1885
141 years ago
ConstructionCanada
Canadian Pacific Railway Completion
Canadian Pacific Railway
Craigellachie
September 15, 1885
Summary
The final spike was driven at Craigellachie, British Columbia, completing Canada's first transcontinental railway.
Full Story
The driving of the last spike on September 15, 1885, at Craigellachie completed the Canadian Pacific Railway, linking eastern Canada to the Pacific coast. Led by Donald Smith and William Van Horne, this engineering feat overcame the Rocky Mountains with helical tunnels and trestles. It facilitated national unity post-Confederation, enabled western settlement, and boosted resource transport. The railway's success influenced Canadian identity and economy for decades.
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Quick Facts
- Date
- September 15, 1885
- Event Type
- Construction
- Country
- Canada
- Years Ago
- 141
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