Canadian Pacific invites Canadians to share in the legacy of the Last Spike

Canadian Pacific marks a significant milestone this year as it celebrates the 125th Anniversary of the driving of the Last Spike, which signaled the completion of Canada's first transcontinental railroad. In celebration of this anniversary, CP presented the first of its archives Legacy gifts to the Banff Whyte Museum.

"In honor of our
connected history, we are donating unique items from our extensive collection
of vintage memorabilia to a number of the museums and historical societies that
play a vital role in sharing Canada’s diverse history and culture," said
CP President & CEO Fred Green.

These legacy gifts will be
delivered to selected organizations throughout the summer and will include a
selection of crockery and engraved silverware and flatware dating from the
1890s.

Devoted to the cultural
history of the Canadian Rocky Mountains and mountain cultures throughout the
world, the Whyte Museum makes an ideal first recipient.

Banff National Park is
marking its 125 anniversary with a number of special events. CP’s 2816 Empress
Steam Train is in Banff July 6 and 10 to celebrate with the community. The
Empress has brought its heritage fleet which includes CP’s museum car-a vintage
baggage car from the 1950s refurbished and transformed to provide people an
interactive view of CP’s history.

The actual Last Spike that
marked the completion of the transcontinental railway on November 7, 1885, will
be on the display in the museum car for public viewing. It is on loan from the
Canada Science & Technology Museum.

"The histories of
Canada and our railway remain closely connected to this day," added Green.
"CP looks forward to continuing to be a vital part of Canada’s economy
safe for the next 125 years."

As part of its 125th
anniversary of the Last Spike, the Empress 2816 Steam Train and its museum car
will tour various communities in Western Canada.