Newfie narrow gauge trivia

The status of Newfoundland is interesting. As Dave points out, it did not become part of Canada until 1949. It was a self-governing Dominion starting in 1907. But the construction cost of the Newfie narrow gauge contributed (WWI debts were the other factor) to the dominion government declaring bankruptcy in 1933 at which time Newfoundland essentially lost its independence was again ruled directly by the U.K. It is interesting that when elections were held in 1948 the electorate was rather evenly divided between joining Canada and regaining independent dominion status, and basically the British pushed them into Canada (some argue the election was rigged by the Brits), Fortunately the Canadians are very welcoming to late arrivals.

Amazing what you can find with a simple quick visit to Wikipedia.

By the way where do you think my picture of the Grand Falls Central boxcar was taken?

JBWX



Edited 3 time(s). Last edit at 07/01/2017 12:47PM by John West.