WCRA NEWS

APRIL 2006 INSTALLATION of TUBES

UNDERWAY on HUDSON!

WCRA News, Page 2

GENERAL MEETING NOTICE

The March General Meeting of the WCRA will be held on Tuesday, March 28, 2006 at 1930 hours at the Rainbow Creek Station, Confederation Park in Burnaby.

Entertainment will be a variety of slides from the 50’s and 60’s of Canadian National Railways construction projects and train operations (including the Super Continental and Continental of the era), presented by Bill Johnston. Bill worked on the railway at the time doing a variety of civil engineering type projects.

ON THE COVER

Working on the Hudson! A classic shot of work in a steam shop—in this self portrait we see our lead hand on the Royal Hudson #2860 restoration, Trevor Mills, taking a brief break from the dirty and hard work in the boiler of #2860. Trevor has just emerged from hours of removing boiler scale and takes a short break—with the oil can! This is the essence of the hard work that will soon see #2860 back in steam, making all the bull work and dirt worth the effort. A salute to Trevor and all the others who have been working tirelessly to get #2860 back out on the rails.

APRIL CALENDAR

• West Coast Railway Heritage Park Open daily 1000 through 1700k • Thursday, March 30—Deadline for items for the May 2006 WCRA News • Tuesday, April 14—Tours Committee meets, contact Bernie at 604-325-0923 • Sunday, April 16—6th Annual Easter Scavenger Hunt at the Heritage Park, 1200 to 1500 hours, fun for the whole family with treats • Saturday, April 22—WCRT’s Spirit of Washington / Amtrak Cascades tour operates • Tuesday, April 25—WCRA General Meeting, 1930 hours, Rainbow Creek Station

The West Coast Railway Association is an historical group dedicated to the preservation of British Columbia 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. Individual membership in the WCRA is $50.00 per year, family membership is $60.00. New! E Members (electronic newsletter) are $35 individual and $45 family. Other membership categories are: - Junior Member (age 16 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

HERE WE GO!

Well, another Annual General Meeting is behind us, and we are off and running into what will be our busiest and most exciting year ever.

As I write this piece, on March 11, 2006, Spring Break is just starting and, up at the Heritage Park, we are offering our very first day of speeder rides. Thanks to Craig McDowall, and his purchase of an A 4 Motorcar, we had the incentive to get this running . Our crews have added in a trailer car and another A 4, and presto—we have a three car speeder train.

Also coming up shortly is an audit of our operating facilities by the Railway Association of Canada. This is in conjunction with our partnership with BCIT, and will verify our trackage / switching for the use as the site of the BCIT Railway Conductor program practicums. These will see the BCIT classes spend a week each class in Squamish and work with WCRA to complete all their practical work. This will be done at the MP 1 shop area, where we now have great facilities to do all these things.

Also at the Heritage Park, the contract for the construction of the turntable and CN Turntable Plaza has been let to Duro Construction of Squamish. As soon as we have the development permit from the District of Squamish we will get started. Work on the turntable itself is progressing on schedule.

The Royal Hudson is also progressing according to schedule. Installation of the new tubes started March 1, 2006 and should complete over the next four weeks. All being well, hydro tests will happen the first week of April and first test steaming if the loco looks like mid May.

All this—and it is WCRA’s 45th anniversary year too. Good reason for all of you to think about participation in any way you can during 2006. It will be a year we will all remember. Don ASSOCIATION NEWS

FROM THE ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

45 members and guests were present, the AGM was chaired by Don Evans with Keith Anderson as the Recording Secretary. A quorum was recorded in attendance: • The minutes of the February 22, 2005 Annual General Meeting were approved • Jeremy Davy read the report from the Chair as Craig McDowall was out of town • Don Evans presented the strategic plan and the WCRA’s 2006 objectives WCRA News, Page 4

• The 2006 Board of Directors nominations were presented to the membership who approved them for the year. • Jim Brown reviewed the financial statements for 2005, they were approved by the membership. • Jim Brown presented the proposed 2006 budget which was approved by the membership. • Don Evans presented the Executive Director’s annual report. • Colin Dathan presented the Association Administration annual report. • Ron Anstey presented the Collection annual report. • Jim Brown presented the Heritage Park annual report. • Bill Johnston presented the Tours annual report. • The meeting was closed at 8:30PM

During the break, the usual 50/50 draw was held.

FROM THE FEBRUARY GENERAL MEETING

Following the AGM, an abbreviated general meeting was held, chaired by Colin Dathan: • Don Evans updated the Executive Director’s report, noting a new major donation towards the Royal Hudson by Westran. A hearty round of applause for this support ensued. • Don Evans also provided an updated Heritage Park report. • Colin Dathan noted that volunteers are still needed for the 374 Pavilion. • Jeremy Davy provided a membership report, noting that we are now up to 22 e members. • Bernie Tully talked about events coming up, particularly the Western Rails Show set for March 12, 2006. He sought volunteers to help with the WCRA tables at the show. • Bill Johnston noted that several of our tours are selling well, there being only three spaces left on April’s Spirit of Washington / Amtrak Cascades tour. • Colin Dathan noted that the vehicle mileage rate for 200 has been increased to $.45 / km. • Eric Anderson was applauded for his recent successful climb of Mount Kilimanjaro. • Eric Anderson donated Canadian Tire money. • Bill Marchant presented his Trackside Report. • The calendar was reviewed. • Entertainment was a DVD of the Royal Canadian Pacific train.

WCRA TRIVIA # 207 - by Ryan D. Cruickshank

The first train in Ontario ran on May 16, 1853 between Toronto and Aurora on what railway?

(for answer, see Credit Lines) YOU KNOW YOU’RE A RAILFAN WHEN……. ………..that ringing in your ears isn’t Tinnitus, but rather your recollection of the Royal Hudson sounds as it steamed along the waterfront in West Vancouver. WCRA News, Page 5 NEW MEMBERS

The WCRA welcomes new members Michael Berton & family of North Vancouver, Doug Davies & family of Terrace, Kate Drew & family of Garibaldi Highlands, Michael Lloyd & family of Squamish, and Alf Spence of Burnaby. We also welcome back Robert Gordon of Maple Ridge. (J.D.)

MEMBER NEWS

Congratulations to Shane Carr who received great exposure in Malcolm Parry’s column in the Vancouver Sun of March 9, 2006. The item featured his scale model locomotive business.

PLEASE RENEW YOUR MEMBERSHIP

Memberships dated 2/28/2006 have now expired, and if your membership expired December 31, 2005 this will be your last issue. Please check the label on your newsletter and renew today. (J.D.) Remember that renewals are being accepted for memberships with the E–Newsletter Option. The fees are - for an E-Individual membership $35.00, and an E- Family $45.00 (J.D.)

Do you have an E-mail Address? Do we have it in our database?

The WCRA office now regularly distributes time sensitive information of interest to those members for whom we have their e-mail addresses.

More and more members are getting email addresses and we would like to have this information in our database just the same as we have your telephone number. If we already have your E-mail address is it current? Matt recently prepared a list of E-mail addresses that the Service Providers indicated were invalid. If you are not sure whether we have a current E-mail address please confirm your information with Jeremy Davy.

If you wish to update your E-mail address, are not sure if your address is current or provide us with a your Email address please send an e-mail to [email protected] indicating your Name and Postal address as well as the e-mail address. I will acknowledge all messages. (JD)

WCRA’S 2006 BOARD OF DIRECTORS

At the Annual General Meeting, WCRA members approved the 2006 Board of Directors. Your Board for 2006 is Keith Anderson, Douglas Chiasson, Colin Dathan, Jeremy Davy, Grant Ferguson, Greg Gardner, Bob Griffiths, Hugh Little, Craig McDowall, Wes Rafuse, Denise Rittberg, Colin Smith, Paul Turner, and Carl Vanderspek, There is one board vacancy in the Lower Mainland which will be filled as the year progresses.

WCRA News, Page 6 2005 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

INCOME STATEMENT SUMMARY – CONSOLIDATED

REVENUES 2004 $ 2005 $

Admissions 54,386 50,477 Donations 366,559 297,256 Day Out With Thomas 454,018 323,521 Events/Movies 8,563 954 Tours 274,658 479,445 Fundraising (Other) 38,202 24,324 Fundraising Gaming 150,000 37,000 Grants 76,598 2,242,636 Interest 708 32,160 Leases 80,250 44,245 Membership 26,823 29,067 Misc. Income 70,547 86,562 Souvenir Sales 52,773 39,840

Total Revenues 1,604,054 3,687,487

EXPENSES Accounting 10,925 10,024 Admin / Collection 228,756 335,528 Day Out With Thomas 403,597 316,375 Depreciation 30,139 31,205 Fundraising 6,313 37,863 Heritage Park 239,996 271,839 Interest Paid 46,299 59,167 Gift Shop Expense 26,258 32,545 Tours Expense 236,074 345,446 Collection 86,655 110,353

Total Expenses 1,315,012 1,550,345

EQUITY INCREASE 339,073 2,137,142 WCRA News, Page 7

BALANCE SHEET SUMMARY (Nov 30, 2005)

ASSETS 2004 2005

Current Assets Cash 67,345 1,911,872 Trust Fund 36,874 15,957 Accounts Receivable 126,178 178,934 Prepaid Expense Inventory 38,885 12,804 Total Current Assets 269,282 2,119,567

Investments (Foundation) 14,600 14,600 Capital Assets 872,047 885,287 Collection 1,878,831 2,414,657 Buildings 1,442,679 1,551,504

Total Assets $4,477,439 $6,985,615

LIABILITIES

Current Liabilities Bank Overdraft 14,906 32,139 Accounts Payable 94,315 145,431 Current Bank Loans 152,816 348,000

Total Current Liabilities. 262,036 525,570

Member Loans 46,300 40,000 Bank Loans 329,200 273,000 Member Debentures 578,364 748,364

Total Long Term Liabilities 953,864 1,061,364

Fund Balances 3,261,539 5,398,681

Total Fund Balances $4,477,439 $6,985,615 WCRA News, Page 8 CHANGES IN CAPITAL ASSETS

ASSETS 2004 2005 Change Collection Rolling stock $1,780,381 $2,297,537 $517,156 Artifacts & Displays 98,450 117,120 18,670 Total $1,878,831 $2,414,657 $535,826 Buildings Carshop 617,486 663,048 45,562 Station 697,665 697,665 - Brightbill House 42,833 42,833 - Other 84,695 85,282 587 Roundhouse and 62,676 62,676 Turntable Total $1,442,679 $1,551,504 $108,825

Site Improvements* 498,402 526,588 28,186 Track & Roadbed* 340,088 331,025 (9,063) Machinery & Equipment* 31,393 25,654 (5,739) Computer Equipment* 644 451 (193) Office Equipment* 1,520 1,569 49 Total $872,047 $885,287 $13,240

Total Capital Assets $4,150,557 $4,851,448 $ 700,891

CONTRIBUTION SUMMARY 2005 UNIT REVENUE EXPENSE CONTRIBUTION

Tours $ 479,445 $ 345,446 $ 133,999 Heritage Park $ 531,987 $ 645,089 $(113,102) Collection $ 88,597 $ 110,353 $ (21,756) Capital Fundraising $ 88,965 $ 17,066 $ 71,899 Hudson $ 147,446 $ 3,473 $ 143,973 Admin. / Member $ 221,098 $ 428,918 $ (207,820) Roundhouse $2,129,949 ------$2,129,949

TOTALS $3,687,487 $1,550,345 $2,137,142 WCRA News, Page 9 2006 Operating Budget*

UNIT REVENUE EXPENSE CONTRIBUTION

Tours $ 256,100 $211,100 $ 45,000 Heritage Park $ 197,000 $ 266,500 $ (69,500) Collection $ 220,000 $ 78,500 $ 141,500 Capital Fundraising $ 161,900 $ 39,000 $ 125,900 Royal Hudson $ 210,000 $ 210,000 Admin. / Membership $ 220,150 $ 346,580 $ (126,430) 374 Pavilion $ 6,000 $ 3,000 $ 3,000 MP1 Shop $ 190,000 $ 140,000 $ 50,000 Roundhouse $ 25,000 $ 25,000 TOTALS $1,486,150 $1,081,680 $ 404,470

2006 Capital Budget* Cash inflow:

Contribution Income $404,470.00 Plus: Depreciation $ 32,000.00 Adjusted income $436,470.00 Plus Debentures $ 84,000.00 Total inflow $520,470.00

Cash outflow:

Royal Hudson $140,470.00 RDC’s $ 30,000.00 Alberta $100,000.00 Coaches painting $ 30,000.00 Loan repayment $108,000.00 Contribution to Roundhouse $112,000.00 Total outflow $520,470.00

*Roundhouse and Turntable projects are not included WCRA News, Page 10 BCER PHOTOS DONATED

Thanks to Mrs. Margaret Moffatt of Langley, BC for the donation of ten framed B.C. Electric Railway photographs as well as other unframed photos and newspaper clippings of BCER. These were the property of her late husband, James Frederick Moffatt, who worked on the BCER. The pictures were picked up by Paul & Mary Roy and have been delivered to the Heritage Park for the archives. (P.R.)

BCIT OFFERS ENGINEER TRAINING FOR RAILFANS

Locomotive Simulator

BCIT (British Columbia Institute of Technology) is offering a RAIL FAN course of one week duration which includes those subjects listed below. Their diesel-electric locomotive simulators are professional full size that Canadian railways use for training. They are very robust and during each trip the simulator technician can throw 100 different scenario's or activities at the person in the engineer's seat.

Student Locomotive Engineer Main Line Course

With the help of a diesel-electric locomotive simulator, this 1-week course will help trainees acquire mastery of good train handling and fuel conservation practices which can lead to significant operating economies. Real-time in-train force display enables trainees to see the draft and buff forces as they would be generated on a real train; reduction of in-train forces reduces damage to lading. On completion, trainees will have a solid overall knowledge of locomotive systems and safe train handling practices, as well as an understanding of car and locomotive air brake operation.

By the end of the course, trainees will be able to: • Operate a train safely and efficiently under the guidance of a qualified Locomotive Engineer; • Reduce in-train forces through good train handling practices; • Perform shop track brake tests (26L); • Change operating ends of a locomotive.

Topics covered include : • Description of major locomotive components; • Diesel engine, lube oil, fuel oil and water systems; • Main reservoir system; • 26L braking system, independent and automotive operation; • Multiple-unit hook-up ; • Car air brake system; • Car control valves (AB, ABD, ABDW, ABDX); WCRA News, Page 11 • Quick service; • Accelerated release; • Bottling the air; • Penalty applications; • Tractive effort; • Wheel slip systems; • Locomotive starting/stopping procedures; • Basic high-voltage and low-voltage systems; • Dynamic brake; • Traction motor faults; • Troubleshooting power plant problems; • Shop track tests; • Leaving units unattended; • Fuel conservation.

The fee for the one week all-inclusive course is $1,000. Simulator time alone is $80 per hour. First one week course starts April 24, 2006. For further information please contact:

Phil Reid BCIT School of Transportation 555 Great Northern Way Vancouver, BC V5T 1E2 604-451-6846 Cell: 778-230-5609 www.bcit.ca/transportation

COLLECTION

HENRY PICKERING IN TRAINS MAGAZINE

The WCRA’s open observation car #598 Henry Pickering received good coverage in the April 2006 edition of TRAINS Magazine. The article, titled “Dining In Luxury off the Beaten Path” featured a headline photo of the former Whistler Northwind train, with much text devoted to the return of passenger service to the former BC Rail route by Rocky Mountaineer Vacations. The coverage of the new Whistler Mountaineer talked about the open car as the “crown jewel” of the new train, with mention of the car’s history and the West Coast Railway Association.

The Henry Pickering is currently in our Motive Power 1 shop in Squamish where it is being prepared for service on the Whistler Mountaineer. The car is receiving longitudinal bench sets in the open sections at the request of RMV, and the paint is being restored to its shiny Tuscan Red so it looks like new again. Our thanks to Carl Vanderspek and Margaret Hope for their continuing support of this car with a $5,000 donation towards its preparation for service.

WCRA News, Page 12 WILKIE COLLECTION WORK UNDERWAY

Bob Hunter and Bill Marchant have started work sorting and filing the wonderful David Wilkie Collection of photos up at the Heritage Park. They report finding great treasures including CNR steam on Vancouver Island, Great Northern in the Midway, BC area, shots of Royal Hudson #2860 in the snow and more. A slide show at a WCRA general meeting is in the works—won’t want to miss it! (B.M., S.E.)

NORTHERN SUMMIT HISTORY

Work has been underway over the past two months on both sides of the Canada / USA border to nail down the definitive history of the former Norfolk & Southern / Pacific Great Eastern / BC Rail business car Northern Summit. The historic car joined the WCRA’s collection officially in December 2005 and is now under cover at Motive Power Shop 1 in Squamish where plans are being developed for its restoration and display. So here, as we have it now, is the interesting history of this very special railcar: • 1923—Built by Pullman for the Norfolk and Southern Railroad as the sleeper—observation car Mount Moran • 1949—converted to a business / office car and renamed Mary Lee by N & S’s McGinnis and Kingsley (Mary Lee was Kingsley’s daughter) • 1953—renamed Carolina after Kingsley left N & S • 1956—sold by N & S to the Pacific Great Eastern. The car left Norfolk, Virginia on August 4, 1956 and routed to Vancouver via the Canadian Pacific Railway. On arrival, the car was WCRA News, Page 13

painted PGE’s passenger colour Red #15 (close to Tuscan red) and a name starting withNS was chosen so the special china that came with the car could be used. The name chosen by the PGE was Northern Summit. • August 27—29, 1956—the Northern Summit was the official car for Premier W.A.C. Bennett on the inaugural PGE expansion train, departing North Vancouver on the 27th and arriving Prince George on the 29th. The car became the PGE’s Presidents’ car. • 1958—the Northern Summit is repainted into the PGE’s orange with green letter board paint scheme. • July 1958—the Northern Summit becomes a “Royal Car” for the tour of Great Britain's Princess Margaret on the PGE, where she visited many communities along the line during her one month stay in British Columbia. During this time, the Northern Summit had the Princess’s Royal Cipher stenciled on the car sides. • 1969 / 1971—somewhere in this time frame, the Northern Summit was repainted again— this time into the two tone green paint scheme adopted by the railway. • 1975—the Northern Summit is temporarily renamed Peace River and painted Tuscan Red for a special BC Museum train pulled by the Royal Hudson to Los Angeles. • 1978—still in Tuscan red, the car is temporarily renamed again—this time Captain James Cook for the cross Canada tour of the Captain James Cook Bicentennial train. This train was also pulled by the Royal Hudson • Date unknown—sometime after the Captain James Cook trip, the Northern Summit was repainted into the BC Rail blue paint scheme, which it retains today. • 1990’s—the Northern Summit becomes a stationary office for BC Rail, deemed no longer operable due poor trucks and friction bearings. The car is stationed at North Vancouver and becomes the design office for many new BCR passenger services, including the Pacific Starlight Dinner train and the Whistler Northwind tour train. WCRA Director Bob Griffiths worked out of the car for several years. • 2002—the Northern Summit goes up for sale along with all other BCR passenger equipment. WCRA bids for the car but is not successful, the car is sold to the Okanagan Northern Excursion Railway. • 2003—unable to move the car, the Okanagan Northern negotiates storage at Squamish with WCRA. BC Rail delivers the car to the West Coast Railway Heritage Park. • 2005, December—West Coast Railway Association purchases the Northern Summit, thanks to the support of several donors.

Now the work begins. The car’s interior needs a thorough cleaning and some painting to be made presentable, while longer term plans for a full restoration are made. Still under debate is whether we will restore the car in the Red #15 scheme used by Premier Bennett's trips in 1956 (the car’s first PGE paint scheme) or in the PGE orange / green scheme used by Princess Margaret’s Royal Tour, and retained on the car for around 12 years. We will keep you posted as things progress, but the future of this important piece of British Columbia history is secured. WCRA News, Page 14 “O CANADA” HORNS DONATED

Thanks to new member Alf Spence, who has donated a set of original “O Canada” air horns to the WCRA. These unique airhorns were designed by Robert Swanson through his company Airchime (which still produces chime horns today). Sets of horns that played “O Canada” were installed during the Canadian Centennial in 1967 on railway F units that pulled a special Centennial train exhibit around Canada, and on several truck caravan exhibits that visited communities where the rails didn’t go. A large set was also installed atop the BC Hydro building where they chimed out at noon every day—this set was acquired by Canada Place Corporation (through our member Bill Watson who was CEO there) and they play every day at noon across the harbour to this day.

Our set, donated by Alf, was the prototype for the ones originally installed on the truck cabs for the Centennial Caravan. The horns have quite a history, having subsequently been fitted on at least two boats, then repossessed back in both cases. The horns are tuned to perfect pitch, and come with the solenoids that control each bell individually.

WCRA plans to install them at the West Coast Railway Heritage Park, along with an interpretation of Robert Swanson and his development of airchime horns that are common today. We will also recognize the donation, and hope to sound the horns for the first time in Squamish on Canada Day this year. Perhaps we will be able to have a noon time sounding as they do in Vancouver, to provide another unique reminder that the Heritage Park is a part of the community.

Our thanks to Alf for this “priceless” donation, we look forward to adding a new audible dimension to the Heritage Park.

ROYAL HUDSON PRESERVATION & FUND

ROYAL HUDSON PROJECT PROGRESS

The big news in March was the start of installation of the new tubes in the boiler of the Royal Hudson. Singh Biln reports:

A major milestone occurred on March 1 when the re-tubing of the boiler commenced with technical assistance from steam expert Doyle McCormack from Portland. Over the previous few weeks, contractor Trevor Mills and volunteers Don Lawrence and Richard Courage had prepared all the holes in the tube sheets and commenced installing the copper ferrules required in the rear tube sheet. Doyle and Trevor have measured every tube and each one is now being cut to the required length. Over the next 2 weeks, our team will be cutting and installing the tubes. Doyle is expected to return by the last week of March to help with the WCRA News WCRA News, Page 15 extensive rolling and beading of the tube ends. Current plans are to complete the re-tubing by early April, schedule the hydro-static test on April 10th, super-heater tubes installed in latter part of April, and steam up in early May. (S.B.)

WESTRAN DONATES $50,000 TO ROYAL HUDSON COMPLETION

Westran Services has donated has made the first major gift to out “Over the Top” campaign to see the repairs to the Royal Hudson completed. With work well underway to complete the locomotive on time and on budget, we launched this campaign to find the final $150,000 needed to see the work through.

Westran has made the founding gift to this campaign, a gift of $50,000! These critical funds will keep work going as we continue to install the new tubes into the locomotive’s boiler. We are working now to find some matching gifts to see the job done.

Our sincere thanks to Westran and President Hugh Little for the support at this critical time in the project.

ROYAL HUDSON PRESERVATION FUND

We acknowledge our monthly contributors Dave Walker, Richard Tubbessing, and Ernie & Lynn Ledgerwood, as well as donors Keith Perkins $35, Douglas Hinsche $50, Barbara Stover $50, Graham Stokes $50, Bob Tully $17, Patrick Corrigan $50, Mary Larcombe $50, BC Railway Historical Association $1,000, and Jim Davidson $50 bringing our total to $123,199 raised to date. Remember, you can make a donation on line through www.wcra. org .

Add in the Western Economic Diversification Canada grant and the Province of BC $100,000 TFA grant, Westran’s $50,000 and our total now leaps forward to $383,199.

FUNDRAISING

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S REPORT – FEBRUARY 2006

February was a very good month, and a busy one as well, as a number of things came together for our major projects.

Funding Asks Made · Hudson’s Bay Foundation re a grant towards a General Store for the Heritage Park

WCRA News, Page 16 Major Funding Received · $10,000 donation towards MP 1 shop · $595 Royal Hudson donations · New debenture $20,000 · Westran $50,000 donation to Royal Hudson · BCRHA Royal Hudson donation $1,000 · Overwaitea donation of Roundhouse Light Fixtures $47,000 in kind

Month Total $128,595 Year to Date Total $237,727 Year end objective $1,000,000 Other Significant Activities · Meeting with Rocky Mountaineer Vacations re 2006 partnership work together

ANNUAL AUCTION SET FOR MAY 12

Mark the date of Friday, February 12 on your calendars. That’s the date for the annual West Coast Railway Association / Rotary Club of Vancouver auction. The format will be familiar as we work to raise funds for both organizations, but the location will change. This year it will be at the Croatian Cultural Centre on Commercial Drive in Vancouver. More details will be in our next issue, but mark the date now for a great evening. Get started on planning your tables as well as any auction items for the event. Guests / spouses / friend are all welcome.

BEQUEST HELPS WESTERN RAIL MUSEUM BUILD NEW CAR BARN

All of you will recall, I hope, the series that we ran last year in WCRA News regarding wills and bequests. Well, a real live example comes to us from the Western Railway Museum at Rio Vista Junction in California. A museum member who passed away recently left a major bequest in the form of an endowment of more than $3 million. As a result, the Museum’s endowment fund has now grown to more than $5 million and produces a significant amount of annual interest that can be used by the Museum—while the capital stays in place.

Creating such an endowment for WCRA remains one of our key goals. It is through such financing that we can put long term ongoing funding in place to ensure our precious collection is funded in perpetuity. We can do so through investing further through our current West Coast Railway Endowment Fund (managed by the Vancouver Foundation) or by the planned new Endowment we intend to start this year with the Squamish Community Foundation.

Your Executive Director still hears members saying they can’t consider a major gift to the WCRA, as they don’t have much income. Yet, many of us own homes in the Vancouver market, which of itself almost assures we have substantial estates. Please recognize this in your planning. Do look after family, and please do consider charities that you love—we hope we are one of them. Whatever you do—do make your plans. Without them, family, friends and charities will lose out, and only the tax man will win. WCRA News, Page 17 WEST COAST RAIL TOURS

2006 TOURS UNDERWAY

Our Tours Committee is now getting its program of tours for 2006 underway. The new Whistler Mountaineer services to Whistler are incorporated into our program and we will continue with the popular White Pass & Yukon package as well. Members are reminded that we have new 2006 brochures now available, including Rocky Mountaineer Vacations, VIA Rail, Trafalgar Tours to Hawaii, across North America and to Australia / New Zealand as well as major cruise lines. Plan now to get aboard this year for some great rail travel. (B.J.)

MALAHAT CIRCLE TOUR (RVI) Daily except Saturday - throughout the year

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 7:00 AM in the hotel’s restaurant, then their van shuttles you to the station at 7:40 AM. Board the train for an 8:15 am departure to Qualicum Beach where it arrives at about noon. Enjoy this quaint town with its interesting beaches and restaurants. After lunch (on your own) we ask you to board the train at 2:30 pm and get off at Nanaimo at 3:45 pm. A waiting 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. Arrive at Pacific Central Station at 7:15 pm.

$224; Children 2-11 $186; BC Seniors (Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays only) $186. (Otherwise $224) Single supplement $71

Vancouver Island Rail & Sail By E&N Rail, coach and “The Queen of the North”

This is our popular itinerary featuring the repositioning of “Queen of the North” at the end of its “Inside Passage” season. (Tour VRS-2)

Day 1 - Friday, September 29th From Pacific Central Station, Vancouver, we go to Victoria before noon and spend the evening in a comfortable hotel. Includes “welcome dinner” in a good restaurant. D Day 2 - Saturday, September 30th After breakfast we leave by transfer bus at 7:45 AM for the VIA Rail Station and board the Esquimalt and Nanaimo Railway’s “Malahat Dayliner”. Arrival in Courtenay is at 12:50 PM. Brief stops will be made at Sayward, and at Woss Camp to see the logging railway there. We arrive in Port Hardy at about 6:00 PM and stay in the Port Hardy Inn. B, L WCRA News, Page 18

Day 3 - Sunday, October 1st We depart our hotel early for the Queen of the North, which sails at 7:30 AM from nearby Bear Cove. Arrival in Tsawwassen is scheduled for 8:30 PM with arrival back into Vancouver about 9:30 PM. We transfer you to locations as close to your home as possible.

FARE: Per person sharing: $495; BC Seniors only $475; Single Supplement: $125

Part of a group? Let us quote special pricing for groups of 15 or more and enjoy a mini- cruise with your friends at a very affordable price. We also offer customized itineraries to other destinations, so give us your thoughts and let us organize it for you

Whitehorse, Yukon and the White Pass & Yukon Route Steam Spectacular!

Visit Canada’s Yukon and “The Scenic Railway of the World”, one of the world‘s most notable civil engineering feats. (Tour WPS-3)

Day 1 - Thursday, June 22 Our group departs Vancouver by Air North at 11:30 AM for Whitehorse, Yukon Territory, on this, the longest day of the year. Flying time is 2-1/2 hours. Upon arrival we are transferred to a downtown hotel for the afternoon and evening. There is much to see and do in this northern capital of 23,000 people. L Day 2 - Friday, June 23 You have the morning free in Whitehorse to visit the many local museums and historical sites. We then leave by motorcoach from the old WP&YR depot for Fraser, BC. Departure is at 1:30 PM (Yukon Time). At Fraser, we board the diesel-hauled passenger service through the White Pass and down to Skagway, Alaska arriving at about 4:30 PM (Alaska time). Our hotel is a short walk from the station. B Day 3 – Saturday, June 24 We leave the WP&YR depot at 8:00 AM behind steam locomotive #73 and spend the day soaking up spectacular mountain railroading. Run-bys and other treats for rail-fans are performed. Return to Skagway is scheduled for about 5:00 PM. This 80 mile round trip includes a 2-hour layover in Bennett, BC, the end of the Chilkoot Trail, where you can participate in a walking tour with a Parks Canada Historian, explore the area’s artifacts and tour the displays in the historic 1903 train station. B, L Day 4 – Sunday, June 25 We leave Skagway at 8:45 AM by motorcoach and climb up from the coast via the South Klondike Highway – a different route up to the White Pass. Our coach drops us in Whitehorse where we have a couple of hours of free time before going to the airport at 2:30 PM for a 3:30 PM Air Canada flight to Vancouver. We also arrange connections to all Canadian cities served by Air Canada, Air North or WestJet Airlines. WCRA News, Page 19

All times shown are local; Pacific & Yukon times are one hour later than Alaska time. Passengers are reminded that they should have correct citizenship documentation and sufficient medical insurance to cover any emergency when traveling in the U.S.A. This tour also runs weekly (Thursdays) from June 1st until August 24th as an independent, non-escorted tour.

FARE: Per person sharing, $1295. Single Supplement $215. (subject to availability of discounted airfares).

Spirit of Washington Luncheon Train, Returning on Amtrak’s “Cascades” Service Two train rides in one day, a gourmet lunch, winery tour, and Seattle

Day-trip, Saturday, April 22nd (Tour SWA-4) We depart Vancouver by motorcoach with pickups in Burnaby, New Westminster and Surrey. We take the I-5 and I-405 south. On arrival in Renton, WA, we board the “Spirit of Washington” Dinner train for a noon departure. A gourmet lunch is served while the train skirts Lake Washington's scenic eastern shoreline, en route to the Woodinville area. On arrival, the Columbia Winery offers a tour and tasting before the train departs for its return trip - when coffee and dessert are served. From Renton, our coach takes us to downtown Seattle and to King St. Station where we board the Amtrak “Cascades” train. This modern, innovative European-style train leaves Seattle for Bellingham at 5:30 PM, skirting Puget Sound affording stunning views of the Olympic Peninsula and the ocean. Snacks (your cost) are available in the bistro car. From Bellingham (8:00 PM), our coach returns us to Vancouver. All other tour and train expenses are included. As this trip always sells out, we suggest booking early. It may be repeated June 17th subject to demand and to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the opening of Seattle’s King St. Station. L Passengers are reminded that they should have correct citizenship documentation and sufficient medical insurance to cover any emergency when traveling in the U.S.A., even for a daytrip such as this. FARE: $179 per person for seating in our exclusive scenic dome dining car with a great 360° view. Ask about regular dining car “Salon” seating which may be available for $20 less.

Vancouver Island, Discovery Coast, Chilcotin, Cariboo & Whistler Circle Tour by Discovery Coast Ferry, Motorcoach and 2 Trains This is a new itinerary using some familiar services combined with a new passenger rail experience from Whistler to Vancouver. Tour DCW-R

WCRA News, Page 20

Meals included in the package 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 - Wednesday, July 5th After pickups in the Vancouver area we make our way in our chartered coach to Vancouver Island via the 8:30 AM sailing at Horseshoe Bay for Nanaimo. We go to the VIA Rail station and board the E&N Dayliner for Courtenay. Lunch is supplied on the train. After leaving Courtenay our motorcoach takes us to a new hotel in Port McNeill for the night. Frequent stops for sightseeing are made along the way. A “welcome dinner” is supplied tonight. L, D If interested in leaving a day earlier for Victoria we can arrange a hotel for you, and transfers to the VIA Rail station to ride the E&N Dayliner north to meet our group in Nanaimo. See note re “Option “V” below.

Day 2 - Thursday, July 6th After an early breakfast we board our motorcoach for Bear Cove where we embark on the “Queen of Chilliwack” Discovery Coast ferry. For the next 13 hours we wind our way through Queen Charlotte Strait, Fitz Hugh Sound, and Burke Channel. Whales and other sea life are sometimes spotted. Arrival at Bella Coola is before 10:30 PM. We go to nearby Hagensborg for two nights. CB

Day 3 - Friday, July 7th The day is spent soaking up the area’s history and First Nations culture, predominant in the area - as well as the outstanding natural beauty of the region – interpreted by a local guide. B, L, D

Day 4 - Saturday, July 8th We traverse the wild Chilcotin region after a climb up the infamous “Big Hill” that takes us from the coastal rain forest over the rugged Coastal Mountains. We spend the night in Williams Lake. B, L, S

Day 5 - Sunday, July 9th Today we travel through the south Cariboo region, Lillooet and over the incredible Duffy Lake Road to the mountain village of Whistler, home of the 2010 Winter Olympics. B, L

Day 6 - Monday, July 10th We have a chance to sleep in an enjoy this beautiful mountain village. After lunch we get a coach transfer to the “Whistler Mountaineer” train service for our return to the coast via Howe Sound and Squamish. Tea and a snack are served at your seat. We leave the train in North Vancouver and are transferred to downtown Vancouver ending the tour. Home drop-off included. B, S

WCRA News, Page 21

FARE: Per person sharing: $1292; BC Seniors only, $1252; Single Supplement: $438. GST extra. OPTION “V”. Go to Victoria on Tuesday July 4th and take the E&N Malahat Dayliner the next morning. We meet you on the train in Nanaimo on Wednesday to continue the tour. Add $168

Two Steam Trains, Fish and Wine We offer two versions and two dates for these popular trips riding behind steam locomotives in the Okanagan region (Tour OKS-6)

Day 1 - Friday, September 15th We leave Vancouver’s Pacific Central Station by chartered coach picking up in the Fraser Valley then take Highway 7 on the scenic north side of the Fraser River from Mission to downtown Agassiz and the museum housed in the oldest wooden railroad station in B.C. We follow the Fraser Canyon and stop for lunch at the Hells Gate Air Tram (admission included) where one can walk over the suspension bridge to view fish climbing the fish ladders. On to Skihist Park overlooking Rainbow Canyon of the Thompson River and the railways operating through this most difficult part of the river valley. Kamloops overnight. Try dinner at the Keg Steak House in the renovated Kamloops Railway station. S x 2 Day 2 - Saturday, September 16th Morning transfer to the Kamloops Heritage Railway steam train. We climb from Campbell Creek up into ranching country enroute to Armstrong. There is time to tour the town have lunch and view the steam train leaving. We travel to O'Keefe Ranch for a tour of the restored buildings, and then go to a local winery for a tour and tasting. We have dinner in a fine Kelowna restaurant by Okanagan Lake. CB, L, D Day 3 - Sunday, September 17th We depart at 8:30 AM for Hardy Creek to see fish spawning and then on to the Kettle Valley Steam Railway. Our train takes us along the hills overlooking Summerland and onto the Trout Creek Bridge the highest on the former Kettle Valley Railway. Lunch is included today at a local winery followed by a tour and tasting. We then tour the SS Sicamous, the beautifully restored lake steamer. We stay tonight at the Penticton Lakeside Resort and Casino on the south beach of Okanagan Lake. There are lots of options for dinner in the hotel, or by a short walk to downtown Penticton. B, L Day 4 - Monday, September 18th At 9:30 AM depart for the Grist Mill at Keremeos for a tour and lunch. We take the Crowsnest Route back to the coast with stops at a fruit stand, Manning Park, and the Quintette Tunnels on the old KVR line. B, L

FARE: Per person sharing: $697 Single Supplement: $163

Or try this shorter more economical version, in June (Tour KHR-7) Day 1 - Friday, June 2nd Depart Vancouver’s Pacific Central Station at 1:00 PM allowing for transfers from Vancouver Island or Amtrak from Seattle. We make pickups through the Fraser Valley to Hope where we take a rest stop and a walk through the Quintette Tunnels on the old KVR line. Then it’s direct to Kamloops for the night in a good riverside motel. S WCRA News, Page 22

Day 2 - Saturday, June 3rd As per Day 2 in above itinerary, Overnight in Kelowna.CB, L, D

Day 3 - Sunday, June 4th This morning depart at 9 AM for the Kettle Valley Steam Railway. Our train takes us along the hills overlooking Summerland and onto the Trout Creek Bridge the highest on the former Kettle Valley Railway. After lunch we return directly to Hope and the Fraser Valley to Vancouver in time to make evening ferry and train connections. B, L FARE: Per person sharing: $537 Single Supplement: $113

Vancouver Island's West Coast

We travel on Port Alberni's steam train to see a steam-operated sawmill and sail on a vintage coastal supply vessel through the Broken Islands Group to Ucluelet and Pacific Rim National Park Tour (VWC-8)

Tuesday: August 15th, Day 1 We depart Vancouver by chartered motorcoach for Horseshoe Bay sailing by BC Ferries to Nanaimo's Departure Bay and are dropped off at the E&N rail station. We board the Malahat Dayliner, have lunch on board, and get off at Courtenay. Our coach meets us and we travel to Coombs Junction Market and Cathedral Grove forest preserve. A stop at the Alberni Valley Museum is also made before checking in at our Port Alberni hotel. Dinner is in a fine waterside restaurant. S, D Wednesday: August 16th, Day 2 We leave the hotel for the short trip to the dock where we check in and board the "Lady Rose" (or "Frances Barkley") coastal supply vessel that services Alberni Inlet. Our scheduled arrival at Ucluelet is 12:30 PM. Lunch is on your own on board the ship. Our coach meets us in Ucluelet where we do a tour of the area and then proceed north through Pacific Rim National Park to Tofino ending up at our luxury seaside resort hotel on McKenzie Beach. We have arranged for a delicious dinner (3 menu choices) in the luxurious "Calm Waters" dining room overlooking the sea. B, D Thursday: August 17th, Day 3 We leave Tofino late morning and stop at the Wickaninnish Visitor centre and take lunch there at an ocean-side restaurant. Stops will be made at scenic overlooks before returning to our Port Alberni Hotel. B, D Friday: August 18th, Day 4 After breakfast we board the Alberni Pacific Railway train for its departure to the McLean Mill National Historic site, (the only steam operated sawmill in Canada). Upon arrival we take a tour of the mill, enjoy the "Tin Pants" musical theatre production, have lunch, then leave for Nanaimo and a late afternoon return to Vancouver. B

FARES: (reduced from last year) $688, BC Seniors: $663. Single Supplement: $212.

Or: Go to Victoria on Monday August 14th, stay overnight in a downtown hotel, board the "Dayliner" in Victoria on Tuesday and meet the tour on the train in Nanaimo. We supply all tickets and vouchers for train, hotel, ferry, and PCL motorcoach. Add $149, Single Supplement: $71 WCRA News, Page 23 CPR Steam Through the Rockies

A steam lover’s delight, our Canadian Rockies Steam Express tours feature the Canadian Pacific Railway’s heritage steam engine, the 2816 “Empress” on 2 itineraries of your choice (Tour CPR-9) Westbound Tours: Arrive Calgary on dates shown. We arrange air or other means to get you there. Hotels each night and most meals. Day 1 - Tuesday; Calgary - Banff - Lake Louise Day 2 - Wednesday; Lake Louise – Revelstoke Day 3 - Thursday; Revelstoke – Kamloops Day 4 - Friday; Kamloops – Vancouver Dates: Arrival in Calgary on day shown before departure by train the following morning, Mondays on the following dates: October 9th, 2006, May 21st, 2007, June 4th, 2007, June 18th, 2007

Eastbound Tours: Depart Vancouver on dates shown. Day 1 - Monday; Vancouver – Kamloops Day 2 – Tuesday; Kamloops – Revelstoke Day 3 - Wednesday; Revelstoke – Lake Louise Day 4 - Thursday; Lake Louise – Calgary

Dates: Departures from Vancouver as below. We fly you back from Calgary to Abbotsford, Vancouver or your choice, at your convenience. Mondays on the following dates: October 16th, 2006 **, May 28th, 2007, June 11th, 2007, June 25th 2007 ** ** Routing via Cranbrook, the Crow’s Nest Pass and Lethbridge - instead of Revelstoke and Lake Louise.

FARES: Call 1-800-722-1233 (or locally, 604-524-1011), for pricing and more information

West Coast Rail Tours - The “Rail” Way to go WCRA News, Page 24

Our West Coast Rail Tours travel agency continues to grow. With our IATA status, we can handle all your bookings for air travel as well as cruises, hotel accommodations and—our specialty - rail. We ask you to choose us as your travel agent. Commissions earned on all travel bookings go straight into the WCRA bank for our preservation projects. Contact Bill toll free at 1-800-722-1233, or locally at 604-524-1011 or by e-mail at [email protected] (B.J.)

MOTIVE POWER SHOPS

The ex-BCR Motive Power shop MP1 continues to be a significant value to us as storage for much of our operating equipment and as usable shop space for repair work. Currently, one of the Budd Cars is being repaired and some of the speeder work was done in this shop. Work on the Henry Pickering and the other Budd Car will also be done there. Manager Major Projects Singh Biln is continuing to market some of the ancillary areas to offset lease and additional costs such as utilities and taxes. So far, 6 tenants have been secured for some of the smaller shop/storage areas and 1 potential tenant is considering the main office space. Contractors Randy Shimell and Randy Lucas (R&R) along with help from staffers Renee Walton, Tomo’o Oshikawa and Kevin Smith have completed some of significant repairs and renovations requested and funded by one of tenants. Anyone requiring office, storage or shop space in Squamish should call Singh at the Heritage Park or cell 604-220-1344 to inquire about special members rates. (S.B.)

ROUNDHOUSE & TURNTABLE

During the past month, Director Grant Ferguson and Manager Major Projects Singh Biln met with District of Squamish planning staff to initiate the development permit process. There are no roadblocks for this process and we expect to get a building permit for the turntable foundation in March and for the roundhouse in April. Local contractor Duro Construction has been selected for the turntable foundation, and excavation work will start imminently. Other portions of the turntable project are progressing with overhaul of the drive bogies commenced, blast/paint of the bridge ready to commence by mid-March and a supplier selected for the electrical drive system. The turntable is expected to be installed by mid year.

The design of the roundhouse has been finalized and architects are developing the final drawings. In the meantime, site preparation is continuing with the relocation plan as various tracks and structures are being moved or removed to make room for the roundhouse. This includes significant repositioning of our equipment collection as nearly 500’ for track is being removed. The ex-McDonald’s Kid’s Kaboose, previously on the Garden Tracks, was relocated to its permanent site north of Howard Lyttle Park.. Arrow Cranes assisted with WCRA News, Page 25

this move with their 85-ton crane.

(photo left, Randy Shimell)

PGE #2 MOVED SUCCESSFULLY

It wasn’t only the Kaboose that was on the move. Another need to making way for the turntable construction to start was Pacific Great Eastern steam locomotive #2. It sat right at the front of the Park by Resthaven ever since coming to the Heritage Park. Everyone thought she would have to be skidded along the tracks to clear the way, but Trevor Mills had a better idea. Trevor came up with a plan to disconnect the rods and the seized in-board valve gear, disconnect the brakes, and just pull #2 with the switcher locomotive. Last week he and Randy Lucas did the preparatory work and in early February it was pulled with a chain connected to the locomotive without the tender. PGE #2 rolled along the tracks on her own wheels for probably the first time in 40 years! She is now positioned alongside the carshop and clear of the area of turntable construction.

(Tomo’o Oshikawa photos) WCRA News, Page 26

WEST COAST RAILWAY HERITAGE PARK Home of the Royal Hudson

SPEEDER RIDES START AT THE HERITAGE PARK

Our major new attraction for Spring Break week at the Heritage Park was the introduction of speeder rides. This effort was spearheaded when Craig McDowall purchased a Fairmont A 4 motorcar in beautiful condition. That spurred our own staff and volunteers to also get in on the act, by restoring a trailer car and another Fairmont A 4 to make a three car speeder train.

Singh Biln reports March 3 that things are coming together for us for the upcoming speeder runs commencing March 11: - Craig delivered his speeder last Friday (March 3) and it is beautiful. We had it at MP1 over the weekend and moved it over to the Heritage Park today. - We commenced the training and certification putting 14 candidates through the Rulebook and exam with everyone receiving over 90%. About 10 of these have had some practicum and are close to certification once they get one or two runs with the proposed consist. Randy Shimell is doing the practicum and it is going well. Sherry, Donna and Olga have had several runs already. - Craig’s speeder is being used for the training and it is running great. - The 6-person man-hauler trailer is coming together nicely. The chassis has been painted and serviced, new deck applied, seat brackets installed, seats shampooed, body painted, and windows delivered. By end of day tomorrow, this trailer should be completed. I am encouraging our contractors to use available materials in order to keep costs down and it has been working well. Costs of materials so far has been about $160 for special deck plywood. - WCRA’s ex-BCR A4 has been started and run. Over the next couple of days, we will be installing seats, windows, horn, lights, wipers, floorboards and engine cover panels. We expect to have it operational by Friday but are having problems getting suitable seat belts - The consist for Spring Break week will be Craig’s A4 facing south, the man-hauler in between, and the BCR A4 facing north at other end. This will work well because we will have 2 operators in push-pull service so no need to turn around or de-board at north end. WCRA News, Page 27

We will be operating on the mainline from the station to the north end lead switch. The run is about 2.5 - 3 minutes one-way. No other trains or other speeders will operated at the Park during the runs between 1100 and 1500 from Saturday March 11 to Sunday March 19. This will ensure safe operations. - Speedy Glass have donated 6 laminated windshields ($250); Harold’s Wrecking have donated 2 van bench seats complete with seat belts ($200); Triton have donated a seat, batteries, oils, paint, lights, etc. Triton is a major supporter with commitment to donate more (several hundred dollars). I will be acknowledging them with signage on the units and in the newsletter. - Donna Fourchalk is organizing the volunteer schedule for the Spring Break speeder runs so give her a call if you can dedicate 4-hours any day. We want to get as many members and volunteers certified for operation as possible so please call me or refer others as we are geared up for the training this week. I can send you the Rulebook if you wish. With volunteer operators assisting, the work of contractors with the units and the response so far, I think we will do well. Now if only the weather cooperates.

March 9th—Our plans to commence speeder operations on March 11 are on target. R&R with help from Trevor Mills completed refurbishing the ex-BCR man-hauler on March 9th. Volunteers Galen Olsen and Mike Lloyd had the ex-BCR A-4 operational last week and our contractors are now installing the windows, seats and seat belts required for carrying passengers. This unit should be completed in the next couple of days so will be available for most of the spring break operations. WCRA News, Page 28

In preparation for the new rides, Manager Major Projects Singh Biln has developed and conducted the training and certification program required by our regulators. A total of 17 candidates have successfully completed the classroom training and about half of them have completed their practicum conducted by Randy Shimell. The initial class included ex-BCR employees and volunteers John Jellis, Tom Bruvall, Roy Crowston, Steve Martin, Wayne Sidsworth, Darcy Nelson, Bill McEnery, Craig McDowall as well as staffers Donna Fourchalk, Olga Junkin, Sherry Elchuk, Dave Thethi, Tomo’o Oshikawa, and Matt Christianson. (photo, page 27)

March 11—The speeder rides did start on schedule. Photo shows operator Darcy Nelson and conductor Tom Bruvall (in trailer) with moms Natalie Collett and Isabel Jordan and their 4 toddlers about to commence first run of the speeder train on March 11 from the Mac Norris Station. (S.B.)

HERITAGE PARK BUS SERVICE TO OPERATE IN 2006

Nostalgia Tours, a Vancouver company providing heritage motor coach service to local area attractions of historical and cultural interest, is pleased to announce the inauguration of “Howe Sound Domeliner” service, commencing in May, 2006. Named for the “Domeliner” trains that crossed the continent in the post-World War II glory days of train travel, the current version uses exclusive “Glasstop” motor coaches designed to maximize visibility from every one of the all-forward-facing seats in classic GM buses.

Guests will enjoy a carefree drive up scenic Howe Sound, an opportunity for lunch at the renowned Howe Sound Brewing Company, and an afternoon at the West Coast Railway Heritage Park. Located in the town of Squamish, the Heritage Park is Western Canada’s WCRA News, Page 29 largest railway museum, and features as its keynote display the famous “Royal Hudson” steam locomotive, which itself returns to steam in 2006.

Passengers may join the motor coach tour at Pacific Central Station adjacent to Main St. Skytrain station in Vancouver, or may also be picked up in downtown Vancouver and Park Royal in West Vancouver. (Times and details to come, watch Nostalgia Tours website)

Reservations are not necessary but are suggested on special event and Royal Hudson steaming days: for further information visit the company’s website at www.nostalgiatours. com or phone 604-690-TOUR (690-8687). All motor coaches are owned and operated by Blue & White Bus & Coach Ltd., parent company of Nostalgia Tours Inc.

Nostalgia Tours will also be providing service to other historical and cultural attractions, including Kilby National Historic Site (celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2006) and Stave Falls Powerhouse Museum. (J.Day)

DONNA’S NOTES

A very big thank you to Ron and Juanita Anstey for the donation of a loom (dating to the 1920’s) for the Brightbill Heritage House. We have been in contact with a lady in Squamish who is a weaver and has taught weaving who is willing to assist us.

Thanks to Roy Crowston for the donation of a Brotherhood of Railroad Trainmen Squamish Lodge Charter dated April 17, 1949. The original stamp is also part of this donation, and these will be part of the new PGE / BCR display being created in Troop Sleeper 710. There will be another planning meeting for this project soon.

The Heritage Tea held in the Brightbill Heritage House on February 25 was a great success. Thanks to Beth Fitzpatrick, Audrey Rhodes, Vivian Downing, Barbara Stover and Karen Moodie who did the baking and the serving at this event, looking after our guests very well. It is a wonderful experience to be enjoyed each February. (D.F.)

WE ALWAYS NEED MORE VOLUNTEERS

As you can see from this newsletter, we have a lot on the go at the Heritage Park and many of the equipment restoration projects would not be where they are if it weren’t for the generosity of our volunteers. There is never enough space to acknowledge everyone involved at the Park but here are some of the volunteer regulars: Royal Hudson – Don Lawrence, Richard Courage, Don McAllister, Rob Misjak Speeders – Galen Olsen, Mike Lloyd, Craig McDowall Modelling – Chris Forget, Barbara Stover WCRA News, Page 30

We are getting great support from the above volunteers but there is no shortage of additional restoration projects including:

- Roof and window repairs on many of our display cars - Cleaning out and installing display signage on lots of equipment - Painting numerous pieces of equipment including locomotives - Cleaning out the Northern Summit - Restoring other speeders

Additional volunteers are always needed for restoration and other projects - anyone interested in helping, call Sherry Elchuk at 604-898-9336 or Singh Biln at 604-220-1344.

6TH ANNUAL EASTER SCAVENGER HUNT—APRIL 16

The West Coast Railway Heritage Park will hold its 6th Annual Easter Scavenger Hunt on Sunday, April 16 from 1200 to 1500 hours. This is a great event for the whole family’s enjoyment. Explore the Heritage Park (and there are lots of changes from last year), fill in the answer sheets as you find the clues, return and exchange them for an Easter treat. This is a free admission community event—make sure you come. (S.E.)

HERITAGE PARK SHORTS

Heritage Park General Manager Sherry Elchuk represented the WCRA at the annual Council of Tourism Associations of BC conference in Penticton February 14—17th. Executive Director Don Evans donated a Dinner for Six on the British Columbia as a prize to the conference auction.

There was a movie shoot in the coach Porteau on February 25th. We are also providing some props to the movie industry for the movie Night At The Museum currently shooting in the Vancouver area. (S.E.)

WINTER SCENES

It is not all that unusual to have snow fall at the Heritage Park, but the scene that staff arrived to on the morning of Sunday, February 26 was something else. An unusual late season snow storm had dumped 26 inches of snow all over the place! (photos, page 31)

While it had rained in Vancouver, the low temperatures were just enough to make it all snow in Squamish. The Heritage Park was closed Sunday, while Randy Shimell and others operated the bobcat and a blade equipped forklift to clear the snow. By Monday, the pathways were all cleared and the Park was open again. (R.S., S.E.) WCRA News, Page 31 WCRA News, Page 32 FEATURE ARTICLES

25 YEARS AGO

We welcome a new monthly feature this issue, to be provided each month by our Chair Craig McDowall. Craig will provide some insights into what was going on in the WCRA, and the local rail scene, with items sourced from our newsletters 25 years back. We hope you enjoy this reflection into our past.

Meeting notes: - Craig McDowall stepped down as the association president with the new incoming executive being: President: Grant Ferguson, VP: Ron Pajala (crossing the house from the Opposition), Corresponding Secretary: Bernie Tully, Recording Secretary: Bob Hunter and Treasurer: Gary Oliver. - The court case against Terry Fergusson involving our Locomotive 16 resumes March 23rd - All members were urged to write letters protesting passenger service cutbacks on BC Railway

Other News: - Our (WCRA’s) 19th annual Winter Excursions to Lillooet were a resounding success with 84 passengers on the Saturday trip hosted by that Dynamic Duo . . . Ron Pajala and Bob Gevaert. The Sunday trip carried 62 on five Budd cars. But on the return trip a large rock bounced down the hill at MP 91.7 (five miles south of Pemberton) and derailed the rear axle of the lead Budd. A crew was brought in from Squamish and brought up from Pemberton on the porch of SD40-2 #751 as it’s freight had been stopped at Pemberton behind us. We finally arrived in North Vancouver at 0050 hours the next morning !! - Two BC Rail Budds were shipped to Vancouver Island for a tour of the line by Premier Bennett’s tour. They were RDC-1 (BC#11) and RDC-3 (BC#31) - Shortly after BC Rail cut back passenger service on Feb. 16th, the Provincial Government announced it would pay BC Rail to restore service to “pre-cut” levels with $4 million set aside to improve and maintain current equipment. - Amtrak’s Coast Starlight completed conversion from heritage equipment to the new Superliner equipment on the 1st of February. Skyline Travel expects to bring a full Coast Starlight consist to Van. to accommodate it’s Disneyland Spring Break Special this year.

THE STATION AGENT'S RIFLE - written by Edward Villiers for the Savona Historical Society, submitted by Dave Emmington

In the spring of 1948, British Columbia was suffering its greatest flooding since 1894. Dykes were bursting in the Fraser Valley and rivers were overflowing their banks WCRA News, Page 33 everywhere in the Interior.

On Sunday night, May 30, 1948, the engineer of Canadian National Railways' westbound passenger train felt a distinct bump as his steam locomotive passed over the Thompson River bridge west of Deadman's Creek. When he arrived half an hour later at Ashcroft, he reported the bump to the night operator who passed the report along to the engineer of an eastbound freight train waiting at the Ashcroft siding.

The engineer of the eastbound freight stopped his train when he reached the bridge and climbed down out of the cab. In the beam of his locomotive's headlight, he walked part way across the deck of the steel span and saw a distinct dip in the track over an undermined concrete pier. The swollen Thompson River had begun to erode the riverbed around a huge cement pier near the eastern end of the bridge. The engineer returned to his train, asked the other four crew members to get out and walk across the bridge, then climbed back into the engine's cab and slowly took his train across alone. His was the last train to cross that bridge for quite some time.

During the night, the pier continued to lean further over and it became apparent that the bridge was soon going to topple into the river. Sectionman John McLeod vividly remembers what happened the following morning, May 31, 1948, when his four-man section crew arrived by a motorized track car from Savona:

"By this time, the pier was leaning over so bad that the tracks were almost on edge. We disconnected the rails at the east end and when the last bolt was driven out of the fish plate, the track jumped two feet toward the bridge. Now the rails had to be undone at the west end.

I took a track wrench and a spiking maul and a tool to drive out the last bolt and started across. The bridge was now on a 60 degree angle. I walked hanging on to one rail with my feet down on the bottom rail.

When I drove the last bolt out on the west end, the track jumped three feet. Contrary to my foreman's warning, I decided to walk back across the bridge. When I got over to the other side, I rolled a smoke and took only two puffs on my cigarette when she went out.

The pier tipped over and the steel rails - screaming like banshees - whipped from each end! Spikes rained down! And two ninety-foot steel spans crashed into the river! One was carried two hundred yards downstream!

In addition to the rails, the bridge also carried valuable telegraph and telephone wires that connected Vancouver with Eastern Canada. The taut wires had been dragged down to the surface of the river and were in danger of being snapped by logs and other debris swirling downstream. WCRA News, Page 34

Each wire had been connected to a glass insulator mounted on a small, round, wooden bracket attached to a cross-arm that had been bolted to the bridge.

All of the wires had broken free except one. That one wire, still attached to its insulator connected to the cross-arm, was holding the rest down. If this one wire could be freed, then all of the wires would spring up - well above the surface of the water - and communications across the country could be saved. However, there was no way anyone could get out to the middle of the river to free it.

John had an idea. He suggested that someone take the motor car back to Savona and borrow a rifle and a box of bullets from the station agent. He would try and shoot in two the thin wooden peg that held the insulator.

Within half an hour, the foreman returned with a rifle and John lay down on the embankment and carefully took aim. The target was about an inch and a half in diameter. As each bullet hit the small round peg, the wood splintered and weakened. Suddenly, it broke in two, releasing all the wires into the air. The communication lines had been saved.

The rifle John had used was a .22 caliber, Winchester semi-automatic - an expensive gun for its caliber and rather uncommon since it was fitted with a brass tube in the stock that could be pulled from the butt for reloading. At the end of the day, the gun was delivered back to Savona's CNR station agent, Robert Dillabough. Ed note: subsequently this same rifle was sold and ended up being used in foul play, and was identified as evidence.

WORLD’S GREATEST TRAIN SPOTTER DEAD AT 67 -submitted by Dave Emmington

Bill Curtis, widely considered to be the "world's greatest train spotter," and a great railway character, died in Clacton-on-Sea in England last week. Mr. Curtis, was listed in the 1999 Guinness Book of World Records as the most prolific train spotter in the world. At that time he had "observed and recorded" more than 100,000 locomotives. (I thought I was doing well at 10,000, including 3,000+ CNR!).

Curtis was also an ardent "shed-basher," in that he enjoyed visiting railway yards and facilities – often without official approval. Indeed, he was arrested several times at gunpoint whilst "bashing" in the then communist countries of Poland and Czechoslovakia.

Mr. Curtis spent much of his later life as a homeless, free spirit traveling the rails in pursuit WCRA News, Page 35 of his beloved engine numbers. Curtis was married at one time, but when asked to decide on train spotting versus his marriage, he of course, chose the former. He spent much of his later life living on the seafront in Clacton-on-Sea, or sleeping on railway stations benches.

Bill Curtis was 67.

RAILWAY NEWS

COMING IN 2006

Amtrak improvements in the Seattle area in 2006 include the addition of a fourth Seattle— Portland Amtrak Cascades service, starting in July, bringing to total to five trains each direction when the Coast Starlight is factored in.

Also this year, renovations to Seattle’s King Street Station will be completed. (B.L.)

BUSY TIME

It has been busy on CN’s mainline—but can you beat February 10? On that date, CN’s Ashcroft sub had 12 trains in transit while the neighbouring Yale sub had 13 trains. That’s one train for each 10 miles of track! (J.M.)

MOTIVE POWER NOTES

CN #7204 has been moved into Thornton shops in preparation for a move back east for rebuilding at Winnipeg…….sightings on CN include RailLink 2020 / 2021 / 2022, Norfolk Southern 2620 / 8773, Santa Fe 951, BN green 7162, CSX 7554 and brand new BNSF 7648……..Regulars now are the new CN SD70M-2’s in the 8000 series—crews find them noisy compared to the GE units which are now more common than GM / EMD’s…...New GE ES44DC’s are also showing up now, spotted in Feb. have been 2229, 2234, 2236, and 2244. Watch for this new power. (R.C.)… Among CN’s locomotive retirements in February is another of the former BC Rail RS 18 Cat’s—#614. (TJ)

RDC’S FOR SALE

With the passing on of owner Stuart Draper, the Wilton Scenic Railroad in New Hampshire is up for sale, including the two former BCR RDC’s (RDC-3 BC 30 and RDC-1 BC 15) that he purchased in 2002 and operated the line. (B.K.) WCRA News, Page 36

E & N LINE DONATED TO ISLANDERS

Tuesday, February 28, 2006 , Victoria Times Colonist

The Age of Rail is being preserved on Vancouver Island with a donation valued at $236 million, say a group of municipal politicians and First Nations leaders. In what the non- profit Island Corridor Foundation is calling a historic agreement, the Canadian Pacific Railway has agreed to hand over its Island rail assets to the foundation, a partnership of First Nations and local governments along the E&N line.

CPR is donating its portion of the 234-kilometre E&N, which averages 30 metres in width between Victoria and Courtenay, to the foundation. That encompasses 651 hectares of land, six historic railway stations and a number of trestles. The company is also supplying $2.3- million in "seed money" to help the foundation continue its work. "Transfer of title has been completed, the Island corridor is now Island-owned and it's connecting communities," said a jubilant Judith Sayers, chief of the Alberni Valley's Hupacasath First Nation and co-chair of the foundation. Sayers and her daughter, Alana, completed Monday's announcement of the deal at Capital Regional District headquarters with a traditional song of thanks to the CPR's Dave Craig.

Not included in the deal is a section between Nanaimo and Parksville, which is owned by Rail America. The foundation is negotiating to also take it over. Via Rail continues to operate a passenger service on the E&N line, but has tried to shut it down several times, saying it's not a profitable venture.

Monday's deal will help preserve rail service on Vancouver Island and keep the E&N corridor available for such things as power lines, pipelines and hiking trails, foundation officials said. The ownership change will also allow more flexibility to deal with local concerns.

Priorities include: - Signing a deal to continue passenger rail service. - Upgrading the line. - Developing other proposals for the corridor, including a commuter rail service in the south.

The first section of the E&N line, between Esquimalt and Nanaimo, was built between 1884 and 1886. CPR bought it in 1905, and continued to operate on the Island until the late 1990s, when it decided that there wasn't enough business to continue. Rail America later took over part of the line for a freight service. "For our company, we had to look at it as 'Did it make business sense to hold onto it any longer?' and it made more sense to work with the Island Corridor Foundation to come up with a community-based solution," said CPR spokesman WCRA News, Page 37

Ed Greenberg. He said CPR gets about one-sixth the value of the deal in a charitable tax credit, and that such deals are not uncommon for the company. "We just sold a spur line to the City of Richmond and we donated a railway station to the community of Nelson recently," said Greenberg.

Also being discussed is the scope of rail service along the corridor and the establishment of a leasing arrangement with a company to run the service, said Lake Cowichan Mayor Jack Peake, the foundation's co-chair. A viable commuter rail service is one topic of discussion, he said. He said the foundation wants to show what can be done with a grassroots rail service, and with the unique partnership that has been created among the five regional governments and 13 First Nations within the corridor area. "I think one of the things [where] Canada is still lagging behind the rest of the world is recognizing the value that the railway corridors bring to this country that we live in," Peake said.

CPR CELEBRATES 125 YEARS

Canadian Pacific Railway celebrated an historic occasion on February 16, 2006—its 125th birthday since incorporation. To celebrate the milestone, CPR announced that it had put its birth certificate, the Canadian Pacific Railway Company Charter, on display at Calgary’s Glenbow Museum. The charter is considered by some to be Canada’s most significant private company legal document.

The charter has never been publicly displayed previously, having been kept at Montreal and Toronto offices from 1881 until 2003 when it was relocated to CPR HQ in Calgary. (TOL)

MOTIVE POWER NOTES

CPR has ordered 80 more GE ES44-AC’s for delivery in late 2006—the largest fleet of GE built AC traction powered locomotives just keeps getting bigger…...The oldest GP7 locomotive in Canada keeps on going—the original Toronto, Hamilton and Buffalo GP7 #72 (GMDD’s second Geep) keeps on going as CPR GP7u #1682. (B.M.)

Southern Railway of British Columbia’s new slug, SRY 001, is now in regular service. Watch for it around the New Westminster yard and area.

SRY’s track work in the Cloverdale area seems to have stopped for now with grading mostly complete. (R.C.) WCRA News, Page 38

WHISTLER MOUNTAINEER

The “new” locomotives for the Whistler Mountaineer have arrived in British Columbia. The upgraded GP40-2 units are numbered 8018 / 8019 and are lettered specifically for the new Whistler train.

(photos courtesy Graham Gilley, Rocky Mountaineer Vacations)

The new train is set to enter service on May 1, 2006 (although a test and training run will occur sometime in April). The train will have to use a temporary platform in Whistler, as the new Nita Lake Lodge station will not be ready due construction delays. But, the Nita Lake Lodge people say that the new facility should be ready for summer, and that they look forward to having the Whistler Mountaineer as the station’s tenant. Rocky Mountaineer Vacations indicates that it’s planned facility in North Vancouver will not be ready either, but otherwise things are all on track for the May 1 start up of daily service. Both locations, Whistler and North Vancouver, will be ready to accommodate guests who will arrive at each location by motorcoach to board the train. It will be exciting to see passenger rail return to the former BC Rail line.

Assiniboine River Crossing, Winnipeg—CNR’s Continental New release now available at hobby shops and fine galleries, or through the West Coast Railway Heritage Park gift shop.

INSULATORS WANTED BY COLLECTOR

Insulators wanted, telegraph, tele- phone, or power varieties.

FAIR prices paid, willing to trade or simply talk about history surrounding insulators.

Contact Dave (604) 708-9332 or e mail [email protected]

CREDIT LINES ISSN 1204-072X Vol. 45 Issue 4

Editor Don Evans Distribution Jeremy Davy & Donna Simon

Contributors:

S.B. Singh Biln R.C. Ryan Cruickshank J.D. Jeremy Davy J. Day John Day S.E. Sherry Elchuk D.F. Donna Fourchalk B.J. Bill Johnston B. K. Bevis king B.L. Bill Lahr B.M. Bill Marchant J.M. Jim McPherson P.R. Paul Roy R.S. Randy Shimell

TJ Tempo Jr. TOL Trains On Line

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TRIVIA ANSWER

The Ontario, Simcoe and Huron Railroad Union Company, which changed its name to the Northern Railway of Canada on August 16, 1858 and then became part of the Northern & Northwestern Railway on June 6, 1879. It is now part of CN.