'A Winnipeg icon': New book tells the history of the Prairie Dog Central
A new book is sharing the story behind a piece of Manitoba’s history – the Prairie Dog Central.
“The Prairie Dog Central has been a Winnipeg icon for 52 years now,” said Paul Newsome, the author of the book ‘Prairie Dog Central: The Story,’ in an interview on Monday.
Newsome is the general manager of the Vintage Locomotive Society, which is the organization that owns and operates the vintage steam locomotive and train – one of the oldest regularly operated locomotives in North America.
Newsome said he started to think about writing the book about 10 years ago, but actually sat down to put it together last year.
“I knew the story had to be told. It’s a very interesting story. Everybody’s going to get something out of it they’ll enjoy,” Newsome said.
He noted the locomotive’s story began in 1882 in Scotland, where it was built. It was then sold to Winnipeg Hydro in 1918, remaining with the corporation until 1961.
The Vintage Locomotive Society took over the train’s operations in 1970.
The Prairie Dog Central is still operating today, providing rides between Rosser and Grosse Isle.
Newsome noted the train is just as popular as ever.
“We offer three things in general: history, education and entertainment. There’s something for moms and dads and kids,” he said.
Newsome added that even though the train is 140 years old, it is still authentic.
“All the coaches are between 1901 and 1912. The engine is 1882. It adds to the story of how the Prairie provinces were developed,” he said.
- With files from CTV’s Nicole Dube.
CTVNews.ca Top Stories
Millions of Canadians have been exposed to potentially toxic chemicals, and they're not going anywhere
For decades, North Bay, Ontario's water supply has harboured chemicals associated with liver and developmental issues, cancer and complications with pregnancy. It's far from the only city with that problem.
opinion How to use your credit card as a powerful wealth-building tool
Irresponsibly using a credit card can land you in financial trouble, but personal finance columnist Christopher Liew says when used properly, it can be a powerful wealth-building tool that can help grow your credit profile and create new opportunities.
WATCH Dashcam video shows terrifying near-miss on two-lane northern Ontario highway
There were some scary moments for several people on a northern Ontario highway caught on video Thursday after a chain reaction following a truck fire.
Which Canadian cities have the highest and lowest grocery prices?
Where you live plays a big factor in what you pay at the grocery store. And while it's no secret the same item may have a different price depending on the store, city or province, we wanted to see just how big the differences are, and why.
Here's what 'the hinge' move is, how to do it correctly
When you're picking something up from the floor or bending over to tie your shoe laces, you're performing "the hinge move," according to movement trainers.
Tips to make a house or apartment safe and accessible for older adults living at home
Here's a summary of tips from the U.S. National Institute on Aging and AARP, which offers a free room-by-room guide with practical suggestions for older adults living independently.
Here are some gardening questions, answers
When it comes to gardening, a lot of questions come up, including the best way to keep pets away from plants, maintaining your lawn and keeping the dandelions at bay.
'I may have some nightmares:' Man survives being bitten by 2 sharks in Bahamas
A man who was bitten by two sharks in the Bahamas said Thursday he's 'thankful that I'm here' while sharing his story of survival.
Barron Trump declines to serve as an RNC delegate
Former U.S. President Donald Trump's youngest son, Barron Trump, has declined to serve as a delegate at this summer’s Republican National Convention, according to a senior Trump campaign adviser and a statement from Melania Trump's office.