Rolly Martin Country: The 1939 Royal Tour - Part 5

Briskly, briskly we make our way across the broad prairies and travel into the foreboding mountain ranges, as the Royal Tour of 1939 completes its travel on the CPR system at Victoria, British Columbia. The following pages come from a presentation style book prepared by the railways for participants and the press. Earlier sections of this series can be found under the heading 'Royal Train of 1939' by pressing the "Railway Technology & Systems 04" index button above.

As usual, the standard railway maps are repeated and enlarged to better show detail.

The account begins before Winnipeg and at the end of this post, the first page of the return trip on the CNR is previewed.

As this is posted in early 2020, First Nations blockades of Canadian railways are in the news. Aspects of Canadian history as it was interpreted 80 years ago contrast with our greater historical literacy today.

This post contains fewer anecdotes from the trip, however one story gives us a perspective on life on the Prairies as it relates this event. Cast your mind back to early automobile or horse-powered transportation on Prairie dirt roads at the end of the Great Depression ...

After travelling for hours and hours some well-wishers would finally find themselves trackside along the CPR. After the tracks were unusually quiet for a while, the pilot train carrying the press and some officials would pass. Half an hour later, a headlight would appear down the tracks and excitement would build as the presence of the speeding Royal Train established itself. In seconds, the locomotive and cars roared and flashed by the small crowd. The King, Queen, Prime Minister, any recognizable politician or official ... none could be seen through the windows or on the rear platform of the train. The train quickly faded into the distance and everyone quietly began their long, long journey home.

I have always been interested in the following enterprise.
Finally, here are the photos which go with its mention on Page 75.

from: Commercial Canada; Ed: Fred Cook; circa 1913; Redman Book Co.

Commercial Canada; Ed: Fred Cook; circa 1913; Redman Book Co.

The plant was closed in 1957 and destroyed by fire in 1962.
However, here is the best 'current' Google view of the one surviving kiln in 2012.

Unused postcard, Calgary circa 1940.

Canadian Geographic Journal; July 1939.

Even though their day at the Banff Springs Hotel was supposed to be a well-earned day of rest,
the King and Queen still had to pose for photos, including some with Prime Minister Mackenzie King.

Apparently, the CPR 2850 deadheaded Banff to Calgary for
pre-planned shopping during this day or so that the consist didn't move.

An unused postcard circa 1920.

The CPR's odd assortment of tourist accommodations at Lake Louise can be seen.

Canadian Geographic Journal; July 1939.

The King and Queen tramp up the ballast and receive a floral presentation at Beavermouth.

Canadian Geographic Journal; July 1939.

Having hauled herself up into the cab, the Queen always conveys the idea
that you are making this the best day of her life.
It looks as if the King is behind her.

The royal couple rode in the cab of the Selkirk
up the helper grade from Beavermouth to Stoney Creek.