Toronto’s Railways At War

The 48th Highlanders at Don Station

Canada’s railways were an essential part of the war effort during both World Wars. Keep reading to delve into Don Station’s connection to the Toronto-based 48th Highlanders regiment.

Toronto at War

In times of war, soldiers were transported across Canada via rail to the east coast. After that, thousands of soldiers boarded transatlantic ships that took them overseas to the frontlines. With a largely British population, Torontonians were eager to join World War One in 1914. As a result, the troops leaving the city via Union Station were met with rousing send-offs. For instance, typically the Mayor was present.

However, one Toronto regiment did not receive this typical send off. In other words, on August 6, 1914, the 48th Highlanders received orders to assemble as many men and equipment as possible. Instead of leaving to the hurrahs of their Mayor at Union Station, the regiment boarded trains at Don Station. After that, departing trains travelled to Valcartier, Quebec to join the rest of the Canadian Expeditionary Force (CEF).

Don Station is an 1896 Canadian Pacific Railway station that is a part of our collection. The station was located on the west bank of the Don River for about seventy years. Above all, it was built as a convenience for suburban passengers. As a result they wouldn’t have to go all the way downtown to Union Station to board their trains. Today, Don Station is on display at the museum and serves as the ticket office for our Miniature Train ride, as well as a seasonal gift shop.

We Remember

In conclusion, by the end of World War One, over 75% of Toronto’s eligible men volunteered to serve their country. Consequently, in 1922, the Canadian Pacific Railway (CPR) unveiled 23 memorial plaques and three statues in stations across Canada. Above all, these memorials commemorate the lives lost in the First World War. 

CPR continues to pay tribute to the more than 33,000 employees who served in the two World Wars. Therefore, the railway hosts a Remembrance Day service each year with the customary moment of silence initiated by every CPR locomotive sounding its whistle at 11:01 a.m.

Toronto’s Railways At War

Observe Remembrance Day at the Toronto Railway Museum and get up close to our 1944 “war engine”, Canadian Pacific No. 7020. In other words, discover the important role these locomotives had that led the US War production Board to permit their continued construction throughout the Second World War.