At the risk of becoming the Champlain & St Lawrence Blog (after recent posts), this effort began with posting the short paper I bought for $1.50 at a railway show - a paper which was originally held at the CNR Headquarters Library,
As Google has been mercilessly prompting me to try it ... and as I have been working to understand the broader implications of Artificial Intelligence via listening to smart people on YouTube ... I had a trial version produce a paper for me about this railway.
First, the conventional research. Considering the references cited, it reinforces my prejudice that every Canadian child should grow up in a home equipped with a complete set of the CRHA's Canadian Rail.
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"My Assignment" and Our AI Future
It seems that fewer young people are reading books 'for pleasure' these days than in years past.
Furthermore, after they experienced the COVID social trauma, and facing a seemingly grim unaffordable future, there is the perception that many are "ChatGPT-ing" their way through school, carefully using antiplagiarism sites ... and 'AI humanizer' programs to retroactively sprinkle spelling and grammatical errors into their machine-written assignments to avoid the suspicious perfection of AI research and composition.
Considering 'my' perfect research paper below, this was the full extent of my effort ...
- I appropriated the title from the 1973 paper and typed in 'Canada's First Railway'.
- I approved the research outline which the AI agent provided.
... My free paper was available within minutes.
Some of the sections contain sentences of generalities about railways which do not apply to the topic I selected ... but then, I approved the sections outline and I could always edit the copy/paste text below. There is one obvious factual error which most of you will find near the end.
On-line References and Introducing ... 'AI Slop'
Most readers will be familiar with many of the on-line references listed below. I believe that money can buy you a Google AI search of journals and perhaps historical archives to provide a paper which takes longer than a few minutes to produce.
If you actually go to the first on-line reference on the list (Canada's Freight History: Past, Present and Future), you will conclude that it is a general historical text about Canadian railway history ... written by AI.
... The particular sections of 'my' research originating from that reference #1 are sometimes referred to as "AI slop". That is, they are AI generalities, 'scraped' from other AI generalities on the internet, etc, with no apparent concrete factual origin.
The average reader of this blog is probably interested in railways and/or history and can identify the credible references (i.e. among those below) ... Similarly they also know when my own writings here on this blog should be open to debate or correction.
... In the future, some younger people ... who have had less experience with printed 'newspapers of record' or books ... or other human-produced artifacts ... may find it harder to identify "AI slop" (text, music, images, videos etc).
To Make the Future, You Have to Break a Few Eggs
Historian Yuval Noah Harari warns of an AI future in which it becomes harder and harder for us to distinguish between the AI-written texts ... and authoritative human texts from credible sources such as Colin Churcher and the Canadian Encyclopedia.
Harari likens the future world created by so many AI-algorithms ... to be akin to living with an alien invasion. These 'invaders' who will be providing our history, knowledge, reading materials, and other cultural creations ... are not humans and they don't think like us, or feel emotions as we do.
On the other hand, computer scientist, cognitive scientist and cognitive psychologist Geoff Hinton seems to disagree. He suggests that our brains are not special - that we evolved to survive. There is a good probability that AI networks, too, will evolve to survive [us] once they have the necessary intelligence and the means of self-preservation.
Long ago, on a snowy 20-inch black and white CRT television ... receiving free analogue signals from the US ... which entered the house via a regular VHF TV aerial atop a tower ... I watched the memorable movie ... Colossus: The Forbin Project (1970) :
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At the very end of 'my work', you'll find the image of the original 'old timey vintage analogue' 1834 survey/profile of the Champlain & St Lawrence and a link to the 1832 law which created it. Both documents are from BANQ.
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Canada's First Railway: A Historical Analysis of the Champlain and St. Lawrence Railroad
I. Introduction: The Dawn of Canadian Railways
The 19th century witnessed a global transformation driven by advancements in technology, with the advent of railways marking a pivotal moment in societal progress. These iron pathways revolutionized transportation, dramatically altering landscapes and fostering unprecedented levels of connectivity. In Canada, a nation characterized by its vast and often challenging geography, the introduction of railways held particular significance, promising to overcome the limitations of existing transportation networks and unlock the immense potential of the land. The Champlain and St. Lawrence Railroad stands as Canada's pioneering venture into this transformative mode of transportation. Its establishment in the early 1830s represents not just the laying of the first tracks, but the ignition of a national railway saga that would ultimately shape the country's economic, social, and political fabric. This report aims to provide a comprehensive historical analysis of Canada's first railway, the Champlain and St. Lawrence Railroad, tracing its origins, development, operational life, and enduring legacy in the context of Canadian history.1 By examining the motivations behind its creation, the challenges of its construction, its initial impact, and its subsequent evolution, this analysis seeks to illuminate the foundational role this early railway played in the broader narrative of Canadian development.
II. The Genesis of the Champlain and St. Lawrence Railroad: A Vision for Connectivity
A. The State of Transportation in Early Canada
Prior to the emergence of railways, transportation in early Canada relied heavily on waterways and rudimentary road networks. While navigable rivers and lakes provided essential routes for trade and travel, their utility was often limited by seasonal conditions, geographical obstacles such as rapids, and the time-consuming nature of waterborne journeys. Overland travel, primarily conducted via stagecoaches and animal-drawn carts, was often arduous, uncomfortable, and slow, particularly over long distances and across challenging terrain. The journey between significant commercial centers like Montreal and New York City exemplified these limitations. The existing stagecoach route was reportedly bumpy and time-consuming, necessitating a search for more efficient alternatives.2 Even the water route between Montreal and St-Jean-sur-Richelieu, a distance of under 20 miles overland, stretched to approximately 75 miles, highlighting the inefficiencies inherent in relying solely on natural waterways.3 These constraints on the movement of goods and people underscored the pressing need for improved transportation infrastructure to facilitate economic growth and strengthen connections within and beyond the borders of what would become Canada.
B. Inspiration from Abroad
The limitations of existing transportation methods in Canada coincided with significant advancements in railway technology in other parts of the world. In Britain, the opening of the Liverpool and Manchester Railway in 1830 demonstrated the transformative potential of steam-powered rail transport for both passengers and freight.4 Across the Atlantic, the United States was also witnessing the early stages of railway development, with the first chartered railway appearing approximately a decade before Canada's inaugural venture.5 Notably, a railway line between Albany and Schenectady, New York, began operations in 1831.6 This burgeoning global railway movement did not go unnoticed by entrepreneurial minds in Canada. The success of these early railways served as a powerful inspiration, suggesting a viable solution to the transportation challenges faced in British North America. The potential for increased speed, efficiency, and capacity offered by railways presented a compelling vision for the future of trade and travel in Canada.
C. The Visionaries
The realization of Canada's first railway was not a matter of chance but rather the result of the foresight and determination of a group of prominent Montreal businessmen. Among these key figures were Peter McGill, the president of the Bank of Montreal, Jason C. Pierce, a merchant with significant shipping interests, and John Molson, a renowned brewer and influential figure in Montreal's commercial landscape.6 These individuals recognized the immense potential of railway technology to address the existing transportation bottlenecks and to foster economic development in the region. Their vision was particularly driven by the desire to improve the connection between Montreal, a major commercial hub, and New York City, a vital trading partner. Jason C. Pierce, with his firsthand experience in shipping, keenly understood the benefits of a more direct and faster route linking the St. Lawrence River and Lake Champlain, thereby significantly reducing the travel time between the two major centers.6 The experience of McGill and Pierce as early passengers on the Albany to Schenectady railway in New York further solidified their belief in the feasibility and advantages of such a project for Canada.6 John Molson, a man known for his entrepreneurial spirit and financial acumen, played a crucial role in championing the idea and providing the necessary financial backing to bring the vision to life.6 Together, these visionaries spearheaded the effort to establish Canada's first railway, laying the groundwork for a transportation revolution that would reshape the nation.
III. Incorporation and Key Figures: Laying the Legal and Financial Foundation
A. The Act of Incorporation
The formal establishment of Canada's first railway required navigating the legal and political processes of the time. On February 25, 1832, a pivotal moment arrived with the granting of royal assent to the bill that created Canada's first railway company.6 This act of incorporation officially established the Champlain and St. Lawrence Railroad as a legal entity with the mandate to construct and operate a railway line.6 The charter outlined the intended route of the railway, specifying its connection between Dorchester (now known as Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu) and a point on the St. Lawrence River at or near Laprairie.9 This legal foundation was essential for securing the necessary land, raising capital, and ultimately commencing the construction of the railway. The very act of incorporation marked a significant step forward, transforming the vision of the Montreal businessmen into a tangible project with the potential to revolutionize transportation in the region.
B. The Driving Forces
The successful incorporation of the Champlain and St. Lawrence Railroad was largely attributable to the unwavering efforts of its key proponents. John Molson, the prominent Montreal brewer, emerged as a central figure, providing not only financial support but also crucial leadership in the early stages of the project.1 His reputation and influence within the Montreal business community were undoubtedly instrumental in garnering support for the venture. Jason C. Pierce, the shipping merchant with a keen understanding of the transportation needs between Montreal and New York, provided the initial impetus for the railway. His vision of connecting the St. Lawrence River and Lake Champlain to expedite travel and trade was the driving force behind the specific route chosen.6 Pierce's practical insights into the inefficiencies of existing routes and the potential benefits of a railway were invaluable in shaping the project's objectives. Peter McGill, the president of the Bank of Montreal, brought his financial expertise and his appreciation for the potential of railways, gained from his experience with early lines in the United States, to the endeavor.6 Together, these three individuals formed the core of the group that conceived, lobbied for, and ultimately established Canada's first railway company. Their diverse backgrounds and shared vision created a powerful synergy that overcame the initial hurdles and laid the foundation for a new era of transportation in Canada.6
IV. Construction and Infrastructure: Building the First Tracks
A. Surveying the Route
With the legal framework in place, the next crucial step was to determine the precise route of the railway. Two young American engineers were tasked with surveying a suitable path to connect Saint-Jean on the Richelieu River with the nearest point on the St. Lawrence River upstream from Montreal.6 The chosen route extended approximately 12 kilometers (as the crow flies) from Saint-Jean to the hamlet of La Prairie.6 This specific alignment was strategically selected to serve as a portage, linking the navigable waters of the Richelieu River (leading to Lake Champlain and ultimately New York) with the St. Lawrence River, thus bypassing the rapids and other navigational challenges that hindered direct water travel between Montreal and the south.6 The relatively short length of the initial line reflected its primary purpose as a crucial link in a larger transportation network involving both rail and water travel.
B. Laying the Tracks
The construction of the Champlain and St. Lawrence Railroad commenced in the spring of 1835.6 The technology and materials employed in the construction of the tracks reflected the early stage of railway development in North America. Initially, the tracks consisted of lengths of pine timber, approximately six inches square, joined together using iron splice plates and bolts.6 To provide a running surface for the train wheels and to protect the relatively soft wood from wear, thin straps of iron were spiked to the upper surface of the wooden rails.2 While this method represented an innovation for Canada, the use of wooden rails with iron straps was a transitional technology. In fact, an earlier, albeit industrial and horse-drawn, railway near Kingsey Falls, Quebec, utilized wooden rails as early as 1827.4 By the 1850s, the wooden rails of the Champlain and St. Lawrence Railroad would eventually be replaced with more durable cast iron rails.5 The construction process also involved significant earthwork for grading the route, building fences, and constructing necessary masonry and bridge structures, as well as a wharf at La Prairie and the beginnings of two station houses.6
C. The First Locomotive: The Dorchester
A defining moment in the construction of the railway was the acquisition of its first steam locomotive. Ordered from Newcastle, England, the locomotive arrived in La Prairie in the spring of 1836.6 This engine, named the Dorchester, was an 0-4-0 type locomotive built by the renowned railway engineer Robert Stephenson, son of George Stephenson, often considered the father of railways.5 Likely dismantled for shipping across the Atlantic, the Dorchester required reassembly upon its arrival in Canada.6 Characterized by its four driving wheels, high center of gravity, and short wheelbase, the Dorchester proved to be somewhat unsteady in operation, earning it the affectionate nickname "Kitten" due to its skittish behavior.5 A contracted driver accompanied the locomotive from England, but he reportedly deserted soon after arrival.6 Before its official debut, trial runs of the Dorchester were said to have been conducted at night, possibly to avoid alarming a public unfamiliar with such a powerful and novel machine.2 The arrival and subsequent operation of the Dorchester marked a significant technological leap for Canada, ushering in the age of steam-powered transportation.9
V. Opening and Early Operations: The Public Embraces the Iron Horse
A. The Inaugural Run
The Champlain and St. Lawrence Railroad officially opened to the public on July 21, 1836, with a grand celebration held in La Prairie, Quebec.2 This momentous occasion marked the first time a public train operated in Canada, a turning point in the nation's history.4 Among the distinguished guests present were Lord Gosford, the governor general of British North America, and Louis-Joseph Papineau, a prominent political figure.6 The sheer number of attendees, approximately 300 people, proved to be a challenge for the small locomotive on its inaugural run.5 As a result, the Dorchester could only pull two of the four passenger cars, with teams of horses being employed to haul the remaining coaches and flatcars.6 Despite this minor setback, the train successfully completed its journey to the brand-new station in Saint-Jean in about two hours, where further celebrations and testimonials took place.6 The event was met with enthusiastic cheers, signifying the public's excitement and anticipation for this new mode of transport.2
B. Public Reception and Early Ridership
While the railway's promoters initially envisioned it primarily as a means to facilitate trade, its early success was largely driven by passenger travel.6 Shippers reportedly found the initial rates to be too expensive, but the public readily embraced the novelty and convenience of rail travel.6 Montreal families, in particular, were drawn to the combined ferry and railway excursions, which offered a relatively affordable and enjoyable outing.6 The popularity of the railway with passengers was such that rules had to be implemented to manage their often exuberant behavior, including penalties for walking on the roofs of the coaches or smuggling dogs into first-class compartments.2 Even prominent figures like the English novelist Charles Dickens reportedly traveled on the Champlain and St. Lawrence Railroad in 1842, further highlighting its early appeal.2 Despite its initial designation as a seasonal route, effectively a portage to connect river traffic, the railway quickly demonstrated its potential to transform personal travel in the region.11
C. Operational Details
The Dorchester locomotive, despite its nickname "Kitten," was capable of reaching a top speed of approximately 48 kilometers per hour.7 This speed, while modest by modern standards, represented a significant improvement over existing modes of land transport at the time. The initial journey between La Prairie and Saint-Jean, a distance of roughly 25 kilometers (16 miles), took approximately two hours, including stops.2 While the frequency of service in the very early days is not extensively documented in the provided materials, the enthusiasm of the public suggests a reasonably regular schedule that catered to the demand for passenger travel between the two points and their connections to Montreal and the United States.
VI. Purpose and Impact: Connecting Waterways and Shaping Trade
A. The Portage Route
The primary objective behind the construction of the Champlain and St. Lawrence Railroad was to create a crucial link in a larger transportation network connecting Montreal and New York City.6 Specifically, the railway was intended to serve as a portage, bridging the gap between the St. Lawrence River and Lake Champlain.4 By connecting La Prairie on the St. Lawrence with Saint-Jean on the Richelieu River (the northernmost navigable point of Lake Champlain), the railway allowed travelers and goods to bypass a series of difficult rapids on the Richelieu River, significantly reducing the overall travel time and logistical challenges of the journey between the two major commercial centers.2 Passengers and freight would travel by steamer on the St. Lawrence to La Prairie, then transfer to the railway for the short journey to Saint-Jean, where they would then board another steamer on the Richelieu River, leading to Lake Champlain and onward to the Hudson River Valley and New York.4 This integrated transportation system effectively streamlined the movement of people and goods across a vital trade corridor.
B. Early Impact on Trade and Travel
Even in its early stages, the Champlain and St. Lawrence Railroad had a noticeable impact on both passenger travel and the movement of freight.1 While initial costs may have deterred some shippers, the railway undeniably expedited the journey for both passengers and goods traveling between Montreal and New York.10 The enhanced speed and convenience of the combined rail and water route made it an attractive alternative to the more arduous stagecoach journeys.2 This improvement in transportation efficiency contributed to the overall economic activity in the region, facilitating greater connectivity and access to markets. The railway's role in enhancing trade and transportation marked the beginning of a transformative period in Canadian infrastructure development.1
C. Catalyst for Further Development
The success, even in its limited initial scope, of the Champlain and St. Lawrence Railroad played a significant role in demonstrating the viability and potential of railway technology in Canada.1 It served as a tangible example for other entrepreneurs and investors, illustrating the benefits of rail transport in overcoming geographical barriers and improving connectivity. The opening of Canada's first public railway triggered a surge of interest and investment in railway development across the country, marking the beginning of a "love affair with ribbons of steel".2 The Champlain and St. Lawrence Railroad thus acted as a crucial catalyst, paving the way for the extensive railway network that would eventually span the nation and play a pivotal role in Canada's growth and development in virtually every dimension.4
VII. Expansion and Evolution: Growth and Consolidation
A. Later Extensions
Over time, the Champlain and St. Lawrence Railroad underwent expansions to further enhance its utility and connectivity. In 1851, the original line was extended southwards from Saint-Jean to Rouses Point, New York.5 This extension was significant as it directly linked the Canadian railway to the American railway network and facilitated a more seamless connection with Lake Champlain vessels and the Erie Canal system.8 The following year, in 1852, the line was also extended northwards to St. Lambert, Quebec, which is situated on the south shore of the St. Lawrence River, directly opposite Montreal.5 These extensions broadened the reach and impact of the initial railway line, further solidifying its role in the regional transportation network.
B. Mergers and Acquisitions
As the railway industry in Canada began to mature, a period of consolidation emerged. In 1857, the Champlain and St. Lawrence Railroad merged with the Montreal and New York Railroad to form a new entity called the Montreal and Champlain Railroad.5 The Montreal and New York Railroad was itself a result of an earlier merger, having previously been known as the Montreal and Lachine Railroad.5 This merger reflected a trend towards larger railway companies seeking to control strategic routes and expand their operational footprint.
C. Lease and Purchase by the Grand Trunk Railway
The consolidation trend continued with the growing influence of larger railway systems. In 1864, the Montreal and Champlain Railroad, which now included the original Champlain and St. Lawrence trackage, was leased by the Grand Trunk Railway (GTR).9 The Grand Trunk Railway was a major player in the development of Canadian railways, incorporated in Montreal in 1852 and becoming one of the biggest businesses in Canada for several decades.4 The lease agreement allowed the GTR to operate and manage the Montreal and Champlain line as part of its expanding network. Subsequently, in 1872, the Grand Trunk Railway purchased the Montreal and Champlain Railroad outright, fully integrating the historic first railway into its larger system.8
D. The Rise of Larger Railway Systems
The mid-to-late 19th century in Canada witnessed the rise of several major railway companies that played crucial roles in shaping the nation's transportation infrastructure. Besides the Grand Trunk Railway, which focused on expanding its network towards the Great Lakes region and connecting key industrial centers 1, the Canadian Pacific Railway (CPR) emerged as a dominant force. Founded in 1881, the CPR undertook the monumental task of building a transcontinental railway, connecting the east and west coasts of Canada by 1885.1 Other significant players included the Canadian National Railway (CNR), formed in the early 20th century through the merger of several smaller lines, and the Canadian Northern Railway (CNoR), which focused on extending rail services to more remote and northern regions.1 The growth and expansion of these larger railway systems often involved the acquisition and integration of smaller, earlier lines like the Champlain and St. Lawrence Railroad, reflecting a broader trend towards consolidation and the creation of interconnected national networks.9
VIII. Incorporation into the Canadian National Railways: A National Network Takes Shape
A. Nationalization Efforts
The early 20th century saw a growing movement towards railway nationalization in Canada. Faced with financial difficulties and the need for a more integrated and efficient national transportation system, the federal government gradually began to take control of several major railway companies.4 This period of nationalization was driven by a desire to ensure the continued operation of vital railway infrastructure and to better serve the public interest.
B. Absorption of the Grand Trunk Railway
As part of this nationalization effort, the Grand Trunk Railway, which by this time owned the former Champlain and St. Lawrence Railroad line, came under government control. In a series of moves between 1916 and 1923, the Canadian government took control of the Grand Trunk Pacific, the Canadian Northern, and the Grand Trunk itself.4 These lines were then merged with existing nationalized railways, the Intercolonial and the National Transcontinental, to create the Canadian National Railways (CNR), now known as Canadian National (CN).4 This consolidation meant that the original trackage of Canada's first public railway, the Champlain and St. Lawrence Railroad, became an integral part of the newly formed national railway system.8
IX. Current Status and Legacy: Remembering the First Tracks
A. Present-Day Operation
Remarkably, the legacy of Canada's first railway continues to this day, as Canadian National (CN) still operates the majority of the historic route.13 The line runs from an interchange connection with the Delaware and Hudson Railway (now owned by Canadian Pacific Railway) at Rouses Point, New York, through Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, and on to Saint-Lambert, Quebec.15 The section of the line between Rouses Point and Brossard is now known as CN's Rouses Point Subdivision.15 While a portion of the original line into Laprairie has been abandoned, the continued operation of much of the route underscores the enduring strategic importance of this early transportation corridor.15 Furthermore, there have been recent developments involving the line, such as a proposed relocation of a portion of CN's Champlain Subdivision in Quebec to facilitate the refurbishment of the Samuel De Champlain Promenade, indicating ongoing activity and adaptation of this historic railway infrastructure.16
B. Historical Markers and Commemorations
The historical significance of the Champlain and St. Lawrence Railroad is commemorated in various ways. In Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, Quebec, the site of the railway is recognized as a National Historic Event, with a plaque located at 31 Frontenac Street.10 This designation highlights the importance of the railway in Canada's transportation history. Additionally, a monument marks the location of the first railway in Canada in LaPrairie, Quebec, the other terminus of the original line.13 The first locomotive to run on the railway, the Dorchester, has also been recognized for its pioneering role, having been inducted into the North America Railway Hall of Fame in 1999 for its contribution to the railway industry as "Rolling Stock" in the "National" category.13 These commemorations serve as important reminders of the foundational role the Champlain and St. Lawrence Railroad played in shaping Canada's transportation landscape.
C. Lasting Significance
The Champlain and St. Lawrence Railroad holds an undeniable place of importance in Canadian history. As the nation's first public railway, it not only connected crucial waterways and facilitated trade and travel in its immediate region but also served as a crucial demonstration of the potential of railway technology for a vast and geographically diverse country.1 Its success, albeit initially modest in scale, ignited a wave of railway development that would eventually lead to the construction of a national network, most notably the Canadian Pacific Railway, which completed its transcontinental line in 1885.1 The legacy of the Champlain and St. Lawrence Railroad extends beyond its physical existence; it laid the groundwork for the extensive railway infrastructure that continues to shape Canada's economic landscape and national connectivity today.1 This pioneering venture embodies the spirit of innovation and the ambition to overcome geographical challenges that have long been hallmarks of Canadian development.
X. Conclusion: The Enduring Tracks of History
The Champlain and St. Lawrence Railroad, Canada's first public railway, stands as a testament to the vision and determination of early Canadian entrepreneurs who recognized the transformative potential of railway technology. Established in 1836, this pioneering line connected the St. Lawrence River and Lake Champlain, facilitating trade and travel between Montreal and New York and marking the dawn of a new era in Canadian transportation. While the original railway evolved through expansions, mergers, and eventual incorporation into the Canadian National Railways, its impact on the development of Canada is profound and enduring. It served as a vital link in a key transportation corridor, spurred further railway development across the nation, and ultimately contributed to the formation of the extensive railway network that played a crucial role in shaping Canada's economic, social, and political landscape. The continued operation of portions of its original route and the various historical commemorations stand as reminders of the enduring legacy of Canada's first railway, a venture that laid the foundation for the nation's enduring relationship with the iron horse.
The end of 'my' Google paper.
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Link to the original one-piece BANQ document jpeg of the Champlain & St Lawrence.
'Pikes you can model!'
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Link to BANQ for the 1832 Act ...
It lists the original shareholders, describes the scope of the transportation system, lists the rights of the company and the rights of its neighbours, prescribes construction standards (e.g. at road/water-course crossings, fences, gates, width of right-of-way), indicates procedures for purchasing and selling stock (long before any formal stock market existed in Canada), lists corporate governance rules, outlines rates to be paid for the carriage of people or goods, dictates standards for traffic and financial data reporting to the legislature, etc.
