NFB's Trans Canada Express documents Canadian railways service during World War Two

   WMRC Vice President Dave Downie found another great NFB video! This one is titled Trans Canada Express, and it documents the important contributions Canada's railways made for the war effort during World War 2.

   The 1944 film also gives us a brief history of the making of the Canadian Pacific rail line through the Rockies (complete with a poem), some classic clips from Buster Keaton's "The General", and a rousing finale that takes us from coast to coast (complete with a song)!

   Best of all, this 19 minute video gives us some great views of railroading in the 1940's when steam was king, and some breathtaking views of Canada's scenery (albeit in black and white). To view Trans Canada Express, click here.

Construction begins on a snowshed for the Gateway Western Railway

The WMRC Gateway Western HO scale layout has reached another scenery stage!  A snow/rock slide shed is planned for an area where a mountain pass will create the need for such a structure. The shed is being built from stripwood according to a plan designed by WMRC Program Director Morgan Turney. In the above photo, Morgan tests the master 'bent'  for clearances.  Upon passing inspection, 18 bents will be constructed using a master jig built from strip Styrene to support the shed roof.

Here's the master jig Morgan designed. It will sure make it a lot easier building the rest of the bents!

As you can see from the photo below, this model of CP Rail's classic Canadian passenger train has no problem passing through the bent!

Assiniboine Valley Railway holds second open house in July

   The friendly folks at the Assiniboine Valley Railway are holding a second open house this month. During the months of July and August, there will be two open houses during each of those months.
This weekend, on July 25 and 26, the hours will be from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM on Saturday, and from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM on Sunday.

    Please keep in mind that there will be two open houses each month only during July and August. In September and October, they will be going back to their usual schedule of one open house a month.

    Tickets for one ride are just two bucks. A 12 ride pass costs just a mere $20. Children two years old and under ride for free! All minors must be accompanied by an adult.

    The AVR is located at 3001 Roblin Boulevard, just west of Assiniboine Park. Limited parking is available on their 800 foot long driveway, but you can also park on Roblin Boulevard or Chalfont Street.

    For more information about the AVR, click here.