THE CANADIAN RAILROAD HISTORICAL ASSOCIATION
Pacific Coast Division
About Us
Learn about our organization's history, mission, and the dedicated volunteers who preserve Canadian railway heritage.
Our Mission
Preserving Railway History for All
The Canadian Railroad Historical Association, Pacific Coast Division, aims to preserve and promote the rich history of Canadian railroads. We encourage and facilitate research and interpretation of this history, making it accessible to everyone.
Founded as part of the Canadian Railroad Historical Association, established in 1932, our Pacific Coast Division serves as the steward of railway heritage in British Columbia. We are committed to ensuring that the remarkable story of Canadian railroads is preserved for future generations.
Our organization is operated entirely by dedicated volunteers who share a passion for railway history. Through research, preservation, education, and community engagement, we work to keep the spirit of Canadian railroading alive.
Since 1932
Our Values
What Drives Us
Our work is guided by a commitment to preservation, education, and community.
Preservation
Protecting and maintaining historic railway equipment, documents, photographs, and artifacts for future generations.
Education
Sharing knowledge through publications, presentations, and educational programs about railway history.
Community
Building a community of railway enthusiasts, historians, and volunteers who share our passion.
Geographic Focus
Serving the Pacific Coast Region
Our organization operates primarily on Vancouver Island, with a special focus on the historic Esquimalt and Nanaimo Railway corridor. This railway, established in the late 19th century, played a crucial role in the development of Vancouver Island.
While our primary focus is Vancouver Island, we also cover other parts of British Columbia and the broader Canadian railway landscape. Our work connects with the national mission of the Canadian Railroad Historical Association to preserve rail history across Canada.
- Vancouver Island and E&N Railway corridor
- British Columbia provincial railway history
- Canadian Pacific Railway heritage in the west
- Connection to national railway preservation efforts
What We Do
Our Ongoing Activities
Quarterly Journal
We publish a quarterly journal featuring historical research, articles, photographs, and news about Canadian railway heritage. Back issues are available for sale to members and the public.
Archival Collection
We maintain an extensive archival collection of historical railway materials including photographs, documents, maps, timetables, and other artifacts documenting railway history.
Regular Meetings
We hold regular meetings for members and guests featuring presentations on historical and current railway topics. These gatherings provide opportunities to learn and share knowledge.
Equipment Preservation
We work to maintain and enhance heritage railway equipment including historic steam and diesel locomotives, ensuring these mechanical marvels are preserved for the future.
100% Volunteer Run
Powered by Passionate Volunteers
The Canadian Railroad Historical Association, Pacific Coast Division is operated entirely by volunteers. Our members donate their time, expertise, and passion to preserve and share Canadian railway history.
From researching historical documents to maintaining equipment, organizing events to writing for our publications, every aspect of our work is driven by volunteer dedication.
We are always looking for new members and volunteers who share our passion for railway heritage. Whether you're a historian, a railway enthusiast, a skilled tradesperson, or simply someone who appreciates this important part of Canadian history, there's a place for you in our organization.
Support Railway Heritage
Your donation helps us preserve Canada's railway history and make it accessible to everyone.