THE CANADIAN RAILROAD HISTORICAL ASSOCIATION
Pacific Coast Division
Our Programs
Discover how we preserve, research, and share Canadian railway heritage through our ongoing programs.
What We Do
Our Core Programs
Each of our programs contributes to our mission of preserving and promoting Canadian railway heritage.
Research & Interpretation
Advancing knowledge through historical research and making it accessible to all.
Heritage Equipment
Maintaining and preserving historic locomotives and rolling stock.
Publications
Sharing railway history through our quarterly journal and special publications.
Program Highlight
Research & Interpretation
Our Research & Interpretation program is at the heart of what we do. We promote historical research through various projects and activities, working to uncover and document the stories of Canadian railways.
Through this program, we:
- Support members and researchers in their historical investigations
- Maintain and expand our archival collection of railway materials
- Document and preserve historical information before it is lost
- Make research accessible through publications and presentations
- Connect researchers with historical resources and expertise
Whether you're a seasoned researcher or just beginning to explore railway history, our research program offers resources and support to help you discover the fascinating stories of Canadian railroads.
Preservation in Action
Heritage Equipment Program
Our Heritage Equipment program focuses on maintaining and enhancing historic railway equipment. This includes steam and diesel locomotives, passenger cars, freight equipment, and other artifacts of railway history.
Preserving this equipment is essential for future generations to understand and appreciate the technology and craftsmanship that powered Canada's railways.
Our Equipment Preservation Work Includes:
- Maintenance and conservation of historic locomotives
- Restoration of vintage railway cars and equipment
- Documentation of technical specifications and history
- Collaboration with museums and heritage railways
Sharing Knowledge
Publications Program
Our publications bring railway history to life through research, stories, and photographs.
Quarterly Journal
Our quarterly journal is the flagship publication of the Pacific Coast Division. Each issue features:
- Original research articles on railway history
- Historic photographs from our archives
- Personal stories and reminiscences
- News about preservation efforts
- Book reviews and resources
Back issues are available for sale, providing access to decades of railway history research and photography.
Inquire About Back Issues
Community Events
Events & Celebrations
The Division hosts and participates in various island railway events, anniversaries, and centennials. These celebrations bring together railway enthusiasts, historians, and the public to appreciate our railway heritage.
Our Events Include:
- Regular meetings featuring presentations on railway topics
- Railway anniversary and centennial celebrations
- Heritage railway tours and excursions
- Photography expeditions to historic sites
- Participation in community heritage events
Education
Educational Outreach
Sharing railway history with the community through presentations and educational programs.
Presentations
Our members give presentations on railway history topics at meetings and community events, sharing their expertise with audiences of all ages.
School Programs
We work with schools to bring railway history to students, helping them understand how railways shaped British Columbia and Canada.
Heritage Tours
Guided tours of historic railway sites help participants experience railway heritage firsthand and learn about local history.
Get Involved in Our Programs
Whether you want to volunteer, contribute research, or support our work financially, there are many ways to participate.