WCRA NEWS

AUGUST 2008

COME TO STEAMFEST! SEP. 20 & 21, 2008 MINI RAIL DAYS AND MEMBER PICNIC AUGUST 17 WCRA News, Page 2

GENERAL MEETING NOTICE

The General Meeting of the WCRA will be held on Tuesday, July 29, 2008 at 1930 hours at the Rainbow Creek Station in Burnaby, Willindon at Penzance.

Entertainment will be a DVD “Gears In The Woods”.

ON THE COVER

Announcing SteamFest! Royal Hudson #2860 greets our 1934 Chrysler Airflow at the West Coast Railway Heritage Park—a pre view of just two of the many attractions planned for Steam Fest 2008, which will be held September 20 and 21, 2008. More inside—page 20.

AUGUST CALENDAR

• West Coast Railway Heritage Park open daily 1000 through 1700k • Wednesday, August 6—Deadline for items to be included in the September 2008 edition of WCRA News • Tuesday, August 12—WCRT’s “ Island’s West Coast” tour departs • Tuesday, August 19 —Tours Committee Meeting, call Bernie at 604-325-0923 • Sunday, August 17—Mini Rail Days all day at the Heritage Park, many guest engines will pull trains, everyone welcome 1000—1700. • Sunday, August 17—Members’ Picnic at the Heritage Park, come and enjoy a free dinner and the company of your fellow WCRA members, 1730—1900. • Saturday, August 23—Giant Garage Sale at West Coast Railway Heritage Park, 1000— 1400 • Tuesday, August 26 —WCRA General Meeting, 1930 hours, Rainbow Creek Station in Burnaby, BC

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 charity. Individual membership in the WCRA is $50.00 per year, family membership is $60.00. E Members (electronic newsletter, $15 savings) are $35 individual and $45 family. (Outside , please remit US $) Other categories are: - Junior Member (age 18 and under ) $ 25 - Sustaining Member $100 (tax receipt) plus membership type regular fee - Life Member (one time fee) $700 individual life / $1,200 family life All memberships include the monthly newsletter, Heritage Park admission, 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

WE COULDN’T HAVE SAID THIS ANY BETTER

In times past we have commented about the need to be careful as we build and develop our core collection, about how things just get dropped off at our site without our acceptance or consideration about whether or not they fit our plan, or whether or not we will be able to care for them properly.

This is a very real issue for all of us who preserve railway heritage, and this recent editorial that ran in TrainLine says it better than anything else we could have written ourselves about taking a critical look at our collections an being sure they are manageable for the long term..

YA WANT AN ELEPHANT? - by Dan & Karen Ranger, TRAIN

I am reminded of a conversation I once had with the late Walter Gray, of the California State Railway Museum, in which we discussed how a museum considered what it preserved.

One of Walt’s comments was about a circus going by a farmhouse and a guy asking if the farmer wanted an elephant. “Why sure, I do” replied the farmer. After he got the elephant and put it back of the barn, it came to him, “Now what the heck do I do with it?”

Aside from Walt’s humour, there is a very telling message here that is beginning to show up in the railroad artifact collecting industry. “What do we do with it?”

Well, we “keep it” so the public gets to see it. Fine, now do we have the funds to restore it? To maintain it? And more to the point, does the public really care that we have it at all?

Yes, we care. You and I do. Because we are railfans that, with a somewhat glassy eyed view, care. But in the real world, do other people, the ones we hope will pay to see “it” or give us grant money to preserve “it” care? In general, the hard answer just might be “probably not”.

Take another look at what is happening at the California State Railroad Museum, the National Railroad Museum in Green Bay, and others not so publicly in the glare of the spotlight. If one has a piece of equipment that will take $250,000 or more to restore, does one then end up with another $250,000 piece of rust. An do enough of our paying customers care?

These are serious questions that our industry needs to examine and, maybe, get a little cold blooded about. It might mean the difference between saving something—or losing all of it.

Don WCRA News, Page 4 ASSOCIATION NEWS

FROM THE JUNE GENERAL MEETING

The General Meeting of the West Coast Railway Association was held at 1930 hours on June 24, 2008 with Colin Dathan chairing the meeting and 30 in attendance: • President’s report – Jim Brown for Don Evans, updated re funding received and other activities during June. • Finances – Jim Brown, May has been a very good month for revenue; but profit and income are down from 2007 due extra expenses. • 374 Pavilion – Jim Brown, Vancouver Jazz festival at R/H Community Centre next week – 374 Pavilion should benefit. Summer Student now onboard – work Mon to Fri; Attendance up since student start and should remain so as a result; Gift shop now open – revenue $350 to date. • Heritage Park – Susan Steen, Vancouver Millionaires Hockey Alumni will be at the BC150 event. They are looking for a space for their archives and are considering WCRHP. Summer Staff has now started – Nicole Etherington and Nathan Pinfield; Will meet on Monday with BC Museum of Mining to see how we can co-ordinate activities of both organizations more effectively. • Heritage Park Construction – Colin Smith, Canron now has firm date for start of steel erection August 5th; Mechanicals have been sorted out and now have improvements which will benefit its operation later - like more efficient in floor heating • MiniRail – Jeremy Davy; Bookings for Portable coming in slowly, Attended Chilliwack Interchange 2008 June 14 & 15 and Surrey RCMP Div 1 Block Party in Whalley on Jun 19. Total rides given 732; Next Schedule S. Delta Baptist Church July 16th/17th. • Membership – Jeremy Davy; Total membership showing slow growth; Memberships usually increase in Summer. • Events – Bernie Tully ; Chilliwack Interchange 2008 (NMRA Regional convention) June 14th/15th – 1600 visitors in addition to Delegates. Sale of Surplus Books = $460.00 • Collection – No report • Tours – Bernie Tully; Colin Dathan gave a report on the Train/ 2 Ferry Tour on which he was a guest. The tour was very good in all respects; The 5,000 piece mail drop done last week has already resulted in 14 bookings; • Special Items; The Shane Yellowbird Video shot at the Park on May 6th will be shown on CMT Jun 25 @ 4:30PM and Jun 29 @ 7:30 AM. • Trackside Report: Ryan Cruickshank and Bill Marchant gave their Trackside Reports – both with humor.. • Guests; The 2 guests were introduced and we welcomed. Bruce McKay – attending for first time in several months • Raffle paid the rent plus a reduced pot for the winner. • Events Calendar – Read & available in the newsletter. • Entertainment - DVD featuring the Electric Era of the Milwaukee Road to its end WCRA News, Page 5

SPECIAL NOTE – The Royal Hudson Requests your assistance:

Member Joe Naismith brought a large number of historical videos to the June meeting with the intention that they be sold and the proceeds donated to the Royal Hudson Fund. Through an oversight, the fact that they were for sale was not announced and some members may have assumed that they were free as a sizable number of the videos were gone by the end the meeting but very few dollars were in evidence.

We hope those of you who have the videos are enjoying them but would appreciate it if you would make a minimum $5.00 per item donation. The money can be given to Jeremy or Bill Marchant during the evening. Thank you. (J.D.)

WCRA TRIVIA # 235 - by Ryan D. Cruickshank

What is the oldest major metropolitan railroad station still standing? (for answer, see Credit Lines) MEMBERSHIP RENEWALS

Memberships dated 06/30/2008 have now expired, and if your membership expired 04/30/2008, this will be your last issue. Please check the label on your newsletter and renew today. Remember that renewals are being accepted for memberships with the E–Newsletter—check page 2 for current membership rates.

Is your email address current???? It is particularly important that those of you who have registered for access to the Members Only area keep your email address current in the Server. Each time a new issue is posted the Server sends a notice to the email address you supplied when you requested access. Because the undeliverable messages from a Server do not bounce back to it I have no way to be proactive.

If you have changed your email address, or think the one we have is out of date because you do not receive notices, please send your current email address to Jeremy at [email protected] and the server will be updated as required. (J.D.)

NEW MEMBERS

The WCRA welcomes new members Tom Mugnano of Irwin, Pennsylvania, Dave Bartlett & family of Garibaldi Highlands, Bill Brown of Squamish, Sean Carter & Anna Heap & family of Brackendale, Mark Crawford & Paula Palmer & family of Whistler, Dylan Cunningham of West Vancouver, Allys DiMarzo & family of Squamish, Irena Erdos of Garibaldi Highlands, Noel Holley of Seattle, WA, Darin & Megan Joseph & family of Brackendale, Karen Rath & family of Garibaldi Highlands, Karen Rooney & Peter Poburan & family of Squamish, Peter & Gini Walsh & family of Victoria, and Todd Whiting & family of North Vancouver. WCRA News, Page 6

We also welcome new Life Members John & Barbara French & family of Vancouver, and a new corporate member DTM Systems Corp. of Vancouver.

We welcome back to membership Dave Firbank of Squamish, Keith Leminiski & family of Vancouver, and Robert & Caroline Waters & family of Brackendale. (J.D.)

MEMBER NEWS

Congratulations to Hugh Little on his retirement from Westran Services Ltd., the company he founded 25 years ago and has led ever since. The company will continue under the ownership of Mike and Sandra Peters. Hugh is an original founding member of the West Coast Railway Association and a current Board member and chair of our Audit Committee. Hugh’s retirement comes well earned and we wish him continued success and good health for many years to come.

RECIPROCAL MEMBERSHIPS WITH BC MUSEUM OF MINING FOR WCRA

Your WCRA membership just got better! A new reciprocal membership agreement between West Coast Railway Association and the BC Museum of Mining has been put in place, and your membership privileges just Doubled! By being a WCRA member, you now get the membership admission and gift shop discounts of both great organizations.

Specifically, your WCRA membership now gets you complimentary admission to the BC Museum of Mining during regular operating hours, two guest tickets at $5 off when you visit with guests, 15% off in the Chatterbox Gift Shop, newsletter and invitations to special events such as “Copper and Fire”. BC Museum of Mining members get similar benefits consistent with WCRA membership, including electronic newsletter access through the website.

NOTE: you must have your WCRA Membership card for admissions to the BC Museum of Mining and shop discounts there (as you need it for admission to our Heritage Park).

So by being a member in either organization, you are helping to build strong heritage attractions in both Squamish and Britannia Beach and you get twice the value from your membership dollars. Together, we are the Two to Do on the Sea to Sky Corridor.

Call Susan Steen 604-898-9336 if you require more details. (S.S.)

BE PART OF BC HISTORY

This year, you can become part of BC history. The Royal BC Museum wants your story – and your help in spreading the word about The People’s History Project, a website where people from across the province can share memories and stories of British Columbia from a personal WCRA News, Page 7 point of view.

Filled with photographs, text, audio and video submissions, The People’s History Project is accepting story submissions until Jan. 11, 2009. Then it will live on in the BC Archives as an electronic time capsule of BC history as seen through the eyes of British Columbians in 2008 – the province’s 150th anniversary year.

You can make a big difference to this project. Here’s how: • Pass the word If you manage a membership list or other email group, please pass this email on to your lists. Send it on to your family, friends or professional networks. You can help us reach out across BC to find stories waiting to be told. • Print our poster and share our ad A printable poster and a newsletter ad are attached to this message. Hang the poster on your notice board or post it at your local coffee shop. If you have a print or electronic newsletter, just drop in our ad for The People’s History Project to help us spread the word.

• Share your stories and photos Share your own story about arriving, growing up, working or living in BC. Visit the website at www.freespiritbc.ca/peopleshistory, or call 250-381-4305 to record your story in your own voice. Your submission can be as simple as a family photograph.

Thank you for helping the Royal BC Museum record The People’s History for all British Columbians to share. WCRA News, Page 8

To learn more about the project, visit the website, or call or email us: The People’s History Project On the web: www.freespiritbc.ca/peopleshistory Email: [email protected] Phone: 250 381-4305

PGE / BCR SIG

The PGE / BCR Special Interest Group has become inactive, and the group has forwarded a donation cheque in the amount of $100 to the WCRA as part of dealing with the remaining funds of the group. Our thanks to past President Paul J Crozier Smith and the members of this group for their work in preserving the heritage of this railway over the years. Now preserving the heritage of the PGE and BCR falls even more heavily on WCRA and our substantial collection of artifacts from the railways past.

COLLECTION

ROYAL HUDSON PRESERVATION FUND

We acknowledge our monthly contributors Dave Walker, Richard Tubbesing, and Ernie & Lynn Ledgerwood and . Our total now is now $638,429. Remember, you can make a donation on line through www.wcra.org , and we still need your help as we have spent more than $100,000 in excess of funds donated so far. We continue to improve #2860 for future operations.

ROYAL HUDSON

The Royal Hudson #2860 got to have a bit of a workout on June 27th prior to the BC150 event. There were no major problems and the track realignment at the Heritage Park met with favourable reviews. It now doesn’t feel as if the tender is going to pass you and it is nice to know all wheels contact the rail at the same time.

The BC150 Event went off very successfully with the star attraction being the Royal Hudson steaming at the Mac Norris station. The passengers on the Whistler Mountaineer were in for a treat on both June 27 and June 28 as the Hudson went out to the North Yards Crossing to salute the Whistler Mountaineer. As usual we were lucky to have Mark Liggins come up from White Rock to engineer the Royal Hudson. (More coverage on page 23) (R.J.)

VINTAGE LIONEL TRAIN SET DONATED Thanks to Robert Penrose for the donation of a lovely 1939 vintage Lionel Train set. It is a vintage Yankee Clipper set with locomotive, four cars, track and power supply. It will go on display with our other vintage model trains in the Mac Norris Station exhibit room. (J.B.) WCRA News, Page 9 UPDATE

Window sills have been installed and 50% of the sills have been prepared for paint. New fabricated panels have now been sandblasted in preparation for paint. Lance Camp paid us a visit June 27th and brought us copies of some pictures of the CP 1928 Business Car British Columbia. (a sister car to the Alberta) He and the pictures were very informative. (R.J.)

FUNDRAISING

PRESIDENT’S REPORT – JUNE 2008

The BC Arts Renaissance Fund has committed a matching grant to the West Coast Railway Endowment Fund for 2008 in the amount of $350,000. The WCRA has to come up with its $350,000 by the end of 2008 in order to trigger this matching grant. The BC Arts Renaissance Fund is a gift of the Province of British Columbia, and is administered by the Vancouver Foundation. Our goal is to be able to put these funds in place by the end of the year and thus grow our endowment past the $1.5 million mark.

June was a very busy month once again, with good success:

Funding Asks Made • Roundhouse major focus of fundraising activities

Major Funding Received • $300 donation for Car BC Dinner • $7,735 general donations • Alberta Donation $50,000 • New debenture $500 • $4,664 in kind donations

Month Total $63,199 Year to Date Total $ 1,433,496 General purposes $433,496 WCR Endowment Fund $700,000 Roundhouse $300,000

Other Significant Activities • Attended ’s millionth guest event • Developed agreement for restoration of rare Nathan horns on BCER 941 • Supported Susan on several new leases in MP 2 • Met with Squamish Historical Society re future opportunities at the Heritage Park site • Met with Mayor and Greg Gardner re a number of issues

WCRA News, Page 10 DEBENTURES AVAILABLE, GREAT INTEREST RATE

The West Coast Railway Association continues to offer a series of debentures to members to help fund the installation of the vintage turntable at the Heritage Park and our operations in this challenging year. The costs of servicing and preparing the site have been higher than expected, and we need to make unexpected repairs to the turntable bridge structure itself. We are wanting to complete the installation of the turntable and open CN Turntable Plaza in fall 2008. We really need your help here.

The next few months are critical to our being able to achieve our major goals—your help is needed now and will really make a difference.

Debentures are offered in the same terms as previous offerings—a three year term to maturity, annual interest rate of 5%, and multiples of $500. Given the falling interest rates on savings these days, 5% is a very good rate. Here is a way that you can get involved and help, as well as see a good return on your investment. For more information contact Jim Brown at 604-681-4403 or Don Evans at 604-988-3435.

WEST COAST RAIL TOURS

THE 2008 TOUR PROGRAM IS NOW WELL UNDERWAY

Most of our 2008 tours are now close to sell out, which is good news. However, there are often cancellations so don’t hesitate to call about any of them. If we can not accommodate you immediately, we will wait list you and do our best to get you on the tour of your choice.

Apart from the tours shown in these pages please remember that our tours office is available weekdays to book independent trips. For example we issue tickets for Canada, , the White Pass and Route Railroad and the Alaska Railroad as full-service agents for those lines. Rocky Mountaineer Vacations new 2008 brochure is now available; call for your copy and book with us. We also have the 2008 Trafalgar Tours brochures ready to send. They include the following destinations: Europe & Britain, Australia & New Zealand, USA & Canada, and River Cruises. We will pop the brochure of your choice in the mail as soon as you make the call to 604-524-1011 or toll free 1-800-722-1233. You can also e-mail us on [email protected]

We also combine air, coach, ferry and cruise ships with rail services to customize itineraries throughout the USA and Canada. Flying east or south? Let us book you on WestJet, our preferred air carrier. For trips of 4 days or more we offer free home pickups and drop-offs in the Vancouver area. (B.J.)

WCRA News, Page 11

MALAHAT CIRCLE TOUR - Daily except Saturday - all year – 2 days

Depart from Pacific Central Station at a time of your choosing aboard Pacific Coach Lines scheduled service to Victoria. We supply vouchers to take you to the Queen Victoria Hotel—a few steps from the bus depot. You are on your own for dinner. Breakfast is served at 7:00AM in the hotel’s restaurant, then their van shuttles you to the VIA Rail station at 7:30 AM. Board the train for an 8:00 AM departure to Qualicum Beach where it arrives before noon. Enjoy this quaint town with its interesting beaches and restaurants. After lunch (on your own) we ask you to board the southbound train at 2:00 PM and get off at Nanaimo at about 3:00 PM. A waiting, pre-booked taxi takes you to Nanaimo’s bus depot for the 4:30 PM departure of Greyhound’s scheduled service to Vancouver. Dinner on the ferry is available. Arrive at Pacific Central Station at 7:15 PM.

FARES: $224; Children 2-11 $186; BC Seniors (Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays only) $186. (Otherwise, $224). Ask about special pricing if couples travel together. Single supplement $71. GST extra. Low season and budget hotel bookings save you more. THE GREAT PLAINS and ROCKIES by TWO NAME TRAINS — 6 days

A unique chance to travel on two great “name” trains to visit the centre of the North American Continent from the comfort of your private sleeping compartments, dining cars, lounges and scenic domes. Enjoy the Canadian Rockies and the vast Prairies to then America’s Northern States and Mountain Parks. Departures: Tuesdays, Fridays & Sundays - from Vancouver Day 1: Check in at Vancouver’s Pacific Central Station to board The Canadian eastbound through Vancouver’s eastern suburbs and the lower Fraser Valley. Take dinner in the diner and retire for the night in your choice of sleeping accommodation. Day 2: Before breakfast you are in the heart of the Rockies. Stop in Jasper for a break off the train. Re-board the train and you are on your way out of the mountains and into Alberta’s verdant foothills. After a stop in you are on your way east across the prairies crossing Saskatchewan overnight in your comfortable bed. Day 3: By breakfast time you are in and late in the morning arrive in Winnipeg. After a transfer to a beautiful old railway hotel you have the afternoon free to visit local sights. Day 4: Breakfast is available in the dining room of your hotel before you check out and take a taxi for the short ride to the Greyhound depot. Here you board a modern motorcoach for Minneapolis, Minnesota U.S.A. (passport required.) Once there you transfer to the Amtrak station across the mighty Mississippi River to neighbouring St. Paul and board The . Once aboard you settle into your sleeping room for the start of your westbound journey. Day 5: Breakfast is available in the dining car as your train heads west across sparsely populated North Dakota. You are in Montana by noon and by dinnertime are skirting the Rockies’ famous Glacier National Park. WCRA News, Page 12

Day 6: You can expect arrival in Seattle mid-morning. Our Amtrak connecting Thruway motorcoach leaves at 1:15 PM for Surrey, Richmond and Vancouver arriving back at Pacific Central Station, the starting point, at 5 PM.

FARE: The 6-Day Tour, based on shared accommodation. From Cdn $1295 per person. Single fares start at Cdn $1495. Price depends on age of guests, number traveling together, type of sleeping accommodation on the trains, date of booking, date of travel, and US$ exchange rate. Our price will be cheaper than doing this on your own. Add a night in Seattle and take the morning “Cascades” train service to Vancouver for an extra $99 per person including your hotel.

VANCOUVER ISLAND’S WEST COAST - Tuesday, August 12th via Coastal Supply Vessel, E&N Train, & Steam Mill & Railway - 4 days NEW CHANGES

Your free pickup gets you to the 8:30 AM sailing by BC Ferries from Horseshoe Bay. Upon arrival at Nanaimo’s Departure Bay your coach will follow the Island’s scenic east coast to Courtenay for lunch. Here you will board the E&N Malahat Dayliner for its southbound trip to Parksville. Your coach meets you for a transfer to Coombs Junction Market. Then it’s off to Port Alberni for a visit to the top-rated Alberni Valley Museum. You will have time to relax before a buffet dinner at a seaside restaurant. Next morning you leave the hotel for the short trip to the dock to board the “Frances Barkley“, a coastal supply vessel that services Alberni Inlet. It stops briefly at Sechart in the Broken Group Islands before continuing on to Ucluelet. After lunch on your own on the boat we are met by our coach at about 12:30 PM and spend the afternoon sightseeing along Pacific Rim National Park. We will visit Tofino for a mid afternoon break and return to Ucluelet for the evening. A gourmet dinner is included here. Thursday morning wake up and relax over a late brunch in a nearby restaurant. At 1:30 PM we take a local tour and leave the Long Beach unit of Pacific Rim National Park for Port Alberni. Stops will be made at scenic overlooks for a snack and the water bomber base. You check in to the Port Alberni Hotel and relax before a farewell dinner in the hotel restaurant. After breakfast next morning you depart for the railway station where you will board the Alberni Pacific Railway train for its 10:00 AM departure for the McLean Mill National Historic site, (the only steam operated sawmill in Canada). Upon arrival take a tour of the mill, and have a light lunch. You leave about 1:30 PM for the eastern side of the Island to catch the 4:30 PM sailing for Vancouver. (A stop at a rail station for those returning to Victoria on the Dayliner is possible).

FARES: The 4-Day Tour, Tuesday to Friday is $850 each based shared accommodation. (BC Seniors $830). Single Supplement - $282. Extra day via Victoria: 5-Days including the train to Victoria, hotel and return transportation to Vancouver on Saturday, (unescorted): $930, (BC Seniors $898). Single Supplement - $342.

WCRA News, Page 13

TWO STEAM TRAINS, FISH and WINE PLUS CASINO FUN - Friday, September 5th A great opportunity to ride behind two steam locomotives in the Okanagan region, taste some great wines and see fish spawning - 4 days

Leave Vancouver’s Pacific Central Station by chartered motorcoach for highway no. 7 on the scenic north side of the from Mission to downtown Agassiz and the museum housed in the oldest wooden railroad station in B.C. Follow the Fraser Canyon and stop for lunch at the Hell’s Gate Air Tram. Then it’s on to Skihist Park overlooking Rainbow Canyon of the Thompson River and the railways operating through this most difficult part of the river valley. You overnight in Kamloops after a welcome dinner. Next morning your coach will transfer you to the Kamloops Heritage Railway’s train with #2141. The train climbs from Campbell Creek up into ranching country en route to Armstrong.

Continuing by motorcoach you visit O'Keefe Ranch for lunch and proceed on to Penticton with a stop to view spawning fish at Peachland’s Hardy Creek Park. You stay at the Penticton Lakeside Resort and Casino on Okanagan Lake’s south shore for 2 nights. If you like casinos this is an excellent one. Next morning leave for the Kettle Valley Steam Railway. The train takes you along the hills overlooking Summerland and on to the Trout Creek Bridge, the highest on the former line. You will then have lunch on board the SS Sicamous, the beautifully restored lake steamer on the beach in Penticton. This is followed by a tour to a local winery after which you will return to your hotel for the evening. The next morning your group will depart for Osoyoos where you will see one of the best model railroads anywhere (Osoyoos Desert Railroad). Then it’s off to the Grist Mill at Keremeos for a tour and lunch. You then take the Crowsnest Route, back to the coast with stops at a fruit stand and Manning Park Lodge. This ends a great circle tour through BC’s most interesting highlights.

FARES: $787 each based shared accommodation; Single Supplement: $ 183

TRAINS OF SOUTHWESTERN BC Departure Thursday, September 18th, 2008 Circle the region of South-Western BC by train and see the Royal Hudson in steam at the WCRA Heritage Park. - six days (Tour TSB) NEW TOUR!

Meals included in packages are shown thus: B = breakfast, CB = continental breakfast, L = lunch, S = morning or afternoon snack or tea, D = dinner (All other meals are on your own)

Day 1 - Thursday, September 18th Upon independent arrival in Vancouver, British Columbia, you check-in to your downtown hotel. We have a welcome to Canada dinner at 6:00pm. D Day 2 - Friday, September 19th Today we travel north onboard the new "Whistler Mountaineer" train over the former British Columbia Railroad from North Vancouver to Whistler. You have two options: WCRA News, Page 14

Option 1: Depart by motorcoach for Squamish to visit the West Coast Railway Heritage Park. We take a ride on one of the former BCR Budd RDC railcars to the workshops. Late afternoon we return to Whistler for hotel check-in. Option 2: Spend the rest of the day exploring the Whistler Ski Resort Village; this resort operates both summer and winter. There are many interesting shops and pleasant walks to occupy your time. CB Day 3 - Saturday, September 20th Morning charter motorcoach from Whistler to Squamish with another stop at the West Coast Railway Heritage Park to see the Royal Hudson, steam locomotive No. 2860 in operation. The classic 4-6-2 will be operating all day in and around Squamish. If time permits, we will stop at the Britannia Mining Museum for an underground tour into the mine. We then continue on to Vancouver and board the late afternoon ferry for Nanaimo on . There is a restaurant onboard and you can have dinner as we sail to the island. Upon arrival in Nanaimo, we continue north to Parksville and check-in at the Quality Resort Bayside Hotel.

Day 4 - Sunday, September 21st In the morning we travel from Parksville to Port Alberni which is nestled in the Alberni Valley and provides a wide variety of unique attractions. Browse through the many galleries and shops at the Alberni Harbor Quay Park and Market Place on harbor front. In the afternoon we will visit the Alberni Valley Museum, a treasure trove of local history, Folk art, and First Nations culture. We will also visit the Alberni Pacific Railway station and engine shop. One highlight will be a walking tour of the old McLean Saw Mill which is steam powered and we have arranged with the Alberni Pacific Railway to run our own private charter pulled by an ex-1929 Baldwin logging steam locomotive with photo run-bys. We then return to the east side of Vancouver Island to Courtney to catch the southbound "Malahat" passenger train on the Esquimalt and Nanaimo Railroad. This E&N Railliner uses the classic Budd RDC railcars for equipment and in fact very few of these RDC rail cars are left in operation in North America. Enjoy views of charming communities and scenic sights that you can only see from the train. Upon arrival in Victoria we transfer to the nearby Queen Victoria Hotel & Suites for check-in. B

Day 5 - Monday, September 22nd We depart from our downtown hotel in Victoria and visit the famous Butchart Gardens which offers one spectacular sight after another. In 1904, the gardens began with a effort to beautify an old quarry site. From the exquisite Sunken Garden to the charming English Rose Garden, this 50 acre showplace today maintains the gracious traditions of the past, in one of the loveliest corners of the world. We then take an afternoon Victoria city tour and there is some free time to explore this colorful city. We spend the night at the Queen Victoria Hotel & Suites. B WCRA News, Page 15 Day 6 - Tuesday, September 23rd We depart in the morning on the return ferry to the mainland and Vancouver. We will then take you on a Vancouver city tour to include , District, China Town, CPR Roundhouse, Lonsdale Quay Market, SeaBus across the harbor, The waterfront district, and Vancouver's SkyTrain. You could depart for home tonight or stay an extra day. B

Fare: $849.00 plus GST (per person sharing); and $398.00 (single supplement)

THE CANADIAN ROCKIES AND ALBERTA’S STEAM TRAINS - Tuesday, September 23rd – 5 days

Depart on VIA Rail’s Canadian at 5:30 PM in your comfortable sleeper. Meals included. Day 2: Wake up this morning in the heart of the Canadian Rockies following raging rivers and with any luck a view of Mount Robson, the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies. At 11 AM you arrive in Jasper where you will have an hour to walk around, photograph a Mountain type steam engine and explore the visitor’s center and historic railway station. We arrive in Edmonton at 5:30 PM where we transfer to our hotel next to the West Edmonton Mall. Day 3: You will tour Edmonton today riding the impressive Light Rail system and later visit the West Edmonton Mall, the world's largest entertainment and shopping centre and Alberta's number one tourist attraction. At 2:30 PM you are bused to the which houses a collection of various railway equipment and buildings. Their emphasis is on cars and locomotives from the Canadian National Railways (CNR) and Northern Alberta Railways (NAR). At 4:30 PM you depart for an overnight stop in Red Deer, Alberta.

Day 4: You depart the hotel at 8:30 AM for the Alberta Prairie Railway at Stettler, Alberta. Dramatic excitement behind a steam loco awaits you. All excursions include a full course buffet meal which is included in the fare, on board entertainment and maybe even a train robbery. During your journey on board the train to Big Valley you will travel through the beautiful rolling and treed countryside of Alberta's Parkland. Overnight in Drumheller.

Day 5: An outstanding day today as you visit The Royal Tyrrell Museum celebrating the long history and spectacular diversity of life - from the tiniest grains of pollen to the mightiest dinosaurs. Set in the Alberta badlands, the Museum opened in September, 1985. About half a million people per year come to experience the power and excitement of some of the most remarkable fossil displays anywhere in the world, in Canada’s only institution devoted entirely to paleontology. At 11:15 AM you head for ’s Heritage Park arriving shortly after lunch. This renowned park features street car and steam train rides, roundhouse and railway exhibits as well as a complete town site with buildings from the early days of Calgary. At 4 PM depart by bus to Light Rail (C-Train) to downtown Calgary then bus to hotel or local Hobby shop. WCRA News, Page 16

(Options: Continue tour with Steam train to Vancouver below, fly out this evening from Calgary or take the Rocky Mountaineer to Vancouver.

FARE: call for details.

CPR STEAM THROUGH THE ROCKIES

Westbound from Calgary September 28th or Eastbound from Vancouver on October 5th on 6-day itineraries. These tours are once-in-a-lifetime escapes behind CPR Steam Locomotive Empress no. 2816 crossing British Columbia’s many mountain ranges in classic transcontinental coaches. Westbound overnight stops are made in Lake Louise, Revelstoke, and Kamloops. Eastbound is a “rare mileage” adventure with stops in Kamloops, Golden, Cranbrook and Lethbridge traversing the Crowsnest Pass.

FARE: from $3995. Includes hotels, meals, transfers, one-way airfare to/from Calgary, admissions, and entertainment. Call for a detailed itinerary.

Remember: West Coast Rail Tours travel agency has IATA status so we can handle all your bookings for air travel as well as cruises, motorcoaches, hotel accommodations, ferries and — our specialty - rail. We ask you to choose us as your travel agent, as all of our tours serve as fundraisers for WCRA projects. Contact the tours office toll free at 1-800-722- 1233, or locally at 604-524-1011. Better yet e-mail us at [email protected] (B.J.)

West Coast Rail Tours - The “Rail” Way To Go

Part time Employment Opportunity at the West Coast Railway Association

We are looking to fill a part time paid position at the Hastings office in Burnaby, to take on Tours Administration duties. If you are interested please contact: Jim Brown by e-mail at: [email protected] or by phone 604-681-4403.

Position: Tours Administrator Location: WCRA Admin office. 4529A Hastings Street. Burnaby BC Hours of operation: 10:00am to 2:00pm Monday to Friday Compensation: Competitive hourly rate plus commission

General Function: Reporting to the Tours Manager, this position is responsible for the general administration duties as associated with the West Coast Railway Association Tours business division. WCRA News, Page 17 Character of the Position: This is a position that requires the many disciplines of general administration duties with several years of experience in a similar role. Key skill requirements include, excellent customer communications, above average computer related experience, travel industry experience and the ability to work without close supervision. This position operates on ½ days or 20 hours per week and will work out of the Tours office located at 4529A Hastings Street Burnaby BC.

Duties: • Process all tour enquiries and enter data into related computer programs that monitor bookings, (currently Maximizer and Excel). • Process all financial transactions related to bookings, payments to suppliers, and others, as required. • Manage the Tours bank accounts reporting on balances, payables and receivables monthly. • Where required by Tour Committee make hotel, motor coach, train, meals, entertainment and other bookings that may be required for each tour. • Keep in constant contact with all vendors to ensure correct services are supplied at competitive prices consistent with good service and quality. • Keep clients content with personable, efficient and informative service. • Handle all enquiries as they are received at the 604-524-1011 phone number, [email protected], [email protected] in a business-like fashion, referring those that pertain to the non-tours segment of the business, as appropriate. • Process and administer other office related tasks as required.

374 PAVILION

The number of visitors recorded for June was 1,904 as compared to 1,227 for the same period last year. Year to date visitors at 7,304 remains ahead of the 5,980 recorded visitors last year. The increase in visitors (1,324) this year continues to set a good trend for 2008.

Turntable Plaza Project

The Vancouver Parks Board has approved an innovative plan called Turntable Plaza. This plan will transform the area and create a more dynamic, people place. The plaza has the potential to be a gathering place, a space for performances and a neighborhood hub. It will change the historic turntable so it becomes a vital urban Plaza in the heart of the neighborhood. For additional information please visit www.Roundhouse.ca and click on turntable project for a briefing report. WCRA News, Page 18 Volunteer’s Required for the 374 Pavilion

Please consider becoming a volunteer at the 374 pavilion. There are openings available on Tuesday, Friday and Sunday. Volunteers are the backbone of the 374 Pavilion. We would not be able to open and present the 374 pavilion without the help of our caring and enthusiastic volunteers. As volunteers you will have the opportunity to greet guests who come from all over the world to see the CPR 374 engine. Duties include: opening, closing the building and most important of all presenting the historical background of the 374 to visitors. Last year over 21,000 visitors came to the “374” and only through the efforts and dedication of our volunteer group were we able to accommodate them. We offer free parking and a very flexible schedule, either one day a week or two days a month whichever works best for you. If you are interested in assisting us and greeting a wide range of visitors, contact Jim Brown at 604-681-4403 or 604-985-7249 or e-mail at [email protected] (J.B.)

WEST COAST RAILWAY HERITAGE PARK Home of the Royal Hudson

HERITAGE PARK APPEARANCE GETS INCREASINGLY BETTER

A continuing series of improvements are going on at the Heritage Park, and the results are being noticed by our guests in their comments.

As with anything worthwhile, no one person can do it all alone and if you have seen a change in the Park’s appearance lately, it is the result of a lot of hard work by a whole lot of people. Special thanks to; Chris Forget, Irena Erdos, Donna Fourchalk, Les Duke, Barb Stover, who comes in on her day off to garden. We can see the results of this work in the entrance, the parking area and the Brightbill House gardens….all looking very lovely. (S.S.)

HISTORIC PACIFIC GREAT EASTERN RAILWAY SIGN DONATED

We were all pleased and surprised by the announcement that through the assistance of Jim Hegan and the Ministry of Transportation we would be receiving the PGE sign from the Sea to Sky Highway that graced a lookout since 1966, and which we thought long gone. Through Jim’s efforts we will be able to display this sign near our Car Shop. His help is so very much appreciated in making this happen. (S.S.)

OTHER HERITAGE PARK NEWS June saw the addition of a new guest services staff. We are pleased to welcome Nathan Pinfield. Nathan comes to us from the Karen Magnusson Centre in North Vancouver and is a new resident of Squamish. WCRA News, Page 19

We welcomed a total of 2,233 visitors to the site in June and our retail sales were up this month, due we think, to the reorganization of the gift shop area. (S.S.)

The Heritage Park hosted a bus tour of people from the Chilliwack Interchange 2008 Conference (model railroaders) on June 18th. The group was treated to a tour of the Park, a Budd car ride and tour of the MP Shops, and enjoyed lunch at the Park as well. (S.S.)

The Heritage Park (Susan Steen and Don Evans) hosted BC Museum of Mining’s President Mark Germyn and Executive Director Kirsten Clausen for a tour and discussions on June 30. As part of this visit, plans for reciprocal membership and a much closer working relationship were formed.

GREG GARDNER MOTORS CONTINUES SUPPORT

Just a reminder that our long-term program with Greg Gardner GM is still in place. Whenever a new or used vehicle is purchased at Greg Garner GM, and the individual mentions the West Coast Railway Heritage Park or shows their WCRA membership card, $200 is donated to the Park. So if you or anyone you know is thinking of a new GM vehicle please consider this program....and our grateful thanks to Greg and his whole team for continuing this initiative. (S.S.)

CANADA DAY AT THE PARK—PUMP CAR RIDES AND CANADA CONE!

July 1 dawned a beautiful summer day, and the Heritage Park was suitably decorated early for a grand but fairly low key Canada Day. Having just completed our grand Steamin’ to BC 150 event on Saturday, and given a large downtown Squamish Canada Day celebration, we decided to celebrate the day with members and guests.

The flower beds and gardens were all lined with Canada Flags, and the flag flew proudly in the Howard Lyttle Park and from the entry flagpoles. Guests all received flags and there were also patriotic removable tattoos for all. Admission was free for this community day.

Guest visits were steady all day, the Mini Rail did a steady business with one train going pretty much non stop all day. Les was on hand operating the Garden Railway as well. New for the day were the Canada Day Cones—a red and white ice cream cone topped with re sprinkles and a Canada Flag—these kept Barbara Stover busy scooping at the Beanery for most of the day.

Pump Car rides were introduced, our handcar was decked out with a flag as well and many guests availed themselves of the unique opportunity to pump the handcar up and down the mainline track from the Mac Norris Station. Thanks to Don Evans for staffing the handcar.

SteamFest 2008

A Unique New Festival for Southwest British Columbia Saturday, September 20 and Sunday, September 21, 2008 West Coast Railway Heritage Park - Squamish, B.C.

Your Day Pass to Adventure includes live steam in action:

• The spectacular Royal Hudson locomotive presents a “Symphony in Steam” • Steam traction engines put on a show and demonstrate early power • Stanley Steamer automobiles • Steam railway crane and logging engine on display • Model steam locomotives operate on the miniature railway

Things to ride (all included in ticket price):

• Climb into a vintage 1930’s auto for a ride around the Park • Hop aboard a railway coach and take a short ride behind the Royal Hudson • Try your arms out and pump the handcar along the track • Ride the 3km Mini Railway around the Heritage Park – see the Garden Railway

Live entertainment (also included in ticket price):

• Main stage in the PGE Carshop featuring the fabulous Kettle Valley Brakemen and their music and stories about the railways for all ages (2 performances daily) • Museum exhibits, model trains, children’s shows, activities and lots of fun for every- one

In Addition to add to your day (extra charge activities)

• Royal Hudson cab rides (limited availability) • Midway rides (to be confirmed)

Gift shop, and much, much more! Cameras and recorders welcome. Bring the family; bring the grandkids - nostalgia, drama and fun for everyone.

All Day Tickets - $15 adult, $10 child, Free Parking (Tickets will be pre-sold, available late summer)

WCRA News, Page 21 REALIGNMENT OF HERITAGE PARK TRACK

One of our challenges has been the tight curves on the original Heritage Park track that was built back in 1993—94 when there was never any contemplation of operating locomotives such as the Royal Hudson. However, as we all know, many things changed and we now have the 2860 and operate it regularly at our site. The problem, curves as tight as 23 degrees kept everyone on tenderhooks when the loco operated. Thankfully, we never had a derailment, but changes were needed to upgrade safety of operations and ease many minds.

Track realignment has been now completed with the exception of some clean up of old ties, tie plates and rail. The 23 degree curve has been reduced to 15 degrees, and operations on June 28th showed vastly improved performance to the operating crews. There is also now a new switch off the station track leading to the turntable. The switch stand has not been installed yet. (photo, Don Evans)

Thanks to Bob Dhenshaw, Jagdav Hans, and their helpers and equipment who made the realignment possible. It is amazing the work that a tamper can accomplish with a good operator and crew. (R.J.)

AUGUST 17—MINIRAIL DAY AND THE MEMBERS’ PICNIC

This year the Annual Mini Rail Day and the Members’ Picnic will take place at the West Coast Railway Heritage Park on Sunday, August 17th.

MINIRAIL DAY - Come out for this fantastic annual event that will once again see many WCRA News, Page 22 guest engines operating on the West Coast Mini Rail line from 10AM to 5PM. Invitations have been issued to several live steam engine owners. This is a great annual event and not to be missed (J.D.)

MEMBERS’ PICNIC—The annual Members’ Picnic starts at 5:30PM and is free for members and their families. Again this year the Picnic is being organized and hosted by Donna Simon and Jeremy Davy. We look forward to seeing all you – however so there is enough food for all we ask that you let us know in advance that you are coming (please advise the total number of family members). RSVP requested by August 13th (if possible by August 10th) to Donna at 604-484-2791 or to the Heritage Park at 604-898-9336; or by e- mail to [email protected]. (D.S.)

GIANT GARAGE SALE AUGUST 23

The West Coast Railway Heritage Park will become a Giant Garage Sale site on Saturday, August 23. From 1000 through 1400, sellers are invited to set up and sell their items and wares at our Heritage Park site.

To ensure the manageability of this great event, the following rules will apply: • Sellers must pre-book a selling table (or tables) through the Heritage Park by calling 604-898-9336 or e mailing [email protected] • There will be a $12 per six foot table charge for all sellers tables • All items brought to the Heritage Park for sale must be sold or taken away by the seller at the end of the day. The Heritage Park will not retain any items brought, nor will the Heritage Park take on disposal responsibility.

We are looking forward to a great event and fun day in the community. (S.S.)

SAFETY ISSUES

There is now an evacuation plan in effect at the Heritage Park. There are 3 Muster Points and buildings/displays have instructions as to which muster point to congregate to. Mechanical Staff have reviewed the Evacuation Procedures at their June Safety Meeting. We are working towards meeting regulatory compliance. (R.J.)

SHOP EQUIPMENT

We now have the sandblaster back. Thanks to Steve at Manus Abrasives in Coquitlam for getting it working. The sandblaster had a few idiosyncrasies that had to be solved. It can now be put back into productive use by our restoration crews helping our collection projects along. (R.J.) WCRA News, Page 23

FEATURE ARTICLES

STEAMIN TO BC 150—A GREAT EVENT JUNE 28, 2008

While June was a busy month, much effort was spent in preparation for our BC 150 Event on June 28. We were in luck with the weather, (which had not been great all month) and had a terrific crowd of close to 1,000. Special guests included: Minister of State for Intergovernmental Relations and our MLA the Honourable Joan McIntyre; MP Blair Wilson, Raj Kahlon, Councillor for the City of Squamish, Dan Ritchie, Inspector, CN Police for B.C. The festivities were MC’d by Don Evans, President & CEO.

Crowds arrived early, and our parking helpers Keith Magee and Sally along with Tomo’o Oshikawa were kept busy getting everyone parked. The Kidz Zone was set up in the Howard Lyttle Park by Par-T-Perfect, featuring two large inflatables and the Lions Club play train. The Zone was busy all day (photo, page 25). Alongside the Brightbill Heritage House was the WCRA’s 1937 Ford V8 adding to the scene.

The Royal Hudson was steaming, and did two Whistler Mountaineer salutes on our tracks as the train passed by in both the morning and the afternoon (photo, rear cover). Most of the day WCRA News, Page 24

it was live at the platform of the Mac Norris Station, and many had a chance to visit the cab and blow the whistle (photo page 23)

Official ceremonies were held at 1100 hours, with Don

Evans introducing our new Minister of Intergovernmental Relations, the Honourable Joan McIntyre (photo left), MP Blair Wilson, Councilor Raj Kahlon, and CN Police Inspector Dan Ritchie. Following the speeches, the guests joined engineer Don for a ride on the West Coast Mini Rail to the delight of everyone, (photo below) and the new Garden Railway was a special hit for them. Joan handed out BC 150 bracelets to guests of all ages and there was a wonderful BC 150 cake at 1200. The Squamish Lions Club did a great job with hamburgers and hot dogs. (photo, page 25)

Throughout the day Mountain FM was on site with their Mountain Patrol cruiser, and live performances by band Bitter Creek were terrific.

Thanks to our team of staff and wonderful volunteers who helped up make this day a great one…Muff and Doug Hackett; face painters extraordinaire; Donna Fourchalk, who was wonderful as a Brightbill sister with Karen Moodie, the other sister in full costume; Ernie Ledgerwood, our medic on site…thankfully only a stubbed toe for the day’s activity;. Jeremy Davy, our mini-rail volunteer; Les Duke who operated the Garden Railway, Don Evans and Deb Sankey, who were also mini-rail volunteers for the day; Lynne Kinnell, our spotter for the Kidz Zone and other tasks; Thanks also to our Royal Hudson engineers Mark Liggins, WCRA News, Page 25

Photos—Lions Club members serve up great burgers and hot dogs, Squamish Chamber’s mascot Gari-Baldy greets guests at the Kidz Zone.

WCRA News, Page 26

without whom the event would not have been nearly as terrific. Other volunteers how helped were Rob Misjak, Kyle Harris, Aaron Grubner, Richard Courage, Chris Forget, Trevor

Mills and Daniel Doucette.

Special guests in the Mac Norris Station showcasing their information were Vancouver Millionaires, West Coast Rail Tours, Squamish Chamber of Commerce, Sea to Sky Improvement Project and CN Safety. Other partners included the Squamish Chief, Shaw Cable, MySquamish.com, Mindsi Communications, Sea to Sky News, Pique Publishing and Squamish Tourism.

Finally, very special thanks to both CN and the BC Gaming Commission for BC 150 event sponsorship grants that helped fund the costs of the event—an event that was most enjoyable and of great significance to the Squamish community. (D.E / S.S., photos by Don Evans)

30 YEARS AGO—from WCRA NEWS, JULY 1978 By Craig McDowall CP

The CTC has (again) ordered CP Rail to extend its E & N passenger service to the middle of Dec. of this year (1978) to allow the B.C. Government's appeal to be heard. The line's union, the UTU, has stated that lack of continued maintenance, in light of CP's desire to shut down the line, has resulted in an overall 25% decrease in speed limits allowed on the line due to its current condition.

At the same time, CP has installed it's first 'Clamshell', a 28 foot fibreglass cone which houses new radio repeater equipment which is designed to improve communications on the northern section of the E & N line. It is installed on Mt. Cokely, near Port Alberni and allows maximum repeater range on all trains operating between Nanaimo, Port Alberni and Courtenay. More 'clamshells' will be installed early in 1979 to facilitate improved communication between Nanaimo and Victoria. These 'clamshells' will replace conventional pole lines.

CP has recently completed construction of 32 bi-level stock cars (for short cows?) at its Weston Shops in Winnipeg.

CP has began using a mobile train simulator for teaching train handling techniques to engineers. The Mobile Analyzer is housed in a specially modified truck which will yield more flexibility on CP's routes.

CP will spend more than $50 million repairing 6,000 freight cars this year. This is CP's biggest refurbishing program to date due to the increased costs of building new cars. The work will be divided between CP's Weston, Angus & Ogden shops. WCRA News, Page 27

CP has ordered 25 more SD40-2's from GM. The order is worth $18 million with delivery expected between Dec. 1978 and January 1979.

The former official Business Car used by William Cornelius Van Horne was discovered in the summer of 1976 by a Manitoba Hydro lineman on a farm near Portage La Prairie, while he was on site to disconnect the service to the farm. He reported the sighting to his supervisor, who was a member of the local museum. The car had a peaked roof erected over the car but was minus its trucks. It is now a featured attraction at the Fort la Reine Museum. A brief history shows the car was originally a passenger parlor car owned by the St. Lawrence and Railway in the 1870's and was purchased by the CPR in 1882 to be rebuilt as official Business Car #10. It was assigned to Van Horne upon completion during the same year and remained his car until 1885. It was then assigned to a number of Division Superintendents through to 1938 and was sold to the farmer (F.S. Sharpe) in 1956 and stood in a grove of trees for 20 years until the recent discovery. Sharpe agreed to donate the car to the local museum when contacted in Victoria where he retired.

CN A federal inquiry report released on May 1978, blamed the Captain and CN for the sinking of the ferry William Carson, which was holed by ice off Newfoundland in July, 1977. CN was blamed for sending the ferry to Labrador knowing she would encounter ice, and the Captain for taking the vessel into ice when there was no grave necessity to do so.

The CTC gave approval on July 5th (1978) to CN to officially abandon the 88 kilometer line from Victoria to Deerholme near Shawnigan Lake. The line has not been used for the past 10 years. Part of this line had been used by the Victoria Pacific Railway for a short period of time as a tourist railway.

CN ran a passenger extra between Vancouver & Edmonton on June 3/4 carrying CN Headquarters and Mountain Region executives and the purpose was to give CN management an 'on location' review of upcoming projects on this section of the line during the next 5 years. The extra arrived late in Edmonton after blowing an air hose near Hinton AB. Due to the resulting skidding of wheels on the trailing coaches, they were set out at Hinton. The new Sanford Fleming inspection car was on this trip. It is unique with its enclosed rear end with all glass and tiered seating for 28. The coach was converted from a retired sleeper car at CN's Point St. Charles shops last winter. Originally it was built by Pullman in 1949 as a 10 roomette/6 double bedroom sleeper for the New York Central. It was purchased by CN in 1965 and renumbered #2091- the 'Skeena River'. The mid section of the car has been converted into a 24 seat conference room.

BCR BCR will remove $500,000 of communications equipment on its Dease Lake extension WCRA News, Page 28

because of potential deterioration and increased vandalism. BCR states it doesn't mean the railway is abandoning the line (oh really?).

BCR's total traffic will remain close to its 1977 record levels, partially due to a new sulphur plant at Fort Nelson, which will result in a large increase in southbound sulphur movements.

A special passenger train took 200 Quesnel pioneers on a picnic excursion to Australian Creek as part of Quesnel's 59th Anniversary Celebrations. The consist included 3 Royal Hudson coaches and was operated during mid May and included a mock holdup with Miss Quesnel being carried off on horseback.

The Museum Train is touring the Kootenays this summer. New consist additions this year are the Nootka Sound and the former AFT crew diner.

BCR has leased three C424's (#3211 - 3213) from CN to assist in a road work training.

VIA

VIA has a new revised date of Jan. 1979 for transferring union personnel over to the new passenger corporation. VIA and CN have completed a deal for $52 million for purchase of CN's passenger cars but not yet with CP. VIA plans to take over a total of 1,000 passenger cars, 200 locos and 96 self propelled cars. CN will provide 70% of this total with CP providing the rest.

AMTRAK

Amtrak has tested a new fuel tender which will permit long distance trains to operate over 2,500 miles without refueling. An E9A locomotive was stripped of its traction motors, diesel motors and generators and six 1,350 gallon fuel tanks were installed. Total fuel tank capacity would now be 12,950 gallons including the lead engine. This test equipment is not necessarily a prototype but is being used to develop criteria for a possible production unit. Five round trips between Chicago & Seattle have been run to date. Each one way run was made without any refueling. The main reason for this testing is that the EPA in the states is making more stringent refueling station location regulations.

Amtrak has finalized an inter-line agreement enabling Amtrak reservation agents to book passage from Seattle to Victoria on the Princess Marguerite.

And, that’s how things looked in WCRA’s News from July 1978!

WCRA News, Page 29

RAILWAY NEWS

90 YEARS AGO

CNR car ferry has been launched (June 11,1918). "Mayor Albert E. Todd was notified yesterday that the steel passenger and freight car ferry for the Canadian Northern service across the Gulf of Georgia between Port Mann and Patricia Bay was successfully launched during the morning at Lauzon Levis, ."I expected that the vessel will be actually in commission, carrying passengers and cargo between the island and the mainland within the next ninety days," Mayor Todd told the Colonist. The boat will be brought through the Panama Canal, and it is understood that there is very little work remaining to be done on the superstructure before she can be declared complete, and it will not be long until her arrival here.

The Davie Shipbuilding Co. constructed the car ferry, and while it has been a long job, there is no doubt that it measures up to the specifications in full and that it will provide an important link in the CNR chain across the continent, giving Victoria connections that will in a way neutralize its insular position.

The new steamer Canora is 308 feet long, 52 beam, has a capacity of 20 knots an hour. She is coal burner and cost between $400,000 and $500,000. The Daily Colonist. (W.Y.)

MOTIVE POWER NOTES

After a lengthy absence (started August 2007), CP 1238 is back in Castlegar -- CP records show train 563/28 set it off there on 2008-01-29 at 0959 PDT (no AEI site west of Nelson). In case anyone is curious why that unit is assigned there, it has a ZTR BOA excitation and wheelslip system for superior performance from a small unit, and it is well appreciated as a strong horse by the local folks who have named it BESSIE. (J.M. / K.P.)

SAVONA TRACK PUT INTO SERVICE

This weekend was cut-over time for the Savona extensions on the CP Thompson sub., with the WCRA News, Page 30

former Savona siding essentially stretched east and west to be one half of the CTC two-tracks from new station Dodge (presumably for Ed Dodge) at mileage 22.0 through new station

Tunkwa (presumably for nearby lake) with double crossovers at mileage 24.1 to relocated station name Savona and return to single track westward at mileage 26.2. With two miles between each pair of controlled locations, rail traffic should now flow much more smoothly there. (J.M. / K.P.)

BC 150 SPIRIT TRAIN TOURS THE PROVINCE

The Canadian Pacific BC 150 Spirit Train made its Provincial tour throughout June and early July, 2008, even venturing off line on some SRY and CN trackage. Your editor didn’t get a chance to visit any of the open venues, unfortunately, but I did have an encounter with the train on my way home from a business trip to Victoria.

I was heading north on Boundary Road around 9:30AM on Sunday, July 6 and, as I approached the CN crossing the lights activated and the gates cam down. Along came $2816 in full stride, looking spectacular and putting on a great show. In the immaculate consist was helper diesel FP9A #4106, and on the tail end a CP Rail action red GP 38 (didn't get the number!) The train was heading to its final exhibit, which was scheduled for 1000 through 1400 that day at Rocky Mountaineer’s Vancouver Station. While the train looked tremendous, I was surprised at the lack of BC 150 identity, however.

The train visited 34 communities and travelled 1,200 km throughout the Province of BC during its tour, starting June 12 in Sparwood and finishing July 6 in Vancouver.

The following report comes from a member’s visit to the last exhibit of the train…

“Went to the BC150 train in Vancouver on Sunday but was quite disappointed. I got there in the third hour and they were already tearing apart the 'stage'. All that was open was the single museum car plus a hotdog stand which was closing up, and RMV had a table with their sales items and folders.

“There was no publicity that I saw or heard of the event. There was absolutely nothing in the listings (and no ads) in the Entertainment section of the Province on Thursday where all sorts of family events are listed. If I hadn't known someone in Ashcroft, a fellow at work, and/or been a member of the WCRA I wouldn't have known that it even existed. Turnout as might be expected was very small. (Ed note—there was a brief news item in the Sun on July 7—after the event was over, and it made the front cover of the North Shore News of July 9)

“It seemed to me that the crew simply wanted to tear down the music stage to pack into a

WCRA News, Page 31

waiting truck because it was the last day, but I was told there was no performance at New

Westminster after 1230 either. The single museum car had some nice interesting photos.

“Not much of an effort for a 150th anniversary, it seemed to me. I would have thought they could have put several cars together with various themes. All that train, and 3 engines, just to move one exhibit car, and one catch me if you can stage! And quite a paltry show in the most populous city in the province on one day only! “Even tearing it apart when they did, the train crew was antsy about getting it rolling soon after 14K, and asked the head of the stage crew when they would be through disassembly. They tried to talk him into finishing the work at Coquitlam, but he said he was catching a flight at the airport later in the P.M. They compromised at leaving the ceiling lighting to be removed in Calgary, and he then whittled the time down to half an hour. I went out to Rupert Street and photographed it the train EB at 1453K. (J.M.)

Word is that 2816 will be getting a boiler cleaning at Coq, then head east around July 15”.

SLEEPER HEADS EAST

The VIA sleeper Northern Spirit that has been at the Vancouver Station for the past months has departed, it was spotted east on a CP freight train at 1000 July 3. The car had been used as a temporary “home” for CP West Coast Express crews during their daytime layover in Vancouver, while their regular quarters were disrupted by Canada Line construction. (C.S.)

VIA TRAINS RUN LATE—from THE CANADIAN PRESS (forwarded by Don Edwards)

OTTAWA -- Almost half of Via Rail's passenger trains arrived late over the winter -- and many were very tardy, says a new report. The slumping performance, in a year when the Crown corporation promised to get more trains to the station on time, is being blamed on severe weather that crippled Via Rail's aging locomotives and damaged tracks, switches and signals.

For the first three months this year, 46 per cent of trains arrived late, says an internal report obtained under the Access to Information Act. The company had been shooting for just 14 per cent in the first quarter. The late-arrival figure would be even worse had Via Rail not WCRA News, Page 32

given itself a "grace period" that allows it to deem any short-haul train that's up to 15 minutes late as on time. Long-haul trains get a 30-minute grace period.

The March numbers were particularly bad, with 54 per cent of trains across the country delivering passengers later than scheduled. One of the worst-performing routes is also one of the most popular -- -Ottawa, where almost three-quarters of the trains arrived late in March.

Not only were more trains late, but they were very late, says the report prepared for Via Rail's board of directors' meeting in April. The corporation uses an internal yardstick that calculates how many minutes each train was late and adds them to produce a total "delay minutes." By that measure, March this year was twice as bad as last year, with almost 33,000 "delay minutes."

That translated to about 4.5 hours average delay for the Toronto-Vancouver trains; almost three hours average for the -Halifax trains; and about half an hour average for all eight shorter-haul services in central Canada.

The company provides so-called "late train credits" to travelers whose trains are significantly overdue, which can be used only to purchase future Via Rail tickets. If a short-haul train in central Canada is more than one hour late, for example, the credit is 50 per cent off the next ticket.

The poor performance comes at a bad time for Via Rail, which needed $200 million last year from the federal government -- about $50 for each ticket sold -- to cover a shortfall in revenue. The strong dollar has sent Canadian tourists abroad and is keeping foreign tourists -- especially Americans -- at home, cutting into rail revenues. And fierce airline competition in central Canada has kept seat prices in check, despite fuel surcharges, eroding Via Rail's potential customer base in the more lucrative "corridor" services of and Quebec. Most passenger trains travel on CN tracks, which are crowded with freight trains that often cause delays. Severe winter weather also froze many CN switches and caused signal malfunctions.

But Via Rail's own aging F-40 locomotives have themselves suffered numerous breakdowns, especially in cold weather. Ottawa has promised $232 million over five years to rebuild 53 engines, but the first won't be ready until March 2009.

"Via recognizes that on-time performance is a critical issue for customers, and for the success of passenger rail," says the corporation's recent annual report. "Delayed service undermines customer satisfaction and loyalty, particularly in the Quebec City-Windsor corridor, where travelers are especially time sensitive. . . . Improvements in on-time performance will be WCRA News, Page 33

a priority for 2008."

VIA’S ANNOUNCEMENT ON THE CHANGES TO THE CANADIAN

New Departure Times restore coast-to-coast service and Connections

Vancouver – On December 2, 2008, VIA’s flagship western transcontinental Canadian will depart at a new time. A new evening departure time from both Vancouver and Toronto will enable passengers to make connections in Toronto to/from eastern Canada, as well as provide customers with more daylight viewing through the Rockies. The cross-country journey will move from a three-day, three night trip to a three-day, four-night schedule and will also include additional time at select en route stations where the opportunity for touring is possible.

“The redesign of the Canadian’s schedule was undertaken with our customers in mind,” said VIA’s Chief Customer Officer, Steve Del Bosco. “We want to provide the best total travel experience for our customers, from the service in our stations and on board, to the overall on- time operation of the train itself. This new schedule addresses not only the needs of our customers but tour operators as well.”

Highlights of the redesigned schedule: · The new schedule comes into effect December 2, 2008; · The operating departure days from Vancouver and Toronto remain unchanged; · Thrice weekly departures from Toronto on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday; · Thrice weekly departures from Vancouver on Tuesday, Friday and Sunday; · One additional night is added to the schedule in each direction thus changing the arrival days in Toronto and Vancouver; · The departure times at both originating terminals move to an evening departure. o Train #1 – departs Toronto at 22:00 and arrives in Vancouver +4 at 09:42 o Train #2 – departs Vancouver at 20:30 and arrives in Toronto +4 at 09:30

The new schedule will mean a change in train operations for some communities. For example, in the Prairies and British Columbia (, Kamloops) the new eastbound operation will make daylight train travel a viable option.

Westbound Eastbound

Departs Arrives Departs Arrives

Toronto - 22:00 Winnipeg - 08:00 +1 Vancouver - 20:30 Kamloops - 06:00 +1

Winnipeg - 12:00 Saskatoon - 23:22 Kamloops - 06:35 Jasper - 16:00

Saskatoon - 23:47 Edmonton - 06:37 +1 Jasper - 17:30 Edmonton - 23:00

Edmonton - 07:37 Jasper - 13:00 Edmonton - 23:45 Saskatoon - 08:45+1

Jasper - 14:30 Kamloops - 23:09 Saskatoon - 09:10 Winnipeg - 20:30

Kamloops - 23:44 Vancouver - 09:42 +1 Winnipeg - 23:30 Toronto - 09:30 +1 WCRA News, Page 34

VIA’s Canadian was the only regularly-scheduled train in North America to be included in the Society of International Railway Travelers, 2008 “World Top 25 Trains”. From Toronto to

Vancouver, no matter the time of year, the images are unforgettable: mountain sheep grazing in the Rockies, elk loitering outside Jasper, the skyline of Toronto looming on the horizon.

And if you choose to add a touch of elegance to your journey with VIA's Silver & Blue class, it begins with a bon voyage reception and continues with award-winning service that includes on -board fine dining, accommodations and attention par excellence. Passengers can enjoy the scenery from the large picture windows of their seats or from the 360° scenic dome.

For more information on VIA’s Canadian, train schedules or to book a trip anywhere in the VIA system, customers can visit VIA’s secure Web site at viarail.ca. Passengers also can book their tickets at self-ticketing kiosks in most Québec City-Windsor Corridor stations, by calling 1 888 VIA-RAIL (1 888 842-7245), TTY 1 800 268-9503 (hearing impaired), or through their travel agent. (VIA Release)

OTHER NEWS

PRINCE GEORGE RAILWAY MUSEUM GETS GRANT

The Federal Government has provided a $12,500 grant to the Prince George Railway and Forestry Museum to support their On The Right Track Strategic Collections plan. These funds will be of great assistance to support the region’s local heritage. (Release)

ROBERTS BANK OBSERVATIONS

Noted at the Roberts Bank (DeltaPort) terminal on June 22 were BNSF 4107 / 4813, as well as some leased CEFX units including 1055. (D.Sh.)

GOING TO ARM 2008?

Consider attending ARM 2008 conference in Colorado Springs, September 10—14. Already signed up are Don Evans and Deb, Susan Steen, and Jeremy Davy and Donna. There will be lots of fun, Colorado railroading, and much to see and learn. Hosts are the Pikes Peak Trolley Museum, and yes—the conference includes a rail ride to the summit of the Peak. Want info? Contact Don Evans or Susan Steen. WCRA News, Page 35

ON THE BACK COVER

Correction—photo last issue of the Skytrain car on CN should have been Duane Cooke.

Upper photo—the former CN Scale House and the flat car with tractors gleams thanks to the work of volunteer Dave Emmington. Lower photo—2860 paces the Whistler Mountaineer on June 28th

CREDIT LINES ISSN 1204-072X

Vol. 47 Issue 8 Editor Don Evans Distribution Jeremy Davy & Donna Simon

Contributors:

J.B. Jim Brown J.D. Jeremy Davy B.J. Bill Johnston R.J. Rod Jenkins J.M. Jim McPherson K.P. Ken Perry C.S. Colin Smith S.S. Susan Steen D.Sh. David Shore W.Y. Wally Young

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 , phone news to (604)988-3435(res) or fax to (604) 986-7660. Check us out on the Internet at

Contact us: Tours 604-524-1011 / 800-722-1233 Heritage Park 604-898-9336 Office 604-681-4403

TRIVIA ANSWER

The Camden Station in downtown Baltimore built by Joseph F. Kemp’s 5 part plan, with Ital- ianate towers (tallest is 185 feet). The station took over nine years to complete (1856—1865). It is now a sports museum, restored to its 1865 appearance. Published monthly by West Coast Railway Association ISSN 1204-072X PO Box 2790 Stn. Term., Vancouver, B.C., V6B 3X2 Vol. 47 Issue 8

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