Triumph and Tragedy in the Crowsnest Pass

by Diana Wilson

Rich in stories, the Crowsnest Pass region in the southern Rocky Mountains still bears evidence of its tragedies, and one monumental triumph—a railroad rammed through the pass in 18 months. Hailed as the greatest project in the Dominion, the Crow's Nest Pass Railway was built by men who toiled with horses and primitive tools to carve the way for industry. Towns and coal mines blossomed as the nourishing stem of the railroad brought abundance to British Columbia and Alberta, but with progress came disaster. The town of Frank, Alberta, was devastated when part of the legendary ""Mountain That Walks"" crashed down on the homes and businesses nestled at its foot. A mine explosion at nearby Hillcrest took nearly 200 men in one huge blast, and the entire town of Fernie, BC, was razed by fire. Was the relentless hand of fate responsible, or was it the Elk Valley curse? A must-read for anyone who enjoys thrilling tales of true life and real people, this book captures all the drama and spirit of a mythic land.

168 pages, Paperback

First published March 15, 2005

Reviews

[Jane Mulkewich · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thanks to Sharon Bray for this book. I have fond memories of the Crowsnest Pass, such a beautiful place, and this book brings the history alive... everything from the Frank slide to mining disasters to the fire in Fernie (one gruesome image that will stay with me is the story of the family found in a well after the fire in Fernie, apparently boiled to death).
The book mentions labour issues of this coal-mining area only in passing, and does not mention that the Crowsnest Pass saw Canada's first (and only?) Communist elected town council.
Also the book does not mention the ever-flowing spring, where the Crowsnest River flows out of the mouth of a cave on the shores of Crowsnest Lake. A well-known feature for locals, but it appears that many of the features and history of Crowsnest Pass are little known in the rest of Alberta, let alone the rest of Canada. A great book to learn more about the area.

[Edgardo Martinez · Rating 5 out of 5]

Triumph and tragedy in the crowsness past is a great compilation of historic events that occurred in the late 1800 hundreds and early 1900 hundreds in this area of Canada. Easy to read and fun.

[JC · Rating 4 out of 5]

I like history books and this one brought a period of time and a location to life. The Crowsnest is an awesome area and learning about the tragedies that have occurred allows me to see the foundation of the people here. We should not forget those who died in the past. Thank you for this book!