WCRA NEWS
MARCH 2009 ROUNDHOUSE & CONFERENCE CENTRE AGM FEBRUARY 24 WCRA News, Page 2 GENERAL MEETING NOTICE
The Annual General Meeting of the WCRA will be held on Tuesday, Feburary 24, 2009 at 1930 hours at Rainbow Creek Station in Burnaby. The memberhsip will see the 2009 Strategic Plan, and be asked to approve the 2009 budget, 2008 financial statements and the 2009 slate of Directors. Please make an effort to attend this important meeting.
The February General Meeting will follow the AGM. Entertainment will be a Canadian Steam DVD as time permits. ON THE COVER
CN’s business car train, bringing special guests for the announcement of the CN Roundhouse & Conference Centre sponsorship, backs into the West Coast Railway Heritage Park on Thursday, January 29, 2009. On the point is B39-8E BCOL 3911, with consist of Fraser Spirit generator / galley car, dome car American Spirit and business car Pacific Spirit. Full coverage begins on page 17. (Ken Storey photo)
MARCH CALENDAR
• West Coast Railway Heritage Park open daily 1000 through 1700k • Wednesday, March 11 2009—Deadline for items to be included in the April 2009 edition of WCRA News • Friday, March 6—Wild at Art opening gala, Heritage Park CarShop, 7:00PM • Friday, March 6 through Sunday, March 15—Wild at Art event—Gallery open in the PGE CarShop daily, special entertainment events and activities all week. • Saturday, March 14—Heritage Day at Wild at Art, Karen Fowlie concert at 1200, the Jocelyn Band concert at 1300, Brian Robertson concert at 1400, Brian Couture Logging Show 1424k plus other activities / market all day, Rotary BBQ • Sunday, March 15—Western Rails Show, Cameron Rec. Centre in Burnaby, 0900-1600 • Tuesday, March 24—Tours Committee Meets • Tuesday, March 31—WCRA General Meeting, Rainbow Creek Station, 1930 hours The West Coast Railway Association is an historical group dedicated to the preservation of British Columbia railway history. Membership is open to all people with an interest in railways past and present. We are a non-profit British Columbia society, registered as a Canadian charity. Individual membership in the WCRA is $50.00 per year, family membership is $60.00. E Members (electronic newsletter, $15 savings) are $35 individual and $45 family. (Outside Canada, please remit US $) Other categories are: - Junior Member (age 18 and under ) $ 25 - Sustaining Member $100 (tax receipt) plus membership type regular fee - Life Member (one time fee) $700 individual life / $1,200 family life All memberships include the monthly newsletter, Heritage Park admission (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 EDITORIAL
A LARGE STEP FORWARD
Thursday January, 29, 2009 marked a large step forward for the Roundhouse & Conference Centre project, as CN announced a $1.25 million donation to the project, and the name of the new facility was officially unveiled as the CN Roundhouse & Conference Centre. The full story of the event can be found elsewhere throughout this issue of WCRA News.
To say that we are delighted to have CN aboard in this way is an understatement. Our appreciation goes far beyond this specific piece of support. CN is the right name for us to have on the innovative new centre for the Heritage Park and the Squamish community.
CN is our host railway, one with whom we must work and cooperate with in many ways. Our work with them has to be a two way street, and we have had many such opportunities over the years as we build our working relationship. CN has helped us in many situations, including occasional operations in the Squamish area for community events, such as the downtown trains during Wild at Art in 2008 and the recent Polar Express operations this past December.
On our side, we have been able to provide track space for freight car unloading on occasions where their space was unavailable, and have been able to provide things such as shop space to repair rail maintenance equipment, and rescue services for motive power emergencies (water, freeze prevention etc.) on occasion.
CN is also integral to the story we tell at the West Coast Railway Heritage Park, the story of how the railways opened up Western Canada, established our communities, established much of our economies, and continue to be leaders in efficient shipping and transportation today.
We are pleased to have the name of such a company on our new facility, and to have it branded the CN Roundhouse & Conference Centre. We thank CN for their support and look forward to a long future of working together. Don ASSOCIATION NEWS
FROM THE JANUARY GENERAL MEETING
The January General Meeting was held Tuesday, January 27 at Rainbow Creek Station in Burnaby. Colin Dathan chaired the meeting with 30 members & guests present: • A moment’s silence was observed in memory of Mac Norris, who passed away January 25 at Lions Gate Hospital • Don Evans provided the President’s Report, updating the membership on the fundraising WCRA News, Page 4 activities, including the Endowment and the Roundhouse & Conference Centre. Members were invited to be at the Heritage Park January 29 for a major announcement. • Don Evans reported on the Heritage Park for Susan, noting a good New Year’s Eve event in the Carshop attended by 600 people, making good funds for the Park. This was followed with the filming of a TV Commercial for Verizon, which used the Budd Cars. • Don Evans reported on finances for Jim, noting that production of T5’s is underway as are the year end tax receipts for donations. The draft budget for 2009 is now ready and will be presented at the AGM in February. • Colin Dathan reported on the 374 Pavilion, noting that volunteers are always needed and that the snow delayed the removal of the mini rail after Christmas • Colin Smith reported on construction of the CN Roundhouse & Conference Centre, noting that Norson Construction has now been retained as Construction Manager to see the project to completion. The roof sheathing is currently being installed, and completion is set for August 2009. The HVAC system will be a geo-thermal system thanks to CN’s contribution, wells have been drilled and tested. • Don Evans reported on the collection, noting that the Alberta project has now been fully funded and is full steam ahead, and that work to prepare the Henry Pickering open car for Whistler Mountaineer service is also underway. • Bernie Tully announced the next event is the Mount Pleasant Lions show, Feb. 8 • Bill Johnston reported on tours noting good response to the recent mail out, and a date change for the Railways of BC’s Interior tour to September 21. A new tour, Steam Trains of Alberta has been added and will depart June 26. • Colin Dathan asked members to remember to send him their volunteer hours • Ryan Cruickshank and Bill Marchant provided Trackside Reports • The calendar was reviewed, raffle held • Entertainment was a DVD “This Is My Railroad” - SP in the 50’s and 60’s
WCRA TRIVIA # 242 - by Ryan D. Cruickshank
What did Canadian Pacific Airlines have in common with the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad? (for answer, see Credit Lines) VOLUNTEER HOURS PLEASE
It’s that time again, as we ask our members to make sure you submit your volunteer hours for the 2008 year. Volunteer hours are anything you do for the WCRA except attendance at the regular general meetings. So, if you write items for the newsletter, help with tours or attend committee meetings, attend board meetings, volunteer on activities at 374 or the Heritage Park, serve in any way—please send in your hours. These help us in leveraging grant funds and many other things based on our incredible volunteerism. Please send them to Colin Dathan by e mail [email protected] or call Colin at 604-298-3734. (C.D.)
WCRA News, Page 6 WESTERN RAILS - HELP WANTED
Have some spare time March 14th or 15th???? WCRA can use your help in 2 areas at the show. • Sunday Mar 15th WCRA Booth – if you can help staff the booth during the Show, contact Bernie Tully at 604.325.0923 or email [email protected]. • Saturday Mar 14th &/or Sunday Mar 15th Western Rails Show Committee needs help with: - Setup on Saturday Afternoon starting at 1300k to 1800k; - General Show duties (Admission Ticket Sales, Raffle Ticket Sales and Site Security) Sunday; - Take down 1600k to1800k Sunday.
If you can help out with Western Rails Show duties, contact Jeremy Davy at 250.890.3233 (from Vancouver Area 604.484.2791) or email [email protected]. (J.D.)
MEMBERSHIP RENEWALS
Memberships dated 01/31/2009 have now expired, and if your membership expired 11/30/2008, this will be your last issue. Please check the label on your newsletter and renew today. Remember that renewals are being accepted for memberships with the E–Newsletter—check page 2 for current membership rates.
Is your email address current???? It is particularly important that those of you who have registered for access to the Members Only area keep your email address current in the Server. Each time a new issue is posted the Server sends a notice to the email address you supplied when you requested access. Because the undeliverable messages from a Server do not bounce back to it I have no way to be proactive.
If you have changed your email address, or think the one we have is out of date because you do not receive notices, please send your current email address to Jeremy at [email protected] and the server will be updated as required. (J.D.)
NEW MEMBERS
The WCRA welcomes back Bob Milliken of Surrey, BC. (J.D.)
MEMBER NEWS
Mac Norris
It is with sadness that we report n the passing of Mac Norris (1925—2009) on January 25, 2009. Mac was a career railroader for over 50 years, with major stints at Canadian Pacific, and WCRA News, Page 7
Pacific Great Eastern / BC Rail where he was President from 1978 to 1990, presiding over the railway during a period of great expansion. Mac was a founding director of Rocky Mountaineer Vacations, and an Honorary Director to his passing. Mac (and Clara) are Life Members of WCRA and Mac was always interested in the work we are doing at the Heritage Park in Squamish. In 2003, Rocky Mountaineer Vacations named the station at the Heritage Park The Mac Norris Station—where Mac's legacy will continue on for future generations. Our condolences to Clara and the family. Mac will be missed by us all.
Doug May
Again with sadness, we report on the passing of member Doug May on January 28, 2009. Doug was an active member of WCRA, joining us in the 1990’s and working from the start of construction of the West Coast Mini Rail. That was his major passion, and he was a regular participant at the Heritage Park and many special events, volunteering on the mini rail and other projects. A resident of Surrey, he also had a place at Osprey Lake where much of his railroading collection resides. A Celebration of Life is planned for late May—we will provide details when they are known.
Dr. Kindree Awarded Order of Canada
Congratulations to Dr. Laverne Kindree, on his receiving the Order of Canada. The founding doctor of the Squamish General Hospital, and long time WCRA member and supporter, Dr. Kindree was recognized for a lifetime of distinguished community service, at which he continues actively today.
BANMAN PUBLISHING / MAX JACQUIARD
Thanks to Banman Publishing for the donation of a framed print “View From Patullo Bridge” to the West Coast Railway Heritage Park. Henry at Banman and Max have both been long time supporters of the Heritage Park and this latest donation is very much appreciated.
Max’s work can now been found on line—check out www.banmanpublishing.com and you can see Max’s whole line of work over the years.
COLLECTION
ARCHIVES REPORT—WILKIE COLLECTION
I am pleased to report on the progress of the work on the Wilkie Collection, which consists of approximately 16,000 slides, and in excess of 30,000 black and white negatives and prints. WCRA News, Page 8
Currently, approximately 1400 of the slides have been scanned using the scanner and computer provided by the BCRHA. The images are being scanned at high resolution (typically 2800 dpi) and are saved in "TIFF Format", an archival format. The images are also scanned at low resolution at 100 dpi and saved in "jpeg Format"; this series of scans may be used for thumbnail images. The scanned images are each saved on two computer hard drives.
Due to the very large file sizes generated using the TIFF format, the 127 gigabyte dual computer hard drives are nearing capacity. The West Coast Railway Association has purchased a pair of 500 gigabyte external hard drives which will allow much of balance of the collection to be scanned. Incidentally, this hardware was purchased from proceeds of the sale of books, surplus to our needs, that were donated to the WCRA Archives.
Concurrently a database is being prepared describing each image in detail. Currently the database is in Microsoft Excel, but the data can be uploaded into other databases as desired. The CN Vancouver Island slides were all scanned in 2007, while in 2008, many of the Wilkie marine slides and the Union Pacific steam locomotive have been scanned; the emphasis now is on the E & N slides. Several images from the Wilkie Collection have recently been published. Of note are two images of the Niagara Creek Bridge in the September-October 2008 issue of the CHRHA's "Canadian Rail". (B.H.)
FROM THE CANADA POST HERITAGE CLUB
The following appeared in the January 2009 Newsletter from the Vancouver Fraser Chapter of the Canada Post Heritage Club, re Railway Post Office car #3704:
(reprinted with permission of Fred Danells Author/Chapter President) (J.D.) WCRA News, Page 9 ALBERTA PROJECT FUNDED TO COMPLETION
Work is now underway at “Full Steam Ahead” pace to complete the restoration of CPR Business car “Alberta” by summer 2009. We are pleased to report that the Tong & Geraldine Louie Foundation along with the London Drugs Foundation have approved the balance of funding for this work in the first half of 2009.
2860 FROM THE PAST Thanks to Jeremy Van Dyke for sending a scan of a photograph from September 1944 of Royal Hudson 2860 in Vancouver. Of interest is the “eyebrow” on 2860’s headlight—likely a World War II modification to comply with blackout provisions against Japanese air strikes!
PGE 722
We have hired Paradise Forming & Fabricating to finish the welding on PGE/BCR Pioneer Troop Sleeper 722. John Jellis and Roy Crowston are assisting Lyn Lindsay who was an employee of BC Rail and now works for Paradise. The welding will be completed this Friday Feb. 6th.
Inside the car the boys ( JJ & RC) are framing the walls and windows and it looks wonderful. They are working every Monday all day. This week they have worked a full week to assist with the welding.
Thank you to Rod Jenkins and Dave Thethi who are there if we need any assistance. (D.F.)
FUNDRAISING
DRIECT MAIL RAISES $20,000
Thanks to everyone who supported our annual Direct Mail campaign, which raised $20,000 for the WCRA through November and December. It is support from you that helps keep the WCRA News, Page 10
WCRA and its activities possible, and moving forward. Thanks again to everyone who contributed.
PRESIDENT’S REPORT – JANUARY 2009
January was a very active and successful month, as the announcement of the CN Roundhouse & Conference Centre was made, and the Alberta Project was also funded to completion.
Major Funding Received • Direct Mail donations $8,510 • General donations $4,622 • Tours donations $200 • Debenture Interest donations $800 • Royal Hudson donations $1,505 • Heritage Park Christmas sponsors $800 • Telus Foundation $700 • Expenses donations $8,625 • TRAINS 2008 Honourarium $50 • Insurance Premium for Life Insurance to WCRA $1,444 • London Drugs Foundation $50,000 for Alberta project • Tong & Geraldine Louie Family Foundation $50,000 for Alberta Project
Month Total $127,206 Year to Date Total $912,022 General purposes $45,022 WCR Endowment Fund $350,000 Roundhouse $417,000 Alberta Project $100,000 Other Significant Activities • CN Announcement Event in support of the Roundhouse • Continued work with Federal Government towards Roundhouse Grant • Alberta Project funding work
WEST COAST RAIL TOURS
TOURS ADMINISTRATION TRANSITION BEGINS
As planned, Bill Johnston will be stepping down as our Tours Manager to enjoy some retirement in the near future. The Association has signed an agreement with Ms Aileen de la Torre, an Industrial Engineer, logistics consultant and respected businesswoman to take over Bill’s duties. Aileen grew up in Winnipeg where her father worked for CNR. WCRA News, Page 11
The transition will be gradual as Aileen learns about our business and eases out of her other obligations. She will work from our Hastings St. office in Burnaby and, over time, will also become responsible for maintaining our donor database and general administrative duties. It is anticipated that she will be employed on a full time basis in March. Bill will still be involved, as required, to assist in development, marketing and guiding tours.
Bill needs to be recognized for the leadership role he has held for many years and the success and contribution our tours program has made to WCRA. WCRA Tours has consistently delivered a positive financial contribution to our organization and maintained a dedicated volunteer base. We have brought rail travel experiences to many people, an integral part of our core mission, as well as provided business to the rail passenger carriers of today.
2009 TOURS SCHEDULE
Following is an outline of the tours for the coming year published for newsletter readers first - to give members a chance to book early and take advantage of a $50 per person discount. Add GST to all fares shown. Detailed itineraries with photos are available for all tours by calling 604-524-1011 or e-mail to [email protected] Plan now for some great rail travel in 2009. (B.J.)
Spring Southern Circle Tour – Thursday, April 30th – 3 Days Depart Vancouver late morning for Nanaimo and a ride on the southbound Malahat Dayliner to Victoria for the night. There will be time to sightsee in Victoria prior to boarding the Victoria Clipper high speed ferry service to Seattle, where the afternoon is free. On the final day ride the Amtrak Cascades train back to Vancouver. Fare (reduced from 2008) is $454 per person sharing. BC seniors get a discount.
Coast to Cariboo Circle Tour – Tuesday, June 9th – 8 Days This is an improvement on previous such tours with an extra day added to visit Barkerville. Passengers join the tour in Victoria (or Nanaimo - one day shorter) by riding the Malahat Dayliner then chartered motorcoach to Port Hardy. Next it’s the all-day Discovery Coast ferry to Bella Coola for 2 nights, where local history is absorbed. This is followed by a ride up The Big Hill to the Chilcotin region to Williams Lake. One day is spent going to and from Barkerville. You then go to the Whistler area over the Duffey Lake Road. After a morning visit in Whistler you take the Whistler Mountaineer train service to the Vancouver area and your home. Fare: $1,742, BC Seniors only, $1,692.
Alberta’s Steam Trains and Highlights – Saturday, June 20th – 5 Days This is a new tour featuring visits to Drumheller’s famous Royal Tyrell Dinosaur Museum, the Alberta Prairie Railway, West Edmonton Mall and Fort Edmonton Heritage Park. Visits are also scheduled to Jasper, the Columbia Icefields, Lake Louise and Calgary’s Heritage Park. The tour begins and ends in Calgary with air transport extra (about $285 – depending on date booked) to the noted fare. Some may wish to take The Rocky Mountaineer to or from WCRA News, Page 12
Banff or Calgary to join or leave the tour. Fare: $999 plus choice of transport to Calgary.
White Pass and Yukon Steam Spectacular – Friday, July 10th – 5 days We have added a day to this itinerary to further enjoy the Whitehorse area and additional attractions. This popular tour already has already received bookings for 2009 so if you are interested we suggest an early indication of interest. It includes a steam train ride from Skagway Alaska to Fraser BC and return to Skagway and a one day trip from Skagway to Carcross in the Yukon. Ample time is available to take in the many historic and scenic attractions of this still remote and pristine area. Fare: from $1495. You are able to cut this tour short by one day and save $85.
Vancouver Island’s West Coast – Tuesday, August 4th – 4 days This tour sold out in 2008 so early bookings will reserve your space. Your free home or hotel pickup gets you to the 8:30 AM sailing by BC Ferries to Nanaimo’s Departure Bay where you will be transferred to Courtenay to ride the Malahat Dayliner to Parksville. Your coach meets you here for a transfer to Port Alberni. Next morning you board the “Frances Barkley” coastal supply vessel that services Alberni Inlet and continues on to Ucluelet. You then proceed north by coach to Tofino for a tour of that area. Next morning wake up and relax on the beautiful Pacific Coast before leaving the Long Beach unit of Pacific Rim National Park for Port Alberni. Stops will be made at scenic overlooks. After breakfast next morning you depart for the railway station where you will board the Alberni Pacific Steam Railway train for its 10:00 AM departure for the steam-operated McLean Mill National Historic site. Have a light lunch and leave for the eastern side of the Island (Departure Bay) to catch the 5:00 PM sailing for Vancouver. (A stop at a rail station for those returning to Victoria by train is possible) Fare: $898. BC Seniors $878.
Two Steam Trains Fish and Wine – Friday, August 28th – 4 days Leave Vancouver by chartered coach for the scenic north side of the Fraser River to Agassiz and the museum housed in the oldest wooden railroad station in B.C. Follow the Fraser Canyon and stop for lunch at the Hell’s Gate Air Tram then overnight in Kamloops. Next morning your coach will transfer you to the Kamloops Heritage Railway’s train with steam locomotive #2141 for a short ride and photo opportunities. Then it is off to the southern Okanagan to spot spawning fish at Peachland’s Hardy Creek Park. You stay at the Penticton Lakeside Resort and Casino for 2 nights. Next morning it’s the Kettle Valley Steam Railway. Our train takes you along the hills overlooking Summerland and on to the Trout Creek Bridge. You will then have lunch and tour a local winery. Next morning depart for Osoyoos where you will see the Osoyoos Desert Model Railroad. Then it’s off to a winery for lunch and a return to Vancouver via the Hope – Princeton Highway. Fare: Only $787.
The Railways of BC’s Interior – Monday, September 21st – 6 days This is a new tour for 2009 featuring BC’s excellent railway museums in Revelstoke and The WCRA News, Page 13
Canadian Museum of Rail Travel in Cranbrook. You will also enjoy travelling in the scenic and historic Columbia and Kootenay regions. Stops are made in Kimberly, Grand Forks and Penticton. The Kettle Valley Railway is also visited as is the incredible Osoyoos Desert Railroad. Fare: $1,274.
All tours of 4 days or more feature free pickups at your home or hotel (subject to some minor conditions.) Ask for details particular to your location.
SELF GUIDED TOURS
We also offer the following arranged tours, which you can take advantage of at any time on a self guided basis….
MALAHAT CIRCLE TOUR - Daily except Saturday - all year – 2 days
Depart from Pacific Central Station at a time of your choosing aboard Pacific Coach Lines scheduled service to Victoria. We supply vouchers to take you to the Queen Victoria Hotel—a few steps from the bus depot. You are on your own for dinner. Breakfast is served at 7:00AM in the hotel’s restaurant, then their van shuttles you to the VIA Rail station at 7:30 AM. Board the train for an 8:00 AM departure to Qualicum Beach where it arrives before noon. Enjoy this quaint town with its interesting beaches and restaurants. After lunch (on your own) we ask you to board the southbound train at 2:00 PM and get off at Nanaimo at about 3:00 PM. A waiting, pre-booked taxi takes you to Nanaimo’s bus depot for the 4:30 PM departure of Greyhound’s scheduled service to Vancouver. Dinner on the ferry is available. Arrive at Pacific Central Station at 7:15 PM.
FARES: $224; Children 2-11 $186; BC Seniors (Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays only) $186. (Otherwise, $224). Ask about special pricing if couples travel together. Single supplement $71. GST extra. Low season and budget hotel bookings save you more.
THE GREAT PLAINS and ROCKIES by TWO NAME TRAINS — 6 days, all year.
A unique chance to travel on two great “name” trains to visit the centre of the North American Continent from the comfort of your private sleeping compartments, dining cars, lounges and scenic domes. Enjoy the Canadian Rockies and the vast Prairies to Winnipeg then America’s Northern States and Mountain Parks. Departures: Tuesdays, Fridays & Sundays - from Vancouver Day 1: Check in at Vancouver’s Pacific Central Station to board The Canadian eastbound through Vancouver’s eastern suburbs and the lower Fraser Valley. Take dinner in the diner and retire for the night in your choice of sleeping accommodation. Day 2: Before breakfast you are in the heart of the Rockies. Stop in Jasper for a break off the train. Re-board the train and you are on your way out of the mountains and into Alberta’s WCRA News, Page 14 verdant foothills. After a stop in Edmonton you are on your way east across the prairies crossing Saskatchewan overnight in your comfortable bed. Day 3: By breakfast time you are in Manitoba and late in the morning arrive in Winnipeg. After a transfer to a beautiful old railway hotel you have the afternoon free to visit local sights. Day 4: Breakfast is available in the dining room of your hotel before you check out and take a taxi for the short ride to the Greyhound depot. Here you board a modern motorcoach for Minneapolis, Minnesota U.S.A. (passport required.) Once there you transfer to the Amtrak station across the mighty Mississippi River to neighbouring St. Paul and board The Empire Builder. Once aboard, settle into your sleeping room and start of your westbound trip. Day 5: Breakfast is available in the dining car as your train heads west across sparsely populated North Dakota. You are in Montana by noon and by dinnertime are skirting the Rockies’ famous Glacier National Park. Day 6: You can expect arrival in Seattle mid-morning. Our Amtrak connecting Thruway motorcoach leaves at 1:15 PM for Surrey, Richmond and Vancouver arriving back at Pacific Central Station, the starting point, at 5 PM.
FARE: The 6-Day Tour, based on shared accommodation. From Cdn $1295 per person. Single fares start at Cdn $1495. Price depends on age of guests, number traveling together, type of sleeping accommodation on the trains, date of booking, date of travel, and US$ exchange rate. Our price will be cheaper than doing this on your own. Add a night in Seattle and take the morning “Cascades” train service to Vancouver for an extra $99 per person including your hotel.
TWO GREAT CITIES BY THREE FAMOUS NAME TRAINS - Any Sunday, Tuesday or Friday – all year
This is a unique chance to enjoy travel on three great name trains from the comfort of your own sleeping car, dining car and lounges, first to Toronto on The Canadian then on the Lake Shore Limited, and from Chicago on The Empire Builder. You take the 4-day and 4-night trip to Toronto on VIA Rail’s flagship train and spend a day or two in Canada’s largest metropolis. A scheduled motorcoach from Toronto to Syracuse NY’s Amtrak station at noon will give you plenty of time to catch the overnight Lake Shore Limited train for Chicago. Spend a day or two here or transfer the same day to the Empire Builder for its westbound journey across the plains and Rockies of the northern states. It arrives in Seattle 3 days later where you transfer back to Vancouver or overnight and take the morning Cascades train service back to Vancouver’s Pacific Central Station. This tour can be run in reverse if desired. Phone the tours office for a more detailed itinerary.
TOTAL FARE: From only Cdn $1,575 per person including train sleepers and a hotel night. Note: Fare depends on number and ages of guests travelling together, type of sleeping WCRA News, Page 15 accommodation booked, date of booking, number of hotel nights used, date of travel, etc. Our fare is guaranteed to be lower than you booking this for yourself. Early booking is essential to guarantee the type of sleeper you want and to take advantage of early booking discounts on both Amtrak and VIA Rail.
CALIFORNA ZEPHYR PRIVATE RAILCARS—SPECIAL ITINERARIES
WCRT is now working with California Zephyr Railcars, a group that has four private cars that can travel together and a good set of itineraries through 2009. This group offers the unique experience of travel in a small group aboard beautifully restored private railcars, and all-inclusive packages to special destinations.
While the price is not cheap, the value is great. Imagine travelling aboard restored ex California Zephyr cars—including meals with all the trimmings and services one could want for. The four cars (not all four are always used together) consist of Colonial Crafts, a former Pennsylvania Railroad sleeper-lounge; Silver Rapids, a roomette bedroom sleeper from the California Zephyr; Silver Lariat, a vista-dome diner lounge, also from the California Zephyr; and Silver Solarium, a vista-dome sleeper-lounge-observation car from the California Zephyr. Accommodations aboard the train include roomettes, each sleeping 1 person; bedrooms, accommodating 2 people, and drawing rooms, accommodating up to 3 people. Each sleeper is equipped with one or more guest showers. All meals are prepared fresh on board and service is attentively exquisite. FARE: Call us for info on their offerings.
Apart from the tours shown in these pages please remember that our tours office is available weekdays to book independent trips. For example we issue tickets for VIA Rail Canada, Amtrak, the White Pass and Yukon Route Railroad and the Alaska Railroad as full-service agents for those lines. Rocky Mountaineer Vacations new 2009 brochure is now available; call for your copy and book with us. We also have the 2009 Trafalgar Tours brochures ready to send. They include the following destinations: Europe & Britain, Australia & New Zealand, USA & Canada, and River Cruises. We also combine air, coach, ferry and cruise ships with rail services to customize itineraries throughout the USA and Canada. Flying east or south? Let us book you on WestJet, our preferred air carrier. For trips of 4 days or more we offer free home pickups and drop-offs in the Vancouver area.
West Coast Rail Tours travel agency has IATA status so we can handle all your bookings for air travel as well as cruises, motorcoaches, hotel accommodations, ferries and — our specialty - rail. We ask you to choose us as your travel agent, as all of our tours serve as fundraisers for WCRA projects. Contact the tours office toll free at 1-800-722-1233, or locally at 604-524-1011. Better yet e-mail us at [email protected] (B.J.)
West Coast Rail Tours - The “Rail” Way To Go WCRA News, Page 16 WEST COAST RAILWAY HERITAGE PARK Home of the Royal Hudson
CARSHOP HOSTS NEW YEAR’S EVE PARTY
We have had an interesting 27 days since the New Year, which saw a party for over 600 in the Car Shop on New Year’s Eve…big thanks to our ‘eyes on the ground staff’ of Randy Lucas, his wife Lynne, Barb Stover and Chris Forget who made sure everything was ok – the event made us $2500. (S.S.)
VERIZON COMMERCIAL FILMS AT THE PARK
On January 3, the Heritage Park was the site for filming of a Verizon Commercial which will be aired in June. The commercial used our Budd RDC cars BC 33 and BC 21, and the situation pictured a commuter on his way home from work as the scene. Many of our people were involved, and this made us over $30,000. We even got to see the Verizon Guy! (S.S.)
FUTURE VISION SHARED IN SQUAMISH
We had a full staff meeting on January 21, to which Don shared WCRA’s plans for 2009 and beyond and answered some key staff questions. It was a good opportunity to communicate and keep everyone up to date on where we are heading. Later in the evening, some of our Squamish members & volunteers joined us after for a shortened version and were pleased to be included. We will be holding these meetings a few times during the year to keep everyone “in the loop” as we have a very busy year ahead of us. (S.S.)
WILD AT ART MARCH 6 to 15—AN EXCITING WEEK OF EVENTS
February will see increased work around the site as we begin to plan for the 2009 Wild at Art event, which will run March 6 through March 15, 2009.
This kicks off with an Opening Gala in the PGE CarShop on Friday, March 6, doors will open at 1900 hours.
The Wild at Art Gallery in the PGE Carshop will be open daily throughout the event, and this year we are planning to offer refreshments to attendees.
Saturday, March 14 will be a special day to be known as Heritage Day at the West Coast Railway Heritage Park. This day will feature a number of special events and activities including: • An artisan market all day
WCRA News, Page 17
• Children’s activities all day • Rotary Beef BBQ for a great lunch • Karen Fowlie concert at 1200 noon • The Jocelyn Band in concert at 1300 • Brian Robertson concert at 1400 • The Brian Couture Logging Show at 1424
More info as it comes available, call the Park at 604-898-9336 and watch www.wcra.org
EASTER PLANS
Looking ahead, we are planning an Easter Parade and Fashion Show with the well known Ivan Sayers on Easter weekend in April. (S.S.)
VOLUNTEER COORDINATORS ANNOUNCED
I am pleased to announce that Donna Fourchalk and Karen Moodie have graciously undertaken the role of Volunteer Coordinators for the Heritage Park, and Donna Simon has been working hard to keep our volunteer stats up to date….a big job that’s much appreciated. (S.S.)
FEATURE ARTICLES
CN ROUNDHOUSE & CONFERENCE CENTRE
Thursday, January 29 will go down as one of the great days in WCRA’s history, as CN announced a major sponsorship in the amount of $1.25 million towards the new Roundhouse complex under construction at the West Coast Railway Heritage Park.
The CN Roundhouse & Conference Centre will open in September 2009, and will result in a major new facility for the Heritage Park and the community of Squamish. CN’s contribution also adds an environmentally friendly geo-thermal system for heating and cooling the building, a great addition to the project.
In announcing the CN donation, Chairman of the Board, David G. McLean said, "CN is very proud to support one of Canada's greatest railway heritage attractions that benefits families, communities and local business." Speaking of Squamish and CN's long history together, he added, "CN's roots go back to 1912 when Squamish was the headquarters for the Pacific Great Eastern Railway, which later became BC Rail, now a member of the CN family." (Photo, Page 18—Bob Brandt) WCRA News, Page 18
The day started off rainy in North Vancouver, as a special CN train boarded special guests for the trip to Squamish to make the announcement. On board were CN Chairman David McLean, Hon. Kevin Falcon - BC Transportation and Infrastructure Minister , Hon. Joan McIntyre - our MLA and Minister of State for Intergovernmental Relations, Mayor Greg Gardner of Squamish, CN General Manager for BC South John Klaus, WCRA Chair Colin Smith and WCRA President Don Evans.
Regardless the weather, a great day was in store as we pulled out of North Vancouver. Our train consist was CN SD75I 5724, BCOL B39-8E 3911, gen car Fraser Spirit, dome car American Spirit and business car Pacific Spirit. On board, we were treated to a lovely breakfast in the American Spirit’s dining room as we passed through West Vancouver, then enjoyed the favourite spot for this writer—the swivel chairs in the dome. A few photographers were out tracking the special train as it made its way to Squamish.
Arriving Squamish, the train backed into the Heritage Park’s north access track and we dropped the SD75 unit (one of our curves is a bit tight for the big C-C unit) and BCOL 3911 did the honours of backing the train (cover photo) right to the platform of the Mac Norris Station where a crowd was assembled for the announcement. We were right on time arriving and ready to go. The podium was at the south end of the platform, the CN logo on the WCRA News, Page 19
Pacific Spirit was to our right, and the construction work was in full swing on the roundhouse just behind us. It was a perfect set up, and it was not raining!
At 1045, the group was called to order, and WCRA President Don Evans welcomed everyone to the Mac Norris Station at the West Coast Railway Heritage Park. In welcoming everyone and noting the excitement over this great day, he noted one item of sadness, the passing of Mac Norris just a few days ago.
The official business then got underway, and Don introduced CN Chairman, David G. McLean, who announced CN’s donation to the completion of the Roundhouse and also the geo-thermal system that will be added to the project. The name CN Roundhouse & Conference Centre was officially announced. WCRA Chair, Colin Smith, then thanked CN for this important sponsorship and noted the long standing good relationship between CN and WCRA. Remarks were then made by the Hon. Kevin Falcon, the Hon. Joan McIntyre and His Worship Greg Gardner. Don Evans closed the proceedings, thanking everyone for coming and acknowledging the work of the Squamish staff and volunteers in putting the event together. The official party then posed for photographs with the roundhouse construction in the background and we all moved inside to warm up! (photo, Bob Brandt) WCRA News, Page 20
Susan and her staff had the meeting room in the station all set up for lunch for the 48 invited guests (our maximum capacity) and the group assembled for lunch at 1130. Don Evans welcomed everyone to lunch, David McLean thanked everyone for coming and announced plans for the CN Board of Directors to visit the new CN Roundhouse & Conference Centre in
September. Champagne was poured and a toast to the CN Roundhouse & Conference Centre was made. Lunch was served, catered by Rockwell’s restaurant.—nice touches were the use of CN vintage china for the head tables, and “CN” drizzled onto each Crème Brule dessert.
Then it was time to go, guests were thanked one more time, and we boarded the train for the return to North Vancouver. The Ministers had departed for another announcement on the Sea to Sky Highway, and we were joined by Randy Powell, president of Rocky Mountaineer Vacations for the return trip. The train backed through the Squamish yard, onto the Squamish Terminals track, then around the wye and we headed for North Vancouver. Once again, a delightful ride enjoyed in the dome of the American Spirit. (photo below, Ken Storey)
Arrival was at 1520 in North Vancouver—ending a great day, with a very special touch in having the train come to Squamish to make the announcement.
WCRA News, Page 21
Our sincere thanks to CN, and to everyone who helped put the day together—both volunteers and staff. We will be proud of the CN Roundhouse & Conference Centre for decades to come, and can’t wait for the grand opening in September 2009.
THE NIGHT FERRY - by Bill Johnston
Working in England for many years in the 60’s and 70’s I had the opportunity to travel throughout Europe and the UK on business, and more often than not, by train. My most unique and memorable train journey had to be the The Night Ferry. This service comprised of Wagon -Lits coaches transporting passengers in comfortable sleeping cars overnight between London and Paris or Brussels.
In February of 1975 I had to attend a morning business meeting in Brussels. I lived south of London in the county of Surrey not far from its administrative centre of Guildford. For most people this would involve a very early start on crowded roads to Heathrow or Gatwick Airport, expensive parking, long queues at check-in, waiting, and then boarding a crowded plane for the 75 minute flight to Brussels. Then, after clearing customs it would be the long ride into the city centre for the 10:00 AM meeting. Total journey time was over 4 hours and with the one hour time difference it was a 5:00 AM start from WCRA News, Page 22
home. For this rail fan the alternative was obvious especially with labour problems looming and nasty weather on the horizon. The alternative: take an early evening train into central
London’s Victoria Station. Pre-clear customs on platform 2, and board the train into your vintage Wagon-Lits coach. Equipment used was from the 50’s with comfortable beds, brass
fittings and beautifully veneered paneling. Think “Orient Express”. The usual consist was a British Rail Class 33 or 73 diesel locomotive with 3 or 4 sleeping cars for Paris, a BR dining car and 2 sleepers for Brussels.
After boarding at 9:30 PM and settling into my private compartment, I watched the busy comings and goings in the rest of the station. At precisely 10:00 PM we were on our way out through the many switches and flyovers taking us into London’s southern suburbs and eventually into the “garden county” of Kent. A late dinner in the diner with a large glass of wine ensured a restful sleep. In the diner a well-dressed dowager was already complaining to the steward that breakfast was only available on the Paris portion and she was going to Brussels. What was she to do?
Before reaching the coast my window-blind had closed and I was in dreamland. Not sensed by me the train had arrived at Dover Marine station (photo above) at about midnight and had been shunted on to the ferry split onto 4 tracks and secured with chains to the steel deck. I remember waking at about 2:00 AM, opening the blind and seeing the incongruous site of other vintage WCRA News, Page 23
coaches alongside ours, lashed down with chains in the clean well-lit hold of a ship. Closing the blind I was soon back to sleep and awoke as our train was hurtling across the plains of northern Belgium. Our train had arrived in Dunkirk at 6:00 AM and had been split into 2 sections headed by French or Belgian locos for Paris or Brussels respectively. By 9:30 AM we had arrived at Brussels Midi and with a short walk to the office I had arrived rested and in a good mood. The Paris section (with diner for breakfast) arrived at Paris Nord at about the same time.
The Night Ferry started service in the late 30’s but was suspended during the war. It resumed in December 1947. Because of the high tides in the English Channel special sea docks complete with locks were built in Dover and Dunkirk. This ensured that no matter what the tides were, the loading and unloading would be level. At high tide the locks weren’t needed. Plans to build the Channel Tunnel were scrapped in the 1970s on cost grounds. This gave the Night Ferry a short reprieve as a tunnel would have inevitably led to the end of conveying passenger carriages by train ferry. By the 1970s the carriages were dated and in need of replacement. The Wagon-Lits livery was replaced on some, but not all, carriages by standard SNCF blue sleeper cars including the SNCF logo. Consideration was given to using British Rail Mark 1 sleeper carriages built in the late 1950s, but these too were dated and the idea was never adopted. British Rail Mark 3 sleeping cars introduced in the early 1980s were unsuitable for the Southern Region's loading gauge. Competition from air services also affected the train.
The Night Ferry was withdrawn on October 31st, 1980. An attempted resurrection of British- Continental sleeper services under the Nightstar name after the opening of the Channel Tunnel in 1994 proved expensive and unsuccessful. Competition of airlines in the 1990s meant the service could never be profitable. The coaches ordered for the service were never used in Europe and were sold to VIA Rail Canada and are now used on The Ocean and other eastern services in Canada as VIA’s Renaissance fleet.
Today The Eurostar makes the journey from London St. Pancras through the Chunnel to Brussels Midi in just under an incredible 2 hours and 20 minutes, and to Paris on the fastest service in just 2 hours and 31 minutes! Rail travel in Europe is alive and well. (Thanks to Wikipedia for additional information)
FROM WCRA NEWS FEBRUARY 1981 - by Craig McDowall
BC. Rail An accidental removal of yard limits at Seton Portage on Time Table #7 left the equipment for trains #7 & 8 (the school special mixed train) on the mainline without protection. Consequently the train ran designated as a “mixed work extra” for a few days until the error was corrected. WCRA News, Page 24
BCR wants to reduce train crews from three to two trainmen as has been done on both CP and CN. The union countered that reduced work crews would not be safe, citing lack of automatic signaling and poorer track conditions than that on CP and CN. However, the CTC issued a report stating that two man crews would be workable if the radio dispatching system is deemed reliable and radios are provided for every member of the crew with a back up unit for the conductor. Also instructions are issued to ensure frequent front to rear communication with steps to take if this fails. In addition, cabooses have to be equipped with safety glass and inside handrails to ensure safe movement for the conductor and each caboose is equipped with two air brakes instead of one. Exception to the two man crew would be if runs exceed 10 hours. These recommendations are being studied by both sides.
BCR announced cut backs to its passenger service effective Feb. 5th to take place on Feb. 16th. Reasons stated include increasing losses on passenger service and the need to allow for more maintenance time for its aging RDC equipment. The new schedule will see the North Van to Prince George route cut from three times a week to once a week and the current daily service from North Van to Lillooet will be cut to Mondays, Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays. It certainly seems that the once a week service to PG is a precursor of it being totally discontinued. And it’s ironic that the WCRA’s annual two days of RDC excursions will fall on the last two days of daily service.
The already financially strapped BCR was hit with a $8 million damage order handed down in BC Supreme Court as a result of charges surrounding the ill-fated Dease Lake extension. This amount is to be paid to KRM Construction re: ‘fraudulently induced’ (like that phrase) to bidding on grading, culvert and clearing contracts on the extension. This is the second suit re: the extension. In 1976 an out- of-court settlement to M.E.L. paving cost BCR $1.2 million.
Premier Bill Bennett and his cabinet toured Vancouver Island in mid January aboard a pair of BCR RDC’s which were shipped over from North Van just for the special trip.
BCR has sold it’s West Pender headquarters building to the Provincial Gov’t. BCR will lease the building back from the government for the next two years as its new HQ offices are built on Esplanade in North Van.
BCR started a locomotive winterization program at the end of Oct. which includes changing from summer to winter grade fuel and continues a program of installing electrically heated windshields and electric heaters in all units.
North Van had three low nosed RS-10’s (#579, 580 & 586) in the yard in early Feb.
This year’s rail relay program will see 100 pound welded 78 foot sections used along Anderson and Seton Lakes. Standard carbon steel will be used except on curves of six degrees where WCRA News, Page 25
chrome alloy steel will be used. Also in the program will be 115 lb. rail between MP 167 and Kelly Lake. And one mile of 136 lb. rail will be laid on Pavilion Hill north of Lillooet for test purposes.
Canadian Pacific The two BCR owned (ex BN) robot cars (#106 & 107) have been spotted on the CP mainline. The two units have been leased to CP. The test seem to be favourable as it is reported that CP is considering purchase of sisters #105 & 110 directly from BN.
This month marks the 100th anniversary of the incorporation of the Canadian Pacific Railway dated Feb. 15th, 1881.. The company’s first act of business was to deposit $1 million in security with the government. Some construction had actually begun before the incorporation date. The main contract was let on Oct. 21st 1880 and 1,126 km of track were under construction by the end of 1880.
CP has announced its new diesel shop to be built in Coquitlam. The shop will be completed by the end of this year will be the home base of 70 four axle switching loco’s and 50 SD 40-2 mainline units. The shop will feature two run through tracks, each accommodating five locomotives at a time together with a wheel assembly repair track. The new shop will replace the old Drake Street facility.
CP’s new SD 40-2 #6000 arrived in Coquitlam, hauling a freight from the east. This unit was built in Jan. this year and is part of a new order for 75 SD’s from GMDD.
CN CN has also taken delivery of nine new SD 40-2’s from GMDD. During 1981, Bombardier (ex MLW) will get orders from CN for 10 HR412’s (four axle, 12 cylinder 2000hp) and 20 HR616’s 6 axle, 16 cylinder, 3000hp). Delivery will commence in Oct. this year through to March 1982.
CN’s mainline bridge at MP 118.7 of the Yale sub was closed for 24 hour periods for two weekends in Feb. to replace four pin joints on the through truss. (This is actually the bridge at New Westminster!).
Miscellaneous Barrie Sanford, the well known author of McCulloch’s Wonder, is working on a new book. The will be titled ‘The Pictorial History of Railroading in BC’ and will obviously have a strong emphasis on photos. Barrie is looking for photo submissions of CN steam in the 30’s to 50’s in BC, photos of current BCR operations north of Prince George and photos of Canadian Northern and Grand Trunk Pacific railroad construction. WCRA News, Page 26
WCRA News Nominations were accepted for the 1981 executive. Nominated were Bob Hunter, Gary Oliver, Bernie Tully, Larry Russell, Grant Ferguson, Rockin’ Ronnie Pajala and William (call me Bill)
Marchant. Five will be elected by secret ballot.
Among new members this month included (MCM note: some familiar names looking back 28 years); Bill Culp, Art Jones, Harold Holtby and John Shaske.
SQUAMISH HISTORY
Westward Ho! was a 1900s magazine for Vancouver Gentlemen - and Ladies, evidently, until its name was changed to Man to Man Magazine. The story here and two ads were printed in its November 1907 issue.
Can anyone identify the scene of the photos in the first ad (page 28? Fred Downer in 1970s/80s interviews, related that when he came to "Newport" (Today’s Squamish) in 1909 or 1910, the railway bridge across the East Branch of the Squamish River (on Loggers Lane, next to the Adventure Centre) had not yet been built, and there was no track yet into downtown. Scows would bring steel, equipment and supplies up to what is now the upper end of the Mamquam Blind Channel.
The Howe Sound,
Pemberton Valley &
Northern Rly. had started laying track from there to a work camp near Armstrong's Corner (Gov't/ Mamquam Rd.), and from there to Cheekye.
Perhaps one or both of the first ad's pictures may be from the upper end of the Blind Channel (once a bend in the East Branch of the river), at the eastern end of Mamquam Island?
- Eric Andersen Squamish Historical Society
WCRA News, Page 29
374 PAVILION
The number of visitors recorded for January 2009 was 871 as compared to January 2008 at
981. The cool weather for most of January meant a reduced visitor count for the month.
Welcome new Volunteers Please join me in welcoming new 374 volunteers Cathy Grant and Ed Harkness. Cathy and Ed are a team and will volunteer every second Tuesday starting February 2, 2009. Welcome aboard Ed and Cathy
Turntable Plaza Project The Vancouver Parks Board has approved an innovative plan called Turntable Plaza. This plan will transform the area and create a more dynamic, people place. The plaza has the potential to be a gathering place, a space for performances and a neighborhood hub. It will change the historic Turntable so it becomes a vital urban Plaza in the heart of the neighborhood. For additional information please visit www.Roundhouse.ca and click on turntable project for a briefing report.
Volunteers Required for the 374 Pavilion Please consider becoming a volunteer at the 374 Pavilion. There are openings available on Tuesday and Sunday. Volunteers are the backbone of the 374 Pavilion. We would not be able to open and present the 374 pavilion without the help of our caring and enthusiastic volunteers. As volunteers you will have the opportunity to greet guests who come from all over the world to see the CPR 374 engine. Duties include: opening, closing the building and most important of all presenting the historical background of the 374 to visitors. Last year over 21,000 visitors came to the “374” and only through the efforts and dedication of our volunteer group were we able to accommodate them. We offer free parking and a very flexible schedule, either one day a week or two days a month whichever works best for you. If you are interested in assisting us and greeting a wide range of visitors please contact Jim Brown at 604-681-4403 or 604-985- 7249 or e-mail at [email protected] (J.B.)
CHRISTMAS MINI RAIL TRAINS AT 374 PAVILION
The Portable MiniRail Crew has faced many challenges operating during past Christmas seasons but 2008 they were dealt a double blow by the weather man.
The 374 Pavilion was the venue for the full time of operation. The train was set up and decorated from Dec 2nd to 5th. The Community Centre staff led by Percy Nacario (I feel hypothermia setting in) assisted with adding lights to outline the engine and decorated Christmas Trees, and Fred Danells from Canada Post brought in a Santa Mailbox for those special letters. WCRA News, Page 30
th Operations started on December 6 to coincide with the Community Centre’s Santa Breakfast. For the first few days the season looked like it would be a promising one … then the weather changed. As the snow depth increased and temperatures dropped so did the potential of visitors - one notable exception was Vancouver Canucks #33 Henrik Sedin and his son.
In spite of the aforementioned Snow accumulations and plummeting temperatures outside and in (minus 4C inside on two mornings) the volunteers honored their commitments to the bitterly cold end. Again … Thanks Team!!!!
Early the second week of January the weather finally allowed us to tackle the task of tucking the various parts safely away.
Thanks again to all the volunteers: Judy Board; Len Brown; Colin Dathan; Jeremy Davy; Chuck Dick; Dave Emmington; Marietta Fischer; Michelle Hall; Don Knudsen; Roy Liden; John Lighthall; George Massey; Connor Park; Jim Saunders; Donna Simon and Bernie Tully. Special thanks to Paul & Mary Roy once again for the use their train. (J.D.)
RAILWAY NEWS
LONG TRAIN
CN operated a 194 car freight train (152 loads / 40 empties, total 20,548 tons and 12,103 feet in length!) from Edmonton to Kamloops on January 18, 2009. However, it had motive power problems along the way. Heading west with two units on the point (SD75M 8827 / SD60F 5538) and Dash9-44 2308 156 cars back, the older SD60F unit failed shortly after departure leaving the train with just 0.4 hp per ton. At Edson, the train swapped out a unit from an empty grain train eastbound, picking up 5627 (and the grain train headed to Edmonton with the ailing 5538 in tow). However, as the grain train was nearing its destination and the 194 car train was just starting out, the 5627 was low on fuel so a fuelling stop had to be made. (J.M.)
RICHMOND YARD UPGRADES
CN has added to its yard in Richmond, BC, which consisted of three tracks between No. 7 Road and No. 8 Road. A new lead has been constructed to serve two industries on the north side and a new switching lead was built to serve three industries on the south side that previously were access from track 3. A new yard track was also added. (J.M.) WCRA News, Page 31
MOTIVE POWER NOTES
CN train 405 out of Thornton on January 8 was headed by a two unit motive power consist of CN SD75I #5783 / CP AC4400 #9804. (J.M.)
CN ACQUIRES EJ&E
The acquisition of the EJ & E (Elgin, Joliet & Eastern) by CN was completed on January 31, 2009, following the STB’s approval in late December. CN will now begin a measured step by step integration of these lines into its network, and implement its plan to be able to route traffic around (rather than through) Chicago saving time and improving delivery time to customers. EJ&E operates 198 miles of mainline track circling Chicago, routing Waukegan, Ill. to Joliet to Gary Indiana and to South Chicago. (CN Release)
CP 2816 IMAX FILM COMING
An IMAX film featuring Canadian Pacific Railway's Hudson steam locomotive #2816 is in the making. Check out www.stephenlow.com and click on Rocky Mountain Express. (B.M.)
SNOW PLOW TRAIN
CPR ran a snow plow train on the Cascade Subdivision during the heavy Christmas season snowfalls around the local area. The train went east from Coquitlam to North Bend Dec. 27 and returned the next day. CPR wedge plow #401002 was pushed by GP38AC #3002 and SD40-2 #5745. (SDHSE)
2009 OPERATING SCHEDULE
Rocky Mountaineer’s operating schedule sees some changes for 2009 on the former BC Rail routes, while operating much the same season on the traditional Rocky Mountaineer routes. WCRA News, Page 32
Here are the schedules for 2009:
• Rocky Mountaineer—Kicking Horse (Van.—Banff) and Yellowhead (Van.—Jasper).
Departures start April 16 from Vancouver and April 19 from Banff / Jasper, with a total of 66 trips each way through the season. Last departures are October 8 from Vancouver
and October 11 from Banff / Jasper. • Rocky Mountaineer—Fraser-Discovery (Whistler—Quesnel—Jasper) - a shorter season than last year, with first departures from Jasper May 12 and Whistler May 14, a total of 25 trips each way. Last departures are October 3 from Jasper and October 6 from Whistler. • Whistler Mountaineer (North Vancouver—Whistler) - also a shorter season, with daily operation starting May 12, 2009 and ending October 6, 2009. Same schedule as last year for the daily round trips.
RENAISSANCE EQUIPMENT FOR TORONTO—MONTREAL
VIA has shifted some of its Renaissance equipment around, and now has four trains on its busiest corridor route—Toronto—Montreal—equipped with their newest fleet. Starting January 19th, trains 52 / 53 and 66 / 67 operate with Renaissance cars. VIA says this will help give a boost to its 1700 express service, and will upgrade the trains for this market.
The switch from LRC to Renaissance means that there is now a lounge for VIA 1 passengers, as this trip has enough time for both meal and lounge time. Ottawa—Montreal services now revert to LRC equipment, while Montreal—Quebec will still generally have Renaissance—but with LRC as back up for heavy days or maintenance windows.
In test runs in this market, 95% of passengers rated the Renaissance above LRC, noting more modern, bigger windows, better seats—a step up in quality. (B.J. / VIA)
OTHER NEWS
“GREAT NORTHERN” SDP40 AT COQUITLAM
Last month we noted a long line of SD40-2’s at Coquitlam awaiting either an economic turn up or disposition. An interesting note on one of them, which is ex Burlington Northern 9853—nee Great Northern 323 (built 5/66). This unit began life as a rare SDP40, one of only 20 made—of which GN had 6 units. The 323 was a regular on the GN Internationals into Vancouver in its latter years before Amtrak. (T.M.) WCRA News, Page 33
6060 WORK IN PROGRESS
The CN 4-8-4 #6060 steam locomotive is in the middle of its pre-season maintenance work. As this year is a major, it has its boiler jacket off, and the crews are needle gunning the boiler and repainting as well as doing the necessary hydro and other tests . There are nine scheduled runs this year for 6060, the first in late June. More at www.6060.org (R.G.)
NEW CARS FOR SKYTRAIN AND WEST COAST EXPRESS
More capacity is coming for rail riders in the Vancouver Metro area. The first of 48 new Mark II SkyTrain cars have arrived and are being tested. They are expected to start entering service by March 2009 and deliveries will continue through early 2010. You won’t miss these new cars as they have a new paint scheme—the blue and dark grey with yellow trim like the new buses in Translink’s fleet. West Coast Express will take delivery of seven new bi-level coaches by September 2010—platform lengthening will accommodate longer trains. (SDHSE)
Steam excites no matter what the season, or the location in the world, as witness this winter photo of the Sheila Lothian performing in the UK (Thanks for member George P Littlejohn) Page 34
HERITAGE PARK ADDRESS
Seems that the Squamish Fire Department re- quested that the West Coast Railway Heritage Park post its address visibly in front of the prop- erty. But, we didn’t want just a plain old address sign or plaque.
Enter our creative Randy Lucas, who whipped up this special address axle, now positioned on Government Road so we can be found! (R.J.) WCRA News, Page 35
CREDIT LINES ISSN 1204-072X Vol. 48 Issue 3 Editor Don Evans
Distribution Jeremy Davy & Donna Simon
Contributors:
J.B. Jim Brown C.D. Colin Dathan J.D. Jeremy Davy D.F. Donna Fourchalk R.G. Russ Grycan B.H. Bob Hunter B.J. Bill Johnston R.J. Rod Jenkins B.M. Bill Marchant J.M. Jim McPherson T.M. Trevor Mills S.S. Susan Steen
SDHSE Sandhouse
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
Contact us: Tours 604-524-1011 / 800-722-1233 Heritage Park 604-898-9336 Office 604-681-4403
TRIVIA ANSWER
Southwest Airlines 737-317 (Reg. N661SW) used to be Western Pacific Airlines N946WP and was specially painted “Spirit of Durango” that included a D&S steam train on its tail. This air- craft started out as CP Air C-FCPG “Empress of Ontario” on March 10, 1985. A model of the WP version in the Durango paint scheme is available from Herpa “Wings Club”.
BACK COVER
The CN Roundhouse & Conference Centre takes shape at the West Coast Railway Heritage Park, in these panoramic photos taken by Ron Anstey on January 25, 2009. At the time of the photos, the roof deck is being installed.
Lower photo by Ken Storey shows the special train departing the Heritage Park, the CN Roundhouse & Conference Centre construction rises behind the train. Published monthly by West Coast Railway Association ISSN 1204-072X PO Box 2790 Stn. Term., Vancouver, B.C., V6B 3X2 Vol. 48 Issue 3
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