Lakes and Scenic Trains (Switzerland, and Italy), Experience train journeys through spectacular scenic mountains and picturesque towns! Ride aboard three of the legendary Alpine railways: the GoldenPass Panoramic Train from Gstaad to Montreux; the Glacier Express from Zermatt to St. Moritz; and the Bernina Pass Train, to Italy. Cruise across two of the most scenic lakes in the world, Lake Zurich and Lake Como. Relax in some of Europe’s most stunning and exclusive resort villages, including Zermatt, St. Moritz and Lake Como, Italy. Explore Lucerne, the "Swiss Paradise on the Lake” and enjoy traditional regional cuisine and Italian delicacies.

September 12-21, 10 days from $3,099

Other rail tours with our travel partners include: • Celtic Trains and Treasures of England and Ireland, July 9– 23, 2 weeks • England and Scotland by Rail, August 23rd – September 5th, 13 days • New England Fall Foliage, September 13-21, 9 days • Garratts in Zimbabwe, May 6th – 15th, 9 days • Trains and Treasure of South Africa’s Western Cape, October 20th - 31st, 11 days • Trains of West Virginia, October 23-29, 7 days

WEST COAST RAIL TOURS - YOUR EXPERT IN RAIL TRAVEL Phone: 604 524 1011, toll free call us at 1-800-722-1233 Fax: 604 876 4104 E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.westcoastrailtours.com (J.Mi.)

WCRA News, Page 19

FEATURE ARTICLES

FROM THE STEAM CHEST MARCH 1960….. By Craig McDowall

A Thumbnail History of the Pacific Great Eastern Railway - Parts 2 and 3

In 1926, the BC Government loaned the PGE half a million dollars as the PGE was continually going into the red while other railways were doing well. The government was promising extensions to garner votes but they never materialized. The PGE was a railway that started 'nowhere and ended nowhere' and more importantly had no connections to any other railway except by barge. Critics maintained that it wasn't Pacific, wasn't Great and wasn't Eastern and termed it 'Prince George Eventually'. An American millionaire, Harry M. Sinclair, along with some local men offered $20 million for the PGE, but were turned down.

On November 28th, 1928, due to the construction of a road from North Vancouver to Whytecliffe (near Horseshoe Bay) and the increasing competition from automobiles, the North Van line was abandoned. Freight switching in North Van harbour was taken over by the National Harbours Board who bought two 0-6-0's for that purpose. Equipment from the North Van line was sent to Squamish before abandonment. The Vancouver Harbours Board constructed a tunnel under Lonsdale Ave which eliminated the need for the PGE trestle built around Lonsdale.

During 1929, the PGE was loaned a further $4 million and requested tax exemption. Two more nicknames became popular when this became public . . . 'Province's Greatest Expense' and Provincial Government Extravaganza'.

The PGE was always considered a 'carefree' railroad. If a passenger missed his stop, they would just back up the train. Hunters were allowed to load their game into the baggage car and could carry their guns in the passenger coaches. It is said that crews on the freight trains would occasionally take a siesta or go fishing but these tales were never confirmed. There is one famous PGE story that due to the normal standard of being late so often that when one of the passenger trains arrived at the station exactly on time, the conductor was congratulated by those on the platform. He was reluctant to tell them that it was actually yesterday's train that was exactly 24 hours late!

The 1937 PGE Annual Report showed some startling figures. It showed investment in road and equipment was $88 million with operating revenue of just $631,000 and expenses of $572,000 . . not much left over to service the debt!

Around 1942, the former North Vancouver '3 spot' was scrapped and her boiler was sent to Lillooet for stationary service. The same year, Ex Premier of B.C., George Patullo, urged the WCRA News, Page 20

federal government to take over the PGE as the Japanese threat in the Aleutians made a connection to the north necessary but nothing ever came of this. The US were looking at a

connection to Alaska at the same time but built the Alaska Highway instead. Again in 1942, the only logging railroad to operate their own locomotives and cars along the PGE quit

operations. The Merrill and Ring Lumber Co. had operated a few Shays and an 0-4-0T out of Squamish. Two of these Shays are still on Vancouver Island (when this article was written in 1960). Other lumber companies along the line owned some cars and they were used on the PGE line.

On the evening of August 12th, 1944, at old mile 95 (milepost 0 was Squamish), locomotive #56 hit a slide and she went into Anderson Lake. The loco landed on a ledge just under water and the engineer and fireman died at the scene. The currents carried her off the ledge into the bottom of the lake before any salvage operations could be started. Some passengers were injured but the rest of the train didn't fall into the lake. #56 was the first of PGE's Consolidations to be written off.

Premier John Hart offered the CNR and the CPR the railroad as a joint purchase but both refused the offer. A US conglomerate was interested but the government wouldn't sell to Americans. In 1945, two spanking new Mikados (#160 and 161) arrived at the Squamish shops and in 1947, two more (#162 & 163) followed - all built by the Canadian Locomotive Company. (PGE 160 at Squamish in 1952 photo, Peter Cox)

During the late 1940's, much discussion ensued about completing the line to Prince George to connect with the CNR. On August 29th, 1949, construction started north of Quesnel, using much of the old road bed built back in 1921. On Oct. 15th, construction started south from WCRA News, Page 21 Prince George again using much of the old roadbed.

In 1948, PGE ran some tests using CPR gas electric Rail Car #9005 but she proved too heavy on the front trucks and was returned to the CPR. Later the same year, CNR gas electric # 15823 was tested, and worked far better; it was then purchased and renumbered #107. She was later converted to diesel electric. In 1949 PGE took delivery of its first diesels - four GE 70 tonners and one GE centre cab switcher #551. (551 is now part of the WCRA Collection) The 70 ton road units could handle 350 tons up a 2% grade at around 10 MPH. (photo, a PGE 70 ton GE locomotive tows gas car 107 after is broke down in 1961, Peter Cox)

On January 23rd, 1950, locomotive #53 became the second steamer to plunge into a lake - this time at Seton Lake, just a few miles from the first accident with #56 in 1944. The locomotive to this day has never been found. On October 10th a fierce storm hit the Cheakamus Canyon and tons of rock were dislodged and the railway was closed for three days. Eleven days later, PGE placed a $1.2 million order for six diesel road switchers bringing their diesel roster to 11 units.

Gas cars #101 &102, veterans of the old North Vancouver line, were converted to combine/ cabooses in 1951 by the addition of couplers and the removal of their motors. They became #1800 & 1801.

One of the PGE modern Mikados met a horrible end on Sept. 23rd, 1951. A 'green' engine WCRA News, Page 22 watchman left the fire on in the firebox and then climbed down out of the cab to do something away from the engine. Returning later, he found no water showing in the glass and turned on the injector. This resulted in a quick fatal mistake for Mikado #161. Hot steel and cold water don't mix and 161's crown sheet let go. After the debris stopped falling, it was found that the watchman, though blown through the tender, was miraculously alive and basically uninjured! But the locomotive had almost disintegrated with the trailer truck blown into the ground, the frame was snapped and the driving wheels showed obvious signs of being blown off their axles. Over a quarter of a million horsepower had been unleashed by the hot water turning instantly into steam. The watchman was fired the next day and #161 was scrapped where she had been in the Quesnel yard. A few parts were able to be removed for use for other steamers on the roster.

As new diesels arrived, two Prairie locos were scrapped. These 2-6-2's weren't common on Canadian railroads. Centre cab GE Diesel #551 was sold in July 1951.

Construction on the Prince George extension continued, although slower than anticipated, mainly due to the difficulties crossing the Cottonwood River. This challenge had stopped construction in 1921 and now 30 years later, it was still a challenge. It wasn't until Sept. 13, 1952 that a boxcar was 'shot' across the bridge on its first test. A diesel worked south from PG, and one ran north from Quesnel and the southern diesel 'kicked' the box car across the bridge as, at that point, construction hadn't been completed and the bridge wasn't strong enough for motive power to cross.

John Anderson Fraser drove the last spike on November 1st, 1952 just north of the 900 foot long Ahbau Creek Bridge and the first train into Prince George arrived later the same day. It was hauled the last few hundred feet to the Canadian National depot by a CN 0-6-0 switcher as the PGE depot wasn't completed yet. Through freight and passenger service would formally commence on January 12th, 1953. Fares were set at 4.6 cents a mile, comparable to both CPR and CNR.

The PGE was a pioneer in the use of piggy back freight service and commenced this in the early 1950's. An earlier form of piggy back service occurred years earlier when the PGE used gas car #107 and a flat car to transport cars between Shalath and Lillooet as there isn't any road between the two.

During 1954, Premier W.A.C. Bennett announced an extension program for the PGE from Squamish to North Vancouver and north of Prince George to the Peace River area. West Vancouver residents living down by the water weren't 'happy campers' and many protests were organized. Much of the original right of way to Horseshoe Bay was re-built but of course West Vancouver had grown much larger in the intervening years so many residents found the new right of way running next to their front or back yards. WCRA News, Page 23

It had been possible (before the original line to Whytecliff was rebuilt) to see much of the original overgrown right of way that was still visible. Some of the few bridges were still usable but many of the wooden trestles had to be replaced. The shops, yard and depot were located at the foot of Pemberton Street. Line was being laid at about a mile a day rate and on June 11th, 1956 a copper spike was driven at MP 26.2 near Britannia Beach by retired section foreman Blll Smetanuk.

At this point all the mileposts were changed to reflect mileage from North Vancouver northbound rather than the original southern terminal at Squamish. The new line had cost $10.5 million and five lives had been lost during the construction period. Over a million and a half tons of rock had been blasted from the cliffs along Howe Sound into the Sound itself. This huge job had been the main obstacle back in the early 1900's in building the line north of Whytecllff. The new line was laid with 85 pound rail and as other sections were replaced, similar weight rail was used to replace the lighter weight original rail.

During the period of 1953-1955, steam locomotives #51,52,54,55 & 57 were scrapped as new diesels arrived.

In July of 1955, the PGE had 429 miles of track, 1 tugboat, 2 barges, 7 diesel switchers, 15 road diesels, 2 motor cars, 39 passenger cars, 480 freight cars, 113 MOW and service cars and 5 steam locos on its roster. Until the completion of the PGE, none of their freight cars had ever ventured outside of BC and seldom off the PGE line. This changed as prior to the completion of the line to North Vancouver, the Milwaukee Road set up a barge connection with the PGE in the early 50's between Squamish and Tacoma to enable loaded cars to be shipped south of the border.

Watch for Part 4 next month…..

RAILWAY NEWS

MOTIVE POWER NOTES

CN SW1200RS #1394 has been retired, leaving SW1200RM #7311 as the last of 192 units of this model on the roster. It switches the steel transfer facility at Toronto’s MacMillan yard (TJ)……CN has purchased four EMD SD70ACe demonstrators (8100-8103)and one of them (8103) showed up soon after the purchase on the former BC Rail line leading a consist into Squamish on February 16. In spite of the rainy day, it made for a nice sight at the head of the train, still in EMD blue paint as seen in the Corwin Doeksen photo on Page 24. WCRA News, Page 24

CN STOCK SPLITS AGAIN

CN continues to do well as a business and an investment. CN’s stock split for the fourth time on November 30, with opening price on December 2 being $59.75. Investors who bought shares at the original price of $27 in 1995 would now see their investment worth $717!

CN PICKS UP INTERMODAL BUSINESS

CN has picked up four major customers from CP, as the rival railway shifts its intermodal more to domestic service and away from marine. Coming on board with CN were APL and Mitsui OSK Lines, and coming over are Overseas Orient Container this year. Chrysler has also announced plans to shift their business to CN this year. (SDHSE)

CN STEPS UP DEFECT DETECTION CAPABILITIES

CN has announced a special program to acquire additional monitoring equipment for more advanced early detection of defects. Being added are: • 30 new wayside equipment system units to detect hot bearings, dragging equipment etc. • An optical track inspection system that uses imaging to detect defects • A new track geometry test car to monitor position, curvature and alignment of track • More than 30 new brittle bar detectors that can identify and flag derailed equipment to train crews • Controlled signaling on key sidings to alert crews and dispatchers to broken rail incidents

CN has more wayside detection capability than any other North American railway. (BL) WCRA News, Page 25

MOTIVE POWER NOTES

The last five of the order for 40 GP20C-ECO units (2230—2269) have been delivered by Progress Rail / EMD and are assigned to Toronto and Calgary……. the 20 SD30C-ECO units have also been delivered (5000—5019), they are assigned to St. Paul, MN. (TJ)

LOCOMOTIVE SHOP FOR GOLDEN

CP has established a locomotive shop at Golden, B C. Units assigned there are GP9u 8218, GP38-2’s 3022, 3064, 3091, 3106 and 7308; SD40-2’s 5420, 5612, 5759, 5764, 5791, 5875, 5916, 5970, 6015, 6025, 6038, 6040 and 6071, and a single AC4400CW #8600. (BL)

HOLIDAY TRAIN RAISES $2 MILLION FOR LOCAL FOOD BANKS

The 15th year of CP’s Holiday Train was another success. The trains, which stopped at over 150 communities, raised over $2 million and 300,000 pounds of food for local food banks warming the Christmas season for many people in need.

INTERIORS CONTRACT AWARDED

The eight VIA Rail Canada sleeper cars and four “Park” observation cars that were gutted and modified at Avalon Rail in Milwaukee (larger windows and other changes) returned to Canada without interiors. The contract to finish the interiors has now been awarded to CLN Railway Industries and Services Ferroviaires Julien. The work will be done at the former CN roundhouse in Charny, and the first are expected to enter service this May. (TJ)

SEVERE WINTER HURTS CANADIAN’S SCHEDULE

VIA Rail Canada’s flagship train has been hit hard by the protracted and extremely cold winter this year, Several instances have occurred where the train was either truncated and turned back or arrived 24 hours or more late, challenging crews and equipment as well as passengers. Most seemed to take it in stride, and VIA seemed to handle the customer needs well, putting on extra meals and activities, and generally making life pleasant for those aboard. Hopefully spring is on the way now! WCRA News, Page 26

BUSY HOLIDAYS

VIA carried 274,000 passengers over the Christmas holidays, up 9.5% from the previous year.

The winter conditions are partly responsible, as people decided to do less driving and chose the train. Montreal—Toronto saw the greatest loads, with 61,163 passengers and the Toronto—

Windsor route saw growth of 24%. (BL)

CHANGES AT THE TOP

VIA’s President Marc Laliberte said goodbye to VIA at the end of December, as his four year term expired. An interim president, Steve Del Bosco has assumed the helm for now, while the search for a new president continues. (VL)

NEW POLICE SERVICE

VIA has started up its own police service and its first inspector is Fern Breau. He has full enforcement rights under the Canada Transportation Act and the Criminal Code of Canada.

OTHER NEWS

BOMBARDIER WINS WEST COAST EXPRESS CONTRACT

Bombardier Transportation signed a $17 million contract to operate West Coast Express trains for a period of five years, with options for future years as well. The firm will take over operations effective May 2014. While known primarily for manufacturing, Bombardier also operates most of GO Transit’s routes in Toronto. (SDHSE)

WCRA News, Page 27

CREDIT LINES ISSN 1204-072X Vol. 54 Issue 4 Editor Don Evans Distribution Jeremy Davy & Donna Simon

Contributors: J.D. Jeremy Davy D.F. Donna Fourchalk Dani F. Danielle Fourchalk B.J. Bill Johnston M.L. Mike Lloyd B.M. Bill Marchant J. Mi. Jennifer Mitchell M. McG. Mike McGaw

BL Branchline SDHSE Sandhouse TJ Tempo Jr. VL ViaLogue

Send contributions to the WCRA PO Box, direct to the editor at #28 - 2133 St. Georges Ave., North Vancouver, B.C. V7L 3K5, on the Internet to < [email protected]> , phone news to (604)988-3435(res) or fax to (604) 986-7660. Check us out on the Internet at < www.wcra.org>

Contact us: Tours 604-524-1011 / 800-722-1233 Heritage Park 604-898-9336 Office 604-681-4403 CN Roundhouse & Conference Centre 604-898-1082 www.wcra.org

REAR COVER

Consider the BC Historical Conference this June in Cloverdale. WCRA is a member, the con- ference is open to all our members who wish to attend.

TRIVIA ANSWER

The Golden Spike Monument is an upside-down 56 foot high concrete railroad spike adjacent to Union Pacific's main yard in Council Bluffs, Iowa. The spike was dedicated on the 28 April 1939 which coincided with the opening of Cecil B. DeMille's motion picture "Union Pa- cific" ( Happy 75th Anniversary ).

CANADIAN COUNCIL FOR RAILWAY HERITAGE

WCRA News acknowledges the financial assistance of the Province of British Columbia Published monthly by West Coast Railway Association ISSN 1204-072X PO Box 2790 Stn. Term., Vancouver, B.C., V6B 3X2 Vol. 54 Issue 4 www.wcra.org http://twitter.com/WCRailway Canada Post, Canadian Publications Mail Sales Product Agreement #40007853