CPR Locomotive # 8017

Model RS-23 

During the summer of 2007, it was discovered that Saskferco, in Belle Plain, Saskatchewan, was in the process of disposing of their ex CPR RS-23 locomotive #8017.  The Museum inquired about this locomotive and was pleased to find out that Saskferco was interested in donating ‘Betsy’ to the Museum.  After a few false starts, waiting for the plant to receive their new locomotive, the Museum took possession of its newest acquisition in October 14,2008, when she rolled into Calgary. She was brought to Calgary from Belle Plain by CP. 

A little history on the CPR RS-23.

This locomotive series was built by the Montreal Locomotive Works in two orders for the CPR.  The first order was numbered 8013-8018, built in 1959, and weighed 181,000 lbs.  The second order was numbered 8019-8046, built in 1959 and 1960, weighed between 233,000-235,000 lbs.

The first order was built for the light branchlines of Sasketchewan where a lot of the track was still light weight 60lb rail.  Branch lines were the last hold outs for steam locomotives as they were light enough to travel these lines.  With the end of steam, a light diesel locomotive was needed, and these locomotives were built specifically for the job.

The Museum’s 8017, or ‘Betsy’ as the plant called her, ended her career with CP Rail in 1992 working out of Moose Jaw, still servicing the light branchlines of Saskatchewan.  She was sold to Saskferco in Belle Plain, a mere 20 minutes drive away, were she marched on in her new role as a plant switcher.

July 20, 2007 - Saskferco RS-23 idles at the plant in Belle Plain Saskatchewan waiting for a delivery of cars from the CPR.