From the Dome Car: Train 3 Track 4 (May-June 1993)

 

CRM was only one of the things produced by Morgan’s parent company, North Kildonan Publications. (Named after the part of Winnipeg where he lived.) He also had a dream of publishing books, and ultimately published four of them—starting with The Guide to Canada's Railway Heritage Museums and Attractions by Lawrence Adams. The book, which might have been the first of its kind in Canada, provided information about all the places people could explore and learn more about Canadian railways. I think I still have my copy around somewhere . . . 

Boy, how the year flies by! Most of us have already cut the lawn three times and burned-up our share of burgers. I know I have. It sure beats shovelling snow, though! 

Our attendance at the Toronto Model Train Show was, as last year, a real treat as we had the opportunity to meet with our modelling friends, both old and new. I noticed some new exhibitors this year, one of which was next to our booth. Kirlin Scale Models produces HO scale Canadian parts designed by the Canadian Railway Model Parts Guild as well as other entries in S and 0 scale and is a fine example of just how expanding the hobby is becoming to Canadian modellers. 

And I don't think we've seen the last of these new and innovative companies as more products designed for modellers of Canadian roads keep appearing. A review of the 'New Products' on the next page tells us we are in for a record year in that category. 

As some of you are already aware, a new book has been released dealing with our Canadian railway heritage. Written by Lawrence Adams, The Guide to Canada's Railway Heritage Museums and Attractions is something that should have been written years ago, but was not. We are very proud to have produced this first edition for Lawrence and to know that Canada now has a comprehensive guide as to where these places are. 

Reading through the foreward, one can't help but wonder how many others went frustrated in their efforts to locate some of Canada's railway-oriented establishments. Great book, Lawrence! And from all of us, thank you. 

On the article scene, we've started Fred Shannon's CP Heavyweight Passenger Car Series that so many have asked for; Fred tells me he's busy taking photos for several others. In the next issue, we will begin featuring plans from the 0 SHO ME group that many have inquired about. The only category we are light on is of course, Modellers Photos, but I have faith that they too will arrive shortly. And those waiting for steam era articles will like our cover story in the next issue: a Dominion Atlantic Railway steam locomotive. 

Now for the not so good news. As mentioned in the last issue, we have absorbed many cost increases over the past two years, none the least have been from Canada Post and Revenue Canada (how did the government get in on this?). And to boot, Manitoba residents now must pay Provincial Sales Tax on magazines as of May 1st. 

The new cover price beginning with Train 3 Track 5 will rise forty cents to $4.75 and a year’s subscription will be $24.00, a rise of thirty-three cents per copy per year. Plus you know what, of course. Outside Canada subscriptions will be $30.00. We continue to need your support, both as readers and contributors, as CRM strives to produce Canada's magazine for Canadian railway modellers. It's a big job getting each issue ready, but not an impossible one. 

As the summer months quickly approach, many of you will be travelling 'out our way' and if Winnipeg is on your agenda, give us a call and we'll see about getting together. Like most Canadian cities, there is plenty to see and do while you're here and we're fortunate to have one of the few operating steam locomotives in Sunday service: the Prairie Dog Central. We also have one of Canada's few operating shortlines, the Greater Winnipeg Water District Railway. It's always an experience visiting those folks and seeing their Alcos in action. And so, until the next issue, have a great summer and enjoy.



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