WCRA NEWS AUGUST 2010

JUNE 30 A GRAND DAY!

CN ROUNDHOUSE OPENS, CAR BRITISH COLUMBIA FIRST IN, THEN 2860

WCRA News, Page 3

GENERAL MEETING NOTICE

The July General Meeting of the WCRA will be held at 1930 hours on Tuesday, July 27, 2010 at 1930k at Rainbow Creek Station in Burnaby, corner of Willingdon at Penzance.

Entertainment will be announced at the meeting.

ON THE COVER AND PAGE 2

Images from our great day, Wednesday June 30. On the cover, Royal Hudson 2860 steams onto the newly installed turntable at the Heritage Park to the delight of the more than 350 guests in attendance. (full story on page 12 ) Page 2—Top, CN Chairman David McLean presents the dedication bell for the new CN Roundhouse & Conference Centre bell as part of the June 30 opening ceremony. Lower, on July 2 both the business car British Columbia and Royal Hudson 2860 are in place.

AUGUST CALENDAR

• West Coast Railway Heritage Park open daily 1000 through 1700k • Saturday, August 7—Deadline for items to be included in the September 2010 News • Tuesday, August 10—WCRT’s Vancouver Island West Coast tour departs • August 12—17—Revelstoke Railway Days, Revelstoke, BC (see page 8 for details) • Sunday, August 15—Mini Rail Day at the Heritage Park, live steam and many guest engines will operate, 1000—1700 hours • Sunday August 15—Members Picnic, West Coast Railway Heritage Park, all members invited, no charge—RSVP Please to 604-484-2791 or 604-898-9336(see page 7 for more) • Saturday, August 21—WCRT’s Okanagan Steam Excursion tour departs • Tuesday, August 24—Tours Committee meets, Hastings Office, 1930 hours • Tuesday, August 31—WCRA General Meeting, Rainbow Creek Station, 1930k

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. Membership prices are: Individual $50.00 ($56.00 with HST) , Family $60.00 ($67.20 with HST). E Members (electronic newsletter are $35 individual ($39.29 with HST) and $45 family ($50.40 with HST). (Outside Canada, please remit US $) Other categories are: - Junior Member (age 18 and under ) $ 25 ($28 with HST) - Sustaining Member $100 (tax receipt) plus membership type regular fee - Life Member (one time fee, HST included) $784 individual life / $1,3,44 family life All memberships include the monthly newsletter, Heritage Park admission (except Special Events), mini rail rides and discounts on food and merchandise. The Association holds a monthly meeting on the last Tuesday of the month at 1930 hours in Burnaby at Rainbow Creek Station in Confederation Park. Apply through www.wcra.org or mail to WCRA, PO Box 2790 Stn. Term., Vancouver, B.C., V6B 3X2. WCRA News, Page 4 EDITORIAL

A HUGE THANK YOU TO ALL

Going to keep it simple this month—West Coast Railway Association has achieved several significant milestones in the past month, more than we ever may have wished to take on in such a period. Think about it, in June 2010 we: • Held a successful four days of Day Out With Thomas, hosting around 10,500 happy guests with hard work by all of our staff and more than 100 volunteers • Completed the centre driving axle rebuild on Royal Hudson 2860 in Vancouver and steamed the locomotive successfully back to Squamish • Moved the first piece of our collection, the 1890 CPR Business car 16 British Columbia, across the turntable and into the new CN Roundhouse and Conference Centre • Held the grand opening of the CN Roundhouse & Conference Centre event on June 30

That would be more than enough for any organization to take on in this kind of time period, yet all of these were accomplished. All I can say to you - our staff, our volunteers, our members and our supporters - is thank you for all you do. Don ASSOCIATION NEWS

FROM THE JUNE GENERAL MEETING

Chair Bill Johnston called meeting to order at 19:30k - 35 members and guests were present. Jeremy Davy was recording secretary. • Don Evans provided the President’s Report, noting the impending opening of the new CN Roundhouse & Conference Centre. Everyone was invited to attend. • Don also presented reports on behalf of the Heritage Park (with a focus on the recent successful Day Out With Thomas event) and on finance (on behalf of Jim Brown) noting a challenging time with fundraisers at the moment which has us behind in our finances • Bill Johnston provided a 374 Pavilion report • Bill also noted the need for an event coordinator and noted the two major fall events coming at us • Michael Batten provided a collection update, with a focus on some repairs needed to S-3 #6503 at the moment rendering it unserviceable until repaired. Don Evans reported on the return of the 2860 to Squamish and the coming opening of the Troop Sleeper 722 exhibit on July 16 in the new roundhouse. • Mattias Christianson updated us re tours and noted that sales are quite slow this year, some ads are now being run and have covered their cost in increased sales • Keith Anderson provided a report on the recent Haida Gwaii tour which was very successful (story, page 24) WCRA News, Page 5

• Jeremy Davy noted the upcoming Mini Rail day on August 15, and also the member picnic that happens the same day. Everyone is invited (see page 7) • Ryan Cruickshank and Bill Marchant provided their Trackside Reports • The 50 / 50 was held, calendar reviewed and guests welcomed • Entertainment was a video of British Steam provided by Jeremy Davy

WCRA TRIVIA #258 & 259 - by Ryan Cruickshank

#258 Identify the following abbreviations:1.BRT 2. CTC 3. TOFC 4. ORC 5. ABS 6. SBU

#259 What is the earliest patent for a vehicle designed to run on one rail? (for answers see page 37) MEMBERSHIP RENEWALS

Memberships dated 06/30/2010 have now expired, and if your membership expired 04/30/2010, 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. 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 Rob & Helen Croza-Neaga & family of Squamish, Shawn Cruickshanks & family of Garibaldi Highlands, Trudy Helenes & family of Bowen Island, Angelica Marshall & family of Squamish, Greg & Diana Naus & family of Vancouver, Kirsten Price & family of Squamish, and Scott Ruhan & Erica Halvorsen & family of Vancouver. We welcome back Don & Gina Fieldhouse & family of Garibaldi Highlands, Wolf & Kethy Roering & family of Surrey, Jennifer Thompson & family of Garibaldi Highlands.

MEMBER NEWS

We are sad to report on the passing of WCRA member Don Behrner on June 22, 2010. Don lived in Squamish and was also a founding member of the Squamish Historical Society. He was keenly interested in the history of the Squamish community and contributed to it in many ways. Our sympathies are extended to his wife Retta and the family. (S.S.) WCRA News, Page 6 HST NOW ADDED TO MEMBERSHIP FEES

Please note that as of July 1, 2010 all membership fees will have the new 12% HST added. Please note that the good news is that there will be no increase in membership rates for any WCRA membership categories.

The value of membership got even better July 1, when admission fees to the West Coast Railway Heritage Park rose as the new CN Roundhouse exhibit hall opened. Your membership will continue to get you full access to the Heritage Park at no increase in rate. For total prices with the HST added see bottom of Page 3.

STAFF CHANGES AS WE MOVE INTO FALL

A couple of significant staff changes are occurring at WCRA as two of our senior staff people are departing the Lower Mainland for other parts of the Province.

Susan Steen will be moving on, back to the Okanagan where she has accepted a new role as Executive Director of a Hospice Society. Susan has been of great assistance to WCRA in her role as Vice President—Squamish, and has very ably built our team of both staff and volunteers there. She has shouldered a heavy load very capably and we will all miss her. She leaves us at the end of July 2010. Work is currently underway on a replacement for the leadership of the Heritage Park, and there will be some responsibility realignment as well. More to come next month as plans and changes are put in place.

Jim Brown will be moving to Vancouver Island to be closer to family this fall. He has given notice that he will conclude his role as Manager - WCRA Operations (office and finance) at the end of August, 2010. We wish Jim well and thank him for him years of dedicated service to WCRA both as a volunteer and in his more recent staff roles. WCRA is seeking candidates now for a new Manager—Finance and Administration to replace Jim in his staff position by fall. On the volunteer side, Bill Johnston will assume oversight of the Locomotive 374 Pavilion in Vancouver, and we are seeking a volunteer to take on prime ship for our two vintage automobiles—the 1937 Ford and the 1934 Chrysler Airflow.

INTERNET ADDRESS CHANGED FOR NEWS SUBMISSIONS

Due to a spam artist gaining access to our e mail address for WCRA News, we have changed the address for newsletter submissions to [email protected] - no other WCRA e mail addresses are changed.

INTERNET RADIO SHOW

WCRA’s President Don Evans was the feature guest on an Internet radio show on June 26, 2010. Lets Talk Trains is broadcast live each Saturday on a web blog cast to discuss various WCRA News, Page 7 topics of the railway hobby. The show gave a great opportunity to talk about the WCRA, our activities, our history and our future. You can listen to it at any time on the web, just go to www.blogtalkradio.com/letstalktrains and then click on the past broadcast to play, in this case it is headlined “Royal Hudson Caretaker…..” (not sure how I got that title, but!)

AUGUST 15 is MINIRAIL DAY AND THE MEMBERS’ PICNIC

This year the Annual MiniRail Day and the Members’ Picnic will take place at the West Coast Railway Heritage Park on Sunday, August 15th.

MINIRAIL DAY Come out for this fantastic annual event that will once again see guest engines operating on the West Coast MiniRail line from 10AM to 5PM. Invitations have been issued to live steam engine owners. Mini rail rides will be the normal price and a wide variety of operating trains are expected. Come out to both see and ride the 7 1/2” gauge trains.

MEMBERS’ PICNIC The Members’ Picnic starts at 5:30PM and is free for members and their families. The Picnic is being organized and hosted again this year by Donna Simon and Jeremy Davy. We look forward to seeing all you – however we ask that you let us know in advance that you are coming so there is enough food for all . RSVP requested by August 11th to Donna at 604-484- 2791 or to the Heritage Park at 604-898-9336; or by e-mail to [email protected] (please advise the total number of family members who will be attending). (D.S.)

ROCKY MOUNTAIN RAIL SOCIETY

The WCRA and the Rocky Mountain Rail Society have much in common, and among those things the fact that our new CMO, Russ Grycan, is an active member of both groups.

On July 2, Russ was pleased to present WCRA with a Merv Brandel canvas print of their steam loco CN 6060 in congratulations to WCRA on the opening of the new roundhouse. (photo, Susan Steen) WCRA News, Page 8

The presentation was made on behalf of RMRS President Bill Williams and all the members of the Rocky Mountain Rail Society. (R.G.)

The RMRS is also conducting a fundraiser for their locomotive 6060. Artist Max Jacquiard and publisher Henry Rees have generously created a special edition of the Max’s image of CN 6060 and Mount Robson in a special size of 32” x 20”. These signed images sell for $700 (unframed) and the RMRS received funds from each sale towards the preservation of the 6060. For more information e mail RMRS Director Don Totten at [email protected] or RMRS president Bill Williams at [email protected] (D.E.)

REVELSTOKE RAILWAY DAYS

The Revelstoke Railway Days will be held at Revelstoke, BC August 12 through August 17, 2010. A great variety of rail interest activities will occur every day., including shows, railway heritage exhibits, special tours and community events For a full schedule of events visit www.railwaydays.com or call the Revelstoke Railway Museum at 250-837-6060. The museum and the town of Revelstoke have garnered many sponsors for this festival.

COLLECTION

TROOP SLEEPER 722 OPENS

The big collection news for July is the official grand opening of the restored Pacific Great Eastern Railway Troop Sleeper 722 in the CN Roundhouse & Conference Centre on July 16, 2010 at 1400 hours. The car will be previewed at the BC Rail Pioneers Picnic on June 15th, then it will be formally opened to the public on July 16th. It will then take up residency in the roundhouse where it will become a new feature exhibit.

This incredible new attraction features an historically accurate restoration of the car on the outside, and a creative new interactive exhibit on the Pacific Great Eastern / BC Railway in the inside. The project has been all volunteer, led by John Jellis, Roy Crowston, and Donna Fourchalk with the help of many others. Watch for a full report in our next issue.

HELP US MOVE OUR CN SUPER CONTINENTAL TRAIN

We are going to tackle this move again in July, now that the opening of the roundhouse is behind us. We hope that we will get things rolling soon. Once again this is a lengthy and challenging process it seems, but we are working hard again to get the approvals done and the move underway. We understand the frustration many of you have that we have not been able to make this happen, but ask your continued patience. We hope to have our CN Super Continental train here before the end of the year. WCRA News, Page 9 ROYAL HUDSON 2860

2860 RETURNS TO SQUAMISH

Royal Hudson #2860 returned to Squamish after completion of a rebuild of its centre driver axle boxes in Vancouver at the VIA Rail maintenance centre. The date was June 10, 2010 and the action started with the engine being steamed up by Andy Faris the evening before in preparation. Mark Liggins arrived to be the engineer with Andy firing, and a CN pilot crew arrived for an 1100 departure from VIA.

The locomotive pulled out at 1115 to CN Junction, but had to await the arrival of Amtrak Cascades from Seattle before getting a clear board for the mainline. Once in the clear, it was off towards New Westminster, steaming as a light engine move. All went well to Braid St., where the engine pulled up at the BNSF station before wyeing to face the right direction for the run to North Vancouver and on to Squamish. Here, a BNSF crew was needed for a few minutes for the move over one leg of the wye, but this was soon accomplished. The 2860 cruised back through Burnaby, surprising many a motorist as it crossed the numerous grade crossings. Through the tunnel and across the bridge to CN’s Lynn yard where a stop was made around 1400 to check everything (all ok) and await traffic clearance on the transfer tracks to the former BC Rail North Vancouver yard area. WCRA News, Page 10

Arrival at Philip St. was around 1430; here the tender was filled with water by the District of North Vancouver fire department and a fill of fuel was also taken. It was down pouring with rain at this point, but the Fire Department posed on the pilot for a photo (page 9) regardless. (Russ Grycan photo)

Departure for Squamish was around 1530 and the weather finally started to clear a little bit, many people stopped to wave as the Hudson chugged by. The 2860 took the siding at Porteau to meet the southbound Rocky Mountaineer train from Whistler. Aboard the Rocky Mountaineer was Andy Cassidy, riding (of course) in the WCRA’s open car Henry Pickering. Andy reports, “My wife and I went on the Whistler Mountaineer on June 10th for the day. Was a nice trip, a little pricey, but we got a good rate… In any event, on the way back we were approaching Porteau Cove, and I decided to stand in the WCRA open observation car, “Henry Pickering” to get a few photos. I saw this big cloud of steam at the cove and thought, “this has got to be the Hudson”. Sure enough it was, and I got a couple of shots. Nobody on the train knew it was there, so nobody else was in a position to get any pictures. I lucked out.“ Once clear, the 2860 continued to Squamish, turned on the wye and moved onto our own tracks and into the service building at the MP shop around 1900 hours. All had gone well, the 2860 now meets all Transport Canada specs and will steam next for the opening of the CN Roundhouse & Conference Centre on June 30, 2010.

ROYAL HUDSON PRESERVATION FUND STILL NEEDS HELP

Now that the work to complete the rebuild of the driving axle box is completed it may be easy to forget all about this major work, but although the work is done we still have bills to pay for that work. Keeping a mainline steam locomotive in running order is no simple or inexpensive WCRA News, Page 11 task. To date in 2010 we have incurred around $50,000 in costs but received only around $12,000 in contributions.

If you like to see the 2860 operate and believe that it is a worthy effort for WCRA to keep her this way, then consider some financial help. We still need your contributions to the Royal Hudson Preservation Fund to pay for these latest repairs and to keep her steaming into the future. All contributions, made out to WCRA and noted Royal Hudson, are tax receiptable donations—we accept cheque or credit card. Please help today.

“LEGENDS VISIT” On Sunday June 20, just after the Royal Hudson had returned to Squamish, we had a visit from a couple of :legends” of the steam era. Bill Yeats (WCRA member and author) had a 42 year career on CPR’s Laggan and Brooks subs. Mike Berton is a distant relative of Pierre Berton (the late well known Canadian author and former WCRA Capital Campaign honourary chair). Russ Grycan was delighted to show them both around the 2860, which was in the MP Shop Service Building at the time. (R.G.)

FUNDRAISING

PRESIDENT’S REPORT – we’ll leave the newsletter as my report for this month.

DEBENTURES STILL AVAILABLE

Do you want to help but are not able to donate? Please remember that the WCRA still has debentures available for purchase. These make an excellent investment and really help us with our capital projects, including the completing the final details on the roundhouse and the repairs to the Royal Hudson. Three year term investments are available paying 5% per annum. Contact Don Evans (604-988-3435) or Jim Brown (604-985-7249) for more details or call the WCRA office at 604-681-4403. WCRA News, Page 12

JUNE 23, 2010—FIRST CAR TURNS ON THE TURNTABLE AND ENTERS THE NEW ROUNDHOUSE

It was truly an historic day for the WCRA as the first car of the WCRA Collection was moved onto the newly installed turntable, turned, and then located into the new CN Roundhouse and Conference Centre on Track 2. That it was the very first car in the WCRA’s collection, the 1890 Barney & Smith built CPR Business Car 16 British Columbia, was most appropriate.

This historic car, acquired by the WCRA in 1963, and really the start of it all for our group, was gently pulled from Track 2 of the PGE carshop (where it had been for almost five years while roundhouse construction was underway) by PGE RSC-3 #561. The crew pulled it north to clear the switches, then pushed it along the new track to the turntable and onto the table itself. The turntable was then manually turned (the power is not yet connected) and the car was pulled into the roundhouse with the WCRA’s forklift.

Russ Grycan, WCRA’s Chief Mechanical Officer oversaw the move, and reports….”Well a safe, historical move was made at the WCRA's West Coast Railway Heritage Park in Squamish, BC Wednesday. A group of professionals did their very best to position the 1890 vintage British Columbia Business Car through the turnouts, onto the new turntable and into Track # 2 of the CN Roundhouse and Conference Centre. The move was made under the direction of Conductor Roy Crowston and Engineer John Jellis. Lloyd Daniels (carman) and Randy Lucas offered guidance during the move as did Mike Lloyd. Andy Faris assisted with spotting # 2 during the move and watching the coupler joints, and with Mike of Duro, helped manually swing the turntable from the lead track position to Track 2. (took about 6 minutes - time will improve with electricity added!).”

The process of bringing the car BC into the shop wasn't glamorous (forklift), but the results were spectacular, and a culmination of thousands of hours of work in fund-raising and construction.” See photo on page 39 of this newsletter.

CN ROUNDHOUSE & CONFERENCE CENTRE GRAND OPENING

June 30, 2010 was another banner day for the WCRA when the new CN Roundhouse & Conference Centre was officially opened at the West Coast Railway Heritage Park.

It was a beautiful day at the West Coast Railway Heritage Park, as invited guests began WCRA News, Page 13 arriving for one of the most significant events in the history of the WCRA. This would be the day on which the massive fundraising and construction project of the last five years would move forward, the grand opening of the new CN Roundhouse and Conference Centre.

On the mezzanine level of the new building, a reception area was set up and ready to go in recognition of those who had donated to and supported the project financially over the building period. Decked out in green and gold décor, the area gave a great view over the sprawling Grand Hall where guests were arriving for the official ceremonies which would start at 1130.

Inside the main entrance, the John Hardie Mitchell Gallery had an exhibit of historic photos of Squamish, provided by the Squamish Historical Society, as well as the WCRA’s 1937 Ford, the former PGE railway inspection car. (photo, Don Evans)

At 1130, the official party assembled on the stage and things got underway. Don Evans, President & CEO of West Coast Railway Association welcomed everyone to the event, noting that it was a great milestone not only for the WCRA but also for the community of Squamish and the entire Sea to Sky region. Don provided a visual tour of the new building, noting its multiple usage as both a year round exhibit building for heritage preservation as well as its being a most unique special event venue. The three level, 21,000 square foot building, with its state of the art geo thermal heating system, has come in at a total of $8.3 million, and is now ready for use.

Don brought greetings from WCRA’s Patron, His Honour Stephen Point, Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia and Minister of Canadian Heritage the Honourable James Moore, neither of whom was able to be there in person. WCRA News, Page 14

John Weston, MP West Vancouver / Sea to Sky / Sunshine Coast, (photo left) was the first speaker, and recalled his successful efforts to find funding from the Federal Government towards the project in the form of a Canada Cultural Spaces Fund grant. He noted the positive effect the new facility will have on the Sea to Sky area and the local community. John continues to advocate for our facility and knows how it will benefit the region.

Joan McIntyre, MLA West Vancouver – Sea to Sky (photo right) spoke next and recalled being there right at the start of the project when a Community Investment grant was presented from the Province of British Columbia, a match for the first private sector funds to get the project underway. She related how she had watched the project progress over the years to this great day.

Rob Kirkham, Acting Mayor for the District of Squamish, brought greetings from Mayor and Council and noted the positive economic impact that the Railway Heritage Park and this new facility provided to Squamish. He related how exciting it was that the community now had a location with the event capacity that the new roundhouse will have.

David McLean, Chairman of CN, (photo left) then took the podium and shared with the crowd how CN came to grant the donation to this project that resulted in the naming of the new facility the CN Roundhouse & Conference Centre. He noted that this was the largest donation to a single organization ever granted by CN and said that CN respected the professional development of the West Coast Railway Heritage Park WCRA News, Page 15 and supported it as a good model in the preservation of railway heritage. He also shared the importance of the railways on Canada’s development and economy, not just in the past but also today, and noted CN’s leading role in the industry as North America’s most productive and profitable railway. David then asked Don to unveil the special memento from CN on the occasion of the dedication of the new facility, a lovely restored steam locomotive brass bell (off CN steam loco 3449) mounted on a stand with a plaque noting the occasion. This will be permanently installed in the entrance lobby of the building. (see photo on page 2)

Also to be installed in the entry is a beautiful painting of CN 6060 near Mount Robson, donated by artist Max Jacquiard and agent Henry Rees. This was presented by WCRA member Dave Emmington. (thanks here also to Brent Harlton for transporting the picture to the ceremony for presentation).

The crowd then moved to the big doors at the Track 4 entry to the building, where a green ribbon was strung across them. Ron Anderson, Chair of the board of WCRA and David McLean, Chairman of the Board of CN, did the honours as Ron cut the ribbon, and David pronounced, “I now declare the CN Roundhouse & Conference Centre officially open”. A cheer and applause went up from the crowd of approximately 350 who were in attendance. The doors of Track Four then were swung open revealing a wonderful sight outside, the Royal Hudson #2860 steaming and the newly installed turntable (donated originally by CN some years ago) fully restored and ready. The crowd assembled on a platform constructed over track four as well as on the upper deck of the roundhouse, and with the grand sound of both her whistles, #2860 steamed forward and eased onto the turntable. With great skill, the crew of engineer Mark Liggins, fireman Andy Faris and conductor Roy Crowston brought the locomotive to a stop exactly 18 inches from the end of the track – exactly where it was to be. It was a perfect conclusion to the planned ceremony and everyone was impressed and pleased with how it went.

(cover photo and photo left, Deb Sankey) WCRA News, Page 16

And so was concluded a very important day in the history of the West Coast Railway Association. In his closing remarks, Don noted that although the building was now opened and could be put to work, it was still far from being finished. Fundraising must continue as we have several things yet to put in place to have the building properly equipped and furnished. But, for now, it is time to celebrate and offer thanks to so many who have helped bring this dream forward to reality. The CN Roundhouse & Conference Centre is now ready for business, and we have moved forward a giant step.

Postscript—On Canada Day, July 1, 2010, Royal Hudson #2860 also moved in as the second piece of rolling stock. Located on Track 7, she makes an imposing sight inside the building, and showcases just how spacious the new facility is. (photos, pages 2 & 39, Don Evans)

HELP US COMPLETE THE ROUNDHOUSE

Although we have now opened the new facility officially, several items remain for the future as we just do not have the funds needed to complete them. These items include the elevator to the upper levels (stairs are in now), the supplementary air circulation system, additional electrical detail lighting, and the servery finishing. We will undertake these projects as they can be funded, hopefully all to be completed in 2010.

Our biggest challenge remains the funding. While people come by and drop lavish words on what we have accomplished and how great the building looks, we have to remember that we have not finished the job nor have we fully paid for it. We still must meet our 2010 fundraising goals or we will have a continuing crisis on our hands.

The total gap to finish the turntable installation and complete the outstanding items on the building remains at around the $1 million mark. Our new fundraising target for 2010 was set at $1.4 million, and we have achieved only about $200,000 of that so far. We continue to work to find the naming sponsors needed to close this gap, and bring this great new facility to full completion. We must have your help here if we are to succeed.

Naming Opportunities—these will name specific exhibit areas in the building as well as the plaza out front, and suggested amounts are indicated.

• Heritage Plaza (centre court in front of the building, around the turntable) - suggested naming sponsorship amount $500,000. This will be a major plaza area and scene for many activities such as introduction of new rail restorations, outdoor concerts, car shows etc • Upper Level Viewing Deck and Gallery—this is the indoor / outdoor deck on the upper level of the building, which will provide great views over the Heritage Plaza of the WCRA News, Page 17

event site as well as the Mac Norris Station main track. Also a wonderful reception location for events. Suggested naming sponsorship $250,000 • John Hardie Mitchell Gallery—Named! This area, off the main entry lobby, will be used to exhibit special collections , such as art shows or photography. Exhibits will change regularly, sponsorship taken by the John Hardie Mitchell family foundation. • Tracks 1 through 7—each of the seven exhibit tracks will carry a sponsor name, each track will house one of our collection’s prize pieces of rolling stock, suggested naming sponsorship $50,000 per track (all seven still available)

If any of you have interest (or know of any one who might) in such a permanent legacy please let us know. Contact Don Evans at 604-988-3435 or [email protected]

WEST COAST RAIL TOURS

TOURS - 2010 WELL ALONG

The Tours Committee continues to meet one week prior to the monthly general meetings and is now working the program for 2010—2011. We are always looking for new ideas and potential tour guides so if you qualify consider joining us. We meet at the WCRA tours office at 4529A Hastings St. Burnaby at 7:30 PM. Phone Matt at 604-524-1011 to reserve your seat. To keep informed of upcoming tours and special excursions submit your e-mail address at www.westcoastrailtours.com . That way you will get up-to-the-minute news on special deals and new trips.

Our 2010 tours give you an opportunity to enjoy some great and unique rail travel as well as helping the WCRA at the same time. There’s still time to think about your travel plans for 2010, and give us a call. Note that the new HST is now being applied for tours that operate after July 1, 2010. (M.C.)

2010 ORGANIZED TOURS

Tuesday, August 10th VANCOUVER ISLAND’S WEST COAST via Coastal Supply Vessel, E&N Malahat Dayliner, Port Alberni Steam-Operated Mill & Railway - 4 days

You will take an 8:30 AM sailing by BC Ferries from Horseshoe Bay to Nanaimo’s Departure Bay. Our coach then follows 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. Then it’s off to Port Alberni for interesting visits and a buffet dinner at a local seaside restaurant. Next morning you sail aboard the “Frances Barkley“, a unique coastal supply vessel that WCRA News, Page 18 services Alberni Inlet and the Broken Group Islands before arriving in Ucluelet just after lunch. You will then tour Long Beach and the Tofino area followed by a gourmet dinner in an elegant vintage ship. On day 3 it’s back to Port Alberni on one of the Island’s most scenic highways. On our final day we enjoy a steam train ride on the Alberni Pacific Railway to the steam-operated McLean Mill. In the afternoon you make your way back to the Mainland through Nanaimo and Horseshoe Bay.

FARES: The 4-Day Tour, Tuesday to Friday $918 each based on shared accommodation. (BC Seniors $898) Single Sup: $282. Extra day via Victoria: 5 days Including the train to Victoria, hotel and return transportation to Vancouver on Saturday, (last day unescorted): $968, (BC Seniors: $948) Single Sup: $342

Saturday, August 21st OKANAGAN STEAM EXCURSION, FISH, WINE & MORE

We offer a great opportunity to experience steam railway in the Okanagan region, taste some wine, enjoy a good casino, and see some fish spawning. 4 Days

You leave Vancouver’s Pacific Central Station by chartered coach picking up guests in the Fraser Valley then take Highway No. 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. You then follow the Fraser Canyon and stop for lunch (on your own) at the Hells Gate Air Tram (admission included). One can walk over the suspension bridge to view fish climbing the fish ladders. 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. Overnight in Kamloops. From Kamloops we head for the Nicola Valley, stop briefly in Merritt then use the Okanagan Connector to Peachland. You stop to view spawning fish at Hardy Creek and stay 2 nights at the Penticton Lakeside Resort and Casino on the south beach of Okanagan Lake. Next morning leave for the Kettle Valley Steam Railway where the train takes you along the hills overlooking Summerland and onto the Trout Creek Bridge, the highest on the former Kettle Valley Railway. You will then have lunch at a heritage attraction in the area followed by a tour to a local winery and return to the Lakeside Resort for the evening. On the last 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 Crowsnest Winery near Keremeos for a tour and leisurely lunch. We take the Crowsnest Route, Highway No. 3 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 interior highlights.

FARE: Per person sharing: $797 Single Supplement: $183 (HST extra)

We also offer the following arranged tour, which you can do any time on a self guided basis…….. WCRA News, Page 19

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: $227 Children 2-11 $199; BC Seniors (Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays only) $189. (Otherwise, $227). Ask about special pricing if couples travel together. Single supplement $71. GST/HST extra. Low season and budget hotel bookings save you more.

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

WEST COAST RAILWAY HERITAGE PARK Home of the Royal Hudson

DAY OUT WITH THOMAS A SUUCESS, THANKS TO ALL

Day Out With Thomas 2010 was a great success for everyone involved. We hosted a total of 10,152 guests during the four day event, and everyone went away happy. From the greeting at the bridge as they entered the site until they departed the Heritage Park, our staff and volunteers did an outstanding job, commented on by many as they left the Park.

A big difference this year was the layout of the site, thanks to having both the PGE Carshop and the new CN Roundhouse & Conference Centre to work with. Besides saving the need to rent a huge tent, our volunteers and guests were always comfortable and dry. The Carshop hosted the live entertainment stage, the Imagination Station children’s activities, tattoos etc. The Roundhouse hosted the merchandise shop, Sir Topham Hatt, first aid, the large eating and relaxation area, CN police display, as well as provided great new washroom facilities.

Even the weather cooperated! We had four very nice days with a mix of sun and cloud, and temperatures that were in the 20—22 degrees mark, the train only really got warm on one Saturday afternoon, and we got rained on only one late Sunday afternoon. WCRA News WCRA News, Page 20

Nora McDowall Photos….

WCRA News, Page 21

A huge thanks to the key coordinators, to Event Manager Craig McDowall (and Nora), to Susan Steen and her staff, and to Volunteer coordinator Judy McQuinn for your leadership

work in organizing our best Thomas event ever. Thank you also to our wonderful staff and volunteers, who worked together as a team in every regard. There were a total of 70 volunteers

each day on the site—a massive effort. Many of our guests noted on leaving the event on how well organized as well as how helpful our staff and volunteers were. Thanks to all! (Photos on page 20 by Nora McDowall)

Following the event Thomas was loaded up and off to the next site (Russ Grycan photo)

MiniRail at A Day Out With Thomas

Thanks to all involved for their invaluable assistance with MiniRail during the Thomas event this year. Also the loan of additional equipment for the event by BCSME (CN 9000 and 4 Cars); Ken Klakowich (2 Cars); and Jeremy Davy & Donna Simon (BCR 646 and 4 Cars) was greatly appreciated. Our sincere appreciation and gratitude to Bruce Wilson for coming to Squamish on June 11th and spending the day tending to the needs of several members of the fleet before the second weekend.

There were two new Thomas additions to the MiniRail and Garden Railway this year much to the delight of our small visitors: WCRA News, Page 22

• On the MiniRail a 7 ½ in Gauge MiniRail Thomas recently purchased by Jerry Wolf; and • The Garden Railway featured Thomas with Annie & Clarabel and Percy with the

Troublesome Trucks.

We were fortunate the weather on all 4 days was fairly moderate. Gross revenue generated by mini rail was $17,235. The total rides this year were 6,193, an average of 1,548 per day. This compares with a daily average of 1,185 for 2005 & 2007 and 1,568 in 2009. MiniRail achieved these results with the smallest crew on record which continues to show the stamina and spirit of volunteerism of those involved. Again thank you to the volunteers (several new this year) for helping uphold the reputation and traditions of the MiniRail and Garden Railway. (J.D.)

HERITAGE PARK NEWS

Our sincere thanks to Nick Monkhouse for producing a wonderful watercolour of the PGE #2 which he created for the purpose of raising funds for the #2. His work is always wonderful and this picture is a delight. (see above) It will be used to create T-shirts and note cards and then raffled or auctioned for additional funding….thanks Nick for a great gift which will help us with the #2. (S.S.) WCRA News, Page 23

It is an extremely busy time at the Heritage Park right now and we are most grateful for our summer students Lisa Grantham and Lathan Forrest and just recently Kayla Simon who

have taken on duties above and beyond the norm to ensure that the events run smoothly and our guests have the best experience that they can.

VOLUNTEER OF THE MONTH

This month’s Volunteer Focus is Irena Ardos (photo left) What is it you like doing the most at the park? Gardening. Landscaping is my true passion and the fun part of gardening. Weeding isn’t my favourite task. Mason Station is my favourite garden area to work on. How many years volunteering at the park? Approximately 6 years. Comments: We could use some more gardeners. Anyone with a passion to garden and make a difference would be welcome. Pick your garden, and it’s your project to make it look nice. Help and a little company is always welcome.

CHANCES BUS TO INCLUDE HERITAGE PARK Chances Casino is adding a community shuttle bus that will stop regularly at the Heritage park. (S.S.)

STAFF UPDATES

To let you all know that Barb Stover and Chris Forget have made it to Ontario despite some vehicle problems along the way… it’s great to hear from them and we are looking forward to having them back at the Park in October.

By the time you read this I will be starting a new job in the Okanagan..I just want to say how very proud I am to have been associated with such a wonderful team of truly committed staff and I thank each and every one of them for always giving their best no matter what…thanks team, I won’t forget you!! (S.S.)

BRACKENDALE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL VISIT

On Tuesday, June 22, the grounds of the Heritage Park were ringing with the sound of 68 children from Brackendale Elementary School. After their bus arrived, they were invited to step back in time for the day. They pumped water, washed clothes, and made butter in the Brightbill Heritage House, rode the mini rail to great delight, investigated caboose 1817, WCRA News, Page 24

worked in teams as they played scavenger hunt through the model railway, stamped and sorted mail in the Railway Post office car, took an imaginary trip on the Budd cars, played “pioneer games” with marbles and more. It was a stellar day for all involved.

Sincere thanks goes to our marvellous volunteers who made this day possible, Donna Fourchalk, Jeremy Davy, Wayne Sidsworth, Howie Tichauer, Megan Brandt, Jessica Wike, Bill McEnery and our great summer staff of Lisa Grantham and Lathan Forrest. (K.M.) Thanks also to Karen Moodie who puts days like this together, see the card from one student on our back cover!

FEATURE ARTICLES

WCRT’S HAIDA GWAII TOUR, 18th to 26th May 2010. -by Keith Anderson

This is a new West Coast Rail Tours tour, running for the first time. We have not run a tour to the Haida Gwaii (Queen Charlotte Islands), ever before. There are a total of nine travelling, including tour leader.

As everyone knows, if you are going to the Charlottes, Jasper is on the way, especially if you are travelling on VIA Rail. Our train, the “Canadian”, train #2, left Vancouver’s Pacific Central Station right on time at 20:30. Our entire group of nine met in the lounge of the “Park” car, “Prince Albert Park”, for the departure, and the customary delivery by the car attendant of champagne, and hors d’ouvres on departure of this train from major stations. All passengers met all of the others, and got to know each other. All us also saw the Royal Hudson from the train, where it was parked, without rods or other drive gear, at the east end of the VIA Rail shop. After some visiting, passengers retired to their rooms on the train somewhere between Port Mann and Mission.. Very pleasant start of our tour.

The consist of our train was two locomotives, #6418 and 6412, and 19 cars, including 3 mid train domes, and the famous “Park” car. Consist was 1,390 tons, with baggage car 8611, coaches 8106 and 8123, café dome car 8502, diner “Empress” #8408, café dome car 8501, sleeping cars car 210, #8339, Sherwood Manor, car 211, #8318 Craig Manor, car 212, #8342 Wolfe Manor, Panorama car #1721, car 213 #8305 Bayfield Manor, car 214, #8219 Chateau Montcalm. car 215, #8217 Chateau Maissoneuve, café dome car 8516, diner Palliser #8414, car 220, #8326 Franklin Manor, car 221, #8327 Fraser Manor, car 222 #8336 Monck Manor, and last, dome observation car #239, #8710, Prince Albert Park.

The train passed much gorgeous scenery, met many freights. The dining car provided good meals and the notable social experience. The four seat tables sat two from our group together with other passengers on the train. People on the train were from Vancouver area, and other WCRA News, Page 25

BC locations, together with many Americans, and others from around the world. Pyramid Falls, and Mount Robson attracted lots of attention from many of the passengers. The train arrived in Jasper about ten minutes early, at 15:50 with bright sunshine weather. Our passengers enjoyed the rest of the day visiting Jasper, and settled in our hotel, Whistlers, just across the street from the Jasper station. The rooms chosen for our group look out over the station and rail yard. What a neat touch!!!

Unfortunately, one of our passengers suffered a heart attack while at the hotel in Jasper. Paramedics attended immediately, preventing a worse scenario. He was sent to Edmonton for further assessment and help. He will not be able to continue with this tour due to this health problem. We wish him a speedy recovery, and the chance to come on this tour in future to complete the experience. (Ed Note—member Hugh Fraser reports a good recovery from his home in Victoria)

Day 3 A free day in Jasper. A variety of activities were done by our passengers, including going to Maligne Lake, and Maligne Canyon, going on the Jasper Tramway to over 2,200 metres elevation on Whistlers’s Mountain—where considerable amounts of snow are still there, together with near freezing temperature and gusty wind. The views from the top of the tramway are spectacular, where you can see three mountain ranges, two rivers (the Miette and the Athabasca) and the town of Jasper.

Day 4 Our group gathered at the Jasper Station near noon, to board our train to Prince Rupert. Train 5, the Skeena (sometimes known as the Rupert Rocket) was at the station with engine 6449, HEP 1 coach 8141, and car 8707 Kootenay Park. The rooms on this car are not available to passengers, however the car is accessible to all passengers. Most of all of the approximately 50 passengers made use of this car. Our train left Jasper exactly on time with engine 6435, as #6449 was being sent to Vancouver on the next train #1 for servicing. The local mountains had a new snowfall on them, nearly all the way down to the level of the town. Some snow was predicted for Jasper that day. Of interest is that a school group of about 20 boarded the train, and rode for about 90 minutes west, where the train stopped at a crossing, to let them off to be carried back to Jasper on a waiting bus. We carried on westbound, encountering a number of eastbound freights, including a meet where we met two trains, with our time in the siding being about 35 minutes. Weather was quite cloudy and rain for about the first two hours; Mount Robson was totally invisible due to weather. Meals on this train turn out to be take out items in the Park car. The checked baggage was carried on the coach in baggage areas. Our ride to Prince George was quite pleasant and uneventful, arriving about 20 minutes late at about 19:30 This part of the journey is eight hours aboard the train. We went to our hotel, the Ramada in Prince George, where we all went to their restaurant for dinner.

Day 5 An early rise for all, and breakfast in the hotel at 7 AM, and departing to the Prince George station for arrival there about 7:40 to board the train again for 8:00 departure. We WCRA News, Page 26

loaded and left right on time with the same consist, and same Service Manager, jack of all trades, Tracy McLean. She is excellent with her announcements, on board help, and attentiveness. The ride to Prince Rupert is a 12 hour ride. We were on or near on time for the entire run. We followed the Nechako River for quite some time. Shortly after leaving Red Pass

Junction, and Moose Lake, passengers were able to see the headwaters of the Fraser River.

Weather was quite a heavy rainstorm afterward for about two hours. Wildlife of quite a few varieties were spotted.. bear, moose, mountain goats, beaver, seal, and perhaps more were spotted. The scenery from the train along the line confirms the comment several times made that this train is VIA Rail’s best kept secret. There was a ten minute stop at Smithers for engine crew change, and chance for passengers to walk around, and visit the restaurant at the station for carry out items. By now, the weather has improved and is sunny. The mountains in the Smithers area and further west in the Coast Range are truly spectacular. At Hazelton, the Bulkley River that we have been following merges with the Skeena River, which we follow for the rest of the way to Prince Rupert. On this section, there were no meets, except for one right at Prince Rupert, where we met a container train departing from the new container terminal there.

Arrival was about 30 minutes late, about 20:45 at the VIA Rail station in Prince Rupert which is a building shared by VIA Rail and BC Ferries. Interestingly, we will use this station next day to board the ferry to the Charlottes. Our group went to a local restaurant for a very nice meal, most of the passengers enjoyed a seafood plate.

Day 6 This was a day for all to be on their own visiting the City of Prince Rupert. Prince Rupert has a new container terminal now, yielding about a train a day from the terminal eastbound on CN. Otherwise, the city appears to be smaller than a few years ago. A vibrant section of town was visited by most of our group, being Cow Bay. We met at our hotel at 22:00 to go to the Ferry terminal, to board our ship to Haida Gwaii, or Queen Charlotte Islands. We boarded at 22:30 on the Northern Adventure, which is a ship recently purchased from Greece. We departed on time at 23:00. Coffee shop was open for snacks, and visited by some of us. Our rooms for the overnight voyage were quite roomy, very comfortable. The ride proved to be rather rough over Hecate Strait, due to stormy conditions.

Day 7 On our arrival at Skidegate, we here disembarked at 17:45, to be met by our host for the next three days, Jin Chong. We boarded his Masset House bus, and taken to Masset from Skidegate, which is about 100 km. On arrival at Masset House, which is a very good accommodation, Jin cooked a breakfast for all of us. From about 9 AM, after breakfast, until noon, it was free time for all. Some walked around, others visited at the house. Weather was quite rainy, stormy, blustery. However, we began at noon with our tour of the area, visiting Old Massett, which is the native village, including Sarah’s Gift Shop. A Long House next to her shop had suffered fire damage from an accidental fire recently. The Dixon Entrance WCRA News, Page 27

Maritime Museum in Masset, housed in their original hospital is very interesting. Our next visit was to the Delkatla Wildlife Sanctuary in Masset. In their building, we saw many displays of wildlife in the area. Outside, where normally there would be more, we saw only a few birds, mainly due to inclement weather at the time. We toured North Beach (Agate

Beach), Tow Hill Blow Hole, (which is a 15 minute walk through forest along the shoreline), and the section of Masset that was the former Armed Forces Station. After touring, a pleasant dinner in one of Masset’s restaurants was the choice for all of us as a group.

Day 8 After a beautiful hot breakfast cooked by Jin, we departed from Masset House toward Skidegate where we visited the Skidegate Museum (of Haida history and culture). This museum is recently built, and is beautiful. We were given a tour of the museum by a native, who explained the buildings and totem poles in front of each building. They each represented a village, for example, Ninstints. Further along were canoes, and pole carving. A detailed explanation of the canoe building, mostly from a single log, was fascinating. Many historical artefacts, and photos, were displayed in one of the buildings. A visitor could spend days there, and not see it all. However, due to time constraints, we moved on. We toured the village of Queen Charlotte. A very small place, but located near the ferry terminal, makes it more the commercial centre for the area. One store there is very folksy, Meegan’s Store, which sells hardware and fishing equipment. They call themselves the “The Best Little Lurehouse in the Charlottes”. Their store hours are shown as “Meegans Orfish Hours” then “Monkfishday” “Tubefishday”, to “Sablefishday”. On “Soleday”, and on “Public Halibuts”, they are “Clammed”. They invite you to “Please Oolichan Again”.

Our tour progressed northward from Charlotte, to Balance Rock, a shoreline anomaly, just north of Skidegate. Along the road, some deer were seen. There a many small deer on the Islands. A stop at “Bottle & Jug Works”, a local potter located on the shoreline at Tlell was interesting. Mr. & Mrs. John Davies showed their pottery, their property, and the workshop with kiln, and greenware, to the interest and happiness of the group. Onward to Port Clements, another small place. We could not visit there much, since most of their places of interest were closed. We did, however, go to the “Golden Spruce Trail”, to see the downed tree that was the Golden Spruce across the Yakoun River from where we were.

Our next stop was extremely interesting and exciting. We went to the house of Joyce and John Bennett, a Haida family in Old Massett. Joyce and her family cooked a lovely meal, Haida style, with salmon, black cod, halibut, deer roast and deer chops, (only Haidas can hunt deer on the Islands), along with soups, salads, coffee, tea, and punch bowl. There were three or more deserts.. Wonderful to say the least. Joyce Bennett posed beside a totem pole in the living room that was carved by her son and presented to her for Mother’s Day.!! John showed us through his shop were he builds from scratch (literally) double ender boats. He starts with a log, usually yellow cedar, makes the boards, lays the keel, and proceeds to complete the boat. Extreme craftsmanship, with a lovely product. He has a Monumental Cedar log in his yard. WCRA News, Page 28

This is a cedar of such size that it could be made into a very large totem pole. He says that his will become boats. We left the Bennetts after a beautiful time and proceeded down the street

(Eagle Ave) to the Longhouse, where Christian White and his “Tluu Xaada Naay Dancers” performed along with singing, native songs and dances, in full regalia for over an hour. It seemed much shorter, as the time went so quickly. A beautiful day was had by all with a lovely cross section of Haida culture. We were addressed in the Haida language by some of the people that hosted us, with, of course, the English version too.

The tour ended with a Pacific Coastal Airlines flight home to the Vancouver Airport’s South terminal—a great time was had by all.

BUSINESS CLASS—A VIA / AMTRAK / AIR CANADA COMPARISON - by Don Evans

The month of June gave your editor a chance to try out several modes of business class service, a pure fluke to start with that turned into a chance to compare the offerings of three carriers— two rail and one air—and to discover that the services can vary considerably. It all started with a ride to Seattle on business, the choice, Amtrak Cascades now that it is possible to do with the morning departure form Vancouver. The second, a trip to Montreal on Air Canada in the business class cabin of the A 320, the third then choosing VIA’s Business Class for the return segment of a Montreal - Quebec City round trip. All three trips were in the 3 hour to 5 hour range—the shortest being Quebec City—Montreal and the longest Vancouver—Montreal on the plane.

Following are descriptions of the trips, and then some comparisons as experienced.

Amtrak Cascades—Vancouver to Seattle and return

Thanks to the availability of the second Vancouver—Seattle Amtrak Cascades train, it is now possible to make a reasonable round trip to the US city from Vancouver. And so, with a short consulting job to do in Seattle on the afternoon of June 2, I decided to take the train south, stay overnight and return the next morning. Arriving at Pacific Central Station at 0600,check in was smooth and I was soon through the US authorities at the station and boarded Business Class car 2 of train 516. The seat assignment put in a single seat facing backwards, however I changed that with the on board and settled into a comfortable seat with a great view. The windows of the Talgo equipment are large and great for a lovely view of the great scenery which this route offers .

We departed on time and the ride was nice, a good crowd was aboard in business class and, by the time we were out of Mount Vernon, the entire train was sold out. Used my $3.00 business class coupon towards purchase of a breakfast sandwich and coffee in the Bistro car, sat down WCRA News, Page 29

in the diner. Nice environment, but just so-so micro waved food. Coffee was good.

The ride was very pleasant and the scenery gorgeous on a perfect day, saw lots of wildlife from the train—eagles, seals, herons and other sea birds, and even a gray whale off White Rock! On board staff were efficient and pleasant, none were specifically assigned business class which, on this Amtrak service, amounts to a bigger and more comfortable seat, available newspaper, and self service in the Bistro car.

Departure and arrival were right on time, all good. The return the next morning was a repeat in every regard, another nice day, on time performance, enjoyable time in the diner in spite of the food, good crew. For the upgrade price of just $13 each way, I would always choose business class on Amtrak Cascades.

Air Canada—Vancouver to Montreal and return

I fly a lot in my business as most of you know, but you may not know that I always choose Air Canada by choice when I have the option. I rarely purchase at business class fares due their high price, but I often get upgraded due my frequent flyer status. Such was the case when I flew to Montreal on June 17 and returned on June 25.

Equipment on this route is typically Airbus 320 / 321 aircraft, with a business class seating section of 16 to 20 seats. The seats are very spacious and comfortable, and all seats on Air Canada now have in seat screens and entertainment systems. It is a huge difference over economy class from a seating comfort perspective—even more so if you get one of the longer distance aircraft (A 330, B 767 or B 777) which have the sleeper beds and often fly the busier domestic routes as well.

Air Canada’s service has come a long way in the last few years, with the airline now being voted North America’s best several times this year and last. Compared with other North American carriers that I have used, I totally agree. It is nothing like it used to be.

The guest experience also keeps getting better. In Business Class you now get a menu with your meal selections, and you are welcomed by name at your seat as your meal selections are taken. The multi course meals are served on nice china with proper cutlery and glasses, and the food is really very good. Service is nicely personal, and starts with bar and snack service just after take off, followed by the main meal in two courses (appetizer first), followed by the hot entrée. The bar and snacks are available throughout the flight with frequent water runs and checks on anything you might need. An hour or so before landing, fresh baked cookies (baked on board) and ice cream are served.

Both flights 150 east and 129 back were on time and the service was consistently very good. WCRA News, Page 30

VIA Rail Canada—Montreal to Quebec City and return

While in Montreal, we decided to go to Quebec City for a day trip. VIA Rail Canada was the choice, downtown to downtown convenience and the opportunity for a train ride. Business class was busy it seemed, the only fare available was almost $400 round trip. So, elected to go economy class east and return business class (a $106 premium on a one way upgrade basis).

Our train 20 departed on time from Montreal’s Central Station at 0710, with rebuilt F40PH-2 #6433 for power hauling three LRC cars, one business class and two economy class. A JTB group had most of the business class car filled, accounting for the premium fare for a seat if one was available at all. The LRC equipment is in need of the refurbishment it is now starting to get, the interiors of the car were tired and several of the windows quite milky, our assigned seats n economy class were fine, however, and the trip to Quebec City was on time and pleasant. Coffee and a muffin off the cart was $4. We arrived on time.

Returning on Train 027, departing at 1730 from Quebec City, we upgraded to business class and we were able to use the Panorama Lounge, a pleasant environment with newspapers and non alcoholic beverages available. We boarded the VIA 1 car (same train consist as this morning) and settled into our seats, which were identical to the LRC Economy class seats except for fabric colour and having curtains on the windows. We departed on time and had an enjoyable ride back to Montreal, arriving on time as well.

Service was pleasant from the staff assigned the business class car (which was about 1/3 full this trip), we were offered a glass of wine (in a plastic glass) and packaged snack after departure, this was followed by dinner service with a choice of entrees. The dinner was on china with proper utensils and was quite good, I had roast pork which came with a salad and roll and a small dessert. More wine was offered. When the meal was done, the trays were collected, and the staff disappeared for the remainder of the trip (over 2 hours) - sitting and chatting with the conductor and opening doors at stops as needed. More could be done here.

Still, an enjoyable trip and I would certainly choose VIA for a trip of this duration just to avoid the airport hassles that make today’s air travel what it is.

So, how do the three compare? Here are some comments from my experiences:

Pricing—Amtrak is the winner here. With just a $13 upgrade fare (one way) one gets a much improved seat and lots of space, however the rest of the business class experience is really self serve. VIA’s upgrade fare was $106 one way—more than double the economy fare. Air Canada’s business class fares vary, I was able to travel on an economy fare with an upgrade certificate. Business fares are usually multiple time best economy fares. WCRA News, Page 31

Seating —Amtrak wins this one with the two and one seating in their Talgo Business Class, followed by Air Canada’s nice spacious seats and VIA in last place. Both Amtrak and Air

Canada significantly improve comfort. The VIA seats in the VIA 1 LRC car were the same size and comfort as those in Economy Class, but were finished with nicer fabrics and there

were curtains for the windows.

Meal service —Air Canada wins this one by a good margin over VIA. Amtrak doesn’t compare at all. The Amtrak menu is the same for all passengers, business class gets a $3.00 coupon towards purchases in the Bistro car but there is a pleasant dining car area to sit in. Food quality is basic microwave and just passable. VIA provides a complimentary bar service and snack, and a hot meal with choice of entrees. Food quality is quite good. But when that is done, the service is over for the remainder of the trip. Air Canada provided a complimentary bar and snack, followed by a hot meal with choice of both appetizers and entrees. Food quality is quite good. Service was offered throughout the flight, with fresh baked cookies and ice cream four hours in.

Staff Service—Air Canada wins this one by a long shot. By the way, staff were friendly and helpful on all three carriers, but Air Canada goes well beyond the norm (this is my experience from many flights on lots of carriers by the way). On Amtrak, it is self service in business class so there is really no distinction at all. On VIA, the service was friendly and quite adequate, but once the serving was done staff sat in business class seats and chatted the rest of the way to Montreal (over half the trip). On Air Canada, business class customers are welcomed by name and service is attentive throughout the flight with frequent rounds of water and beverages between the regular serving times. As we approach our destination, each person is asked if all was ok and thanked for choosing Air Canada, a nice and personal touch.

Entertainment Systems—Air Canada wins this one hands down. There is no entertainment system on VIA at all, and Amtrak's is still more than 10 years out of date with just one movie of their choice played on old monitor screens in the coach ceiling. Of course, there is scenery to watch on the train, much better than other entertainment by my standards!

On Time Performance—A tie here as all trips departed and arrived on time.

My final verdicts—I love to ride trains and I also love to see the scenery, for this reason I would choose the Amtrak ride. The scenery is lovely along the route, and the view from the large Talgo windows grand. I would always choose business class here (it’s cheap), wish they offered a higher level of service for which I would be happy to pay more. For food and service, Air Canada leaves both railways in the dust. VIA—hard to say here, although I enjoyed the business class experience it seemed a lot of money to pay at more than $100 for a one shot airline style meal and a glass of wine. Seats and service not where they could be. I would probably not do it often and stay with Economy class on most short haul runs. WCRA News, Page 32

WCRA NEWS FROM 49 YEARS AGO - JUNE 1961

- by Craig McDowall

MCM note: One of the newsletter editors, Doug Cummings, traveled to the Denver & Rio

Grande Western, the narrow gauge railway in Colorado that originally intended to become a national railway. His coverage of his trip was extremely well written and took eight pages(!) of the June, 1961newsletter. This is cut to just highlights from his observations on his trip.

The D&RGW commenced operations in 1871 with a 76 mile mainline from Denver to Colorado Springs. The first locomotives were 9 tiny 2-4-0's and 2-6-0's weighing 12 1/2 tons and 18 tons respectively. Each locomotive was numbered and also named. By 1884, the railway had over 1600 miles of "yard stick" track in operation and ran as far west as Ogden, Utah. However, as years went by, and standard gauge became the norm, the desire to interchange traffic from standard to narrow gauge without re-loading freight cars necessitated the D&RGW to lay a third rail on wider ties so trains of both gauges could operate on their lines. Most of the heavily traveled portions became standard gauge with the inside rail removed but many of the branch lines remained solely as narrow gauge (such Durango and Alamosa). Interesting to note that some main lines retained the third rail well into the twentieth century.

By the early 1950's, only two narrow gauge lines remained, the famed Alamosa-Durango line and the Salida -Alamosa line. In 1955, the latter line was abandoned and dismantled. Colorado has a very unusual history in railroading. Other than Alaska (where there are no standard gauge lines), Colorado had more narrow gauge lines than standard gauge. The narrow gauge line from Alamosa (just west of Denver) runs 300 miles to Durango, Farmington and Silverton. All of the line is over 7500 feet above sea level.

Alamosa still has dual gauge trackage as it is also the terminus of a standard gauge line from Pueblo. There are separate tracks for both gauges leading to the roundhouse that currently has 5-6 stalls for standard gauge and 10 narrow gauge stalls.

Doug watched as freight was transferred from 9 foot high narrow gauge freight cars to 15-16 foot high standard gauge cars. It is a costly labour intensive process. There are only 10 passenger cars left on the active roster for excursion trips and all are outfitted with 'bus type' seats There are many different types of freight cars in the yard from the early years to present. Most, when bad ordered, are burnt. As of 1961, there were 1281 freight cars of all types on the narrow gauge roster. 7 freight cars were recently converted for MOW use. Box, flat, coal and stock cars are the most prevalent types in the active D&RGW roster, with a dozen cabooses and 75 idler cars (mainly for use in transfer between gauges). There is only one business car left, two rotary plows, a pile driver car, a Jordan spreader and several flangers. Many of the work cars are old passenger cars. WCRA News, Page 33

One standard gauge diesel is kept near the roundhouse for switching duties. It is 200 miles from Alamosa to Durango with the first 28 miles being dual gauge to serve industries in

Antonito. Freight traffic over the narrow gauge line runs 2-3 trips a week, with double heading and sometimes triple heading on eastbounds near Cumbres. Between Antonito and Chama, double headers are split with engines on the point and the rear due to weight restrictions on some trestles. At the Cumbres summit, with an elevation of 10,015 feet, the track is in a 'mule shoe' configuration where to gain 10-12 feet in elevation, a trainman in the caboose could get off the train and walk about twenty feet and board the loco as it passes back past him on the horseshoe curve. Down the west side of Cumbres, the grade is 4% and 14 miles long. In various locations along this section of the line, you will see old flat cars, gondolas etc. just sitting in the weeds, or on spurs, many with the drawbars yanked out or snapped in two or wrecked in other ways and they are just left at the side of the roadbed. Chama is the division point and once had a large roundhouse, but currently only has a two stall engine house (mainly storing helper engines).

In Durango, the summer excursion business starts in mid June and trips are run daily from Durango to Silverton; a total of 90 miles return. Durango is the home base for three K-26 Mikado's. At the time of Doug's trip, the last of the K-27 "Mudhens", a 2-8-2 Mikado, #464, the oldest engine on the railroad was used as a spare up to a couple of years ago, and then was relegated to a parts engine. It is now going to be scrapped and was being stripped when Doug was on site. Several cities wanted her for static display but so many parts had been removed, it wasn't feasible. #464 still has her original wooden cab. A sister engine, #463, was sold to the movie industry and used in numerous westerns. The Silverton branch is known for extreme winter weather conditions with slides reaching 40 feet in depth and on many occasions, the railroad has to close this branch for 3-4 months over the winter. At the boarded up Silverton station, there were two notices posted. One was a request to abandon the Silverton branch (the ICC refused this request). The other notice said that 10 freight cars had been spotted by the railroad at Silverton the previous Sept. (when regular service was suspended over the winter) and any shippers desiring to ship anything out should notify the Durango freight office and as such time as "all ten cars" were full, the railroad would then call a crew, open the line and send a train up with 10 more empties and pick up the loads! (MCM note: a different twist on maintaining timely customer service!).

The 14 mile portion of the tourist specials from Chama to Cumbres up the 4% grade is the best hour for any steam fan to enjoy. If not riding the train, you can hear and see the smoke from the stacks from miles away. When they run freights, and if the consist is long, they will run it up this section of the line in two or three sections. A highly recommended visit if you love steam, especially since the operation really hasn't changed in 60 years.

Vernonia Cars sent to USA The five PGE cars headed for the Vernonia South Park and Sunset RR at Vernonia Oregon WCRA News, Page 34

were barged from Squamish, B.C. in June. They had originally gone via PGE-CPR routing to Huntington-Sumas but the Northern Pacific crew at Huntington would not accept them. Thus the return to Squamish and subsequent barging.

GN The Great Northern re-instated the evening "International" between Vancouver and Seattle on June 30th for the summer. The trains will run Friday and Sunday nights only and as an inducement, a special fare is offered to patrons using the Friday night train to either city on a round trip basis.

Canadian Forest Products Locomotive #117. a three truck Shay, built by Lima in 1913, and originally an Eastern Canada engine came to CFP from the St. Lawrence Pulp & Paper Co. Upon arrival at CFP, she was numbered #3 and renumbered to #117 a few years ago when CFP renumbered all their motive power. She operated on her last run in 1960 and at the time, was the oldest operating Shay in North America. She was scrapped this spring.

Hillcrest Lumber Hillcrest will continue to operate their Climax #10 as long as the mill in is operation, dependent on supply of logs in the area.

WCRA Railfan Special The date is August 5th when the WCRA will run a special excursion using PGE gas-electric Motor Car #107 and an open observation car #14 from North Van to Squamish and return. This will be the first run of out of North Van since 1928(!) and the first run of a gas car to Squamish since the PGE completed its line to the North Shore. Photo stops and run-bys are planned and tickets are only $5.

CN The Canadian National used 4-8-2 #6043 on a June 22nd special from Winnipeg to Brandon MB and return.

LOCOMOTIVE 374 PAVILION

JUNE REPORT

The number of visitors recorded for June 2010 was 2,255 as compared to June 2009 with 1,765. Year to date visitors to end of June is 34,459. Discounting the 2010 Winter Olympics visitors, the year to date visitor count is 12.8% higher than last year. A full roster of volunteers and the positive effect of the Roundhouse Canada line station are key factors in this increase over last year. WCRA News, Page 35

Roundhouse Stories and Photos Wanted

The Roundhouse Community Center plans to assemble ‘The Big Roundhouse Story’ for

Vancouver’s 125th celebration in 2011 and we are looking for stories from folks from the time of 1888 until present day! No story too small! We would like to hear from you. Please email [email protected] with your name and contact info.

We will contact you with further information!

John Atkin: Historian in Residence

John Atkin is an author, historian and heritage advocate. A photographic exhibition which John has researched and curated will be displayed at different times at the Roundhouse. Go to www.roundhouse.ca for specific dates.

Volunteering for the 374 Pavilion

We are always looking for Volunteers to work at the 374 pavilion. 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 please contact Jim Brown at 604-681-4403 or 604-985- 7249 or e-mail at [email protected] (J.B.)

RAILWAY NEWS

CP POWER ON RMR

Rocky Mountaineer has had CP power—June 14, CPR AC4400 #8866 led the Rocky train through the Fraser Canyon and into Vancouver. Since then, CPR SD40-2 #5960 has been seen operating on the Kamloops to Calgary segment of the RMR trains. (K.P., R.G.)

RED LEAF HOTEL KEYS ON BOARD

Red Leaf guests are getting an enhancement to their service as hotel keys for guests will now be handed out on board the train before arrival in both Kamloops and Quesnel. WCRA News, Page 36

VIA's train #2 the eastbound Canadian had a highly unusual equipment make up. Tasked with moving some of the Rocky Mountaineer cars to the east for painting into the new RMR colours VIA was faced with a dilemma. How to get the cars to the east without disrupting the view enjoyed by the high paying passengers in the Park car on the rear of the train. Several years ago VIA moved at different times the BC Rail dinner train, Budd Cars and private cars by tacking them on the rear. This resulted in many complaints from passengers. A decree was issued that VIA shall no longer accommodate cars on the rear of the Canadian.

The problem with this plan is the electrical system is not compatible between the RMR cars and VIA's equipment. The RMR cars could not go behind the power as this would cut off HEP for the train and they were not allowed on the rear. The solution was to splice the two coaches between the diesels. The trailing unit provided HEP for the train. I am not sure how the diesels were MU'd together but it seemed to operate OK on its way out of Vancouver.

There is one more RMR coach at the Vancouver Maintenance Center so look for this arrangement to happen again some time soon. (K.S.) WCRA News, Page 37

OTHER NEWS

STEAM SCENE—WESTERN CANADA

Driving back to Alberta for a week at home, our CMO Russ Grycan caught CPR Empress

#2816 operating between Banff and Canmore.. Which brought him to thinking about just what a centre for steam that Western Canada has become…..that same day Rocky Mountain Rail Society’s CN 6060 was working a train in Alberta, WCRA’s Royal Hudson #2860 had just chugged into the new Roundhouse at Squamish, and elsewhere Kettle Valley’s 2-8-0 #3716 is at work in Summerland while Kamloops’ ex CN #2141 is also at work. (R.G.)

We could also include steam at the Duncan Forest Museum, in Port Alberni with their #7, and maybe even Fort Steele?

On a good day in the summer season, there is much preserved steam in the west. We need to make sure we support it and keep these locomotives operating for all to learn from and enjoy.

TRIVIA ANSWERS

1. Brotherhood of Railway Trainmen, 2. Centralized Traffic Control, 3. Trailer on Flat Car, 4. Order of Railroad Conductors, 5. Automated Block System, 6. Sense and Braking Unit

The earliest patent was UK patent #4618 dated November 22, 1821. The inventor was Henry Robinson Palmer (1795—1844). His design led to the first horse drawn monorail which started operating in Cheshunt, Britain on June 25, 1825. WCRA News, Page 38

CREDIT LINES ISSN 1204-072X

Vol. 49 Issue 8 Editor Don Evans Distribution Jeremy Davy & Donna Simon

Contributors: J.B. Jim Brown M.C. Mattias Christianson J.D. Jeremy Davy D.E. Dave Emmington R.G. Russ Grycan K.M. Karen Moodie K.P. Ken Perry D.S. Donna Simon K.S. Ken Storey S.S. Susan Steen

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 CN Roundhouse & Conference Centre 604-898-1082

BACK COVER AND PAGE 39

Page 39—It was a great occasion as the British Columbia became the first car turned on the newly installed turntable on June 23 (Russ Grycan photo) and was put into the new CN Roundhouse & Conference Centre building on Track 2. By July 2, Royal Hudson 2860 was on track 7, and the Don Evans photo from the lounge of the British Columbia was possible.

Back Cover—One of the great rewards from providing the school program at the Heritage Park is receiving thank you cards like this one from a Grade one at Brackendale Elementary. See the story of this visit on page 23.

Published monthly by West Coast Railway Association ISSN 1204-072X PO Box 2790 Stn. Term., Vancouver, B.C., V6B 3X2 Vol. 49 Issue 8 www.wcra.org http://twitter.com/WCRailway Canada Post, Canadian Publications Mail Sales Product Agreement #40007853