It is always nice to hear from our readers, and this note about sharing memories of
growing up in Nelson, BC during World War II was sent by Rochelle Pearce (nee Arnot)
My father worked on the CPR and when men (his brothers) were signing up to enlist, my
dad was asked to stay behind and help man the trains. The railroads played an important
role for Canada during these war years. My dad said he often worked on the night train
from Trail C.M. & S. that would carry supplies to the USA for use in the war.
Our family would often travel to Vancouver by train. One time during a “blackout” on the
train, I recall after the lights came back on being the recipient of a bleeding head incision,
having been struck by a swinging conductor’s lantern in the dark. We had a pass to travel
on the CPR in those days. There would be much music played in the baggage car,
accordions and guitars were brought out when a man had a break, so it was quite a treat to
be a part of this.
My father, Alfred Arnot and my grandfather, John Arnot, both have plaques at your
museum. Thank you for your recent letter, we are now all retirees and cannot always
afford a donation. Ed Note: this letter is a donation, thanks for sharing the memories.
