Going Faster... By Train
Coteau-Landing seen from the Canada Atlantic Railway elevator, QC, c. 1900.
C. H. Puihey, McCord Museum, MP-0000.2401.276.
In 1836, Canada’s first public railroad was inaugurated: The Champlain & St. Lawrence Railroad linked the towns of La Prairie and Saint-Jean in Quebec. Ten years later, a line ran from Portland, Maine, to Montreal, providing the latter with year-round access to an ice-free seaport and American industrial centres. This gave rise to “railway fever” among investors and governments, and rails were laid across the country.
Railroads made it possible for markets to expand, leading to job creation. Entire towns were erected along main and secondary railway lines. Industries built connected tracks for their own use. The rise of the marine, agricultural and logging industries led to the colonization of previously inaccessible areas. New market segments emerged: services, heavy industry, tourism and travel. Railroads also stimulated innovation with the construction of railway stations, bridges, and signalling devices.
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