DECEMBER 2010

WCRA NEWS

ANNUAL DINNER NOV. 30 POLAR EXPRESS DEC 4&5

CHRISTMAS LIGHTS IN THE PARK DEC. 17-22

WCRA News, Page 2 GENERAL MEETING NOTICE The November General Meeting of the WCRA will be the Annual Awards Night and Dinner, to be held at Cheers Restaurant, 125 East 2nd Street in North Vancouver at 6:00PM. Tickets are required (just $38 incl HST and gratuity) and can be ordered by calling Colin Dathan at 604-298-3734 or cdathan@telus.net They are also available at the Heritage Park in Sqjaish or through the Hastings office in Burnaby at 604-681-4403. Please note that the December General Meeting will be held on Tuesday, December 21. ON THE COVER BC Hydro electric locomotive #960 at work under old Georgia Viaduct. This lomcotive, part of the WCRA Collection today, was built by Alco/GE in 1912 for the Oregon Electric, and was acquired by the BC Electric Railway in 1946 along with sister #961. These locomotives were the very last electric powered units operating on the railway. (Andy Cassidy collection) DECEMBER CALENDAR • West Coast Railway Heritage Park open daily 1000 through 1600k • Friday, December 3 —Deadline for items to be included in the January 2011 WCRA News • Friday, December 3 to 5—Christmas Craft Fair in the CN Roundhouse & Conference

Centre, everyone welcome, admission $2 on Friday evening, with Polar Express other days • Saturday, December 4 / Sunday, December 5—Polar Express operates from the West

Coast Railway Heritage Park. Tickets available now at 604-898-9336 • Tuesday, December 14—Tours Committee Christmas Dinner, The Keg-New Westminster • Friday December 17 to Wednesday December 22 - Christmas Lights in the Park event,

Heritage Park, 1730 to 2030 nightly • Tuesday, December 21—WCRA General Meeting, 1930 hours, Rainbow Creek Station in

Burnaby • Saturday, December 25—Merry Christmas to all

The West Coast Railway Association is an historical group dedicated to the preservation of British Columbia railway history. Membership is open to all people with an interest in railways past and present. We are a non-profit British Columbia society, registered as a Canadian charity. Membership prices are: Individual $50.00 ($56.00 with HST) , Family $60.00 ($67.20 with HST). E Members (electronic newsletter are $35 individual ($39.20 with HST) and $45 family ($50.40 with HST). (Outside Canada, please remit US $) Other categories are: - Junior Member (age 18 and under ) $ 25 ($28 with HST) - Sustaining Member $100 (tax receipt) plus membership type regular fee - Life Member (one time fee, HST included) $784 individual life / $1,3,44 family life All memberships include the monthly newsletter, Heritage Park admission (except Special Events), mini rail rides and discounts on food and merchandise. The Association holds a monthly meeting on the last Tuesday of the month at 1930 hours in Burnaby at Rainbow Creek Station in Confederation Park. Apply through www.wcra.org or mail to WCRA, PO Box 2790 Stn. Term., Vancouver, B.C., V6B 3X2.

WCRA News, Page 3

EDITORIAL RAILWAY HISTORY—WHAT WE ARE ALL ABOUT As I write this item for our newsletter, a very significant date is approaching. This Sunday, November 7, 2010, will mark the 125th anniversary of the driving of the last spike of the Canadian Pacific Railway, at Craigellachie, BC. In the short history of our great country, this was an event of epic proportions, as the promise of a railway to connect the Pacific (and British Columbia) to the Confederation of Canada was instrumental in our country's development, and established the first really viable east—west transportation route for people and goods. From there things happened in relatively short order—the first train from the east to the “west coast” arrived at Port Moody in 1886, but the railway kept building and established its western terminus at Vancouver, with the arrival of Engine 374 and the first passenger train from the east to Vancouver on May 23, 1887. From these events, our Province went on to develop. New communities were established, commercial centres and resource harvesting became workable, and the Province started to grow extensively as new areas were opened up—all because of the coming of the railway. As the West Coast Railway Association approaches its 50th anniversary, this is the cornerstone story that we tell through our various artifacts and facilities. It is interesting to note the foresight of our founders, many of whom remain members to this day, that they started efforts to preserve this history a mere 75 years after the last spike. Thank goodness they did, or we would not have the artefacts that we have preserved today to interpret this story in a tangible way for future generations. So, pause a moment and reflect on this history and what it meant for us and our region, our Province, our country. Then come and make a visit or two. Explore the actual locomotive that arrived here on May 23, 1887 at the Locomotive 374 Pavilion in Vancouver, then head to Squamish and follow the timeline through the early 20th century. Sit in the lounge of the 1890 business car British Columbia and imagine the goings on that would have occurred in this very space - negotiating contracts, determining community locations, establishing local economies, land transactions and more. Visit Colonist Car 2514 and ponder the giant railway map of Canada 1889—see just how different our country was in that early era. This story is what we are all about, it is our reason for existing. There is much to look and much to learn as we fulfill our historical mandate. Let’s never forget what our core reason for being is, and let’s do everything we need to do to ensure that this valuable and irreplaceable heritage is sustained for future generations.

Don

WCRA News, Page 4 ASSOCIATION NEWS FROM THE OCTOBER GENERAL MEETING Chair Bill Johnston called the meeting to order at 19:30k - 40 members and guests were present. Jeremy Davy was recording secretary: • Don Evans provided the President’s Report, noting fundraising work and announcing the

second track sponsorship for the roundhouse. He also noted that our new financial manager, Miriam Irving, has started with us and will be based from our Burnaby office.

• Don Evans provided a report on activities at the Heritage Park and the CN Roundhouse & Conference Centre on behalf of GM Dave Thomson

• Bill Johnston gave a Locomotive 374 report, noting that new volunteers are now on board and we are able to open the pavilion seven days a week. He noted strong donations as well as recent repairs to the fireman’s seat in the locomotive

• Upcoming events - TRAIN 2010 Show November 13 and 14 at the Cameron Rec. Centre in Burnaby.

• Dave Emmington gave a report on the recent Mt. Cheam Lions show in Chilliwack • Ron Anstey gave a collection report—a motion to formally de-accession locomotive #16

was passed, allowing the Collection Committee to proceed with the disposal of the parts of this engine that remain. Ron also reported on progress with the Shovel Operators bunk car by Chris Forget and the 6503 preparations for having it serviceable for BCIT in November. The WCXX 8 Alberta is nearing completion.

• Jeremy Davy noted the excellent growth in membership this year. • Bill Johnston spoke to the tours program, noting that the electronic newsletter is available

to all members and that news flashes go out regularly. • Colin Dathan spoke of the upcoming Annual Dinner and Awards Night and had tickets

for sale at the break in the meeting • Dorothea Matewish presented a $50 donation to the Royal Hudson from her ongoing sale • Bill Marchant gave a trackside report • The 50/50 draw was held, Norm Shepherd was the winner an donated the $40 proceeds

to the WCRA (thanks Norm!) • Entertainment was a video WCRA TRIVIA #263 - by Ryan Cruickshank What “Railroad” owned the aircraft that is seen at the end of the motion picture American Graffiti? (for answers see page 27) MEMBERSHIP RENEWALS Memberships dated 10/31/2010 have now expired, and if your membership expired 08/31/2010, this will be your last issue. Please check the label on your newsletter and renew

WCRA News, Page 5 today. Remember that renewals are being accepted for memberships with the E–Newsletter—check page 2 for current membership rates. Is your email address current???? It is particularly important that those of you who have registered for access to the Members Only area keep your email address current in the Server. Each time a new issue is posted the Server sends a notice to the email address you supplied when you requested access. If you have changed your email address, or think the one we have is out of date because you do not receive notices, please send your current email address to Jeremy at membership@wcra.org and the server will be updated as required. (J.D.) NEW MEMBERS The WCRA welcomes new members: • Mike Arnold of Surrey, • Al Boucher & family of Garibaldi Highlands, • Alison Brown & family of Squamish, • Bran Dragutinovic & family of Burnaby, • D. Monaghan & family of Garibaldi Highlands, • Karen Olsson & family of Garibaldi Highlands, • Sasha Pellow & family of Garibaldi Highlands, • Tracy & Sandra Thompson & family of Scotts Valley CA, And, we welcome back to membership… • Katelyn Byrne & family of Squamish, • Lisa Manzini and Rob Dombrowsky & family of Garibaldi Highlands, • Shannon & Jeff Turner & family of Squamish, (J.D.) MEMBER NEWS Long time member George Blakley was in a serious traffic accident near Hope, BC October 27th. He suffered broken ribs, a collapsed lung and head abrasions. He was taken to Hope hospital and then transferred to Abbotsford hospital. Our best wishes go to George for a full and speedy recovery. (J.M.) MOUNT CHEAM LIONS SHOW Again this year we have shared our accomplishments and Tours Program with a throng of train enthusiasts over two days at Chilliwack. The West Coast Railway Heritage Park will see many new guests in the coming year. Folks were directed to our website and picked up information on our tours.

WCRA News, Page 6 Our thanks to the Mount Cheam Lions for this opportunity and particularly James Hill for his dedication. Bonnie and George Game, Vera and Keith Anderson, Lisa Flatla, Martin Jergens and Bill Marchant who hosted throughout the weekend. Thanks, gang. (D.E.) OLYMPIC STEAM TRIP MAKES BOOK COVER The February 2010 Olympic Steam Trip to White Rock on BNSF is featured on the cover of a new book entitled Historical Atlas of the North American Railroad by Derek Hayes. It is a great book for people who enjoy maps and railways. Good Christmas gift for anyone and is available in all local book and hobby stores. (B.W.) SPENCERS STORE TRAIN—CAN YOU HELP? A question for anyone in the West Coast Railway Association that might be able to help….. As you know, Eaton's for years had a miniature train on the toy floor during the Christmas shopping season in Montreal and Toronto. The Montreal train is at the ExpoRail in Montreal, we don't know about the Toronto train. But, apparently there was also a miniature train in the 1940s at Spencer's Department Store as well. Spencer's was a Vancouver store that had first been established in Victoria. Spencer's eventually built a large department store on the northwest corner of Hastings and Richards. The store was bought out by Eaton's in 1948. When Eaton's moved to the northwest corner of Robson and Granville, Sears took over the old Spencer's building. The building today houses the downtown campus of SFU. Perhaps someone from the WCRA can answer some questions about the Spencer's train. What scale was it? What happened to it? Perhaps Eaton's took it over when they bought out the store? For how many years was it in operation? Does anyone have photos or remember? This is to answer a question by a Vancouver Historical Society member. All answers would be credited to whoever comes up with them and will also make a mention of the WCRA and its rail museum. Can any member help with this? (if so please call Don Evans at 604-988-3435 or e mail news@wcra.org and I will pass the info on. (B.W.) DON EVANS SPEAKS TO KIWANIS President & CEO Don Evans did a speaking engagement at the West Vancouver Kiwanis Club on October 19, 2010. Around 25 members of the club were in attendance. Don provided a slide show and talk on the creation of the West Coast Railway Heritage Park as well as a show on our annual SteamFest events. The presentation was well received.

WCRA News, Page 7 VISTAS SHOW IN ABBOTSFORD The West Coast Railway Associaiotn has assisted with a major railway arts show in Abbotsford. The call came from Herb Schmidt at PNR Railworks (show sponsor) for some artifacts to add to the ambiance at the gallery while the show is on. Shortly after, a baggage cart and a set of freight car trucks were picked up by PNR and on their way. The show, Vistas: Artists on the Canadian Pacific Railway is now open and can be visited October 21, 2010 through January 9, 2011. Location is The Reach Gallery, 32388 Veterans Way, Abbotsford, BC. Show times are Tuesday through Sunday weekly, 1000 to1700 weekdays and 1200 to 1700 weekend. The exhibit is also open until 2100 hours on Thursday evenings. Admission is free, so make sure you get a visit in to this great show.

COLLECTION BREAK AND ENTER RESULTS IN COPPER THEFT An unfortunate incident in mid October saw thieves cut through the chain link fencing on the dyke side of the Heritage Park. They cut and removed copper cabling from some of the exhibit cars on the Garden Tracks north of the station. These cables were not in service so the operation of the cars as exhibits was not affected. The incident was reported and the fence repaired. Increased surveillance has been instituted. (R.G.) SHOVEL OPERATORS BUNK CAR The Shovel Operators bunk car CN 65940 has been positioned in the PGE Carshop for work and work is underway. By early November Chris Forget and helpers (Bob Hunter / Bill Marchant) had one side of the car opened up with siding removed and are progressing to address work needed to be done. The car structure appears in quite good shape at this point. (R.A., R.G.) BUSINESS CAR ALBERTA Business car WCXX 8 Alberta has now been mounted on its rebuilt trucks and was then moved back to the PGE Carshop from the MP 2 shop. It is now in the very final stages of completion, the brake system completion has just occurred, final interior painting is being done, and the carpet installation is next. Lounge furnishings will then be installed and the car will be inspected and certified. Presently, we expect it operational by December 1, 2010. (R.G.) NEW OPERATING PERMIT WCRA’s new operating permit has been received from the Ministry of Transportation, this follows the updating of our Safety Management System submission about 5 months ago. (R.G.)

WCRA News, Page 8 CPR S 3 #6503 UPDATE Work has been ongoing to prepare our CPR S3 switcher #6503 for service with the BCIT Conductor class in November—following report of work activity and progress from Greg Robertshaw and Richard Courage who have been leading the effort…. Continued investigation of the no-loading issue: • Unit started and loaded. This is bad news for troubleshooting as this indicates there is an

intermittent fault. • Tested two small control fuses located on the left wall of the electrical cabinet – both OK. • Recalled that last week the Wheel Slip Relays exhibited non-ideal continuity when

switching between activated and non-activated positions. This could explain the intermittent problem on the EF coil circuit.

• Disassembled both Wheel Slip Relays and found all 8 contact faces to be fouled with grime, with only a small portion of the silver contact visible.

• Cleaned all Wheel Slip contacts and reassembled relays. • On WS2 relay, the silver is 1/2 worn off on the 2nd contact face from the left side of the

locomotive, but is still OK. • Tested the unit and it is still loading properly. We are around 70% certain that the fouled

Wheel Slip Relays caused the intermittent no-loading problem. Examined the leaking radiator problem: • When looking at the radiator from the outside, it appeared that only one radiator core (L5)

was leaking. • Removed radiator core L5. • Radiator core and radiator header were in much better shape than expected. • Not much of the original-style cork gasket was visible. • Cleaned radiator core to header interface. • Should replace the threaded rad-core mounting studs and nuts as there was significant

corrosion where exposed to the weather. • Radiator cores were manufactured by the Young Radiator Co, Racine Wis. This company

is now known as Young Touchstone, a Wabtec company. • Interface area between the radiator core and header is approximately 1.5”H x 6.25”W (area

requiring gasket). There is an upper and lower interface. • Will apply gaskets, reinstall the core and test the radiator next week. Russ adds…...A big THANK YOU to Greg and Richard for their efforts last Sunday. 6503 will be used in the up-coming BCIT Conductors Training School. We are fortunate to have the skills and commitment of these two gentlemen. Their approach and thoroughness, as well as their ability to talk and show me and others the process and repairs is much appreciated. (R.G.)

WCRA News, Page 9 STEAM DOCUMENTS RECEIVED, REVEAL A GEM OF INFORMATION

Up at the park today (4 Nov 2010), in the archives, Trevor opened a thick envelope, just received, containing a copy of the provincial government's file on the PGE 2-6-2 No. 2 (which is part of our collection). It's about 1/2" thick, maybe 80 pages, my estimate. This file is thanks to Martin Howbold, who took the time to copy the official records for us. PGE #2 was built in 1910 for the Howe Sound, Pemberton Valley & Northern Railway, became No. 7 on the Comox Logging & Railway Co. sometime in 1920. The file includes a page called the INSPECTOR'S REPORT OF EXAMINATION AND HYDROSTATIC BOILER TEST which shows she is in good condition on the date issued, which was Nov. 4th, 1920. !! ( 90 years to the day; I love coincidences). (R.A., B.M.) BUDD CAR FIRST? This may be a first. I have never seen a photo of any PGE / BC Rail Budd car on a Squamish (or any other) turntable or heard any stories of that happening. I do not know if the one that went to the island in the 1970s was turned ever in Victoria. (Note and photo, Trevor Mills)

CP CRANE TENDER 402107 The crane tender car (circa 1920) that is with our former Canadian Pacific steam crane has not yet made it into the restoration process, and has been languishing for some time. It has been noted that the wooden “house” on the end of the car was dilapidated and even dangerous in its rotted condition, and so a project was established to correct that problem,. The current house was documented carefully by Ron Anstey and Bob Hunter and the car will now have the wood parts removed to stabilize the car. A new deck and house can be constructed in the future now to the drawings created. (R.A., R.G.)

WCRA News, Page 10 LOCOMOTIVE BELL DONATED The WCRA has received a donation of a steam locomotive bell from the Eric Axford family of Calgary, Alberta. The donation came about through Jim Cullen, and the acquisition was thanks to the efforts of WCRA’s Russ Grycan and Trevor Quigley in Calgary. Ruth Axford provides the following story of the bell as part of the Axford family... “My father acquired the bell on a trip to Montreal in the early 1970's. He was attending a technical conference there and the hotel they were staying at had a temporary display called "The Beaver and the Bell" or maybe "The Bell and the Beaver" that had been set up specifically for the conference. It was intended as a "Canadiana" display to show off some elements of our culture to international delegates attending the conference (sounds like it may have been a CP or CN hotel of the day given "Bell and Beaver" theme). My father apparently stopped in as they were taking down the displays at end of conference and asked what they planned to do with the bell and somehow orchestrated a purchase of it. “This was all a major surprise to my mother as he never mentioned it to her initially and one day the bell just arrived at their Calgary home while he was at work and they asked her where they should put it (he was a bit notorious for buying things at auction or on the fly like this and them just showing up at our home unannounced). He was a geologist and passionate "explorer" and found great intrigue in ships, trains, travel, exploration generally. He was quite renowned and recognized in his own long career, partly as the geologist who came up with the idea that the east coast of Canada was a sedimentary basin while working with Mobil Oil in the 1950's (controversial idea at the time but one that panned out true with major discoveries later at Sable Island, Hibernia, etc.). He is often referred to as "grandfather of the east coast petroleum industry" as a result and was inducted into the Canadian Petroleum Hall of Fame in the early 2000's for this and other career achievements. He passed away in 2005 at age 84. “The bell has been in the basement at my parents house as a curiosity since the early 1970's. As kids we rang it often and would try to pick it up to show off our strength to friends. About 2-3 years ago my mother asked me to try to come up with a good home for the bell in memory of my father - somewhere where it would be appreciated by many more than just those that frequent her basement. I came across Jim Cullen in work related matters and somehow we got talking of his passion for trains and I mentioned this bell at home. He came by to inspect it and took some rough etchings. He estimated it was likely CN origins, dated to about 1905-1910 if I recall though thought it a bit unusual in that it seemed slightly smaller than he expected, did not have normal traditional markings he'd expect, and also had a device on the side he wasn't sure was standard or looked like perhaps a later modification (Kevin who picked it up thought it might be an "oiler" device of sorts). Jim referred me to yourselves (WCRA) as a society that would likely really appreciate the bell and properly house it and honour my mother's wishes and here we are.

WCRA News, Page 11 “That is about all we know about it frankly, though we would obviously be interested to hear more of its real history if you are able to uncover more through some detective work of your own. My simple request, as Don Evans and I discussed, is perhaps that if it does fit into your display concept somewhere, that you recognize the donation through a modest recognition sign/plaque - something to effect of "Donated by the Axford Family, in remembrance of Donald W. Axford" or similar.” West Coast Railway Association has now received the bell at Squamish, and we will work to try and definitively identify its origins. In due course it will go on display with the appropriate recognition in place. We thank the Axford family and Jim Cullen who brought this to our attention, and to Russ Grycan and Trevor Quigley for picking it up in Calgary and transporting the artifact to Squamish. PHOTOS DONATED Thanks to W. Allan Douglas Yuill of Grandview, Manitoba for the donation of a collection of photos and old postcards to our archives. These are now in the hands of our archivist Trevor to be fitted into our collection of photos and archival records. ROYAL HUDSON 2860 A major review of Royal Hudson #2860 is underway, with a full assessment of work needed now and through the future to keep the lomcotive operational. A long term plan is required to verify the feasibility and needed funding in order for this objective to be met. The plan will be reviewed with WCRA senior staff and Transport Canada, with recommendations then going to the board in December. Our objective of three trips or so a year has been difficult to achieve. This was to be the major funding source for the operational preservation of this great locomotive. (R.G.) FROM THE HISTORY FILES……OPEN OBESERVATION CARS In researching old WCR newsletters for the "25-50 Years Ago, came across this "For Sale" notice from the WCRA. The WCRA bought three observation cars from CPR and kept one (now WCXX 598 Henry Pickering) and sold the other two. (M.C.M) FOR SALE: • Two (2) only, standard gauge Rocky Mountain type steel Open Observation Cars Specifications:

• Type of Construction: Steel throughout • Length: 72 feet, 8 inches • Weight: 120,000 pounds • Trucks: 6 wheel passenger type

WCRA News, Page 12 Builders Information:

• Originally 1400 series steel coaches built by CPR at Angus Shops in 1914. Rebuilt as observation cars by CPR in 1951

• Heating System: Steam line through car with heaters in enclosed section • Electrical System: 32 volt direct current, no batteries. Train line service

connection for any voltage • Air System: complete air brake and signal system throughout car • Seating Capacity: 52 in open section with wooden 'walk-over' seats with

canvas covers and 44 in closed section with leather upholstered seats. • Total capacity: 96 persons • Windows: Aluminum lift sash in enclosed section • Vestibules: Access through diaphragmed doors to adjoining cars

Terms of Sale: Highest bid with a minimum of $2,800 each Canadian funds (MCM note: which converted to US funds in 1965 equaled $2600 US). Highest bid not necessarily accepted. Cars are available FOB Calgary, Alberta. Preferential freight tariffs my be arranged if movement is initiated through this Association. Deadline for bids: Midnight, March 1, 1965. Payment required no later than 30 days after acceptance of bid. (MCM note: bids to be sent to the association with a postal code from 1965 of Vancouver 3, B.C.) Then, from the May, 1965 WCRA newsletter: We are very pleased to announce that we have purchased CPR No. 598,an open end type observation car. Last fall, we learned that all three of these cars had been sent to CPR's Ogden Shops for scrapping. We immediately requested that a hold be placed on all three cars. We advised a great many railway groups in Canada and the USA that two of these cars were available for sale through the WCRA. The third would be retained by us. We wanted to buy all three, but this was financially impossible. Several groups responded with the result that two organizations in the US are now proud owners of No. 597 and No.599. Rail Tours Inc. of York, Pennsylvania bought #597 and the Orange Empire Trolley Museum of Perris, CA bought #599. Both of these cars are now in the hands of their new owners and are scheduled for upcoming excursions this summer. Our car will be held indefinitely at Ogden Shops, courtesy of the CPR, until we can find a location to store her.. Final Note—forward to 2010…... Today, both numbers 599 and 597 are at the Sierra Railroad in California, while #598 is WCRA’s star and operates to this day, currently with the Rocky Mountaineer during the season and at the Heritage Park where it makes it home base. (Photo page 13,)

WCRA News, Page 13

WCXX 598, Henry Pickering, shown in 2006 after major rebuild, ready to start service with Rocky Mountaineer’s new Whistler Mountaineer train

CN ROUNDHOUSE & CONFERENCE CENTRE RECEIVES FIRST AWARD The CN Roundhouse & Conference Centre has won a prestigious local award from The Chief Newspaper in Squamish. The Roundhouse was voted as the top place in 2010 to hold a wedding reception in the Sea to Sky Corridor by its readers. To date, the Roundhouse has hosted four (4) weddings and has six (6) already booked for 2011. Pictured above is WCRA’s Chief Mechanical Officer Russ Grycan receiving the award from Chief Newspaper publisher Laila Michell at the Squamish Golf and Country Club ceremony on October 26.

WCRA News, Page 14 BC RAIL PIONEERS DONATION Following their successful lunch meeting in the new Roundhouse this year, the BC Rail Pioneers made a donation to the project which has allowed us to purchase one more large round banquet table for the facility. The table

brings our inventory up to nine tables, allowing us to serve larger groups without renting tables. The photo shows Marion Payette and other BC Rail Pioneer members presenting the cheque to Dave Thomson, Heritage Park General Manager. The table will have a plaque installed noting the donation. (D.T.) JOHN HARDIE MITCHELL GALLERY HOSTS NEW FIRST NATIONS EXHIBIT

WCRA News, Page 15 A new exhibit by the Squamish nation is being installed in the John Hardie Mitchell Gallery at the CN Roundhouse & Conference Centre. The centerpiece of the exhibit is the canoe Pekultn, which was carved from a single cedar log in 1996—1997 at the Roundhouse in Yaletown! Members of the Squamish Nation, led by Dale Harry, were on hand when the canoe was delivered to bless the exhibit and oversee its installation, A photo story on the walls of the gallery show the carving of the canoe, and also tell the story of the Squamish Nation families in the local area. The canoe was part of the water transportation network that preceded the coming of the railways to the area as the primary means of getting around. Display cases exhibit artifacts and native carvings form the era as well. This is the second major exhibit for the gallery, which will continue to feature changing exhibits throughout the years. (D.T.) TRACK FIVE DEDICATED Saturday, November 6 was a very special day at the CN Roundhouse & Conference Centre as four generations of the Buchanan family celebrated the dedication of Track Five in the new facility in memory of J.R (Johnnie) Buchanan. The plaque inscription reads:

Track Five

J.R. “Johnnie” Buchanan Trainman-Conductor-Assistant Superintendent Pacific Great Eastern Railway

J.R. “Johnnie” Buchanan was born in Neepawa, Manitoba in 1908. Like many other young men of his generation he rode the rails west at the beginning of the Great Depression. After his arrival in Squamish he got a job logging for Merrill & Ring. He used this experience to get hired on by the Pacific Great Eastern Railway and in the early years, when work was sporadic, he played baseball for Port Moody, a semi-pro team in the Triangle League. Johnny married Sylvia Edwards of Squamish in August 1934. He was a fun loving dad to daughter Belle (Carson) and sons Jim and Michael. In 1958 Princess Margaret toured the province to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the founding of the colony of British Columbia. The PGE laid on a Royal Train for its segment between Quesnel and Prince George. The conductor was J.R Buchanan. Johnnie loved railroading and was proud to be a member of the Brotherhood of Railroad Trainmen Local 1080. He twice was the union delegate at national conventions in Miami and Cleveland. Johnny died on the railroad in May 1960.

WCRA News, Page 16 Family and friends numbered around 70 people as the event got underway. Don Evans acted as Master of Ceremonies, welcoming everyone to the new CN Roundhouse and Conference Centre at the West Coast Railway Heritage Park. Mayor Greg Gardner of Squamish then said a few words, noting the Buchanan family’s pioneering spirit in Squamish over the years, and once again in being the first track sponsor in the new facility. Following that,

Michael Buchanan took the microphone and talked more about Johnnie (above) and some of the stories that typified him in his years as father, grandfather and railroader. The permanent plaque was then unveiled by Isabel (Belle) Carson, Michael Buchanan and Verna (Buchanan) Mossop. Following the official ceremony, the family enjoyed refreshments and socialized for some

WCRA News, Page 17 time. It was wonderful seeing four generations reconnect and enjoy the company of each other in a relaxed setting. As for all of us at West Coast Railway Association, we would like to express our appreciation to the Buchanan family for this sponsorship. The genesis of it all came when Evelyn Carson was the first bride to be married in the CN Roundhouse & Conference Centre, and the family liked what they saw and decided they would like to do something to help see it completed. The sponsorship will help with that and is greatly appreciated. SECOND TRACK SPONSORED! We are very pleased to announce the sponsorship of a second track (Track Four) in the new CN Roundhouse & Conference Centre by Gordon & Mary Christopher. Details will follow as they are firmed up with the sponsor, but we are delighted to have the second sponsorship now confirmed. HELP US COMPLETE THE ROUNDHOUSE Although we have now opened the new facility, several items remain for the future as we just still do not have the funds needed to complete them. These items include the elevator to the upper levels (stairs are in now), the supplementary air circulation system, additional electrical detail lighting, and the servery finishing. We will undertake these projects as they can be funded, hopefully all to be completed in 2010 or early 2011. Our biggest challenge remains the funding. While all who come by drop lavish words on what we have accomplished and how great the building looks, we have to remember that we have not finished the job nor have we fully paid for it. We still must meet our capital fundraising goals for this year and next year before the project can be declared completed. The total gap to finish the turntable installation and complete the outstanding items on the building remains at around the $900k mark. Our capital fundraising target for 2010 was set at $1.4 million, and we have achieved only about $500,000 of that so far. We continue to work to find the naming sponsors needed to close this gap, and bring this great new facility to full completion. We must have your help here if we are to succeed. Naming Opportunities—these will name specific exhibit areas in the building as well as the plaza out front, and suggested amounts are indicated. • Heritage Plaza (centre court in front of the building, around the turntable) - suggested naming sponsorship amount $500,000. This will be a major plaza area and scene for

many activities such as introduction of new rail restorations, outdoor concerts, car shows

WCRA News, Page 18 • Upper Level Viewing Deck and Gallery—this is the indoor / outdoor deck on the WCRA upper level of the building, which will provide great views over the Heritage Plaza of the event site as well as the Mac Norris Station main track. Also a wonderful reception location for events. Suggested naming sponsorship $250,000 • John Hardie Mitchell Gallery—Named! This area, off the main entry lobby, is used to

exhibit special collections , such as art shows or photography. Exhibits will change regularly, sponsorship taken by the John Hardie Mitchell family foundation.

• Tracks 1 through 7—Tracks 4 and 5 Named! - each of the seven exhibit tracks will carry a sponsor name, each track will house one of our collection’s prize pieces of rolling stock,

suggested naming sponsorship $50,000 per track (five tracks still available). • Board room—there is also an opportunity to name the board room on the mezzanine level

of the building. This will be a good and very useful room and will be set up to accommodate up to 24 people around a nice sized meeting room table.

If any of you have interest (or know of any one who might) in such a permanent legacy please let us know. Contact Don Evans at 604-988-3435 or president@wcra.org or the office at 604-681-4403.

FUNDRAISING PRESIDENT’S REPORT October continued to show the ongoing fundraising challenges of 2010, as we worked very hard, making some progress, but not achieving a major breakthrough. The impact of the loss of October’s planned Royal Hudson trip hit hard, but things started to recover late in the month as fundraising continued. News of the taking of a second track sponsorship in the roundhouse came late in the month and will be recorded in November. Major Funding Received

• Expenses Donation $4,951 • Debenture Interest Donations $3,250 • Royal Hudson Direct Mail $5,825 • In Memoriam Dr. Warren Gill $4,500 Royal Hudson • Roundhouse Donations $6,600 • Wild at Art Donation $1,100 • General Donation $290 • New debenture $5,000 • Roundhouse Track 5 Sponsorship $35,000

Month Total $66,516 Year to date Total: $1,224,634

WCRA News, Page 19 Other Significant Activities • Much work with financial and financing matters • Meetings with District of Squamish on several matters • Governance talk to North Vancouver Museum symposium • Presentation to North Vancouver Outdoor School advisory board

WEST COAST RAIL TOURS TOURS UPDATE The Tours Committee continues to meet one week prior to the monthly general meetings and is now working the program for 2010—2011. To keep informed of upcoming tours and special excursions submit your e-mail address at www.westcoastrailtours.com . That way you will get up-to-the-minute news on special deals and new trips. Meantime, don’t forget WCR Tours as can book your independent travel at any time—we meet the best prices and your bookings result in commissions to the WCRA. (See page 20) We also offer the following tours on a year round basis so you don’t have to wait for 2011 for some enjoyable rail travel. (M.C.) MALAHAT CIRCLE TOUR - Daily except Saturday - all year – 2 days Depart from Pacific Central Station at a time of your choosing aboard Pacific Coach Lines scheduled service to Victoria. We supply vouchers to take you to the Queen Victoria Hotel—a few steps from the bus depot. You are on your own for dinner. Breakfast is served at 7:00AM in the hotel’s restaurant, then their van shuttles you to the VIA Rail station at 7:30 AM. Board the train for an 8:00 AM departure to Qualicum Beach where it arrives before noon. Enjoy this quaint town with its interesting beaches and restaurants. After lunch (on your own) we ask you to board the southbound train at 2:00 PM and get off at Nanaimo at about 3:00 PM. A waiting, pre-booked taxi takes you to Nanaimo’s bus depot for the 4:30 PM departure of Greyhound’s scheduled service to Vancouver. Dinner on the ferry is available. Arrive at Pacific Central Station at 7:15 PM. FARES: $227 Children 2-11 $199; BC Seniors (Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays only) $199. (Otherwise, $227). Ask about special pricing if couples travel together. Single supplement $71. GST/HST extra. Low season and budget hotel bookings save you more. PORTLAND ON AMTRAK CASCADES—any time year round Are you in the mood for some Christmas shopping? Why not take advantage of the strong Canadian Dollar? Travel to one of the most environmentally friendly cities in the world by rail, the most comfortable method of transportation. Departures from Vancouver every day at 6:40 am, arriving in Portland at 2:55 pm. The return train departs Portland at 2:50 pm, returning to Vancouver at 10:50 pm. Round trip rail tickets are as low as $110 (Seniors $93.50). We will also book your hotel in the downtown area starting at around $100/night. You decide how many nights you want to stay.

WCRA News, Page 20

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

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

WCRA News, Page 21 WEST COAST RAILWAY HERITAGE PARK Home of the Royal Hudson POLAR EXPRESS DEC. 4 AND 5—NOW ON SALE! Book your date and time now, as the Polar Express returns to the West Coast Railway Heritage Park. This popular event will operate for two days only, Saturday December 4 and Sunday, December 5. Back is the great one hour train ride with scenes from the movie acted out aboard and tasty treats, but new this year is the set up in the warm comfort of the CN Roundhouse & Conference Centre where Santa and Mrs. Claus will greet everyone in an exciting Christmas venue. Also this year, mini rail will be operating inside the roundhouse along with crafts, exhibits, Christmas ambiance and more. Tickets are on sale now—prices are $32 for all in First Class and $22 for coach class ($19 for children coach class) - all prices are +HST. Call 604-898-9336 for tickets, more info also at www.wcra.org Please note that there are no member discounts with this event.

CHRISTMAS CRAFT FAIR New this year, and operating with the Polar Express event, is a wonderful Christmas Craft fair. The Craft Fair is part of your Polar Express experience and admission is included with your Polar Express ticket. Note that is you are not attending Polar Express, the craft fair will also be open Friday evening December 3, from 1600—2100k and admission is just $2.00. CAPILANO UNIVERSITY TOURISM CLASS VISITS On Tuesday, October 26, our General Manager Dave Thomson had the pleasure of speaking to and touring 18+ Capilano University Tourism students. The objective of the tour was to cover many aspects of one of the largest tourist attractions in the Sea to Sky corridor. It was an excellent afternoon and the group made this pose on #2860. (D.T.)

WCRA News, Page 22 CHRISTMAS LIGHTS IN THE PARK The annual Christmas Lights in the Park event will be held December 17 through December 22, 2010. Ride the ever popular mini rail trains through a fairyland of decorated lights and scenes. Enjoy the Light o Rama show, the Christmas gift ship and more. Event open each evening from 1730 through 2030, admission just $5.00 per person (m embers just $3.00). OTHER RAILROAD WORK Keeping the West Coast Railway Heritage Park operating requires much more than trains, crews and track. There is also much work to be done like weeding, trimming brush, and overall looking after the 12 acres of land we call our home. Some heavy duty brush cutting and

removal along our tracks took place in October, the photo here by Russ Grycan shows PGE #561 and work train clearing the spur track into the Heritage Park so that branches do not scratch paint as trains pass by. Major brush removal was also done along the RIP track to allow the move of the cabooses from that

location to the covered space they now occupy. Thanks to all of our crew and volunteers—Randy Lucas, Dave Thethi, Tomo’o Oshikawa, Andy Faris and Russ Grycan for their work with this, also to Kevin Smith, Barbara Stover, and Ben Beniot, Jeremy Davy, Galen Olson, Howie Tichauer, who also contributed to the fall clean up needs around the site. (R.G.) TRUNK EXHIBITED A large steamer trunk with great history has been added to the baggage cart display in the roundhouse….the large trunk was donated by George Doucette. It belonged to his grandmother, who emigrated to Canada in 1902, settling in Hamilton, Ontario. They then continue across Canada by train in 1920, and finally settled in Vancouver. The trunk received some work by Dave Emmington to spruce it up and restore it a bit, and it now graces the vintage CPR baggage wagon on display. (D.E.)

WCRA News, Page 23 WILD AT ART SUPPORTS HERITAGE PARK The Squamish Wild at Art Festival Society has wound up and ceased operations. The Wild at Art show was held for three seasons, but did not run this year. The goal of raising the profile of local artists was achieved, and the three annual shows were held at the West Coast Railway Heritage Park. In winding up the society, some of the remaining assets after expenses were donated to the West Coast Railway Heritage Park by director Sonia Lebans. We are sorry that the festival will not continue, but appreciate the support of the society. (D.T.) FRIGHTFEST VERY SUCCESSFUL Congratulations to all who participated in the annual FrightFest Halloween event at the Heritage Park, and also to all those who came and enjoyed the event. The 2010 event was the most successful ever, with a total of 1,054 guests over the four evenings of operation, Some other highlights, there were 200 pumpkins along the mini rail line, carved by the students at four local schools. The Garden Railway was a great hit (thanks Les and Galen) with fog swirling and pumpkin train running around the tracks. The Ghoul Express (a well decorated BC—33 car) was also a great hit with both animated and live scares aboard (thanks John )! Olga looked great in costume at the beanery, and a real favourite was trick or treating at the Brightbill heritage House where Vivian was on hand in period costume to hand out the goodies. Chris and Kyle had the model trains operating, and crafts in the station meeting room were also a hit. Revenues ended up exceeding forecast helping event more. All in all a great event, thanks to all who helped make this a real success. (R.G., D.T.)

LOCOMOTIVE 374 PAVILION PAVILION NOTES Thanks to all the volunteers who have come aboard, we are now able to cover the Locomotive 374 Pavilion seven days a week, making it excellent for our guests and always available to both residents and tourists. The Fireman’s seat in the lomcotive has been reupholstered. Thanks to Colin Dathan for removing it and to George Game for arranging the reupholstering. It is now replaced and looks great. The gift shop kiosk locks have been repaired and it is looking great and back in operation. Sales are doing well, and donations have stepped up now that new donation box signs are in place and more visible. (B.J.)

WCRA News, Page 24

RAILWAY NEWS NEW LOCO COMES WEST Brand new loco on nose of train 112 tonight (Nov. 4) , new GE unit #2723, spotless and with an new feature—an LED road number fixture. This looked like a fluorescent light from the office, and really stands out at night. This was its first trip west of Winnipeg which it reached on its first trip west from Toronto. (J.M.) CN AND TSI TO IMPROVE PORT METRO VANCOUVER SERVICE CN and TSI Terminal Systems Inc. have signed a Service Level Agreement which establishes specific performance targets. This comes out of the CN / TSI collaboration agreement announced last month that commits all parties to work together to drive greater efficiencies and improve customer service in the Vancouver gateway. (BL) ANNUAL HOLIDAY TRAIN Canadian Pacific's annual Holiday Trains are on the roll again for 2010. This year's west coast arrival of the decorated train (with entertainment and fundraising for charity at each stop along the way) will be on December 17, with a stop at Haney at 1945 and then the final arrival at Port Moody at 2100 the same evening. (B.M.) NEW GENSET LOCOMOTIVES Canadian Pacific has put two new Gen Set locomotives to work on their roster. # 2100 and 2101 are both model 3GS21B-DE units (3 Gen Sets / 2100 hp / b-b trucks) from National Railway Equipment. (B.M.) LAST SPIKE 125 ANNIVERSARY The railway heritage event of the month had to be the 125th anniversary celebration of the driving of the last spike on the CPR. The event was celebrated at Craigellachie, BC on Sunday, November 7 in a ceremony that included CPR’s Royal Canadian Pacific train. The event received good media coverage on the evening newscasts and appeared to be well attended. The Revelstoke Railway Museum, which oversees and helps host the heritage site, was present and has sponsored a legacy project to commemorate the historic event. A travelers chest trunk, from the 1880’s, will be filled with memorabilia from the era and from past anniversary celebrations, to become a lasting souvenir of the driving of the last spike. If you have anything significant for this trunk, contact the museum at www.railwaymuseum.com and they will provide information on how to donate an item.

WCRA News, Page 25

REVISED ISLAND SERVICE PLAN WOULD BASE AT NANAIMO

A new Nanaimo-to-Victoria passenger rail service plan for Vancouver Island was announced today by the Island Corridor Foundation. Graham Bruce, ICF executive director, said the foundation is hopeful that with the assistance of the federal and provincial governments and VIA Rail, the plan will be operational in the next 12 to 18 months.

The strategy, developed by the ICF and Southern Rail of Vancouver Island, calls for the existing VIA passenger service to make its home terminus the ICF’s Nanaimo rail yard. This would allow an early-morning southbound passenger service to Victoria to be added to the 8 a.m. Victoria-to-Courtenay daily service as well as a late afternoon train from Victoria to Nanaimo.

The two senior governments are being asked to equally fund $15 million in rail infrastructure improvements that will primarily replace ties and ballast, making for a smoother safer ride and securing the future of Island rail. VIA Rail has been approached under its railcar refurbishment program to provide new passenger cars that are handicap accessible, can carry bicycles and have onboard food and beverage facilities.

“This is the first phase of incremental rail improvements that was detailed in the recently released B.C. Ministry of Transportation rail study,” said Bruce. “We’ve toured the rail with North Island MP and Minister of Aboriginal Affairs John Duncan, B.C. Minister of Transportation Shirley Bond, and VIA Rail president Marc Laliberte. They appreciate the common sense of this passenger service plan and the urgency of the rail infrastructure funding.”

The ICF took over control and ownership of the Island rail corridor and the rail link to Port Alberni in 2006. The ICF has contracted with SRY Rail Link, (known as SVI Rail Link), a B.C.-based, highly experienced short-line rail provider, to be the Island’s rail operator To date, approximately $30 million in rail and trail improvements, several new bridges, the Langford transit exchange and the Admirals Road crossing have been completed and a new Nanaimo station is now under construction. Annual freight tonnage has been stabilized and passenger volumes have been increased by 25 per cent since 2006.

It is anticipated the work program will take approximately 12 months to complete and will generate 164 direct and indirect jobs; $7.7million in wages and salaries; $8 million in goods expenditures on Vancouver Island; and will create job training and employment opportunities for Island First Nations.

The MoT study identified potential passenger ridership overall could grow to more than

WCRA News, Page 26 200,000 people annually over the next 20 years with improvements. The study points out that anyone trying to use the current train to commute or to visit either Victoria or Nanaimo on business is “highly constrained by the schedule which departs Victoria in the morning and returns in the evening.” Bruce said passenger fares, although not yet established, would have to be competitive with other transit options VIA RAIL NOTES Apparently F40PH-3 6400 will not be repaired following its involvement in the derailment of VIA’s westbound "Ocean" at St-Charles-de-Bellechasse, Quebec on February 25, 2010... VIA RDC-1 6133 departed Kamloops, BC in M30251 on August 27 via Vancouver Intermodal Terminal and on to Toronto Mac Yard, arriving on September 21. It departed Mac Yard on September 23 in M36831 23 via Joffre, QC, arriving at Halifax Intermodal in X 47421 25 on September 26. (TJ) VIA LRC locomotive # 6917 will be preserved thanks to the Toronto Railway Historical Society. They raised the funds needed to purchase the loco from VIA and have until September 2011 to move the loco to their John St. roundhouse site in Toronto. (TOL) VIA’s Renaissance fleet is being upgraded to meet accessibility requirements, Industrial Rail services IS modifying three sleeper cars, nine coach cars and baggage cars. Every Renaissance fleet train will have one accessible coach and one sleeper (on overnight trains). VIA and the Federal Government will invest $5.1 million to upgrade Pacific Central Station in Vancouver in 2011, renovating masonry, widows and the roof. Strict attention will be paid to preserving the heritage features of the building in all the work. (VL)

WCRA News, Page 27 CREDIT LINES ISSN 1204-072X Vol. 49 Issue 12 Editor Don Evans Distribution Jeremy Davy & Donna Simon Contributors: R.A. Ron Anstey M.C. Mattias Christianson J.D. Jeremy Davy D.E. Dave Emmington R.G. Russ Grycan B. J. Bill Johnston B.M. Bill Marchant J.M. Jim McPherson M.C.M. Craig McDowall D.T. Dave Thomson B.W. Bill Watson BL Branchline TJ Tempo Jr. TOL Trains on Line VL ViaLogue

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 <news@wcra.org>, phone news to

(604)988-3435(res) or fax to (604) 986-7660. Check us out on the Internet at <www.wcra.org>

Contact us: Tours 604-524-1011 / 800-722-1233 Heritage Park 604-898-9336 Office 604-681-4403 CN Roundhouse & Conference Centre 604-898-1082 BACK COVER With the 1890 business car British Columbia now located in the new Cn Roundhouse & Con-ference Centre, the set of recently donated (by Peter Cox) marker lamps have been installed. This certainly is the finishing touch to this valuable artifact, the very first piece of WCRA’s collection, acquired in 1963! (Russ Grycan photo) TRIVIA ANSWER The Douglas DC-7 was the tour airplane for the rock band “Grand Funk Railroad” !

Published monthly by West Coast Railway Association ISSN 1204-072X PO Box 2790 Stn. Term., Vancouver, B.C., V6B 3X2 Vol. 49 Issue 12 www.wcra.org http://twitter.com/WCRailway Canada Post, Canadian Publications Mail Sales Product Agreement #40007853