Canadian Pacific Railway Completed

On August 18, 1885, the last spike of the Canadian Pacific Railway was driven at Craigellachie, completing Canada's first transcontinental line. Led by William Cornelius Van Horne, the project overcame Rocky Mountain passes and harsh winters using thousands of laborers. The railway connected eastern Canada to the Pacific, fulfilling a confederation promise and enabling national unity. It introduced innovations like dining cars and supported immigration, with lasting impact on Canadian economy and tourism.