WCRA NEWS

FEBRUARY 2007 WHITE ROCK 50th

ANNIVERSAY EXCURSION

APRIL 15TH

WCRA News, Page 2 GENERAL MEETING NOTICE The January General Meeting of the WCRA will be held at Rainbow Creek Station in Confederation Park in Burnaby at 1930 hours on Tuesday, January 30. Entertainment will be a great slide show by Bob Hunter— Treasures, Past and Present.

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING NOTICE Notice is given that the Annual General Meeting fo the West Coast Railway Association will be held on Tuesday, February 27 at 1930 hours at Rainbow Creek Station.

ON THE COVER WCRA’s own Jingle Bell Express took to the rails in December, thanks to the cooperation of CN and the work of or volunteers and crews. Here we see former BC Rail Budd cars BC 21 / BC 33 as they head out of the MP shops on December 9, 2006 for downtown Squamish and two runs in conjunction with the Chamber of Commerce’s Santa Parade. The decorated train was a hit with sell out crowds on both runs. Full story starts on page 21 , (Chris Forget photo).

FEBRUARY CALENDAR • West Coast Railway Heritage Park Open daily 1000 through 1600k • Friday, February 2—deadline for items for the March 2007 WCRA News • Tuesday, February 20—Tours Committee Meeting • Friday, February 16 through Sunday, February 25—Wild at Art Show, Heritage Park Carshop building, 1000—1600 daily • Sunday, February 18 to Sunday, February 25—Celebrate Heritage Week at the Brightbill Heritage House, costumed interpreters 1100—1400 daily • Sunday, February 18—Heritage Fashion Show by Ivan Sayer (see page 24) • Saturday, Feb. 24 / Sunday Feb. 25—Heritage Lunch & Tea in the Brightbill House • February 23, 24, 25—Budd Car Rides between Heritage Park and downtown Squamish in conjunction with Wild at Art Community Festival • Tuesday, February 27 2007—WCRA Annual General Meeting, Rainbow Creek Station in Confederation Park, Burnaby, 1930 hours. The regular meeting will follow the AGM.

The West Coast Railway Association is an historical group dedicated to the preservation of railway history. Membership is open to all people with an interest in railways past and present. We are a non-profit British Columbia society, registered as a Canadian charity. Individual membership in the WCRA is $50.00 per year, family membership is $60.00. E Members (electronic newsletter, $15 savings) are $35 individual and $45 family. Other membership categories are: - Junior Member (age 16 and under ) $ 25 - Sustaining Member $100 (tax receipt) plus membership type regular fee - Life Member (one time fee) $700 individual life / $1,200 family life All memberships include the monthly newsletter, Heritage Park admission, mini rail rides and discounts on food and merchandise. The Association holds a monthly meeting on the last Tuesday of the month at 1930 hours in Burnaby at Rainbow Creek Station in Confederation Park. Apply through www.wcra.org or mail to WCRA, PO Box 2790 Stn. Term., Vancouver, B.C., V6B 3X2. WCRA News, Page 3 EDITORIAL

2007—COME ALONG FOR THE RIDE

Well, here we are, off and running for another year. And, while we are looking forward to another year of exciting accomplishment (as was 2006), we are having to look forward to a very different year financially. Suffice it to say, we have our work cut out for us.

As you read last month, 2006 was a year of amazing work considering the financial challenges we had. There was no Day Out With Thomas event due construction, for the first year in many we had no major tour event and so it went. We accomplished what we did thanks to the generosity of our supporters and by accumulating some additional debt. To all of you who provided the support, our sincere thanks.

But 2007 must be different, and things are lining up to provide for that. Day Out With Thomas will be back in June, and we intend to leverage our additional train capacity and ability to use 105 rules access to the Squamish yard to provide a sold out event for 20,000 or more, with a vastly improved train ride (the Achilles heel of our 2004 and 2005 events).

On the tour front, things should vastly improve as we plan for a modest but profitable Royal Hudson schedule of special events in the second quarter of the year. Then we hope to operate a new major tour in late summer with our new F units and consist, again to bring back the returns we need in that department. Here we will need the support of our railway partners, CN and Vacations (who have the say on the former BC Rail line). Thanks to the recent acquisition of the former Waterloo F units and coaches, we now have capacity for the crowds we need to make Hudson trips profitable.

On the construction front, look for the opening of CN Turntable Plaza by mid year while the Roundhouse takes shape for a 2008 opening. And in the restoration front, the focus is completion of the business car so it is ready to roll with our 2008 plans.

So, hop on board as we take our plans forward, complete projects started, generate lots of railway heritage excitement, and get our financials into sounder shape. All Aboard! Don ASSOCIATION NEWS

FROM WCRA’S DECEMBER MEETING

33 members and guests were present, the meeting was chaired by Colin Dathan: • A moment of silence was held in memory of George Brealey and Rich Clefstad WCRA News, Page 4

• Nominations for position of Director were held. There are two positions available due to term expiry of both Craig McDowall and Keith Anderson. Nominated were Keith Anderson, Howie Biehl and Craig McDowall, with all three agreeing to stand. • Entertainment was presented next, with Dave Emmington providing a digital slide show of his recent travels and rail shots across the country. • After a break, the meeting resumed, with Don Evans presenting the Executive Director's Report, noting fiscal year end funding totals. He also reported that the first Heritage Park—Downtown Budd car rides were successful, that the deal for the Waterloo trainset had closed, and that Thomas was coming back June 1,2,3 and June 8,9 10. • Jim Brown reported that the Directors meeting reviewed the latest financial statements. We are about “on budget” for revenue, but over in expenses. Debentures doing well, new accounting software further improves reporting. Should now have reports a month after end. Tax receipt rules clarified. • Jim Brown gave a report on collections. • Colin Dathan reported on 374 mini-rail operations; about 80-100 per day. Going well – not too profitable but works okay. • Bernie Tully reported on events – 2500 at train shown at Cameron. Thanks to volunteers. Next Lions Club show in February. • Bill Johnston reported on tours – April 15 First Royal Hudson planned trip (to White Rock), the 2007 Tour program is now on the website. • Colin Dathan noted that volunteer hours for 2006 are now needed. Please report them to Colin by Jan. 15th. • Trackside reports were presented by Ryan Cruickshank and Bill Marchant. • The calendar for the remainder of December and for January was reviewed

WCRA TRIVIA # 217 - by Ryan D. Cruickshank

The Winnipeg Great Northern Railway and the Lake Railway& Canal Co. amalgamated on January 13, 1899. What was the name of the new company? (for answer, see Credit Lines) NEW MEMBERS

The WCRA welcomes new members Alfred Best & family of Vancouver, Alaine Brawley & family of Squamish, Kim Campbell & family of Squamish, Wayne & Michelle Pontini & family of Squamish, and Sheila Sherkat & family of Whistler. (J.D.)

MEMBERSHIP RENEWALS

Memberships dated 12/31/2006 have now expired, and if your membership expired 10/31/2006 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 WCRA News, Page 5

Option, fees are - for an E-Individual membership $35.00, and an E-Family $45.00 (J.D.)

Does your mailing label show 11/30/2006 or 12/31/2006 as the last item on the top line? This is your membership expiry date … These 2 months account for almost 25% of the renewals in the year – As I write this in early January there are still 15 memberships that expired in November and 65 that expired in December that have not been renewed.

We would appreciate your considering renewing your membership without waiting for the final notice. This not only improves the Association’s cash flow during the tight winter months but also helps spread the membership processing work load.

Renewals are being accepted for memberships with the E–Newsletter Option. The current fees can be found in the box at the bottom of page 2 of every Newsletter. Thank you. (J.D.)

MEMBER NEWS

It is with sadness that we report this month on the passing on of another of our members. Richmond O Clefstad, a long time member, passed away in early December. His memorial service was held December 15th.

On a mush happier note, congratulations to Singh Biln on the birth of a granddaughter December 20th in Kamloops.

VOLUNTEER HOURS NEEDED

It’s year end once again, time for all our volunteers to submit their hours for the year. Please get them to Colin Dathan by phone at 604-298-3734 or by e mail [email protected] Every hour volunteered counts, and a solid tally of hours for the year is of direct assistance in terms of grant applications and community contribution. (C.D.)

NOMINATIONS FOR BOARD POSITIONS

Nominations were held at the December General Meeting for two positions for the WCRA’s Board of Directors. The positions currently held by Craig McDowall and Keith Anderson are both up this term. Three nominations were made—Keith Anderson, Howie Biehl and Craig McDowall. As Craig McDowall has accepted a six month position as General Manager of our Day Out With Thomas event for 2007, he must step aside form the board of directors.

Thus there is no election required, and Keith Anderson and Howie Biehl are elected to the Board of Directors for a three year term. The entire board slate will be presented to the membership for approval at the Annual General Meeting in February.

WCRA News, Page 6 MAX JACQUIARD INDUCTED INTO HALL OF FAME

Railway artist Max Jaquiard has been inducted into the Canadian Railway Hall of Fame. This honour marks another milestone in Max’s brilliant career, and is confirmation that his paintings have captivated people across the country. Max has been inducted into the Industry Achievement category where he joins railway icons including Gordon Lightfoot and Pierre Berton.

The Canadian Railway Hall of Fame honours Canadian achievement in the railway business. Canada is a country in which the railways have played a significant role in the development of the nation and its communities. Each year, four people are inducted in one of five categories, Leaders, Heroes, Community, Technology and Industry Achievement. It is located in Big Valley, Alberta where a monument bearing the recipients names and achievements stands for visitors to see.

WEST COAST MINI RAIL HAS A BUSY DECEMBER

December 2006 seemed to be designed to test the creativity of the Mini Rail Portable Operations Crew. The busy month started off with the Washington Marine Group Children’s Christmas Party on December 3rd. The Party was held in Vancouver Shipyard’s (Fast) Cat assembly building in North Van. The huge building had been transformed into a Winter Wonderland, with a train station and a tunnel complete with a smoke generator.

At the last minute the weather dictated a quick change to the planned consist as we were unable to get the SRY Trainset down from Squamish (we couldn’t even get to it). Mary Roy graciously made hers available and it was quickly logo’d for SRY for the occasion. The Crew did have to shovel it out of its cozy shed at Confederation Park however. WMG provided welcome assistance for setup and takedown at the site, as well as a Pancake Breakfast for our operating crew at the event.

By the end of week we started moving equipment into the 374 Pavilion and setting up there for our Christmas Operation. Track used at Canada Place was reconfigured and Mary Roy’s train, decorated with Xmas lights, was set up to run around the outside of Engine 374. The Crew did a fantastic job of decorating (and in many cases loaning decorations) the Pavilion, Engine 374 and 13 Christmas trees (supplied at cost by Lonnie VanderZalm of Art Knapp’s in Surrey).

Considering that this year’s event was organized at short notice leaving no time for media advertising, we were very enthusiastically received and supported by the locals. Many expressed the hope that we would be back there next year and possibly at other events during the year. To fill the advertising void, during the quieter moments the Crew distributed flyers (donated by Larry Marshall) to the apartments and businesses in the area and Paul Roy blitzed the media by fax. WCRA News, Page 7

In the interest of space I am listing the Crew involved only once but many were there for both events as well as set-ups and take downs. Thanks go to: Len Brown; Colin Dathan; Jeremy Davy; Dave Durward; Dave & Arlone Emmington; Don Knudsen; Roy Liden; John & Faye Lighthall; Larry Marshall; George Massey; Doug May; Chuck Roy; Dennis Roy; Paul & Mary Roy; Jim Saunders; Bernie Tully. In addition thanks to Jack Volrich for supplying Urban Fare refreshment coupons and Henry Reimer for the illuminated Santa and a box of oranges, and to both for daily supportive visits. (J.D.)

PACIFIC RAILS 2007

Pacific Rails 2007, the annual convention of the Canadian Railway Historical Association (CRHA) and the Canadian Association of Railway Modellers (CARM) is coming to Victoria, BC May 17 to May 21, 2007. The program will feature three days of clinics, railway history, railway preservation and modeling. The group will visit the Duncan Forestry Museum, ride the Alberni Pacific, and visit the historic E & N Roundhouse.

Watch for further details in our future issues—block the dates now.

WCRA HOSTS OVER 50,000 GUESTS IN 2006

The West Coast Railway Association, through its main contact points with the public, hosted more than 57,000 guests in 2006. As we continue to build our presence, it is exciting the breadth we have in presenting railway preservation in our venues and activities. For 2006, we are tabulating more than just the West Coast Railway Heritage Park, as we have added to the public activities we present. Here’s how 2006 breaks down: • West Coast Railway Heritage Park guests 29,175 • Locomotive 374 Pavilion guests 21,204 • West Coast Mini Rail “off site” events 5,342 • Western Rails Railroadiana Show 1,500 • West Coast Rail Tours Guests 394

Total Guests for 2006 57,615

COLLECTION

SWITCH STAND AND RAILROAD LAMPS DONATED

Our thanks to Dave Nickerson for the donation of a (big, old and heavy!) Great Northern Railway switch stand originally from Cascade, Montana. Dave also donated other items including a pressure gauge, and three vintage railroad oil lamps, two of which came with red globes. (B.M.) WCRA News, Page 8 LEWTHWAITE HISTORY DONATION

Thanks to a series of personal connections, a railway family’s history is being preserved in the WCRA’s archives. The family of Earl & Dorothy Lewthwaite has donated some of Earl Lewthwaite’s and Dorothy’s railway memorabilia, records and photos. They were a remarkable railway family.

Dorothy was born in 1909 in North Vancouver, and chose a career in Morse Telegraphy, becoming the first woman telegrapher on the CPR. Her first station was at the Empress Hotel in Victoria, but she went on to several station locations throughout the interior of British Columbia. While in Ashcroft, she met Earl and they were married. Earl also worked for the CPR, holding many positions in locations such as Fort William, Cranbrook, Penticton and a time as Assistant Superintendent at Field, BC.

Thanks to Howie Biehl for helping preserve this history and to the family for choosing us.

374 PAVILION

FIRST 374 CHRISTMAS MINI RAIL A HIT

Following the decision not to participate at Christmas at Canada Place this year due the outdoor environment, the WCRA set up an alternate venue at the 374 Pavilion at the Roundhouse Community Centre in Yaletown. While the lead time was short, and advertising very little, the event worked well for us and is likely a choice to do again in future years with a little more planning ahead of time.

The track was set up in an oval shape following the perimeter of the Pavilion and encircling historic locomotive CPR 374. The pavilion was decorated with some Christmas trees, lights and a few Christmas characters, and made for a very pleasant site for riders who came at a rate of around 100 per day or better.

Trains operated December 14 to December 23 from 1000 through 2000 hours, with weekend hours being 0900 to 1700. John Lighthall also operated the train on December 27th while he was volunteering at the Pavilion. While the operation did not produce a fantastic amount of revenue, it was certainly better than if we had stayed home. It created awareness and support in the immediate community and a small amount of revenue.

All rides were by donation, and we carried 1,550 riders generating $1759.62 in the farebox. The tally shows a total of approximately 1,700 individuals visiting the 374 Pavilion during the days, and we also received a $200.00 donation to the Royal Hudson restoration from a non-rider. We operated a total of 87.5 hours including Dec 22 when we ran until 2230k in conjunction with the Winter Solstice Lantern Festival being held at the Community Centre. WCRA News, Page 9

No formal advertising was done in advance of opening or while we were operating, but we put up posters in and around the complex and several of our volunteers went further abroad to apartment buildings in the surrounding area. Jeremy went to see the Principal of the elementary school across the street and she came over for a first hand look on Dec 19 so she could report back to her staff. This resulted in several classes coming over for a “Mystery Fieldtrip”. We also had several visits from two of the Daycares in the area (Dorothy Lam and Quayside). The majority of the adults we talked with were very supportive of the MiniRail and “hope we will be there again next year” and also possibly on other occasions. (J.D.., photos Don Evans) WCRA News, Page 10 374 PAVILION REPORT

The Christmas mini train event at the 374 Roundhouse Pavilion was successfully held from December 15th to December 27th . Many thanks go to all the volunteers who made this event happen. The professionalism shown by the all of you, from the set up and tear down to the actual running of the train was impressive.

December visitor attendance is recorded at 2,436. This brings the total visitors to the 374 Roundhouse Pavilion to 21,204 since January 1, 2006.

The work required to clean and repair several items at the Roundhouse has been completed. 14 high intensity lights were replaced prior to the mini rail event and this has given the 374 pavilion a much brighter look about it.

Work continues on the data entry of the 25,000 names of people who purchased bricks as a fund raiser many years ago. The new computer program will identify the location of the bricks within the Roundhouse for the many requests that are received when guests want to locate their brick. Many thanks go to Len Brown who is heading up this project and the 374 volunteers who are assisting.

Negotiations for a new agreement between the WCRA, Vancouver Parks & Recreation and the Roundhouse Community Centre are continuing and are expected to be completed by the end of March 2007.

On December 12, 2006 at the 374 Roundhouse Chuck Davis presented a 1937 film “The Great Barrier” in which the 374 locomotive is a prime star. It was well attended. Nine DVD’s of this movie were sold and are available for sale at the 374 Pavilion.

Alex Miller, one the regular 374 volunteer’s (Thursday’s) was recently profiled in the winter Program Guide issue of the Roundhouse Community Arts & Recreation Centre publication. It is a very interesting profile and I encourage you to read it when you visit the 374 Pavilion. In brief Alex is no stranger to volunteering as he remains very active with other organizations including a long term association with the Alzheimer’s Society. Volunteering is a passion for Alex and we are most fortunate to have him as a 374 volunteer. Well done Alex. (J.B.)

ROYAL HUDSON PRESERVATION & FUND

ROYAL HUDSON PRESERVATION FUND

This month we continue to have some significant support from donors towards the completion of the Royal Hudson. The 2006 Direct Mail produced some good support, thanks to all who have made a contribution—it’s a long list this month! WCRA News, Page 11

We acknowledge our monthly contributors Dave Walker, Richard Tubbessing, and Ernie & Lynn Ledgerwood, as well as donors Paul Roy $300, Colin Dathan $500, Jessi Fischer $300, Joan Vale $25, Stan Tyson $100, Fred Murdoch $50, J H Syrett $100, Harold Hinson $50, Stuart du Fresne $50, Judy Houser $20, Ken Hynek $100, Elizabeth Kerr $50, David Wortman $50, Thomas Mark $50, Gwen Mochizuki $50, Fred Howse $25, Nona U’ren $200, Peter Carroll $15, Francis Kolotyluk $25, Jack Schaub $50, Nels Franzen $25, R A Clifford $20, Norma Gillan $100, Eivin Luffe $25, Kenneth Moir $100, Marjorie Black $100, Singh Biln $2,200, E Huntley $35, Murray Gentles $100, William Parry $20, Denis Roy $2,350, Randy Shimell $1,100, John Richards $50, John McQuarrie $30, Jean Goodman $10, Malcolm Tait $200, Alex Fisher $100, Lorna Lenson $25, S L McDonnell $50, H M McAfee $25, Norma Penny $35, Richard Matthews $200, Harry Freed $100, R T Ireland $25, Don Evans $1,000, Peggy Tinney $25, Ian Wells $50, Hugh Fraser $100, Leona Fritzke $100, Jan Seckel $100, Peter Reid $50, Diane Moorhouse $500, Donald Keeler $20, Jill Gould $100, Don Baumeister $100, Francis Tivy $50, G S MacFarlane $100, Fred Priest $50, Barbara Stover $50, Mervin Smith $100, Elmer Williams $25, Fred Stirman $100, L Champness $50, Davina Watson $25, Donald Wildman $100, Earl Roberts $50, W Rob Lane $20, James Van Doren $300, Manfred Rose $25, Garth McGeary $100, Angus Coulter $200, Hans Alderliesten $20, George Thomas $25, Craig McDowall $1,100, Brian Dobbin $100, TRAINS 2006 $100, Timothy Stratton $100, Ian Smith $250, Rex P Brown $100, Joan le Nobel $15, Allan Milligan $500, Ken Stokes $25, Timothy Ryan $50, Blair Petrie $100, Glenn Smith $50, Denis Forristal $100, Don Lawrence $50, Sharon Svensrud $35, Alvin Renflesh $100, Ken Aitchison $100, Pauline Fleury $200, Robert Kiell $150, Kenneth Olsen $2,000, John Lighthall $200, Douglas Hinsche $30, Ron East $100, Eileen Abram $25, Maida Kirk- Owen $50, James Demers $20, Henry Reimer $350, Anthony Ball $35, Dorothy Loh $50, Max Jacquiard $500, William Parry $20, Bill Lahr $1,000, Mark Pizarek $30, Don James $25, Patrick Potter $25, William Stemp $50, Ron Morley $25, Isabel Kilgour $20, Lorrie Fleming $50, Douglas Race $100, D. Bullock $10, Catherine Carter $25, Warren Rohn $100, Peter Lofthouse $200, Margaret Hill $10, Gordon Luke $100, Mary Larcombe $50, Brian Digby $100, G K McWilliam $25, Bob Sanders $25, S. Swain $30, Susan Gagon $150, John Yorke $25, Shirley Mackenzie $20, Ernest Spurgeon $50, Ernie Ottewell $50, Keith Irvine $200, JSC Frost $50, Mary MacGregor $50, Fern Finn $100, Patrick Recker $1,000, Douglas Watson $75, May Allen $10, Bill McNeney $50, Jim McGee $25, Charles Greene $500, Ylik Wasylik $30, Paul Smith $25, Jack Watchman $20, Lorna Bruce $50, Peter Howard $100, Charles Dick $50, Lisa Flatla $300, Eva Orme $50, John Krumin $200, Scott Silverfoot $50, Ron Kitteringham $400, Bill Parks $60, Roy Hedberg $50, Pat Wolczuk $40, Bob Hunter $60, Maureen Gilmour $20, William Gould $60, Murdo McLeod $25, Ron Crilley $25, Phyliis Stevens $15, Edna Read $25, Hollie Lowry $100, Edwin Foo $75, James Hall $50, Bill McEnery $500, Val Glassock $40, Stephen Wells $50, Bob Philip $500, Jean Baker $25, FP Jordan $100, Lea Sheppard $100, Joseph Maismith $200 and Lloyd Vaughan $20.

WCRA News, Page 12

Add in the Western Economic Diversification Canada grant of $110,000 and the Province of BC $100,000 TFA grant, Westran’s $50,000, the John Hardie Mitchell family foundation’s $20,000 and our total now leaps forward to $601,097.

A hearty thank you to all of our donors to date—without you we wouldn’t be where we are. But, we still have lots to fund—our bills to date have now passed $630,000 and we expect to need another $50,000 or so before completion is fully covered. Remember, you can make a donation on line through www.wcra.org . If any of you have been contemplating helping out, now is the time to consider it as we get down to the final months in one of WCRA’s biggest and most exciting projects. The Royal Hudson Preservation Fund still needs your support.

FUNDRAISING

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S REPORT – DECEMBER 2006

December was a good month, with significant funds coming in—but almost all for specifically targeted projects. The Direct Mail was very successful, and has assisted with the Royal Hudson bills to some extent. Thanks for your support.

Major Funding Received • Direct Mail donations $11,245 • Expenses donations Dathan & Evans $5,103 • Waterloo Train donation (balance) $337,050 • MP Shops donation $10,000 • Royal Hudson donations $1,800 • Louie Foundation $50,000 for Alberta

Month Total $415,198 Year to Date Total $ 415,198 (Year end objective $1,500,000) Other Significant Activities • Filed Gaming Account Summary Report • First Budd car trains over CN to downtown Squamish

DEBENTURES STILL AVAILABLE TO HELP US OVER THE FUNDING HUMP

The WCRA’s Board of Directors has approved a new issue of debentures available to members and friends who would like to make an investment in the WCRA. These will also help us over our current funding hump of need and assist us with some of the bills we need to pay. 2006 has been a very exciting year in terms of accomplishment, but also a very expensive one as major WCRA News, Page 13 projects, such as the 2860, have consumed more than available funding. We really need your help now as we still work to cover the Hudson's bills we encourage you to make an investment. Debentures are available in sizes from a minimum of $500 to the thousands of dollars, and pay 5% per annum on a standard three year term. An investment by our members is a preferred source of funding the projects (outright donations are, of course, always sought and welcome). Your help is really needed right now—and we offer our thanks to those who took advantage of this opportunity since we started this note a month or two ago.

Debenture details and application forms are easily available, just call Jim Brown at the Hastings office 604-681-4403 or at home 604-985-7249, or Don Evans at 604-988-3435. Either of us would be pleased to provide details and assist in any way we can.

WEST COAST RAIL TOURS

2007 TOURS—ANNOUNCED AND PLANNED

West Coast Rail Tours is pleased to announce our tours for 2007. The following outlines our planned first Royal Hudson trip for 2007, to White Rock on April 15th, as well as other tours set or planned for the year. We also plan for some additional Royal Hudson trips on the former BC Rail line this spring; watch this space or www.wcra.org for firm announcements as we work with our railway partners to get things ready to go. Our tours office is also available to book independent trips. For example we now issue tickets for the White Pass and Route Railroad as full-service agents for that line. The timetable for 2007 is now available and includes a new service Skagway to and from Carcross, YT. Ask us about specialized itineraries using the WP&YR service combined with air, coach, ferry and other rail services such as Canada. Rocky Mountaineer Vacations’ 2007 brochure is now available. We also have the latest 2007 Trafalgar Tours brochures. They include the following destinations and features: Europe & Britain, Australia & New Zealand, USA & Canada, River Cruises in Europe, Cost Saver Europe, and for the under 40 crowd, “Breakaway”. As agents we have special deals for WCRA members. We will pop the brochure of your choice in the mail as soon as you make the call. The new Rocky Mountaineer Vacations brochure is also available. Call soon for your copy on 604-524-1011 or toll free 1-800-722- 1233. (B.J.) Here are our tours for 2007:

MALAHAT CIRCLE TOUR - Daily except Saturday - all year

Depart from Pacific Central Station at a time of your choosing aboard Pacific Coach Lines WCRA News, Page 14 scheduled service to Victoria. We supply vouchers to take you to the Queen Victoria Hotel—a few steps from the bus depot. You are on your own for dinner. Breakfast is served at 7:00 AM in the hotel’s restaurant, then their van shuttles you to the 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. Fare: $224; Children 2-11 $186; BC Seniors (Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays only) $186. (Otherwise $224). Ask about special pricing if couples travel together. Single supplement $71. GST extra.

Sunday April 15th WHITE ROCK FIFTIETH ANNIVERSARY RAIL EXCURSION

VANCOUVER TO WHITE ROCK – RETURN

Plans are to depart the Rocky Mountaineer Rail Station, Vancouver at 10:00 AM. (on Cottrell Street, off Terminal Ave. behind The Home Depot), and arrive at the White Rock Station Museum at Noon. Enjoy sunny White Rock, partake the 50th Anniversary celebrations and have lunch in one of many fine restaurants or walk the boardwalk. Depart White Rock Station Museum at 3:00 PM and arrive back at the Rocky Mountaineer Rail Station, Vancouver at about 5:00 PM. This is the first planned public trip with the Royal Hudson since 1999— should the Hudson not be able to make the trip for any reason, the train will operate with our vintage diesel F units. Consist will include coaches and open observation car Henry Pickering. FARES: Train both ways $99, Train one way, chartered motorcoach opposite direction $75 Train one way only: $50. Children under 2 years on parent’s lap: Free. Souvenirs and snacks available on board. Limited number of tickets available — so please book as soon as possible

Friday May 4th AMTRAK “Cascades” Train, Seattle Overnight, & the “Spirit of Washington” LUNCHEON TRAIN EXPERIENCE

Depart Vancouver’s Pacific Central Station, by Amtrak’s “Cascades” 6:00 PM service for Seattle, (checking in before 5:00 PM.) No border hassles on this trip as you clear USA Customs & Immigration before boarding! Enjoy comfortable seating, entertainment, a snack in the Bistro car or “dinner in the diner” before arriving in Seattle at about 10:00 PM. You are transferred to accommodation in a comfortable downtown hotel. Saturday morning is free to shop or sightsee. Depart hotel at 10:50 AM for Renton where you board the “Spirit of Washington” Dinner train for a noon departure. A gourmet lunch is served while the train skirts Lake Washington's scenic eastern shoreline enroute to the Woodinville area. On arrival the Columbia Winery offers a tour and tasting before the train departs for its return trip - when coffee and dessert are served. Leave Renton at about 4:00 PM when your chartered WCRA News, Page 15 motorcoach takes you back to Vancouver. FARE: $269 Cdn including all taxes.

Thursday, June 21st TWO TRAINS & TWO FERRIES COASTAL CIRCLE TOUR Whistler, The Cariboo & Chilcotin Regions, The Discovery Coast and most of Vancouver Island

You are picked up in time to get you to the Whistler Mountaineer boarding platform in North Vancouver. Follow the scenic railway route along Howe Sound, then Squamish and the outstanding Cheakamus Canyon. Breakfast is served on board before arrival in Whistler and a transfer to your hotel at about noon. Enjoy Whistler. You leave Whistler the next day and travel through the Pemberton Valley before tackling the amazing Duffey Lake road to Lillooet and beyond to a lunch stop in Clinton, the 108 Mile Heritage site, and the evening in Williams Lake. On Saturday you depart for the Chilcotin region and stop at Bull Canyon for a break, then continue on to Nimpo Lake for lunch. After lunch you traverse Heckman Pass (5000’ above sea level) and enter Tweedsmuir Provincial Park. From here it is down hill, terminating with the spectacular hairpins descent, (“The Hill”), to the Bella Coola River Valley and on to Hagensborg where you will spend two nights. On Sunday your coach will take a pre-arranged tour of the area with a local guide soaking up the Norwegian and First Nations Heritage here. On Monday you board M.V. “Queen of Chilliwack” for departure at 8:00 AM. This unique ferry will surprise you with its friendly crew and various shipboard activities. For the next 13 hours you wind your way through Burke Channel, Fitz Hugh Sound and Queen Charlotte Strait. Sea life is often spotted. Upon arrival at Bear Cove you are transferred to Port McNeill for the night. On day 6 you will visit Woss Camp (logging railway) and the Ripple Rock overlook. Lunch is available at about noon at Courtenay station where you then board VIA Rail’s Malahat Dayliner for the 1:00 PM departure for Nanaimo. Your coach meets you here for the transfer to BC Ferries sailing to Horseshoe Bay with an early evening arrival in Vancouver. Fares: The 6-Day Tour, Thursday to Tuesday is $1465 based on shared accommodation. (BC Seniors $1385). Single Supplement - $495. A 7-Day Tour including full E&N Railway, Victoria hotel and return transportation to Vancouver, is $1645, (BC Seniors $1565). Single Supplement - $555.

Friday, July 13th WHITE PASS and YUKON ROUTE STEAM SPECTACULAR Visiting Whitehorse, Yukon, and vintage train (NEW Service!) all the way from Skagway to Carcross, YT, plus hours of Impressive Mountain Steam Railroading

Free pickup at your Lower Mainland area home or hotel is organized for departure from Vancouver’s International Airport by Air North’’s morning departure for Whitehorse. Upon arrival you take a scenic tour along the Alaska Highway to Miles Canyon and then check in at your hotel for the afternoon and evening. Visit the restored “Klondike” river boat and ride the riverfront trolley. We also recommend the “Frantic Follies” revue, for great entertainment and fun. You have the next morning free to visit the attractions in Whitehorse before a mid-day departure by chartered motorcoach on the South Klondike Highway to Skagway. Rest stops WCRA News, Page 16 will be made in Carcross and scenic overlooks. You have next morning free in Skagway to explore this historic village. Walk to the WP&YR depot for loading at 11:30 AM and depart at noon behind #73 (or #69) spending the afternoon soaking up spectacular mountain steam railroading. Run-bys for the rail-fans are performed. This 85 km round trip terminates at Fraser Meadows, BC, 10 km north of White Pass. On our last day you will board the special “Yukon Adventure” train for Carcross. Awaiting you at Lake Bennett will be a hot meal. You arrive in Carcross at 2:30 PM (3:30 PM, BC time) where your motorcoach will transfer you to Whitehorse Airport where you may take dinner. There should be time to visit the Museum of Transportation and the famous Beringia Centre near the airport before boarding the evening Air Canada flight to Vancouver. We arrange transportation to your home in the lower mainland. FARE: The 4-Day Tour, Friday to Monday is only $1394 each. Based on shared accommodation. Single Supplement - $346. Included in the price: All trains, airfares, and buses, local guides, tour director, hotels, most gratuities, breakfasts & 2 lunches, museum admissions. GST (only on Canadian portions of this tour) is extra (equivalent to just 4% of the total). Ask about extra days and more Alaska sightseeing.

Tuesday, August 14th VANCOUVER ISLAND’S WEST COAST ……….via Coastal Supply Vessel, E&N Train, & Steam Mill & Railway

Your free pickup gets you to the 8:30 AM sailing by BC Ferries to Nanaimo’s Departure Bay. Upon leaving Departure Bay you will go to the E&N rail station and board the Malahat Dayliner. Lunch will be served on the train prior to arrival in Courtenay. Your coach meets you for a stop at Coombs Junction Market and Cathedral Grove, time permitting. Then it’s off to Port Alberni for a visit to the top rated Alberni Valley Museum. You will have time to relax before a buffet dinner in the hotel. Next morning you leave the hotel for the short trip to the dock to board the “Frances Barkley“ coastal supply vessel that services Alberni Inlet stopping briefly at Sechart in the Broken Islands group and continues to Ucluelet. You then proceed north by coach to Tofino for a tour of that area and end up at your luxury seaside resort hotel. A gourmet dinner is included here. Wake up and relax on the beautiful Pacific Coast. You leave late next morning for the Wickaninnish Visitor Centre (and restaurant if desired). At 2:00 PM leave the Long Beach unit of Pacific Rim National Park for Port Alberni. Stops will be made at scenic overlooks. You check in to the Port Alberni Hotel and relax before dinner at a nice seaside restaurant. After breakfast you depart for the railway station where you will board the Alberni Pacific Railway train for its 10:00 AM departure for the McLean Mill National Historic site, (the only steam operated sawmill in Canada). Upon arrival take a tour of the mill, and have a light lunch. You leave at about 1:30 PM for the eastern side of the Island (Departure Bay) to catch the 4:30 PM sailing for Vancouver. (A stop at a rail station for those returning to Victoria on the Dayliner is possible). FARES: The 4-Day Tour, Tuesday to Friday is $788 each based on shared accommodation. (BC Seniors $765). Single Supplement - $232. The 5-Day Tour including the train to Victoria, hotel and return transportation to Vancouver is $868, (BC Seniors $845). Single Supplement - $292. WCRA News, Page 17

Friday, September 14th TWO STEAM TRAINS, FISH and WINE

A great opportunity to ride behind two steam locomotives in the Okanagan region, taste some great wines and see fish spawning

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 at the Hells Gate Air Tram. Then it’s on to Skihist Park overlooking Rainbow Canyon of the Thompson River and the railways operating through this most difficult part of the river valley. You overnight in Kamloops. Next morning your coach will transfer you to the Kamloops Heritage Railway’s train with steam locomotive 2141. The train climbs from Campbell Creek up into ranching country enroute to Armstrong for lunch. You then visit O'Keefe Ranch followed by a tour through Kelowna and on to Penticton with a stop to view spawning fish at Hardy Creek. You stay at the Penticton Lakeside Resort and Casino on the south beach of Okanagan Lake for 2 nights. You can sleep in and have a leisurely breakfast before leaving for the Kettle Valley Steam Railway. Our train takes us along the hills overlooking Summerland and on to the Trout Creek Bridge, the highest on the former . You will then have lunch and tour a local winery followed by a tour of the SS Sicamous, the beautifully restored lake steamer on the beach. You are then returned to the Lakeside Resort for the evening. The next morning your group will depart for Osoyoos where you will see one of the best model railroads anywhere (Osoyoos Desert Railroad). Then it’s off to the Grist Mill at Keremeos for a tour and lunch. 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: $697 Single Supplement: $163

Sunday, October 14th WHISTLER MOUNTAINEER RAIL-FAN SPECIAL — Last Run

Depart Vancouver in your chartered motorcoach and make interesting stops on route to the West Coast Railway Heritage Park where you will enjoy many rail-fan activities. Refreshments and a snack will be available here. You depart the Railway Park at about noon and head to Whistler where there will be time for a short tour. You arrive at the Whistler Mountaineer station at 2:15 PM for boarding at 2:30 PM. Your train departs at 3:00 PM and arrives in North Vancouver at 6:00 PM where a coach will transfer you to Waterfront Station in downtown Vancouver. SPECIAL FARE: $150.00. Limited seating

SPECIAL TOURS IN PLANNING FOR WCRT’s VINTAGE PRIVATE TRAIN

Call us to put your name on the waitlist for more information when these become available. We are in early stages of planning to operate a couple of special tours this summer, these are WCRA News, Page 18 subject to securing approvals for operation and logistics…..

Early Fall to the Peace River Country on the former BC Rail lines

This is a 9 day tour being considered on the former BC Rail Lines from Squamish to Fort St. John and Dawson Creek and return. Connections to and from Vancouver are included. The schedule and overnight locations have yet to be confirmed, late August being considered.

Early Summer from Kamloops to Vancouver and on to Whistler

This special excursion of 4 or 5 days will include entertainment and overnight stops in small communities along the route. Vintage locomotives will be used for all or part of this tour.

CPR “Empress” - Steam Through the Rockies 2007. A steam lover’s delight, our Canadian Rockies Steam Express tours feature the ’s heritage steam engine, the 2816 “Empress” on itineraries of your choice:

Vancouver – Calgary. Eastbound via Crowsnest, Departing: 2007 : July 8th – 14th (Calgary Stampede) 2008 : July 21st – 27th

Day 1. Vancouver Guests arriving in by air in Vancouver are met and transferred to a central hotel for a one night stay and welcome dinner. D. Day 2. Vancouver – Kamloops - The Canyons Mid morning we depart Vancouver’s Waterfront Station, beneath the original CP Terminal, for Kamloops, some 250 miles away. We follow Burrard Inlet then enter the Lower Fraser River and later Thompson River Canyons before our evening arrival in Kamloops. Transfer to the Executive Inn for dinner and overnight. B.L.D. Day 3. Kamloops – Golden – The Lakes After breakfast join the Spirit of Kamloops Heritage train for a short journey. On returning to Kamloops rejoin our CPR train and continue our journey into the Rockies, pausing at Craigellachie, where the last spike was driven to complete the Trans-Continental rail link on the 7th of November, 1885. We have a private visit to the CPR Railway museum in Revelstoke before ending our day at the important junction of Golden, where we have dinner and stay overnight. B,L,D. Day 4. Golden – Fort Steele. - Columbia River Valley From Golden the train diverges from the CPR mail line and takes the former Kootenay Railway line (now CPR's Windermere subdivision), south along the Columbia River Valley towards the US border. In the afternoon pull into Fort Steele where we visit Heritage Town, which has its own steam railway, the stock of which includes 0-4-4T 'Dunrobin' formerly owned by the Duke of Sutherland who used it to haul his private saloon around the Scottish highlands. Overnight in Cranbrook. B,L,D. WCRA News, Page 19

Day 5. Cranbrook –Crowsnest Pass – Lethbridge - The Rockies In the morning we have a private visit to the Canadian Museum of Rail Travel (www. trainsdeluxe.com) before tackling the spectacular line through the Crowsnest pass, where we cross the continental divide. If possible, this line is even more spectacular than the main line through Banff to the north. Overnight in Lethbridge. Not included – Optional visit to the excellent Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump UNESCO World Heritage Site (Passengers for this excursion leave the train in Cowley and rejoin the group for dinner in Lethbridge). B,L,D. Day 6. Lethbridge – Calgary. - The Prairies In the morning a photo-shoot will be staged with our train on the spectacular 1 mile long and 314 feet high Lethbridge trestle bridge, the largest in North America before we wind our way north to Calgary, where we arrive at the CPR Pavilion mid afternoon. The Pavilion is attached to the five-star Fairmont Palliser Hotel, where we will transfer for one night. B,L. Day 7. Calgary After breakfast in the hotel’s Rimrock Room our tour ends. Airport transfers arranged for those leaving from Calgary airport today. Those with free time to explore the cowboy town of Calgary can visit the local attractions, including the fascinating Grain Academy, the Calgary Tower, the Stampede Showgrounds and Calgary’s large Heritage Park (www. heritagepark.ca). B.

Westbound via Banff, departing: 2007: July 1st – 7th 2008: June 29th – July 5th, July 14th – 19th (Calgary Stampede) Day 1. Calgary Guests arriving by air are met at Calgary Airport and transferred to the 5* Fairmont Palliser Hotel for a one night stay and welcome dinner. D. Day 2. Calgary–Banff- Lake Louise. The Prairies We depart the CPR Pavillion (which is attached to the Palliser Hotel) in the morning and head through the suburbs of Calgary on our way to Banff, where we stop around lunchtime. This afternoon we are treated to a tour of the outstanding beauty that surrounds us. We also visit the stunning Chateau Lake Louise, situated at the head of Lake Louise, facing the 11,250ft Mount Victoria. From here the noise of cracking glaciers can often be heard as huge chunks of ice crash into the lake. We spend two nights in a hotel at Lake Louise B.L. Day 3. Lake Louise. Icefields Parkway Today we take the Icefields Parkway. Considered one of the most scenic highways in the world, the Icefields Parkway offers an ever-changing view of waterfalls, emerald lakes, alpine meadows and snow-capped peaks. At the boundary of the Banff and Jasper national Parks lies the Columbia Icefield. . One of the largest accumulations of ice and snow south of the Arctic Circle, it covers an area of nearly 325 square kilometres. And has eight major glaciers including the Athabasca, Dome, and Stutfield Glaciers, all visible from the Icefields Parkway. We will take Brewster's Ice Age Adventure, a tour onto the icy slopes of the Athabasca Glacier before returning to Lake Louse late afternoon. B,L. WCRA News, Page 20

Day 4. Lake Louise – Revelstoke The Rockies On leaving Lake Louise we start the steepest part of our climb through the Rockies. On reaching the Continental Divide, we pass from Alberta into British Columbia and change to Pacific Time. From here we descend past Lake Wapata into two spiral tunnels down to Kicking Horse Pass. We pause at Golden before continuing through Rogers Pass in Glacier National Park. We arrive in Revelstoke, where we visit the CP Railway Museum, and stay overnight. B,L,D.

Day 5. Revelstoke – Kamloops The Lakes An early run down to Kamloops, passing Craigellachie, where the last spike was driven to complete the Trans-Continental rail link on the 7th of November, 1885. We have arranged an excursion with the ‘Spirit of Kamloops’ heritage train and Canadian Northern 2-8-0 number 2141. We return to Kamloops for an overnight stay. B.L.D. Day 6. Kamloops – Vancouver. The Canyons

Early morning we depart for Vancouver, some 250 miles away, and travel along the Thompson River then Fraser River canyons. Exiting the lower Fraser River valley we run along Burrard Inlet into Vancouver’s Waterfront Station, beneath the original CP Terminal. We then transfer to a central hotel for a one-night stay and our farewell dinner. B,L,D. Day 7. Vancouver

After breakfast in the hotel, free time to explore this vibrant, cosmopolitan city. Transfers to Vancouver airport for guests leaving today by air. WCRT supplies one-way plane fare to / from Calgary.

Remember: West Coast Rail Tours travel agency has IATA status so we can handle all your bookings for air travel as well as cruises, motorcoaches, hotel accommodations, ferries and— our specialty - rail. We ask you to choose us as your travel agent, as all of our tours serve as fundraiserts for WCRA projects. This also applies to commissions earned on all travel bookings for making your travle bookings!

Contact Bill toll free at 1-800-722-1233, or locally at 604-524-1011 or by e-mail at [email protected] (B.J.)

West Coast Rail Tours - The “Rail” Way To Go WCRA News, Page 21 WEST COAST RAILWAY HERITAGE PARK Home of the Royal Hudson

CHRISTMAS LIGHTS IN THE PARK

The 8th Annual Christmas Lights in the Park event saw numbers drastically down this year due to December’s weather which did not cooperate with us at all!! Still, it was a great event and we offer thanks to our Sponsors: Squamish Terminals, On Track Management Ltd., Cardinal Concrete, Coast Aggregates Ltd., Keith Anderson, Greg Gardner Motors, Mountain Retreat Hotel & Suites, Squamish Lions Club, DJE Holdings, RLS Services and Tim Hortons.

Thanks also to our very special volunteers who braved the weather to have the event operate, Mr. & Mrs. Claus—Vivian Downing, Loretta Jellis & John Jellis, Mini Rail Engineers & Conductors - D’Arcy Nelson, Bill McEnery, Randy Shimell, Ernie Ledgerwood, Tom Bruval, Aaron Gruber, Don Evans, Tyler Kion, Megan Nelson and Deb Sankey, Storybook Readers - Jean McEnery, Audrey Rhodes, Ellen Grant, Lynn Ledgerwood, Karen Moodie & Bill Hales. Also, thanks Lynn for taking on another role as Photographer!!

The wind storms, rain and snow played havoc with us this year, and everyone pitched in over and over again to keep things going. Thanks to Chris Hunt who helped decorate the tunnel which got destroyed by a snowstorm (we tried), thanks to Richard Courage for clearing the mini rail line after the opening night storm., and thanks to Tomo’o Oshikawa, Joe Kerr and Kevin Smith for their ongoing help with site preparations.

Thanks also to our staff Barbara Stover, Olga Junkin, Wendy Junkin, Donna Fourchalk, Megan Hall, Stephanie Eyolfson & Sherry Elchuk. (S.E.)

JINGLE BELL EXPRESS

As a special opening and first weekend event, WCRA was able to operate our first Jingle Bell Express trains between the West Coast Railway Heritage Park and downtown Squamish, thanks to the support and assistance of CN. Our two Budd RDC cars BC 21 and BC 33 made up the train. (cover photo shows the train departing the shops for the first run Dec. 9).

On Saturday, December 9 the train made two departures from Loggers Lane (at 1630 and 1710) downtown in conjunction with the Christmas celebrations in the community. Santa and Mrs. Claus were aboard, and in spite of very wet weather both trips were absolutely full.

Our special thanks to the decorating crew of John Jellis, Tom Bruvall, Ron McCormack, Gary Turner & Tomo’o Oshikawa who made the train look festive inside and out. (photo, page 22) WCRA News, Page 22

Above, decorated Budd’s, left crowd lines up to board in Squamish, photos Chris Forget)

On the following Friday and Saturday, December 15 and 16, the train departed the Mac Norris Station at the West Coast Railway Heritage Park for round trips to town and back at 1700 and 1800, again very well patronized, especially on the Saturday.

Our thanks to those who helped make this a reality for the community…..Train Operations, Hal Coleman, Robert Payette , Henry Reimer & John Armstrong, Car Inspectors George Divorky and Mike Smith, On Board crew Randy Shimell & Briana Shimell, Crossing Flaggers, Singh Biln, Dave Thethi, Ueli Liechti, Tomo’o Oshikawa and Robert Misjak. Lastly, a full Trainload of thanks to John & Deb Armstrong from CN for the wonderful goodie bags for the children riders. WCRA News, Page 23

Left, Henry Reimer is “conductor” on the Jingle Bell Express, Randy Shimell photo)

BREAKFAST WITH SANTA

Our first Breakfast with Santa was a huge success, a little snug but lots of fun for every one. As a sell out + crowd squeezed into the education room at the Mac Norris Station.

Special thanks go to the Squamish Lions Club for the wonderful breakfast they cooked up of pancakes, sausages, and bacon. They are Dave Thethi, Nelson Winterburn, Malcolm McEwen,Larry McLennan, Moe Freitag, Doug Reid and son Kevin, Chito Vergara, and Mike Jenson.

And our wonderful volunteers at the WCRHP who, without their help, we couldn't even begin to take on these event's. They are Audrey Rhodes, Karen Moodie, Colleen Koop, Brandon Koop and his friend Troy, Sherry Elchuk, Chris Hunt, Vivian Downing, John Jellis, Mr. and Mrs. Claus, Mary Roy (who came to enjoy the breakfast and also ended up helping), and our organist Paula Donville. The Food was supplied by Wal-Mart, Sausages IGA Whistler, coffee/hot chocolate Tim Horton's, orange drink Squamish McDonald's. How lucky we are, and to all of you who attended you were wonderful guests. (D.F.)

THANKS TO OUR “ANGELS”…..

After we got the Mason Station loop decorated for Christmas, the winds and snow blew us down and then also buried us and our figures! But, with a few phone calls we had the displays restored and looking ready and sparkling for our Christmas lights. Those angels that were there to help were Karen Moodie and Sky, Ron McCormack, Carmen Peterson, Sherry Elchuk, Wendy Junkin, Stephanie Eyulsson, Tomoo Oshikawa, Randy Lucas, Randy Shimell and Brody Fourchalk. Thank you to you all. (D.F.) WCRA News, Page 24 BUY A TIE ACCESS DISRUPTED

A note to those of you who have “Buy a Tie” plaques at the Heritage Park—we ask your patience during construction of CN Turntable Plaza and the Roundhouse and Conference Centre, as a considerable amount of our original trackage at the site has been torn up, along with the tie plaques. These will all be relocated as the new trackage is installed, but for the next several months many of these tie plaques will not be accessible. Thanks for your understanding. (S.E.)

WEST COAST MINI RAIL OUT OF SERVICE DUE WEATHER

The West Coast Mini Rail line is not operating (as we write this in mid January) and is closed indefinitely. Some serious track work needs to be completed due the severe winter weather we have had, and our equipment also needs servicing after Christmas Event operations. We hope to return to service in a few weeks. (S.E.)

WILD AT ART COMING IN FEBRUARY

The Squamish Wild At Art event will hold its annual show and festival in Squamish, with a feature show at the West Coast Railway Heritage Park February 16 to 25, 2007. The show will be held in the PGE Carshop at the Heritage Park—a large venue for lots of displays. Wild at Art is a community generated Arts and Cultural festival with the goal of producing a family oriented event where everyone can appreciate the various arts, culture and heritage of the Squamish community.

During the weekend of February 23—25, downtown Squamish will join the festival in a big way with sidewalk displays and sales, street closures and entertainment. WCRA is planning to operate the “Downtown train” on these three days, to connect the event sites together in a unique way. Details are being worked on as we go to press, watch www.wcra.org for details or call the Heritage Park. (S.E.)

HERITAGE WEEK—FEBRUARY 18 THROUGH 25

Celebrate Heritage Week at the West Coast Railway Heritage Park. The Brightbill Heritage House will be open everyday from 1100 to 1400k, with volunteers demonstrating items that were every day use then and are now heritage pieces, with our people decked out in period costume from the 1930's. The exciting part is Ivan Sayer is going to be doing a fashion show on February 18th and we are getting his wonderful input for dress in these era's. For those who do not know him he worked at the Van. Centennial Museum and was Curator of History from 1979-1991. His shows are exciting and very informative. WCRA News, Page 25

We hope to see a lot of members from Vancouver who have not experienced these venues before, as we have lots of fun and we know you will to. On February 24th and 25th, we are going to have our heritage luncheon & tea with our volunteers dressed again period time of our wonderful station 1915 (and, of course, Wild at Art will also be on these dates). D.F.

Celebrate Heritage Week at the West Coast Railway Heritage Park Heritage Luncheon and Tea in our 1915 Station $7.50 per person

Saturday, February 24 & 25th 11:30 & 1:00 pm seatings Reservations required 604-898-9336

Relive the 1930’s in the 1937 Brightbill Heritage House and see the artifacts and antiques come to life!!! 11:30-2:00 pm February 18-25th

DAY OUT WITH THOMAS TO RETURN JUNE 2007

Exciting news this month, as we confirm the return of the popular Day Out With Thomas event to the Vancouver area, being held at the West Coast Railway Heritage Park for six days, June 1,2,3 and June 8,9,10 , 2007. The event will have all the usual family activities, and details will follow in a future newsletter edition.

The major change for 2007, over our events in past years, will be a greatly improved train ride as the Heritage Park tracks now have access off the main site, across Government Road and onto CN’s yard trackage. All aspects—train capacity, ride distance, and environment (we will have power this time for lights, heat and ventilation) will be improved. WCRA News, Page 26

We expect tickets to go on sale by mid to late February, and members will have first access as in past years. Tickets will be through Ticketmaster, and we will send an electronic message out with details as they are readied, of course—details will be posted on www. wcra.org as things progress.

Our Event Manager will be Craig McDowall, and his team is already at work with the planning for the organizing and preparations to host this fabulous event. We have an increased capacity on the train this year (due our additional coaches) so the Day out With Thomas 2007 will be our best ever.

FEATURE ARTICLES

FROM THE DAVID WILKIE COLLECTION

As many of you are aware, David Wilkie was one of the foremost rail photographers in Western Canada for many years until his passing a few years ago. David was known for his efforts to take dramatic steps (and climbs) to get in position for the perfect shot—and for the high quality images that he did achieve.

In the past several issues, we have featured one of David’s photos, but this month something different, as our last issues with both David’s photos and Craig's Looking Back features have triggered some memories for one of our Vancouver Island members…..

AN EXTRA SPECIAL DAY —by Frank Carter, Campbell River, BC

I always look forward to receiving WCRA News each month. This month’s (January 2007 issue) “Looking Back” by Craig McDowall brought back fond memories. The item that I found extra special was the report of CPR Work Extra 8669 moving five cars with bridge girders to the Tsable River Bridge.

We had not seen a train north of Parksville for almost two years. I am not sure how we knew that the girders were being moved that day, but we did. I got together with friends Harold Poole, Don Forseth and Bill Surgenoo (Bill’s grandfather worked for Hastings Timber Mills as a locomotive engineer, and his dad for Comox Logging also as an engineer).

We headed south from Courtenay with two vehicles, checking crossings south of Tsable River for signs of the train, and decided that it had not made it north of the Mud Bay crossing at Fanny Bay as yet.

While finding that perfect spot to get a picture, up drove a large maroon Pontiac. I had seen WCRA News, Page 27 this car a few years earlier while chasing the Royal Hudson. (it had been the third or fourth day that the Hudson had run in 1974); I had positioned north of Horseshoe Bay with the railway 50 to 75 feet below the highway. I did not think it the best spot to get the picture, but decided it would have to do. Anyways, I am sitting there waiting for the train when the maroon Pontiac came flying into my spot, the driver jumps out, runs to the embankment, looks down to the tracks, and yells back to his wife that it’s too tight, jumps back into the car a roars off as fast as he arrived!

I was kind of baffled, what was he doing and why? I kind of figured it out when I got my picture back, not a bad picture of the top of the train, but that’s likely why no one else stopped at my spot!

Over the next few years I got a little more into it, bought myself a 35 mm camera so I could be more like the other people chasing trains. I started to meet some of the fellows from Victoria, and learned that sometimes to get the right picture it was necessary to do things like climb trees, use ladders, scale embankments, even climb on a car! I was told that someone named Dave Wilkie owned a large maroon Pontiac and would stand on the roof of it with a tripod to get a great shot. His wife had to sit in the car absolutely still so as not to ruin a picture. I had always been impressed with Dave’s photos, but had never met him (or so I thought!)

Back to Mud Bay crossing, up drives this large maroon Pontiac, and out jumps this tall white haired gentleman, walks over to my vehicle and asks, “have you seen a train?” I blurted out, “You’re Dave Wilkie, aren’t you”? I think I kind of took him by surprise, he quietly said yes, and we shook hands. I hope he realized what a thrill it was for me to meet him. I think I had a smile from ear to ear—I had just met Dave Wilkie!

Soon, the train arrived with its load of girders. The engine ran around the train at the siding, then pushed the carloads of girders to the bridge site. The south end of the bridge was complete. The mid section was always steel, and there was temporary bridge work on the north end with rails so that the new girders could be moved into position. Dave noted that these came from the second crossing over the Columbia at Revelstoke.

After the train had arrived at Mud Bay, crossing, Dave got his photos and disappeared. We did not see him again that day, although a photo appeared in Pacific News showing 8669 and its train, crossing an open area with Denman Island in the background. He would have taken the photo from high up a farmer’s field over looking the tracks.

It had been a great day—meeting Dave Wilkie, actually seeing a train on the Parksville— Courtenay section of the E & N. Somewhere in the David Wilkie Collection will be photos taken that day of Extra 8669 moving girders to rebuild the Tsable River bridge. WCRA News, Page 28 LOOKING BACK—By Craig McDowall - From WCRA News - January 1978 BC Rail

The McKenzie Commission inquiry into BCR affairs continues. The commission commented on the breakneck speed with which BCR awarded contracts to build the Dease Lake extension and cited this as a major reason for the multi million dollar costs. Most of the contracts were awarded within days of the bids being opened with the MEL paving contract being awarded the next day!

Canadian Pacific

CP has applied to the CTC to double track 5.5 miles of track of its mainline between Lake Louise and Stephen B.C. The work will cost $12 million and will take two years to complete. This will provide an easier grade for westbound trains (reducing the grade from 1.3% to 1%.

CP’s mainline was closed 32 kms west of Kamloops for 2 days in Mid January due to a derailment. 18 cars of a 90 car westbound freight but there were no injuries.

The E & N dayliner, which the CTC had given permission to discontinue as of Jan. 31/78 has been given a five month reprieve. Shortly after CP had re-opened the Parksville- Courtenay portion of the line on Dec. 17/77, the CTC decision was made public. The BC government protested to the CTC and Premier Bennett blasted CP for “breaking commitments made in perpetuity in return for huge land grants”. The CTC agreed to give the province time to take its case to the Federal Court of Appeal.

VIA business car #5 was spotted on the Canadian departing Vancouver on Dec. 23rd.

The Princess of Vancouver underwent annual dry-docking and inspection in mid January.

CZ had trouble with their RS3 #4097 (again!!) so CP shipped S4 #7114 from Vancouver on a temporary lease. But the CP unit developed major electrical problems and was replaced by CP #7116 from Wellcox. Then S2 #7076 was sent to replace #7116. This was the first time since 1948 that a S2 has been operating on the E & N.

CN

F units #6504, 6510 & 6613 have been spotted in VIA livery.

The eastbound Super Continental was delayed 23 hours by an axle failure on one of the power units 27 kms west of Kamloops on Jan. 3rd. The two remaining lead units uncoupled WCRA News, Page 29 and continued on to Kamloops and crossed over to the CP line and went back down to Basque and crossed over to the CP. They then came back up the CP line to couple onto the back of the train and towed it back over the CP line and on to Kamloops! This was due to the absence of any steam generator units in Boston Bar.

CN hasn’t made any final decision regarding the future of the now un-used engine shed north of Great Northern Way. (Ed note, it’s now Rocky Mountaineer’s Station)

A 33 car CN freight hit a single engine plane that attempted to land on the CN right of way between Calgary and Edmonton (MCM note: a new form of intermodal transport !!). The Cessna 150 landed about 20 minutes before the northbound freight rounded a bend and struck the rear of the plane. The train pushed the plane 180 yards before stopping. Both the pilot and passenger (who were apparently still in the plane) were critically injured.

Amtrak

Amtrak is again operating its “Reno Fun Trains” from Oakland departing on Fridays and returning on Sundays. They have now inaugurated a Los Angeles to Tijuana “Gambler’s Special” to the race track. Also two special “Mardi Gras Fun Trains” complete with Dixieland Jazz bands departing from Los Angeles and Chicago for New Orleans on Feb. 7/78.

The borrowed SR FP’s operating out of Seattle south have been returned to SR but the FP 7 #672 is still south and was spotted with F40PH #216 in Seattle InterBay on Dec. 29/77.

Etc. Items

Vancouver City council has committed $200,000 for yet another LRT study; this one for a possible line between Vancouver and New Westminster and a fast bus line along the Arbutus corridor.

BC Hydro has painted four busses in a special “free downtown shoppers” motif for the Christmas season. They were painted to resemble the old BCE open observation streetcars and had “BCE Co. 124” lettered near the rear of each unit.

OUR MEMBERS WRITE

It’s always great to hear from our members, here are a couple of other recently received notes:

“Dear Don, Just a quick note to let you and the WCRA staff know how much Erica and I WCRA News, Page 30 enjoyed the Awards banquet last week, and how honoured I was to receive with Greg and Richard the Most Significant Contribution to Rail Preservation award. One never gets into these things for recognition, but rather for the sheer fun of it, and I know that the three of us had a ball working on 6503 over the years.

Railroads and railroad people have been a huge part of my life, and it means a great deal to be recognized by the WCRA, which continues to set high standards for railway preservation, and numbers so many professional railroaders among its members and friends. My heartfelt thanks to everyone at WCRA for having afforded the opportunity for us to “play with a really big train set” Michael Batten

Dear Don:

First, I must congratulate the WCRA and its members for the dedication and effort put in to the restoration of the Royal Hudson. I had intended to be there (on September 28th) but my health at that time would not permit.

I was going through some of my pictures the other day and came across several that I took at WCRA News, Page 31

Pemberton (and nearby) on May 20, 2001. Hope they are of interest. Enclosed also is my donation towards the Royal Hudson or wherever it is most needed.

Joe Antonelli, Campbell River.

RAILWAY NEWS

AMTRAK CASCADES NEWS

Amtrak Cascades operated extra trains between Seattle and Portland during the busy US Thanksgiving rush, using GE power and a consist of Amfleet and Horizon equipment. A total of five extra roundtrips were operated—one each on the Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday and two on the Sunday of the holiday weekend.

Noted January 5th was GE Unit #152 on the Amtrak Cascades train arriving Vancouver.

Rumours are strengthening that Vancouver, BC may finally get the second Amtrak schedule to Seattle (AM departure, PM return) during 2007. Wouldn’t that be great!

SPOTTINGS

At Thornton Nov. 26 CSX 7572 and 4772; Dec. 7 BCOL Caboose painted yellow / black lettered “engineering only-crew transporter”, also CN 50554 RMC-1, a Plasser 1984 built RM-76u ballast undercutter & cleaner; Dec. 14 BNSF 7797, a brand new ES-44DC, also GCFX 6067 a GEC/Alstom lease unit in gray / orange paint, and later in December PNR Railworks J-6 single grinder. (R.C.)

HOT TRAIN GETS HOTTER

Further to last month’s note re CN’s hot train #111, it has got even faster in some operations. Train 111 / 02 made it from Toronto to Kamloops in just 63 hours 13 minutes (compare to VIA’s #1 which is scheduled for 63 hours 55 minutes!). On this occasion, train 111 made it seven hours and 37 minutes ahead of its expedited schedule! (J.M.) WCRA News, Page 32 CN TAKES OVER BNSF LINE TO VANCOUVER

CN took over operations and maintenance of BNSF’s line from north of the Fraser River bridge into Vancouver effective December 18, 2006. The Rail Traffic Controller is now in Edmonton and radio frequencies are CN channels. Some contract maintenance of signaling and track may continue for a while due CN shortages of track and signal workers. (T.M.)

EX BCR BUDDS MOVE IN OREGON

The three ex BC Rail Budd RDC’s that served as the Lewis & Clark Explorer in Oregon have a new home. RDC-3 BC 31 and RDC-1’s BC 10 / BC 11 have been purchased by the Wallowa Union Railroad, which is located in the far northeastern part of the State. They will operate as the Eagle Cap Wilderness Train, and run on the 60 mile line between Elgin and Joseph, OR. This is the scenic ex Union Pacific Joseph branch, and features lovely scenic riverside operation. (E.I.)

OPERATING RATIO RECORD SET

CN achieved its lowest ever operating ratio in the third quarter of 2006, posting in at 57.4%. This is achieved through gains in operating revenue, cost control and asset utilization. CN is the only Class 1 railway to post a ratio below the 60% mark. (BL)

CUSTOMER SERVICE TO DECENTRALIZE

CN is decentralizing its Customer Service operation from Winnipeg, and will open six centres across the country. The first to open will be in Prince George, BC with others to follow in Vancouver, Edmonton, Winnipeg, Toronto and Montreal. (BL)

PRINCE RUPERT LINE LIKELY “SOLD OUT”

CN is expecting capacity on its northern BC line to Prince Rupert to be “sold out” by the time the new container port opens there in late 2007. CN has a sales team active in China to sign up customers for the new service, which is expected to shave several days off transport time across North America compared to service from other ports.

Not only is the ship time across the Pacific shortened (due a shorter voyage), but rail transit time is also significantly improved due avoiding congested metro areas. CN says that service from Beijing to Memphis, TN could be as much as eight to nine days better than from ports such as Long Beach, CA as a result.

CN is investing as much as $30 million to the project, which is also supported by both Provincial and Federal funds. (BL) WCRA News, Page 33

CRANBROOK—KIMBERLEY LINE DECOMMISSIONED

The last rites for the CPR line between Cranbrook, BC and Kimberley have been held. The line, in place for more than 100 years, will likely become part of the Trans Canada Trail. The decommissioning is underway and, once complete, CPR is expected to gift the right of way to the communities of Cranbrook, Kimberley and the Regional District. Decommissioning includes removal of rail, ties, and ballast. (BL)

HOLIDAY TRAINS SET NEW RECORD

CPR’s popular Holiday Trains operated across both Canadian and American CPR lines again this December, and are reported to have set yet again new records on attendance at community stops as well as funds raised for local charities.

FROM THE PAST….

CPR RDC-2 #9100 pauses at Midway, BC in this photo from Don Evans’ collection. This photo, and the one on page 34 of RDC’s meeting (RDC-2 9100 / RDC-3 9022) at Crows Nest, were taken in 1962 by my father, Jack Evans, on one of our annual summer rail trips around North America. Wish we could ride these rails today! WCRA News, Page 34

WINTER TRAINS

The Rocky Mountaineer operated its two usual December round trips between Vancouver and Banff. Shots here at Banff platform and westbound out of Kamloops by Bill Johnston. WCRA News, Page 35

VIA 6400 UPGRADE

The major upgrade to VIA F40PH-2 #6400 is complete, and the unit will soon be released and tour the VIA system before entering service. The full rebuild brings the locomotive to “brand new” status, and involved stripping the body to the shell, replacing or upgrading all operating components, and repainting in VIA’s new colour scheme. The work was done by CAD Railway Services in Lachine, PQ and cost around 50% the cost of a new locomotive. VIA has put the rebuild of the other 53 F40PH-2’s into its capital plan it is submitting to Government. (TJ)

150 YEARS FOR QUEBEC CITY—WINDSOR CORRIDOR

VIA Rail Canada toasted 150 years of service on the Quebec City, PQ—Windsor, ON “corridor” in October. The first train departed Toronto on October 27, 1856 at 0700 and traveled to Montreal in 14 hours, while a counterpart traveled in the other direction. A meal stop was made by each and the two met at Kingston at 1400. (BL)

OTHER NEWS

WEST COAST EXPRESS 906

West Coast Express’ new locomotive, MP36PH-C #906, was spotted en route on the Union Pacific at Hinkle, Oregon on November 27th. The unit should be here by now. (T.H.)

SURREY RAIL SERVICE “POSSIBLE”

It appears technically possible to run a rapid transit rail service from Scott Road SkyTrain Station all the way to downtown Langley. It would be tricky and expensive - but it is possible.

Those are the key findings of consultants hired by TransLink to look at feasibility of reopening passenger rail service on the old electric interurban rail route, which linked Vancouver to Chilliwack until it was shut down in the 1950s. Cost estimates range from $350 million for a diesel-powered heavy rail system with nine stations to $700 million for an electric light rail system that would be more frequent and allow 16 stations along the 27-km route. The WCRA News, Page 36 study by DRL Solutions Inc. shows possible station locations and assumed frequent service - not the peak-only service offered by the West Coast Express from Vancouver to Mission.

The concept so far hasn't been at the top of TransLink's vision to serve growth in Surrey and Langley. "It wouldn't stand out as our first choice," said Graeme Masterton, TransLink's program manager of transit planning. Instead, bus rapid transit, eventually replaced by light rail lines, is eyed for King George Highway and 104 Avenue, and potentially the Fraser Highway and Highway 1.

But reviving the historic interurban route has captivated rail fans and gained momentum. Surrey council voted this fall to hire its own project manager to explore a community rail option on the route. A volunteer group is restoring old interurban cars in hopes of launching a heritage run for tourists. Even TransLink has said all ideas are on the table as it draws up a new South of Fraser area plan to chart the future of transit as the area grows from 600,000 now to one million by 2031.

"We said `OK, let's have a look,'" TransLink's Ken Hardie said. "What would it take to make it happen?"

A lot, it turns out. The consultants tabled a long list of challenges: - Railway operators may oppose the passenger rail idea, fearing it will hinder freight runs. The study assumes local Surrey freight trains would run at night only and trains that don't stop locally will be rerouted. - The route through Surrey is flanked by two lines of B.C. Hydro transmission poles, which would be costly to move if the line must be double-tracked. - Heavy and growing congestion on the segment of the CPR line from Cloverdale to Langley. - Tightened regulations are expected to run a passenger service on the route shared with freight trains.

Advocates of the interurban route are undeterred. "We did not see anything that was a show stopper," said former Surrey and Langley planner Terry Lyster, a member of Valley Transportation Advisory Committee. "Those are large numbers," he said of cost estimates. "But the numbers to build new crossings of the Fraser River are much larger." He noted the per kilometre costs are less than a quarter of costs for TransLink's new $1.9-billion Canada Line or $1-billion proposed Evergreen Line.

Getting a fair shake in transit spending is one motive at play - some see TransLink sucking plenty of money out of Surrey and Langley and investing it north of the river. TransLink and rail advocates agree on at least one thing: people need to move between neighbourhoods in WCRA News, Page 37

Surrey and Langley, not commute to downtown Vancouver.

Research shows 85 per cent of trips by residents south of the Fraser stay in the region. Twice as many people commute from Surrey to Langley or vice-versa than go to downtown Vancouver. Those stats persuaded TransLink that what's needed isn't a peak-hours only commuter service geared solely to get Surrey and Langley residents to the SkyTrain and on to Vancouver.

TransLink officials promise more work to explore the interurban route. The next step, by the end of 2007, is to estimate potential ridership and revenue. Because higher density development would surely follow a light rail line, TransLink will also be looking to Surrey council for guidance. Opposition from city hall would likely sink the route, officials hint, while support could catapult it into serious contention. Jeff Nagel, Black Press

MURAL IMPROVES GRANDVIEW CUT

BNSF Railway Company employees pitched in to lend a hand to local Vancouver, British Columbia, citizens as they worked to enhance the beauty of their downtown area in preparation for the 2010 Winter Olympics.

Approximately one mile east of downtown's Pacific Central Train Station, adjacent to BNSF's mainline operation (from Vancouver to the Canada/U.S. border), there is an area where many transients and graffiti "taggers" congregate and create unfavourable designs that are clearly recognizable by the traveling public, passengers riding Amtrak, VIA, Rocky Mountaineer and SkyTrain, as well as neighbours in the area.

The Vancouver Police Department’s Anti-Graffiti Unit approached BNSF for assistance in stopping graffiti activity after learning about BNSF's Anti-Trespass Initiative in British Columbia.

The result of this group's efforts was the elimination of vegetation, removal of graffiti and placement of a 10-by-20-foot mural featuring a Great Northern (GN) steam locomotive that includes the famous GN Goat logo. The mural is on the side of the retaining wall leading to the VCC Skytrain station, facing the tracks and not Great Northern Way. You could see it if you were riding on the train, and maybe from the higher SkyTrain line.

BNSF's logo will be placed on the wall. BNSF also contributed to the project by funding the artist's fees, mural sealant and provided maintenance flagman and assisted with the placement of the mural. (N.D., J.M.)

WCRA News, Page 38

Article from the Victoria Times Colonist, January 8, 2007 re the future of the timber Kinsol Trestle, which was part of CN’s Vancouver Island operation out of Cowichan Bay. (submitted by Colin Smith) WCRA News, Page 39

PEOPLE

The Kettle Valley Steam Railway has chosen Ron Restrick as its new general manager. Ron had 32 years service with BC Rail and is a graduate of Capilano College’s Tourism management program. He replaces Debbie Kinvig.

White Pass & Yukon's Gary Danielson was honoured recently when he received the Lifetime Achievement Award for 2006 from the Alaska Tourism Industry Association. He reportedly quipped that he was not yet done withy either lifetime or achievement! The White Pass & Yukon line has done nothing but grow with the cruise industry and other services it operates on the historic narrow gauge line. NO DIRECTORS ELECTION NEEDED

A closing note, to let members know that there will be no election needed for WCRA Directors this term. Three nominations were ac- cepted for two positions, however Criag McDowall will not stand due his new role with Day Out With Thomas. Thus the other two nomina- tions, Keith Anderson and Howie Biehl are elected by acclamation.

The full slate of Directors for 2007 will be presented to the members for approval at the February 27, 2007 Annual General Meeting.

INSULATORS WANTED BY COLLECTOR

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

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

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

CREDIT LINES ISSN 1204-072X Vol. 46 Issue 2

Editor Don Evans Distribution Jeremy Davy & Donna Simon

Contributors:

J.B. Jim Brown R.C. Ryan Cruickshank C.D. Colin Dathan J.D. Jeremy Davy N.D. Nini Durward S.E. Sherry Elchuk D.F. Donna Fourchalk T.H. Trevor Heath E I. Ed Immel B.J. Bill Johnston B.M. Bill Marchant J.M. Jim McPherson T.M. Trevor Mills C.S. Colin Smith

BL Branchline TJ Tempo Jr.

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

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

TRIVIA ANSWER

The new company was the Canadian Northern Railway. William Mackenzie and Donald Mann then proceeded to expand the system so that by 1915 it comprised 9,362 miles of trackage, and became a core part of the new Canadian National Railways.