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Petition to Premier launched to save 1077
An online petition has been initiated to save Fort Steele Heritage Town’s 1077 steam locomotive and keep it running, with B.C. Premier David Eby the intended recipient.
Petition author Shannon Panko is a Conductor for the Fort Steele Heritage Railway that was abruptly canceled at the last minute earlier this spring.
“This petition is to garner support to save the iconic 1077 steam locomotive. The 1077 is 101 years old and has operated at Fort Steele Heritage Town in British Columbia, Canada since the 1990s. It has carried thousands of passengers and has starred in the movies The Grey Fox, The Journey of Natty Gan and Shanghai Noon. Originally a logging train on Vancouver Island, it has been lovingly restored and cared for since it was donated to the province,” the petition introduction states.
“A decision to suspend rail operations was made on April 9, 2024, hence sidelining the 1077. This special locomotive, an important part of rail history, draws visitors from all over the world. Those visitors also enter the town to enjoy the wonderful heritage, activities, and livestock.
“This attraction bolsters the local economy and if the 1077 does not run this season, there will be a negative economic impact. Moreover, without annual maintenance, there is a real possibility that the locomotive will never run again. It is one of fewer than 20 operational steam locomotives in Canada and is truly a local, provincial, and national treasure.
“Please lend your support to help reverse this decision. The experienced and certified train crew is ready to spring to action and get the locomotive prepared for its yearly independent certification. Together, we can save the 1077!”
The petition/letter to Premier Eby:
Dear Premier Eby,
“I am signing this petition to express my concern about the suspension of Fort Steele Heritage Town’s rail operations. The 1077 steam locomotive is 101 years old and is an important part of rail history.
“The 1077 has always required and passed independent government certification before operation. Safety is everyone’s priority and the 1077 is required to be certified by independent parties and Technical Safety BC every year. The rail crew includes former Canadian Pacific Railroad staff with over 100 years of experience as trainmen, conductors, engineers, carmen and health and safety representatives. The department manager is an engineer with Antique Show Boiler Operator certification. The entire crew is CROR certified and pass medical examinations per Technical Safety BC.
“Boiler experts agree that if the steam locomotive is not maintained on a yearly basis, it might not ever be operational again. I don’t want that to happen!
“Please, Mr. Premier, use your influence to help the Fort Steele Heritage Town train crew work towards the continued operation of the steam locomotive. With swift action, we can not only save the season, but we can save the 1077!”
Please read more and access the petition.
e-KNOW file photo
e-KNOW
