Ron Brown
Rails Across the Prairies: The Railway Heritage of Canada's Prairie Provinces
- ISBN 13:
- 9781459702158
- author:
- Ron Brown
- format:
- Paperback
- publisher:
- Dundurn Group LTD
- language:
- English
- Publication Year:
- 2012
- Pages:
- 176
- Dimensions:
- 8.80 (w) x 8.90 (h) x 0.50 (d)
- Genre:
- Railroads - History, General & Miscellaneous Canadian History
- Condition:
- New
- Availability:
- Item usually sent within 10 working days
Description
Rails Across the Prairies: A History of Canada's Railway Heritage The development of Canada's rail network is a fascinating story that spans centuries. It begins with the introduction of the first steam engine, which was placed on the back of a barge. The arrival of European settlers before the railway posed significant challenges, and they relied on ferry services to navigate the Assiniboine and North Saskatchewan Rivers. As the railways were built, rivalries emerged between their owners, while innovative irrigation systems were developed by the Canadian Pacific Railway. The towns that sprang up along these lines were often created from scratch, with layouts and names that reflect their railway heritage. Today, many of these landmarks remain, including existing rail operations and museums that tell the stories of the railways. Although the rail lines have declined in recent years, many still exist and can be seen by heritage enthusiasts. This book explores what remains of Canada's railway legacy, from ghost towns to interpretative sites, and provides a unique insight into the history of this important part of Canadian development.