A cold wind whispers secrets across the smooth surface of the Premier chemin de fer au Canada Stone. It stands here a silent testament to a bygone era. This unassuming marble monument marks the spot where Canada’s first public railway journey began.
The Premier chemin de fer au Canada Stone isn’t just a rock. It represents a pivotal moment in Canadian history. In 1836 the Champlain and Saint-Lawrence Railroad a brainchild of Montreal brewer John Molson launched its inaugural run. The journey linked Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu and La Prairie. This short but significant route was a crucial first step in connecting Montreal to the rest of the world.
The inaugural trip was a grand affair. Lord Gosford the Lieutenant-Governor and Louis-Joseph Papineau a prominent figure of the Patriote Party were among the many dignitaries present. Over 300 guests crammed into the carriages. The Dorchester the first locomotive in British North America was tasked with hauling this heavy load. It couldn’t quite manage the weight. So the two first-class carriages carrying the most important guests were detached and pulled by the locomotive. The rest of the carriages followed behind drawn by horses.
The Dorchester a 0-4-0 wooden design locomotive built by Robert Stephenson was a bit temperamental. Its short wheelbase gave it a rather jerky unpredictable ride. Preliminary tests were conducted at night to avoid scaring the public. Even at its top speed of about 30 miles per hour it was quite a sight.
The Premier chemin de fer au Canada Stone silently observes the changing city around it. It witnessed the growth of railway networks across the country. The line expanded south to Rouses Point in 1851. A more direct route was built later from Saint-Jean-Laprairie to Saint-Lambert. This bypassed the longer route via La Prairie.
The Champlain and Saint-Lawrence Railroad eventually merged with other lines. It ultimately became part of the Canadian National Railway. Today the Premier chemin de fer au Canada Stone remains. It serves as a reminder of a groundbreaking achievement. It symbolizes the beginning of Canada’s railway adventure. A legacy that shaped the nation’s identity and continues to resonate in the bustling city of Montreal. The Premier chemin de fer au Canada Stone continues to watch over Montreal’s vibrant railway heritage.