Caption: CNR 6218 is readied on the service tracks at Spadina roundhouse on the morning of September 20, 1970. Note the fire hydrant and hose, likely used to fill the 11,600 gallon tender. Today she will lead a UCRS fan trip from Union Station - Guelph - Caledonia - Hamilton and return. Off to the right, one of the coach yard switchers, MLW S13 8522, idles away waiting to be called to duty. Built in 1959 a the last of a 23 unit order, and the highest numbered of the 8500-series, it will be retired in 1990.
At upper left the Spadina Avenue overpass spans the numerous tracks below. At upper right, the top of the Steele-Briggs Seed Co. building can be seen at the corner of Spadina Ave and Front St. The building was originally constructed in 1913 for Steele-Briggs Seed Company to centralize it's operations under one roof. The company specialized in seeds for the Canadian climate and growing season, and shipped many of it's seeds out by rail, the sidings located on the south side of the building, lasting until removal from the parking lot in late 2015.* *Information per the late (d. 2020) Toronto Historian, Doug Taylor. Further information by clicking on Doug's name.
Bryce Lee Photo, Jacob Patterson Collection Slide.
|
Another situation where CNR should have simply maintained a stall for the 6218 in an enclosed building, and considered how to operate the locomotive into the future. She could be, and should be, rebuilt and run today.