WCRA NEWS SEPTEMBER 2015

Squamish—North Van. Rail Excursions Oct. 10 & 11! Polar Express Now Selling WCRA News, Page 2

GENERAL MEETING

The General Meeting of the WCRA will be held on Tuesday, August 25 at 1930 hours at Rainbow Creek Station, Willingdon at Penzance in Burnaby. Entertainment will be a Dave Wilkie slide show presented by Bob Hunter .

ON THE COVER

McCloud River Railroad 2-6-2 #25 struts her stuff along the Oregon Coast Scenic Railway in this photo by John Day . Part 2 of his story on Steam In Our Backyard starts on page 19.

SEPTEMBER CALENDAR

• West Coast Railway Heritage Park open daily 1000 through 1700k—Mini rail in operation daily. • Saturday, August 29—Mini—Mighty event at the Heritage Park (page 7) • Saturday, September 5—Deadline for items for the October 2015 WCRA News • Sunday, September 20—Sea to Sky Family Fair, Heritage Park all day • Tuesday, September 29—WCRA General Meeting at Rainbow Creek Station, 1930 hours

EDITORIAL

SUMMER WINDING DOWN

As I write this piece, we are enjoying a great summer vacation in Whistler. Thankfully, a bit of rain has broken the hot and dry conditions that we have had for much of the summer so far, and temperatures have dropped to near normal. Quite unusual for us here in western BC!

As for rail observations here, we have seen the Rocky Mountaineer pass through as well as 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 as follows, Please note that GST must be added to all fees: Senior $50 ($52.50), Individual $55 (57.75), Family $65 (68.25) E Members (electronic newsletter only) are $35 ($36.75) Senior, $40 ($42.00) individual and $50 ($52.50) family. Other categories are: - Junior Member (age 18 and under ) $ 30 ($31.50) - Sustaining Member $100 (tax receipt) plus membership type regular fee - Life Membership $700 ($735) individual life / $1,200 ($1,260) family life All memberships include the monthly newsletter, Heritage Park admission (except Special Events), mini rail rides and discounts on food and merchandise. The Association holds a monthly meeting on the last Tuesday of the month at 1930 hours in Burnaby at Rainbow Creek Station in Confederation Park. Apply through www.wcra.org or mail to WCRA, PO Box 2790 Stn. Term., Vancouver, B.C., V6B 3X2. WCRA News, Page 3 many CN freights—pulled almost exclusively by the new ES44’s in the 2800 and 2900 series.

Our very best summer wishes to all of our readers. Make a point of visiting the Heritage Park and the Locomotive 374 Pavilion this summer, and plan to ride the excursions in October! Don

ASSOCIATION NEWS

FROM THE JULY GENERAL MEETING

Chair Bill Johnston called the meeting to order with 22 members and guests present: • Executive reports were unavailable as Ken Tanner, Gord Bell and Don Evans were all out of town. • Bill Johnston talked about the Finances, noting that we were meeting the terms set by the Bank for our mortgage. Cash Flow remains a challenge and options are being explored. The Royal Hudson Fundraiser is now under way. • Bill Johnston read Jennifer’s Tours Report, noting that both the second Haida Gwaii tour and the White Pass & Yukon tour had run at capacity with a waiting list. The two Haida Gwaii and the WP &YR trips each returned a profit in excess of $10k. Next year two Haida Gwaii tours are planned with a possible change of the first from May to June depending on Train/Ferry schedules. John Cowan , tour guide for the WP &YR trip, shared hi-lites of his tour. Bill also gave advance notice of two WCRA Rail tours planned for the Thanksgiving weekend operating North Vancouver to Squamish and return. • George Game noted that the locomotive 374 Pavilion continues to be very busy with guests from all over the world. Street festivals taking place in Yaletown are bringing many visitors to the Pavilion. Colin Dathan has retired as a Custodian, George thanked Colin for his many years of volunteering. There is a need for additional volunteers to assist. If you have spare days and would like to help, contact George at [email protected] . • Jeremy Davy noted that MiniRail continues to be a key attraction at the Heritage Park with trips being run every half hour on most days. Volunteers are still needed to assist in daily operations. • Bob Hunter provided a Collection Report noting that Trevor Mills will continue to chair the Collection Committee. WCXX#6520 will be repainted in the Classic CN 1950’s Green/Black scheme. Restoration updates were also given for BCER#960, CP#8000, Alberta and Northern Summit. • The events calendar was reviewed. • Ryan Cruickshank provided a Show & Tell which included a piece of the roof structure from the Car British Columbia removed/replaced during restoration 25 years ago. He also brought some tinplate pieces from the early days of American Flyer. • Bill Marchant provided a Trackside Report.

WCRA News, Page 4

• Entertainment was yhe final part of a video of a northbound trip on the Amtrak Coast Starlight originally presented at the May meeting and a second video featuring Canadian Pacific activity in the Rockies with steam and Selkirks.

NEW MEMBERS

We welcome to membership: Brent Bessey and family of Squamish; Christine Bosma and family of Coquitlam; Jenny Breckton and family of North Vancouver; Michael & Michele Carleton and family of Kirkland WA; Jeana Duncan and family of Squamish; Pascale Goodrich-Black and family of Vancouver; Tana Kennett and family of Squamish; Laura Klager and family of Aldergrove; Duncan Knight and family of Garibaldi Highlands; Melanie Lamoureux and family of Squamish; Sara Lebedoff and family of Squamish; John Lucas & Marissa Beg and family of North Vancouver; Greg Nowak and family of Vancouver; Lisa Pare and family of Squamish; Catherine Petrone and family of Whistler; Shawna Quinton and family of Vancouver; Rikki Ryter and family of North Vancouver; Lorie Seppke and family of Delta; Rob & Jane Tanner and family of Vancouver; Li Tao and family of Surrey; Marnie Tocheniuk and family of Garibaldi Highlands; Kurumi Zehike and family of Squamish; Ying Zhou & Jonathan Rameseder and family of Furry Creek;

We welcome back to membership: Alicia Cook and family of Squamish; Joanne Friesen and family of Aldergrove; Alain Touchette and family of Vancouver; (J.D.)

PLEASE RENEW YOUR MEMBERSHIP

If your newsletter label says 7/31/2015 your membership has expired, if it says 04/30/2015 this is your last issue of WCRA News.

WCRA News, Page 5 MEMBER NEWS

Our very best wishes and thoughts are with Colin Dathan who is being treated for a form of blood cancer at the moment.

We received a note recently that John Krumin had passed away recently—while not a WCRA member, the Krumins have been regular travelers on West Coast Rail Tours and enjoyed last year's Haida Gwaii tour.

Congratulations to Karl Anderson who came back from the Special Olympics World Games with Bronze medal as part of the Team Canada softball team.

WCRA TRIVIA #321 - By Ryan Cruickshank

Who were Sterling McDonald and Leyland Knickerbo cker ? (Answers on page 26) COLLECTION

BRITISH COLUMBIA 125TH CELEBRATION

Business car CPR #16 British Columbia celebrated 125 years on August 1, 2015 (July 31 was the actual birthday). Not only is this the oldest piece in our collection, this is also the very first piece of rolling stock to be owned by WCRA—it is what got the whole thing started. A group gathered at the car in the CN Roundhouse & Conference Centre at 1100 and Don Evans provided a brief history of the car, including its history and various names carried since it first started as the sleeper Sherbrooke in 1890. It was converted to the business car configuration in 1910 and had electric lights and fans added.

WCRA News, Page 6

Ryan Cruickshank provided some interesting insights into what it was like working on the car in the 1980’s on the dock at New Westminster where much of the restoration work was done. In addition to the interesting stories, Ryan provided several pieces of the original wood that were replaced during the restoration effort. A bottle of wine from the car’s 100th birthday in 1990 was also added to the display. Following this, there was cake and coffee for all and then tours of the car were offered. Most adjourned for the very special high tea which was served at noon at the Mac Norris Station . It was well attended and extra tables were set on the station platform to accommodate the group. WCRA News, Page 7 PGE RSC-3 #561 BACK TO LIFE

It was most heartening on July 15, 2015 as the team of Trevor Mills and Dave Thethi completed the task of replacing a cylinder liner, and the 1951 MLW product sprung back to life with a characteristic puff of exhaust and the satisfying sound of an Alco prime mover.

WEST COAST RAILWAY HERITAGE PARK Home of the Royal Hudson

POLAR EXPRESS TICKETS NOW ON SALE

Tickets are now available for Polar Express 2015 at either www.wcra,org on line or by phone at 604-229-1103 This is a very popular event and always sells out quickly…...it may seem far off, but December will creep up quickly on us.

Polar Express trains will operate four weekends this year—November 28 / 29, December 5 / 6, December 12 / 13 and December 19 / 20. Trains depart at 1000, 1200, 1400 and 1600 with extra 1800 trains on Saturdays. Prices are unchanged from 2014. New for 2015 will be the use of the business car Alberta as a super class car for groups—watch for future details. (K.T.)

MINI—MIGHTY MACHINES AUGUST 29

A new feature event for August will be the Mini—Mighty Machines event, to be held all day August 29, 2015. The event will feature machines large and small…..such as: • Mini—West Coast Mini Rail, pump cars and speeders (rides on all) • Mighty—WCRA’s locomotive fleet will be operating, plus visit motor vehicles such as a Fire , Dump Truck, , Police Car etc. in the parking area.

Get up close and personal to all these, sit in the driver’s seat…..enjoy a great day of machines for everyone. (G.B.)

GARDEN RAILWAY STEAM LOCO SOUGHT

The G Scale trains which run oon the Garden Railway at Windmill Flats are always a great highlight for guests who ride the West Coast Mini Rail trains and stop to watch the Garden Railway in operation. The G Scale is looked after by the West Coast Model Railroaders and one question often asked is if there is a steam locomotive. All agree that this would be a great addition, and a “steam engine project has been established to purchase a suitable G scale steam loco. Donations made to WCRA and noted “Steam Engine Project” will be tax receiptable and will be put towards such an acquisition. If you would like more info or are interested in helping wiht the model railroads at the Heritage Park please leave your name and number at the gift shop (604-898-9336) and we will get back to you. (B.S.) WCRA News, Page 8

PAUL D. ROY MINI RAIL SHOP CONSTRUCTION UNDERWAY

Work is now well underway for the Paul D Roy Mini Rail Shop and storage facility. The new facility will replace the old shed that is in poor condition, and will relocate the mini rial base over close to the PGE CarShop area on the east side of the Heritage Park. In early August the site prep was completed, and on August 11 the containers that will form the base structure for the new facility were delivered. (Photo by Don Evans)

The new shop will be sheathed to appear as a wood structure when it is complete and will have tracks for storing the mini rail railcars in one section, and a track and workspace for the locomotives in the other. Fundraising continues to complete this new facility prior to the winter weather—the old facility (which is falling down) will be removed.

WINDFEST LEAVES LEGACY TO HERITAGE PARK

A local Squamish event has left a legacy to the Heritage Park following their second annual event—we loaned them some coolers and a beer jugs, in return we are now the owners of a new picnic table and a wind chime made entirely of railway spikes. (G.B.)

ROYAL HUDSON 2860

ROYAL HUDSON FUNDRAISER LAUNCHED

Following the 75th birthday event for the Royal Hudson, the next stage of fundraising was launched with and e blast and a direct mail piece. The first work to be done is the planning WCRA News, Page 9 work, and the development of a full rebuild plan for the locomotive over what is expected to be as long as ten years of work. With that completed to everyone’s satisfaction, we will get underway starting with the recertification of the boiler—which has to be done before anything else can be undertaken. Please support this fundraiser as we work towards getting this classic locomotive back on track.

ROYAL TRAIN RECALLED

Donnell Norstrom —one of the Brock Kerrisdale Choir members who sang the Royal Hudson Song on June 27, sends the following item…..

“I was asked to put a few lines together concerning the moments I witnessed as a young girl of eight during the Royal train tour of Canada in May 1939 of King George VI and Queen Elizabeth. I have filled in some details after consulting with my older brother who was about age 12 at the time.

The train stopped only twice in Alberta, where we lived, the stops being in the small town of Wainwright and then Edmonton. We drove as a family 120 miles in a 1928 Chev from our home in Castor to the CPR station at Wainwright. The train was blue and silver and was called The Flyer. Crowds of people were waving and shouting “Vive le Roi, Vive la Reine”.

The train stopped for about 20 minutes and the Royal Couple stood and waved from a special big platform on the rear of the train. The thing I myself remember best, as a young girl I suppose, was the Queen’s dress—a two piece long coat over the dress with long rows of fur ruffles around the bottom, sleeves and neck and all pearl gray in colour. All this her trademark.

I guess you all know that the King was a rail buff and liked to sit in the locomotive cab whenever possible. It was from this trip that these locomotives cam to be known as Royal Hudson’s.”

FUNDRAISING

WCRA SEEKS DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT

The West Coast Railway Association is Western Canada's largest railway heritage organization, a charitable non profit society that was incorporated in 1961. WCRA operates several major railway heritage facilities, including the West Coast Railway Heritage Park attraction and the CN Roundhouse & Conference Centre in Squamish, BC, the Locomotive 374 Pavilion in Vancouver's Yaletown, the Royal Hudson steam locomotive and many other related activities. WCRA News, Page 10

The Director of Development will assume the leadership of the WCRA's fundraising activities, and will work with the board, volunteer team and staff to continue and grow the organization's charitable endeavours and success. WCRA has successfully raised over $20 million in the past 15 years; operating annual fundraising runs in the $700k range currently.

This position will appeal to energetic, creative, hands-on candidates who want to work with a strong and committed team. This position is based at WCRA's Burnaby, BC office and reports to the WCRA's President & CEO. Past experience in the charitable sector is required. We can offer flexible work conditions and hours - 32 hours a week base.

A competitive salary and benefits package is being offered to the successful candidate.

By Mail to: Don Evans, President Emeritus West Coast Railway Association 4529A Hastings St. Burnaby, BC V5C 2K3 604-681-4403 By e mail to: [email protected] www.wcra.org

PLANNED GIVING—REMEMBER WCRA IN YOUR WILL

Have you considered a gift to the WCRA in your will? This is an easy way to make sure that organizations you love and wish to have ongoing success are looked after in the future. It also generates a major tax savings for your estate and takes just a few minutes to put in place.

Simply put, Planned Giving is about planning for a future gift to WCRA. The ability to make such a gift is based solely on the assets that you have available to be directed to someone or some organization when the time comes. You can only choose to leave your estate (value) to three places—to others (eg. family), to charity (such as WCRA or others you support), or to the government. The choice is yours to make!

WCRA has a Planned Giving package that we would be happy to send out or discuss at your request, as well as access to independent advisors if you wish to discuss this with someone. Don Evans has the info and will be happy to send it to you. Call Don at 604-988-3435.

A very special thanks to several members who have now advised us of their plans to leave a future gift. Thank you for making your choice and letting us know of your legacy wishes.

FUNDRAISING—WE CAN’T DO WHAT WE DO WITHOUT YOUR SUPPORT

Current Fundraisers and where we are…... • FP9A #6520 —thanks to your support, we have made 6520 operational, equipped it with horns and bell, have now changed out the rear truck thus fixing the thin rear wheel set, and WCRA News, Page 11

installing new brake valves in preparation for certification. Ahead, the cosmetic part—much body work and a new paint job. This next phase of this major collection project now in preparation stages. Thanks to the support to date we have our second F unit operational. • Paul D. Roy Mini Rail Shop —Site preparation is complete and the containers are now on site (see page 8) We are underway. Budget $25,000—have raised $18,500 to date. • Northern Summit —on line fundraiser, needs more support before work can commence • Roundhouse Paving —we raised about 2/3 of funds needed, still need another $4,500 to complete—hope to do in the fall

JULY FUNDRAISING REPORT

Major Funding Received • In Kind Donations $21,232 • Alberta Donation $1,000 • Garden Railway Donation $700 • General Donation $10,000 • General Donations $3,000 • Donation of new TV for Hudson interpretation $300 • Telus Volunteer Donation $200 • Debenture Interest Donations $7,225 • Royal Hudson donations $500 • 374 Pavilion donations $683 • 960 Donation $100 • Donation of Expenses $1,500 • Ring of Support $200

Month Total $46,640 Year to Date Totals $213,661 • General Fund $200,547 • CN 6520 Fund $5,664 • Royal Hudson Fund $4,720* • Northern Summit $2,550 Other Significant Activities • Launched Royal Hudson fundraiser via web and direct mail

374 PAVILION

Our Visitor Count for the month of July was 5506. Almost 1000 more than last year.

July was a busy month at the Pavilion. The number of tourists and locals visiting has been steadily increasing. 150 to 250 visitors coming in a day is very common. Occasionally 300 or

WCRA News, Page 12 more! This can sometimes make taking a break very challenging. Having 2 people on every day in the Summer months would be ideal. (Hint to potential volunteers)

A special thanks to Colin Dathan for his many years of service at the 374 Pavilion. His expertise and enthusiasm will be missed by all and we wish him the very best.

This brings us to the usual plea for volunteers. We need help on Mondays and Thursdays. Hours are 10 to 4 in the Summer, 11 to 3 in the Winter. Free parking is available at the Roundhouse and the Canada Line station (Yaletown/Roundhouse) is right across the street. One or two days a month would be a great help. You will meet visitors from around the world. Many are Train Fans! You can also help our Squamish Railway Heritage Park by promoting its events with the visitors and locals. Volunteering can be very satisfying and rewarding, ask any of our Volunteers. This is a great place to work. Call George @ 778-875- 3573 for more information.

The 374 Cowcatcher Repair Update: One last bolt to go. The last bolt is proving to be very stubborn. We have put some penetrating oil on it, hoping that will loosen it up. If this does not work then the next step will be cutting the bolt and replacing it.

Yaletown Roundhouse 374 Pavilion Hours: 10 - 4 every day except holidays. We are on the corner of Davie St and Pacific Blvd. Please drop in for a history lesson and/or a visit with our Volunteers.

Finally some rain in July to cool us off, water the plants and clean the air…(G.G.)…

WEST COAST RAIL TOURS

ANNOUNCING—THE CLASSIC SQUAMISH EXCURSION— OCTOBER 10 & 11 only

The classic North Vancouver to Squamish rail excursion is back, but with a couple of twists and just for two days in October. The trips will depart North Vancouver at 10:00 each day and travel the classic coastal route along Howe Sound to the West Coast Railway Heritage Park’s Mac Norris Station . Guests will then be treated to a nice lunch in the CN Roundhouse & Conference Centre, before re-boarding the train for the return trip to North Vancouver, arriving around 1630k.

Consist will be all classic streamliner—FP7A 4069 / FP9A 6520 on the point, followed by power car WCXX 9622 McDonald Creek , two coach class coaches, open observation car WCXX 598 Henry Pickering , two first class coaches, and business car Alberta on the rear of the train. The open observation car will be available to all guests on the train. WCRA News, Page 13 All pricing includes train travel and lunch at the Heritage Park: • Coach Class $149 (reserved coach seating) • First Class $199 (reserved seats with tables, snack and beverage service included in both directions) • Business Car Class (24 seats only per trip, lounge and dining room easy chair seating, open platform, full catering service including beer and wine)

As we go to press, sales are open via West Coast Rail Tours or on line at www.wcra.org

TOURS COMMITTEE 2016

West Coast Rail Tours is looking for new members on the Tours Committee. Are you an avid train traveler? We need your expertise to help us shape the tours business for 2016. If you would like to participate call Jennifer at 604-525-1011.

Fulfill you train travel bucket list on a unique rail journey with West Coast Rail Tours. Many adventures await you for the fall!

Okanagan Wine Festival & Kettle Valley Steam Railway Tour This fall is the perfect time to visit the Okanagan and celebrate the Wine Festival with WCRA News, Page 14 gourmet wine, great food, unique events and art in a breathtaking setting. Visit the Osoyoos Desert Model Railway and ride the Kettle Valley Steam Railway. Visit Burrowing Owl, Tinhorn Creek, Hester Creek, Gehringer Brothers Estate and Red Rooster wineries. Overnight in Osoyoos, Penticton and Harrison Hot Springs. October 1-5, 5 days from $1,095

Bavarian Christmas Festivities of Leavenworth (includes outlet shopping and the Warm Beach Theatre) Head south and enjoy duty free and outlet shopping at Seattle Premium Outlets or your luck a Tulalip Resort Casino. Watch the carolers at Warm Beach Camp and tour the Aplets and Cotlets factory in Cashmere. Experience and old-fashioned sleigh ride and the Bavarian town of Leavenworth and it’s Christmas festivities. December 3-6, 4 days from $795

Victoria and Chemainus – Theatre, Gardens and Christmas Light Tour Journey to Victoria and enjoy a city tour including the Christmas Lights of Butchart Gardens. Head over the Malahat and through the Cowichan Valley to Chemainus for a festival theatre production of “Elf”. Drive through the annual Festival of light displays in Ladysmith and visit the Nanaimo gaming centre. December 15-17, 3 days from $695

History, Wine and Trains of France (featuring an exclusive wine tasting, dinner along the River Seine and train journey) This magnificent tour features flies Vancouver to Paris return and includes tour the Arc de Triomphe, the Cathedral of Notre Dame, the Place de la Concorde, Place Vendome, and the Champs-Élysées. Then head to the Normandy coast and visit the Memorial Peace Museum and the Omaha Beach Cemetery. Visit the Sainte Mére Eglise and Airborne Museum. Journey to Chateau du Close Luce, Amboise and winery in Vouvray before boarding the high speed TGV Train to Avignon, then explore the sights of Monaco, and Nice. October 1, 12 days from $4,769

Bella Italia (featuring Venice, high speed train to Florence and Rome tour) Fly into Venice and explore St.Mark’s Square and the Clock Tower then take the high-speed train to Florence and tour the Piazza Del Duomoe, the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore and the Baptistry and Pizazza della Signoria. Enjoy wine tasting in the Tuscan countryside of Florence and Deruta, Umbria. Journey to Rome and tour the Piazza Venezia, the Roman Forum, the Circus Maximus and Arch of Constantine. October 17, 9 days from $4,759

All of our tours include tax, home pick-up and drop-off, all accommodation, transportation (including rail, coach and airfare) and most meals. WCRA News, Page 15

Check our website www.westcoastrailtours.com or call Jennifer at the Tours office West Coast Rail Tours, 604-524-1011, 1-800-722-1233, [email protected]

West Coast Rail Tours is a also a fully licensed travel agency - we can book any kind of travel to suit your needs including vacation packages, flights, coach and cruise. (J. Mi.)

FEATURE ARTICLES

FROM THE STEAM CHEST - JULY 1963 (Part 1)

- By Craig McDowall Photos courtesy GTC Collectibles

A History of the Vancouver Harbour Commissioners Terminal Railway In 1920, the idea was first considered to establish a Burrard Inlet Terminal railway to provide railway services to piers and waterfront terminals located in the Eastern half of Vancouver's harbour.

Authorization was approved by the National Harbours Board and the City of Vancouver to construct a rail line from Ballantyne Pier to the government dock at the foot of Commercial Drive. Negotiations then commenced with the and the Great Northern Railway to obtain agreements for the use of land and trackage. The rebuilding of two city streets, Powell and Alexander, were needed to accommodate the new tracks. All agreements were signed by 1921 and CPR was hired under contract to lay the tracks etc. By 1924, the railway was in operation running from Ballantyne Pier to Lapointe Pier with a storage yard at Ballantyne. In 1925, an engine shed was built at Lapointe Pier.

In 1926, the railway line was expanded by extending tracks along the north shore of Burrard Inlet from St. George's Ave. to Lynn Creek in North Vancouver and this was completed in 1927 when the Second Narrows Bridge was constructed. In 1928, a tunnel was built under Lonsdale in North Vancouver which replaced a trestle that was originally in place to connect with the Pacific Great Eastern Railway west of Lonsdale. A railway barge slip was built in Vancouver in 1931 and the railway yard was enlarged at Ballantyne due to the increase in business.

The thought was to electrify the railway but the electric engines were considered too small so they leased whatever steam power was available and the first two loco's leased were CNR 0-6-0's #7408 and #7414.

As business picked up, the Vancouver Harbour Commissioners (VHC) decided to purchase their own loco and the first one was ordered from Montreal Locomotive Works in April 1928 for an 0-6-0 at a cost of $42k fob Vancouver. Specs included a tractive effort of WCRA News, Page 16

40,000 lbs with 51 inch drivers and 21x28 cylinders. It arrived in Vancouver on October 13th, 1928 and was numbered as Vancouver Harbour Terminal Rly #202. It was considered an ideal

engine after being put in service so a sister engine was ordered in 1929 as #204 at a similar cost. It arrived in Vancouver in late November 1929. While this second engine was being

ordered , the HT Rly were still leasing CNR #7414 and PGE 0-6-0 #3. The HTR had decided to purchase their own loco's as the leasing arrangements were considered uncertain in the long term. (Photo of #202 taken August 1951, photographer unknown)

In 1930, the HTR decided they needed a third locomotive but due to the economic collapse of 1929, couldn't justify spending the funds for a new one so they did some shopping around a found a used Davenport 0-6-0 for a bargain price of $1000 from a Climax dealer in Seattle. But it took a further $14k to make her completely serviceable and she was numbered #206. This locomotive was a coal burner and although both #202 and 204 were built as oil burners, #202 was converted to coal due to pressure from the BC coal industry due to its economic collapse and resulting lower cost. But cost comparisons over the next couple of years proved that oil was cheaper than coal and even though the necessary parts were ordered for #204 to convert her also to coal, they were never used. In Feb. 1938, #202 was converted back to oil and the rather expensive experiment was over.

In 1936, the National Harbours Board Act made the Commissioners Railway part of the NHB and all the facilities were taken over by the NHB.

In 1947 a fourth engine was deemed necessary as a replacement for the aging #206, A GE WCRA News, Page 17

centre cab GE diesel unit was purchased and lettered #1 and upon its arrival, #206 was sold for scrap.

In April 1953, the NHB thought the railway could be better served by amalgamating with the Canadian National Railway as the NHB rails didn't serve the entire harbour area. When the CNR took over, the two remaining steam locomotives were re-numbered into the CNR system and continued to operate in the Vancouver area. GE centre cab unit #1 was sent to Winnipeg for shopping and was then sent to Victoria numbered CN #74. (Today, it is part of WCRA’s collection and awaiting restoration). The remaining two steam locomotives were eventually retired and scrapped: #202 (then CNR #7542) at Port Mann in 1955 and #204 (then CNR #7543) at Winnipeg in 1956.

And thus the final chapter of the Vancouver Harbour Commissioners Terminal Railway came to a close.

The Steam Chest - July 1963 - Part 2

National Harbours Board Railway Prologue The Davenport steam locomotive that was purchased 'used' in Seattle (referred to in Part One of the Steam Chest) has a rather interesting background. This locomotive had originally been used by Foley, Welch & Stewart who were the contractors who built both the Grand Trunk Pacific and the Canadian Northern through British Columbia. How it came to end up in Seattle is unknown although it may have been purchased by the Climax dealer on a 'trade in'. WCRA News, Page 18

PGE On June 24th, plans were announced by BC Premier W.A.C. Bennett to extend the P.G.E. by some 100 miles from a point at Summit Lake, 35 miles north of Prince George, into the Fort

St. James area. Construction should start this summer and will cost $18 million. It is interesting that this announcement came only a few weeks after the official 'abandonment' of

Premier Bennett's 'pet' project, the Pacific Northern Railway, and that this new PGE branch line will follow almost identically the original route of the Pacific Northern.

A notice from the PGE Passenger Department was posted recently at the North Vancouver depot stating that effective on July 7th, and until further notice, there will be a scheduled 'Passenger Extra' departing North Vancouver at 22:45PM and arriving in Pemberton at 02:00AM on SUNDAYS ONLY! The train will return to North Vancouver at 05:30 on Monday mornings. This extra departure is designed to enable workers from the many and constructions camps that have been built in the Pemberton area to come into Vancouver for the weekend and still return to their work site for their Monday AM shifts. The first trip on July 7th saw a single RDC-1 unit - BC-10 depart North Van with 32 passengers. The round trip fare is $6.50 and RDC equipment will be utilized while in North Vancouver on layovers between trips of the Cariboo Dayliner.

Newly painted low hood diesel switcher #573 recently was seen in Squamish minus the previously standard P.G.E. emblem on the cab. It would appear that the railway is doing away with its iconic herald(?).

Canadian Pacific Steamship News The CPSS Princess Helene , formerly plying her way through the waters of the Bay of Fundy between St. John New Brunswick and Digby, Nova Scotia has been sold to Greek shipping interests for use in the Mediterranean. The selling price was reported to be $150,000. She will join five other former sister ships from the BC coast. These same Greek interests are apparently also interested in the Princess Elaine (the second last three stack ship in the world apparently with the other two being the Cunard's Queen Mary currently tied up at Victoria and the Princess Louise ). Both of these ships were retired last fall.

B.C. Electric Railway The deal to obtain a PGE diesel on lease has evidently fallen through but not due to cost. Rather due to the PGE not being able to supply the type of locomotive that the BCER requested. Instead, two new GM SW900 diesels (#909 and #910) will be ordered directly from General Motors to be delivered within a year.

Vancouver Tug & Barge On June 18th a car barge loaded with 12 freight cars en route from Seattle to Vancouver struck a large submerged object and capsized, dumping all 12 cars into 250 feet of water off Trial Island near Victoria. The barge was carrying freight cars from various US railroads. WCRA News, Page 19

California Western The CW placed the 'Skunk' car M-300 in service during June. This car was the ex-MC3 from the Salt Lake, Garfield and Western. The car was rebuilt by American Car and Foundry in

1935 and originally ran on the Aberdeen and Rockfish. It is expected that the CW will rebuild the car but move the baggage compartment to the rear of the car.

STEAM IN THE BACKYARD—PART 2 – story and photos by John Day

All was quiet until late summer when word came that the promised autumn trip was being organized to take advantage of the mid-October seasonal colour, and would include not only Mt Rainier and Oregon Coast lines, but also the little-known Chelatchie Prairie as well. Ironically, I was only familiar with the Chelatchie Prairie, having encountered it when it first became independent of the Burlington Northern around 1980, when it was operating as a common carrier short line as well as a tourist railroad.

But first, it was the turn of the Mt Rainier Scenic RR to be our hosts, and so we converged on Mineral, Washington, in the pre-dawn gloom to capture the much-valued sunrise shots. It was then that we learned that the requested Polson Logging 2-8-2 was out of action due to a bad tender bearing, with the road’s ALCO 2-8-2T tank loco being substituted. WCRA News, Page 20

Ordinarily this would have been fine (although the tank loco is not exactly elegant, unlike the Polson loco). However, it gave us an engine virtually identical to the Chelatchie Prairie’s

only steam loco, so we started out a bit disappointed. Additionally, the weather was foggy and damp, not making for the best photos, but eventually this cleared and good images of both

this loco and the accompanying Willamette geared loco were had.

After Mount Rainier, a day’s break gave us time to travel the back road down to Battle Ground, Washington, where a reasonable supply of hotels and restaurants are available. Certainly it was a better prospect than the metropolis of Yacolt, where the Chelatchie Prairie operates. Like so many preserved lines, the years have not been kind to the CP, with track embargoed due to weak bridges and general decay, but there is still enough track, a fairly decently spectacular bridge over the East Fork of the Lewis River, and the line’s only tunnel, to make for some interesting photography. The crew couldn’t do enough to make us welcome, and with the weather cooperating, some good images were obtained. (Photos, page 21)

Saving what could have been the best for last, the Oregon Coast Scenic operates over the Port of Tillamook Bay Railroad, a former Southern Pacific branch line built to a high standard. Common carrier freight service on the route came to an abrupt halt in 2007 when devastating floods took out bridges and embankments. Some repairs have been made but there does not

WCRA News, Page 22 seem to be enough money to reconnect the PoTB line to the rest of the US rail network. There is, however, plenty of track to operate excursion trains.

The line nicely divides into two sections: the scenic coastal portion running from Garibaldi to Wheeler, and the canyon line where the route turns inland, following the Nehalem River to where it meets the Salmonberry, and a few hundred feet beyond, where the line is cut by the washout. We enjoyed many photo opportunities in the varied terrain, including a large bridge over the Nehalem, where we enjoyed the sight of fat salmon rising to flies on the river, as the train rolled by overhead.

We were also welcomed to a farm near Foss, where one of the large buildings still in use had once been a locomotive depot for the logging operation that fed into the railroad in Southern Pacific days. The weather had been less than perfect on the first day which we spent in the woods, where lack of sun was less noticeable. The second day, however, brought beautiful autumn sunshine which allowed us to spend time on the coastal section, including the much- photographed marsh just south of Wheeler, which the railroad crosses on a small trestle (cover photo)

WCRA News, Page 23

Unfortunately, the locomotive (McCloud River RR #25) which had “run perfectly all season” developed a hot bearing towards lunch time of the second day, and all photo activity for the afternoon was cancelled. The train was to limp back to Garibaldi, slowly and painfully. As I was expected in Portland that evening, and an offer of a ride back to my car at Garibaldi was made, I decided to put away the camera and take advantage of the chance to travel to Portland before the rush hour began in earnest. Portland itself is an amazing place, if you like electric traction, but that is another story.

While I’ve enjoyed many trips to different continents to see and photograph operating steam, this pair of trips gave me a chance to enjoy something much closer to home. I expect more such trips will be available in the future and, if this is something that interests you, I encourage you to watch for announcements, sign up, and go have some fun.

RAILWAY NEWS

ROCKSLIDE NEAR BIRKEN

A rockslide at MP 112.6 of the Squamish Subdivision on August 14 damaged about 30 feet of track and closed the line for a period of time. (J.M.)

ROYAL CANADIAN PACIFIC COMES WEST

CP’s Royal Canadian Pacific made a trip west in July, coming as far as Coquitlam. Led by its classic FP9A units, the train was westbound on July 9 through Boston Bar at 1429, Hope at 1607 and Chilliwack at 1715, then into Coquitlam. It departed east on July 11 and was through Ruby Creek at 0942 and North Bend at 1117. (J.M.)

THE CANADIAN NEWS

VIA #1 out of Aug. 8 is going to have 5 Economy Coaches on the consist. This will be the first time that I can ever recall that there have been 5 coaches that will be in revenue service. This trip here for #1 is apparently going to be the busiest of the entire season so far. WCRA News, Page 24

A total of over 800 guests are expected to be riding this consist between Toronto-Vancouver & points in between. This will also be a big train I’m told out of Toronto with 27-28 cars.

Due to the slumping Canadian dollar lately revenue for Prestige Service has been overwhelming booked by mostly American tourists. Since bookings for Prestige class have been really strong apparently Prestige class will operate on the Canadian year round. (T. Mu.)

CANADIAN TO REROUTE OVER CP EAST OF WINNIPEG

Next spring, The Canadian will be routed over CP trackage between Winnipeg & Toronto by way of Thunder Bay. VIA wants to reroute it for the larger population base so the revenue made will actually support the train. Also CP seems enthusiastic to get the train running back on their tracks & willing to guarantee a proper track schedule which should improve the overall schedule for a quicker trip. It will be great to get the scenic ride along the shores of Lake Superior back as well. (T. Mu.)

CORRIDOR TRAINS GOING PUSH-PULL

Economy class seating on the corridor will be changing to 50/50 (50 facing forward 50 facing backwards). All corridor trains will become push pull operation to minimize delays for wyeing equipment. Also service on the corridor service will be slightly increased as well. This apparently takes effect after the summer season winds down. (T.Mu.)

OTHER NEWS

CPR G5 PACIFICS COMING BACK TO CANADA

Former Canadian Pacific G5 Pacific steam locomotives #1238 and #1286 are on their way back to Canada. The pair had been at Jack Showalter’s Virginia Central operation in the US, but with Jack’s untimely passing in November of 2014, the family has decided to deaccession the collection there. The pair are headed for the Vintage Locomotive Society in Winnipeg and they will be stored at Inkster Junction for now, pending plans by a VLS Associate to possibly return them to steam. (J.D./ P.N.)

CRANBROOK FA / FB SET REPAINTED

The Rotary Club of Cranbrook Sunrise has had a long standing project to restore and repaint the MLA FA #4090 / FB #4469 set. The pair have been nicely repainted into the Canadian Pacific 1950’s scheme with block lettering and placed on a display track at the entry to the downtown of the city. The pair were dedicated in a ceremony June 14 followed by a reception in the Royal Alexandra Hall at the Cranbrook History Centre. (Don E. photo) WCRA News, Page 25

VANCOUVER TRAIN EXPO COMING IN NOVEMBER

The new Vancouver Train Expo (a replacement for the olds annual TRAINS Model RR show) will debut this November at a new location—the Forum Buildings at the PNE. WCRA will be there with displays and the West Coast Mini Rail for rides. WCRA News, Page 26

CREDIT LINES ISSN 1204-072 Vol. 55 Issue 9 Editor Don Evans Distribution Jeremy Davy & Donna Simon

Contributors: G. B. Gordon Bell J.D. Jeremy Davy G. G. George Game J.M. Jim McPherson J. Mi. Jennifer Mitchell T.M. Trevor Mills T.Mu. Terry Muirhead P.N. Paul Newsome B.S. Barbara Stover K.T. Ken Tanner

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

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

BACK COVER

CN’s newest power is the norm on trains operating into Squamish from the north these days, witness ES44AC’s 2806 / 2966 / 2955 / 2968 at Rutherford Creek bridge on August 5 (Don Evans), and ES44AC’s 2967 / 2963 at Squamish on August 1, 2015 (Robert Etchell).

TRIVIA ANSWER

McDonald (1901-?) was a Chicago industrial designer working with the Budd Company, who partnered with EMC color stylist Knickerbocker (1893-1939) to develop ATSF's Su- perchief. Mcdonald was responsible for the southwest Indian theme while Knickerbocker con- ceived the classic " Warbonnet " red & silver livery on the 1937 EMC E-1. The design is pro- tected under US Patent #106920 granted 9Nov.,1937, - by 1972 later variants were known as Yellowbonnets and Bluebonnets .

CANADIAN COUNCIL FOR RAILWAY HERITAGE

WCRA News acknowledges the financial assistance of the Province of British Columbia WCRA News, Page 27

Published monthly by West Coast Railway Association ISSN 1204-072X PO Box 2790 Stn. Term., Vancouver, B.C., V6B 3X2 Vol. 55 Issue 9 www.wcra.org Canada Post, Canadian Publications Mail Sales Product Agreement #40007853