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ERIES
4
J'
."H'i
.>^e
■.i"' 'I
The EDITH and LORNE PIERCE
COLLECTION ^/ CANADIANA
^teen's University at Kingston
coursl
verify
>■
E
An^ A -CTc
\
\
PREFACE.
' o» ■
EMBODIED in the following pages are plain facts from farmers in the Canadian
North-West, on many points of interest to intending settlers. It should be
stated that circular letters asking for information were sent ont in the month of
September, 1884, to all farmers in the country whose addresses could be procured
The replies received were so numerous as to make it quite impossible to embody them all
in one pamphlet. Those given in the following pages relate chiefly to the main
questions present, in the first instance, to the mind of an intending settler.
The full address of each settler is given in the first instance only. It is, of
course, competent for any reader, by writing to the address given in each case,- to
verify the accuracy of the answers now published.
Eegttlations for the
Sate of lanl
■r^.
The lands within the Railway belt, extending 24 miles from each side of the main line, will be disposed
of at prices ranging from
$2.50 (10s. sterling) PER ACRE
upwards, with conditions requiring cultivation. Prices of lands without conditions of cultivation
can be obtained from the Land Commissioner. When cultivation or settlement forms part of the con-
sideratibn, a rebate for cultivation will be rJlowed, as hereinafter described.
TAese Regulatious are substituted for and cancel those hitherto in force.
If paid for in full at time of purchase, a Deed of Conveyance of the land will be given ; but the pur-
chaser may pay one-sixth in cash, and the balance in fiv6 annual instalments with interest at six per cent,
per annum, payable in advance. Payments may be made in Land Grant Bonds, which will be accepted
at ten per cent, premium on their par value and accrued interest. These bonds can be obtained on appli-
cation at the Bank of Montreal, Montreal, or at any of its agencies in Canada or the United States.
A rebate of from $1.25 to $3>50 (5s. to 14s. sterling) per acre, according to the price paid for the
land, will be allowed on the acreage actually cropped, on the following conditions :
1. The purchaser will not be entitled to rebate unless at time of purchase he enters into an-under-
takjng to cultivate the land.
2. One-half of the land contracted for to be brought under cultivation within four years from date of
contract. In cases where purchasers do not reside continuously on the land, at least one-eighth of the
whole quantity purchased shall be cultivated during each of the four years.
3. Where a purchaser fails to carry out fully the conditions as to cultivation within the time named,
he will be required to pay the full purchase price on all the land contracted for. But if from causes beyond
his control, proved to the satisfaction of the Company, a settler so fails, he may be allowed the rebate on
the land actually cultivated during the four years, on payment of the balance due, irxluding the full
purchase price of the remainder of the land contracted for.
O-BOSrEIS-AuILi C02>Tr)ITI0±TS.
All sales are subject to the following general conditions :
1. All improvements placed upon land purchased to be maintained thereon until Bnal payment has
been 1 made.
2. All taxes and assessments lawfully imposed upon the land or improvements to be paid by the
purchaser.
3. The Company reserves from sale, under these regulations, all mineral and coal lands ; and lands
containing timber in quantities, stone, slate and marble quarries, lands with water-power thereon, and_
tracts for town sites and railway purposes.
4. Mineral, coal and timber lands and quarries, and lands controlling water-power, will be disposed
of on very moderate terms to persons giving satisfactory evidence of their intention and ability to utilize
the same.
5. The Company reserves the right to take without remuneration (except for the value of buildings
and improvements on the required portion of land) a strip or strips of land 200 feet wide, to be used for
right of way, or other railway purposes, wherever the line of the Canadian Pacific Railway, or any branch
thereof, is or shall be located. ^
Liberal rates for settlers and their effects will be granted by the Company over its Railway.
For further particulars, apply to the Company's Land Commissioner, John H. McTavish, Winning,
Montreal, December, 1884.
H(
Proctor,
young. J
Cameroi
Dicksoi
Wagner,
P.P.)
Mercer,
little, Ja
Field, Ed
I^itch, A
Walker,;
! Vandervo
[Smart, G
|Kenny, D
forton,
iaw8on,JI
1.
losed
■ QUERIES AND ANS¥/ERS
RELATING TO THE SUITABILITY OF THE
CANADIAN NORTH -W^EST
ration
! con-
FOR
FARMING PURPOSES.
lepur-
r cent,
cccpted
1 appU-
for the
mnder-
i date of
;h of the
^ named,
beyond
rebate on
the full
menthas
id by the
md lands
reon, and,
disposed
to utilize
buildings
used for
ny branch
•
JVinni^g>
When did you first settle in the North-West?
How much capital did you commence with?
What do you consider the present value of your farm ?
These questions eUcited the following answers from actual settlers : —
Name.
Proctor, Henry . . .
Young, John M.L.
Curhie, William. . .
Cameron, G. A.. .
Dickson, J. W . . .
Wagner, W. (M.
P.P.)
Mercer, James....
Bole, J
Little, James.
Field, Edward....
Leitch, Angus....
i Walker, J. C
I Vandervoort, G. . .
Smart, George. ..
[Kenny, David W.
[orton, Thos. L..
lawson, James . . .
Postal Address.
Woodlands, Manitoba.
Moosomin, P.O. Asa..
Chater, Man
Indian Head, N.W.T..
Amaud, P.O., Man...
Ossowa, Man .
Black Ox Farm, G. vi>
fell, N.W.T
Regina, N.W.T
Manitoba
When
Settled
Shell River, Man...
Griswold, Man
GlendaleP.O., Man.
Alexandria, Man. . . .
Holland, P.O
WolfCreek, Sec.3i,T.
15, R. 10, Asa
Gladstone, Man
Mountain City, Sec. 16,
T. 2, R. 6, W. Man.
1873
1881
1880
1882
1882
1871
1872
1883
1879
1867
1881
1877
1876
1879
1883
1873
1877
Capital at Commencement.
Nothing
I was in debt $10
Had no money to begin with, but made
about $2,000 the first two years with
warehouse on river
Carpenter's tradewas all the capital I had
None, but what it cost to build, and all
of that I made by working out .....
None
Value of Farm,
Sept. '84..
la-
None ; I had to be an agricultural
borer at first
Not any
I had a team of horses, waggon, plough
and harrow
None
None
None whatever
No capital at all. Upon entering on my
homestead I had not one dollar left . .
Nothing
What paid the passage for my family
and freight
Nil
Not any
$
$12,000
$1,600
About $10,000 to
$12,000.
$2,000 to $2,500
$2,500
Iwas offered$2oper
acre, and reAised.
$900
$2,000
I have 320 acres,
which is worth
$7,000 ; town
property $1,000.
$2,000
$3,000
$2,000
$3,000
$2,000
$1,000
$3,500
Say about $5,000.
l^O'^cfiv
PLAIN FACTS AS TO THE CANADIAN NORTH-WEST.
Name.
Chambers, S
Agnew, James. . . .
Bruce, George. . . .
Perley, W. D . . . .
McGill, George. . .
Harward, Fred.. ,
Rorison, W. D . . ,
Davis, John B . . . .
Troyer, Christian.
Pollock, John ....
Little, J..
Wilson, James. . . .
McGregdr, D....
Riddle, Robert. ..
Hall, P
Bolton, Ferris ....
Carter, Thomas...
Warren, R. J
McCorquodale, C.
Taylor, William..
McDon^ld,Duncan
Burgess, J. W . . . .
Garratt,R. S.(J.P)
Lawrie, J. M
Kines, William. . .
Postal Adress.
Wattsview, P.O., Man.
Brandon, Man
Gladstone P.O., Man..
Wolseley, N.W.T
Carrolton P.O., Man..
Littleton, Man
Oberon P.O., Man ....
McLean, Assa. N.W.T,
Sec. 22, T. 3, R. 2,W.
2, Alameda, N.W.T.
In Southern Man
1879
Wolf Creek, Assa.,
J!N« VY % X ••••••••••
Neepawa, Man
Stodderville, Man
Griswold, Man
Salisbury P.O., Man..
South Antles, N.W.T.
Calf Mountain, Man. . .
Woodlands, Man
Oliver, Man
Morden, Man
Manitoba
Bale St. Paul, Man: . .
Fleming, N.W.T .
Kenlis, N.W.T
Birtle, Man ..........
Big Plains,Osprey,Man
When
Settled
1879
1882
1879
1883
1882
1881
1877
1882
1882
Apri',
1884
1869
1877
1882
1871
1882
1877
1879
1878
1882
1874
1872
1882
1878
1881
1882'
Capital at Commencement.
No cash capital. Had one year's provi
sions, one yoke of oxen, cow and some
implements
I was a poor man, and had bnt little
capital
Not 5 cents
Not much,
Very little after landing in this country,
I had $2.50 when I landed at Emerson
$15
I borrowed $40 to come here with.
$100.
$100 cash, I yoke of oxen, two cows
and a good stock of clothing
$150
$240
$300
$300
$380
$400, with $1420 to follow in II
months. The collector absconded,
and the $1420 never came to hand. .
About $400.
About $400.
About $400.
$400
$400
$400
$475, with a wife and three children.
$500,
Value of Farm,
Sept. '84.
$8,000
$1,000
I cannot say. I have
only 80 acres.
Situate within two
miles of Wolseley
it ought to be
worth$3.25ah acre
As farm property
does not change
hands, can make
no estimate.
$2,500
$11,000
$5,000
My wife says
$10,000
About $1,500; if I
were selling it
would be $2,000
. $8,000
< $6,000
$2,500
$5,000
$2,500
$4,000
Have refused$4000
will not take less
than $5,000
About $1,000. I
have $1,000 in
implements, and
$2,000 stock.
• $3,500
1,088 acres, valued
at $25 per acre.
At least $5 an acre
$2,000
$10 per acre.
Sold my homestead
and pre-emption
lost spring for
$4,150
$2,000
Cov
Hal
^Chei
Tate,
Conn
McCi
Kem)
Conn(
BeesU
"McKii
-Sheppa
Farttjer
Ogletre
Boneste
PLAIN FACTS AS TO THE CANADIAN NORTH-WEST.
Name
■;
)0
jr.l have
acres.
;hin two
iVolseley
; to be
jjaiiwre
property
)t change
can make
mate.
500
,000
,000
ife »ay»
CX5
1,500; if I
selling It
lbe$a,ooo
8,000
6,000
2,500
5.000
,500
4,000
;fu5ed|4000
aot take less
$5,000
31,000. A
$1,000 m
ements, and
00 stock.
^3»50o
icres, valued
55 per acre.
St $5 an acre
^2,000
) per acre,
ly homestead,
pre-emption
spring for
150
$2,000
Cowlord,C. (J.P.)
iHall, W, B
•Chester, A
Postal Address!
Tate, James.......
•Connorson, James.
'McCor mac k,David
Kempt, John
Connell, T. K. . . .
Beesley, John G..
"McKitrick, Wm..
Rogers,' Thomas..
'.Sheppard, Jos....
Farmer, W. A....
'Ogletree, Francis,
Bonesteel, C. H . .
Ossowa, Man
Headingley, Man
Marringhurst, Man. . . .
Sec. 30, Tp. a, R. 2 W.
Alameda P.O., Assa.
Minnewashta, Man ....
T. II, Sec. 22, R. 30.
FJeming, P.O., Man.
Austin, Man
Osprey, P.O., Man. . . .
Moose Jaw, Assiniboia.
Rose Bank Farm, Crys-
tal City P.O., Man..
Railway View Farm,
Moose Jaw, Assa. . .
Indian Head, N.WT..
Headingley, Man
Portage la Prairie, Man.
Plieasant Plain, Kenlis
P.O., Assa. N.W.T
' Anderson, George.
'McCaughey, J. S..
Heaslip, J. J
Day, Samuel
Stevenson, G. B. .
Doyle, W. A.(J.P)
Wat, James
Haney, A. W....
.Hind, Brothers . . .
Reid, Alex
When
Settled
Reid, E. J
[Drew, Wm.D....
iLambert, W. M..
leaney, Jonathan.
:night,W.G.a.P)
Grenfell, Assa. N.W.T.
Alameda P.O., N.W.T.
Alameda P.O., N.W.T.
Sec. 34, T. 13, R. 30,
Fleming, N.W.T...
Brandon, Man ........
Beulah, Man
Brierwobd, P.O., Man.
Wolseley, N.W.T. ....
Pense, Assa., N.W.T..
Of Messrs. Callender
and Reid, farmers
and general store-
keepers, Millford,
Man
Plum Creek, Man
Brandon, Man
Regina, N.W.T
Meadow Lea, P.O.,
Man
Oak Lake, Man ......
1869
1858
1882
1882
1878
1882
1882
1878
1883
1880
1883
1883
1869
1869
1883
Capital at Commencement.
$500
About $500.
ISoo ,
1882
1882
1882
1882
1879
1879
1883
1883
1883
1880
1883
1882
1882
1880
1879
I500
•500
I600
I700 ..^
$700 r.
$800 ,
I brought $800 in cash with me, but a
young man will make a fair start in
life with $400, that is, if he can get
a wife easily
$1000; increased it by another $1,000
|i,ooo
|i,ooo
About 1 1,000.
Under |(,ooo.
Value of Farm
Sept. '84.
Under 9i|Ooo.
|i,ooo
ii.ooo
$1,000
About $1,200
$1,250
$1,500
$1,500 to use in starting
About $2,000
My partner and myself had $2,000
between us.
$4,000
About $ic,ooo
^2,ooo;bat 1 would
not sell it for twice
that amount.
$2,000
10,000
$7 per acre
(320 acres).
$3,000
$9,000
$2,000
I consider my farm
worth$4oootome.
$3,800
$33.60
$16,000
$14,000
$7 per acre. I
would not like
to sell it for that,
but I suppose I
could not get
more than that
just now.
$4.ooo to $5,000
$10 per acre.
$3,000
$6,000
About $10,000
$10,000
$5,500
About $4,000
About $3,500
6,000, what it is
assessed for.
$2,000
About $2,000.
$2,000
$2,000
$2,000.
$4006
About $5,000
600/. to $4,000
I would not care
to take $4iO00
Assessed at $4,000
and stock $3,000
•=$7,000
PLAIN FACTS AS TO THE CANADIAN NORTH-WEST.
Name.
Postal Address.
Chambers, W . . • .
Lawrence, Joseph,
Miller, Solomon . .
Hayter, W. H....
Robertson, P
Gilbert, Josiah . . ,
McEwen, Donald.
Malhiot, Zephirin.
McKnight,R.(J.P)
Grigg, Samuel . . .
Harris, James....
Armstrong, George
Elliott, Joshua...
Bobier, Thomas..
Mclntyre, John. . .
Harrison, D. H...
'Wright,Thomas<Sr»
Sons
Sec. i8, T. 71, R. 26
W.,5irke, Man....
Clearwater, P.O., Man.
Alameda P.O., Assa..
Alameda.Assa. N.W.T.
Rapid City, Man
Durham Park Farm,
Regina«'.0.,N.W.T.
Brandon, P.O.,Man. •<
Wolseley, N.W.T... .
Carman P.O., Man. . .
Sec. 7, T. II, R. 18 r
W. Brandon, Man. \
Moosomin, N.W.T. . . .
Dalton, Brandon Co..
Sourisburg, Man
Moosomin, Assiniboia,
Milton Farm, near
Regina, N.W.T....
Newdale P.O., Man. . .
Thistle and Wright
Farms, Qu'Appelle,
Assa, N.W.T
When
Settled
1882
1879
1882
1882
1882
1883
May,
1884
1883
1879
April,
1884
1882
1880
1880
1882
1883
1881
1882
•3.000
$3,000 I have a large family .
1,4000
About $4,000
Capital at Commencement.
12,500
About $3,000.
l4,ooo.
15,000.
$5,000.
$5,000 .
1^5,000. . •••••
$5.2'oo
About $6,000.
My two sons and self fetched $7,000 in
cash, stock and implements
$10,000
$30,000.
$30,000 invested up to 1st September,
1884
Value of Farm'''
Sept. '84.
$5,000; more when
we get M. N.
Western Railway
All my lands are
worth$l2,oooor
$15,000
$6,000
Do not want to sell.
$6,000 to $7,000
It should be worth
$5,000
I would not sell
under$i5 per acre
$32,000
$10,000
$8,000 for the one
I live onv
$12,000 for the sec.
$15,000
from $12,000 tO"
$15,000
1,200, that is my'
half section.
$50,000
Have several;..
worthfrom$ioto
$12 per acre.
$i2improvedand
$7 unimproved
per acre.
Following are the names and addresses of other settlers whose testimony recurs through-
out the Pamphlet : —
Name.
Address.
Name.
Address.
Anderson, George
Bailey, Zachary
J
Manitoba.
Lothair P.O., Man.
WattsviewP.O.,Man.
Morris, Man.
Moose Jaw, Sec. 2, T.
17, R. 27, W.2.
Calf Mountain, Man.
Postmaster, Bellview.
Wellwood, Norfolk, Man.
Davis. W. H
Day, Tohn F
i^ec. 27, Tp. I, R. 12,
Crystal City P.O., Man.-
Fleming,R.3o, T.13, S.4.
Souris P.O.. Plum Creek.
BartleV, Noah
jjAmcs. X* • A. ••«■> •«••••
Devell. Tohn
Battell, H. C
Dick. David
Moline P.O.. Man.
Dickin. Georee
Manitoba.
Bedford. Tacob ..... ....
Dickson, Phillip.
Downie. Tohn
Chater. Mdn.
Bell.C. T
Oak River P.O.. Man.
Blick, G. R
Elliott, T. D
Alexandria P.O., Man. .
PLAIN FACTS AS TO TH£ CANADIAN NORTH-WEST.
Name.
to
re when ■
M. N.
Railway
nds are
z,oooor
oo
it to sell.
$7,060-
je ■worth
not »eW
5 per acre
,000
>,ooo
)r the one
an;'
for the sec.
5.000
12,000
30
hat is my
[ction.
0,000
everal;-
fromfioto
er acre,
proved and
inimproved
icre.
; through-
;ss.
I, R. «.
P.O., Man.
,,T.13.S.4.
i>lum Creek.
I Man.
lo., Man.
To., Man.
.BUckwell, James
Blythe, R
Boldrick, Robert .'
Boulding, G
Bowes, John.. ..
• • • t • • •
Address.
Brown, W. J
' Caflerata and J efferd .
'Cameron, Wm. C,
Campion, Brothers
Campbell, Robert
Carroll, A. H
Champion, W. M
Connell, Robert
'Coay, ITiomas
Cox, William
Cox, John T
Daniel, Joseph
Hanna, S. (Reeve
Whitehead)
Harris, A. B ,
. Hartney, James H
Hoard, Charles
Hoptf, George
Hornor, T. R
■Howey, Wm
Hutchinson, A..
Hume, Alex
Ingram, W. A
Jeffrey, William (Junr.)..
Johnston, James
Jones, James
Kennedy, Thomas
•King, M
Kinnear, J. H
Lang, Robert
Leepart, R.N
lK>thian, James
Mc Askie, James
McBean, Angus
McDiarmid, Colin
McDonald, W. W
McDougall, Adam G.
(Reeve of Wallace). . . .
McGee, Thomas
rMcGhee, James
TMcIntosh, Archbid
Virden, Min.
Bljrthewood, Wapeila.
Balgonie, Assa., N.W.T.
Regina, N.W.T.
Sec. 25. T. 9, R. 26, Vir-
den P.O., Man.
Pomeroy, Man.
Sec. 24, T. 18, R. 24,
Fense P.O., N.W.T.
I'Mgeley Farm, Qu'Ap-
pelle.,
Manitoba.
Bridge Creek, P.O. Man.
Carrolton, P.O., Man.
Reaburn P.O., Man.
Osprey P.O., Man,
Manitoba.
Millford, Man.
Box 44, Rapid City, Man.
Postmaster and Farmer,
Moosomin, N.W.T.
of Griswold, Man.
Beulah P.O., Man.
Souris, Man.
Lake Francis, Man.
Carberrr, Man.
Pendennia, Man.
Warleigh P.O., Man.
Craven P.O.,jiear Regina
Chater P.O., Man.
Millford, Man.
Rapid City, Man.
Brandon, Man
Portage la Prairie, Man.
Stoddartville, Man.
Belle Plain, N.W.T.
Plum Creek, Man.
Oak Lake, Man.
Balgonie, Assa, N.W.T.
Pipe Stone P.O., Man.
Beaver Creek, P.O., Man.
Brookdale P.O., Man.
Gladstone P.O., Man.
Fleming, N.W.T.
Virden P.O., Man.
Bumside, Man.
Blake, Man.
Broadview, Assa., N.W.T
Elliott, Robt. W
Elson, John
Fannery, W.J
Fargay, John H
Fintay, James
Fisher, Henry
Fraser, John S ,
Fraser, John <
Fraser, D. D.
Garratt and Ferguson.. ,
Gibson, William
Gilmour, H. C . .
Gordon, Leslie . .
Graham, Mark...
Giang, J
Grimmelt, D. W .
Address.
'••••••••••I
Haddow, James.
Hall, David ....
Obee, F
Oliver, Thomas.
Orr, James D
Osborne, Daniel ... .
Parr, James E
Parsiow and Healey.
Patterson, Abr.
Paul, James M.
Paynter, W. D,
Paynter, J. E.
Phillips, S
Pierce, Stephen
.«.« ••••••
Plunckit, Robert .
Pollard, Alfred..
Pollard, E. Sep.
Pollard, H ,
Powers, Chas. F .
Prat, John
Reid, William . . .
Rutherford, Johnston
(P.M. and J.P.)
Screech, John
Shipley, Martin
Shirk, J. M."
McLean, N.W.T.
S. 34,T. 1. R.I I, W.Man.
McLean, N.W.T.
Manitou, Man.
Shoal Lake, Man.
Regina, N.W.T.
Beulah P.O., Man.
Sec. 13, Tp. 12, R, 19,
Brandon, Man.
Oak River, Man.
Kenlis P.O., N.W.T.
Loganstone Farm, Wol-
seley, N.W.T.
Moose jaw, N.W.T.
Qu'Appelle, N.W.T.
Portage la Prairie, Man.
Cartwright, Man.
Sec. 26, Tp. 8, R. 28, W,
Elm Valley P.O., Man,
Manitoba.
Austin P.O., Man.
Glenboro' P.O., Man.
Bumside, Man.
Cartwright, P.O., Man.
Fleming, Man.
Crystal City, Man.
Sec. 20, T. 19, R. 20.W.,
Regina, N.W.T.
Alexandria P.O., T. 2, R.
, 6, W., Man.
Sec. 15, T. 15, R. 12, W.
Beulah P.O., Man.
Beulah, Man.
Rapid City, Man.
Tp. 12, Sec. 28, R. 30.
Fleming Station, Man.
Manitoba.
Sidney. Man.
Manitoba.
Sidney, Man.
Brandon, Man.
Rounthwaite, Man.
Tp. 13, R. 20, Sec. 16,
Rapid City, Man.
Silver Creek, Man.
Routhwaite, Man.
Wavy Bank, Man.
T. 8, R. 18, W. of ist
Mer., Rounthwaite P.O.
8
PLAIN FACTS AS TO THE CANADIAN NORTH-WEST.
Name.
Address.
Name.
Address.
McICellar Duncan ... . .
Rapid City, Man.
Arrow River P.O., Man.
Bumside, Man.
Chairman Municipal Ccl.
S. Qu'Appelle, N.W.T
Gladstone, Man.
Asessippi P.O., Man.
Sec. 1 8, T. 3, R. 2, Ala-
meda P.O., N.W.T.
Minnedosa, Man.
Minnedosa, Man.
Minnedosa, Man.
Balgonie, Assa., N.W.T.
Hanlan, P.O., Man. Sec.
i8, T. 13, R. I, W.
Postmaster, Brookdale,
Man.
Littleton, Man.
Sec. 4, T. 17, R. I, 2W.
Tp. 7, R. 16, Sec. 20,
Millford P.O., Man.
Carberry P.O., Man.
Birtle, Man.
Ossowa, Man.
Lucas, Man.
Moosomin, N.W.T.
Emerson, Man.
■
Sifton. A. T^...... ......
Brandon. Man.
McICenzie. Donald ......
Sirett. Wm. F
GlendaleP.O., Man. '
McKenzie. Kenneth . . • • •
Slater. Chas. B
E.^S. 34, Tp. I4,R. 23,
W. I, Wapella, Assa.
Beaver Creek, Man.
McLane, A. M • •
Smith. Wm
McLean, John A
McLennan, Thomas
McMurtry, Thomas
Smith. W. P
Souris, Manitoba.
Stevenson, F. W
Stirton, James ,
Stowards, R. C
Griswold, Man.
Calf Mountain Man.
Maryville, Arrow River,
P.O., Man.
Griswold, Man.
McRae, Roderick
McTellan, Tohn
Malcolm, Andrew
Tavlor, Tohn
S. 32,T.7,R. 25, Belleview
Beulah, P.O., Man.
P.M., Beaver Creek, Man.
Griswold, Man.
Middleton, Alex
Miller, Roberts
Taylor, William
Thompson, Stephen
Todd, P. R
Mitchell. Tohn.
TuUoch, Andrew
Uoiohn, Frank
Broadview. N.W.T.
Lake Francis, Man.
Mitchell, T
TJrton. W S
Moosejaw, N.W.T.
Neepaw?i, Man.
Sec. 34,T. 17, R. I4,2W„
Qu'Appelle Station.
Balgonie, Assa., N W.T.
Douglas, P.O., Man.
Birtle. Man.
Moore, George
Warnock. Wm
Mooney, John
Muirhead, Thos. • . • • ....
Webster, A ;
Whitney, Charles
Willmott, H. E...
Wood, James H
Wright, Charles
Yardley, Henry
Nelson. Robert
Newman, Chas
Nickell. William
Beaconsfield. Man
Niff,J. R
P 0 Oak Point: Man.
Nugent, Arnold J
Information for the Guidance of Intending Settlers.
I
A
C
C
'being
the A
t
lands
pamph
T
the h*n
-stead
•availab
Se
Depart!
station.
situatio;
On arriving at Winnipeg or any other of the principal stations along the line o
the Canadian Pacific Railway, the first step should be to visit the Land Office
of the Canadian Pacific Railway, where the field notes and maps descriptive of
the lands may be inspected, and the most minute details obtained as to the soil
and general character of each locality. This will enable the intending settler to*
choose a locality in which to seek his farm. The land grant of the Canadian
Pacific Railway along the main line has been divided into agencies as far west
as the third meridian, within the limits of which lands belonging to the Company can be:
purchased from the Agents of the Company at the stations hereinafter indicated.
BRANDON. — Lands in main belt, ranges 11 to 23 (inclusive) west of First Meridian.
VIRDEN. — Lands in main line belt, ranges 24 to 28 (inclusive), excepting townships 14,
15, 16, west of First Meridian.
Th€
to every
to pre-ei
-acres, m,
•end of t
required
•three y
PLAIN FACTS AS TO THE CANADIAN NORTH-WEST.
\
Lssa.
River,
leview
:, Man.
r.
:4,2W.,
:ion.
NW.T.
[an.
[an.
. MOOSOMIN. — Lands in main line belt, ranges 28 (part of) to 33 (inclusive) ^^st of First •
Meridian.
BROADVIEW. — Lands in main line belt, ranges i to 7 (inclusive) west of Second
Meridian.
WOLSELEY. — Lands in main line belt, ranges 8 to 13 (inclusive) west of Second Meridian.
REGINA. — Lands in main line belt, ranges 14 to 23 (inclusive) west of Second Meridian.
'MOOSEJAW. — Lands in main line belt, range 24 west of Second Meridian to range 10 *
west of Third Meridian.
SWIFT CURRENT.— Lands in main line beh, ranges ii to 20 west of Third Meridian to
Fourth Meridian.
MAPLE, CREEK. — Lands in main line belt, range 20 west of Third Meridian to Fourth
Meridian.
MEDICINE HAT.^Lands in main line belt, from Fourth Meridian to range 10 west of
Fourth Meridian.
CROWFOOT. — Lands in main line belt, range 1 1 to 20 west of Fourth Meridian.
CALGARY. — Lands in main line belt, range 50 west of Fourth Meridian to summit of
Rocky Mountains.
'','■■■*■-•
The business of the Swift Current and Medicine Hat Agencies is foi' the present
'being attended to by the agent at Maple Creek, and that of Crowfoot Agency by
the Agent at Calgary.
The Agents at the Land Offices have, for free distribution, maps showing the
lands open for sale, and those already disposed of, plans of the town plots, and
pamphlets giving descriptive notes of the lands within their agencies..
The Government have established Intelligence Offices at various points along
the line, in charge of officers, who will give the fullest information regarding home-
stead lands. Attached to these offices are Land Guides, whose services arc always
available gratuitously for locating those in search of homesteads.
Settlers arriving in Winnipeg should, before going West, call at the Land
Department of the Canadian Pacific Railway, the office of which is located • in the
station. There they can ascertain what lands are open for homesteads, and the
• situation of the Government* Intelligence Offices.
line o
Office
Itive of
le soil
[tier to-
Inadian
Ir west
lean ber
; , How to OUain Government Lands.
The Dominion Government makes a free grant of 160 acres of agricultural land
to every British subject over the age of 18 years, and also affords settlers the right
to pre-empt another 160 acres; that is, the settler may take up the additional i6o
acres, making a payment of from 2 to 2^ dollars (8 to lo shillings) per acre at the
end of three years of settlement. Settlers taking up Government free homesteads are
required to reside on their farms for at least six months of the year during the first
three years.
In the case of taking free homesteads, pre-empting or purchasing from the
hOovemment, the business will have to be transacted at the nearest of the following
s X)ominion Land Offices : — . . '
10
PLAIN FACTS AS TO THE CANADIAN NORTH WB8T.
I: I
, * Agency.
Post Office.
Agent.
WinniDec
Winniiee,
A. H. Whitcher.
Dufferin
kelson
W. H. HiAM.
Little Saskatchewan
Minnedosa
W. M. HiLLIARD.
Birtle
Birtle
W. Ct. Pentland.
Souris
Brandon
Deloraine
Coteau
Repina •«..•• .... ...... .... ....
E, C. Smith.
Turtle Mountain ••
J. A. Hays.
J. J. McHuGH.
W. H. Stevenson.
Coteau .•-• ...... ........ ....a
Regina •
Touchwood Hills . • . . •
Touchwood Hills ..••
J. MoTaggart.
J. McD. Gordon.
P. V. Gauvoreau.
Calearv
Oalfarv ...... ........... ......
Ddmonton
Edmonton
Prince A Ibert
Prince Albert.
Geo. Duck.
^ ^ Liberality of Canadian Land Eegulations.
• The land regulations of the Canadian Government, combined with the advantages
offered by the Canadian Pacific Railway Company, are the most liberal of any on the
North American Continent. The fee for taking up a homestead in the Canadian
North-West is only $io, whereas it is $26, and in some cases $34 in the United States >
and the taking of a homestead does not in Canada prevent the pre-emption of other
government lands, or the purchase oif Canadian Pacific Railway or Government lands.
The Climate.
Following are the opinions of actual residents in regard to the climate. The
questions asked were : —
About what time does winter regularly set in, and when does it end ? Have you
suffered any serious hardship or loss from the climate in winter? Is the climate
healthy? For postal address of each settler, see pages 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 or 8.
Kamr.
Dickin, George
Hind Brothers . ,
Urton, W. S . . ,
Yardley, Henry,
Answer.
1st week in November, and 1st week in April. No loss or hardship. I
travelled 20 miles with ox train in the worst blizzard last winter. Climate
very healthy.
Latter end of November, till middle of March. Climate can't be better.
Begins end of November. It is always very pleasant in the daytime. No less-
or hardship ; you need endure none if you are careful. It is most certainly
the healthiest climate I have seen.
About loth November to about 20th April. Climate very healthy indeed.
PLAIN FACTS AS TO THE CANADIAN NORTH-WEST.
ZZ
Name.
■'Hutchison, A.
•
Proctor, Henry
Knight, W. G.
Smith, W. P
Blythe, R ,
'Field, Edward....
Lawrence, Joseph,
■ Screech, John . . . .
■ Cameron, Wm. -C,
. Lothian, James. . ,
''Gibson, Wm
: Bruce, George . . . .
■ Middleton, Alex . .
Wamock, Wm . . ,
; Reid, Alex
Fraser, John
Perley, W. D....
" McGill, George. . .
■< Grimmett, D. W.
SPurdy, Thos. F. . ,
Answer.
a small tent
thermometer
undoubtedly
favorable to
2nd week in November to last of March or first of April. No hardship
whatever. Climate very healthy indeed, probably one of the healthiest
in the world.
About 15th November to about 1st April. Our family (Father, Mother and
14 children) have been very healthy.
5th November to 5th April. Three years ago I was living in
until the end of November, my house not being built. The
registered considerably below zero at times. The climate is
healthy, the exceeding dryness of the air in winter being very
the healthy and vigorous action of the lungs.
Begins middle of November. Climate very healthy.
About 15th November to beginning 'of April. Had several slight frost-bites.
Climate decidedly healthy.
About isth November; very often later, and sometimes earlier. No hardship
or loss. Climate very healthy.
About 20th November to about March 20th. I never lost a dollar from the
climate in winter. Climate as healthy as any under the sun.
Middle of November to 20th April. No hardships or loss ; with care there is no
danger. Climate very healthy.
2nd week in November to end of March. No hardship or loss whatever.
Climate very healthy.
About 2nd week in November to end of March. I have ploughed for three
seasons up to the 7th of November. No serious hardship or loss. I believe
the climate to be very healthy.
Last year nth November to middle of March. No hardship or loss as yet.
I can say the climate is very healthy, as two of my childred had had bad
health in Scotland, and we have all had the best of health since we came here.
The snow generally goes away about the second week, of April. I like the
winter well, good steady weather, no slush and mud here. Climate healthy.
Frost set in 2nd week in November, 1883 ; first heavy snow about middle of
December ; had fine weather after 22nd February ; winter ended 1st week in
April. Climate very healthy.
For farming operations from middle of November till last of March. No hard-
ship or loss. The climate is cold, but steady and healthy, and stock do well.
There is very seldom any really cold weather in November. I have always
been better here than I was in Scotland in winter. , Climate very healthy
indeed.
About 15th November, ends in March. Have been very comfortable. Climate
very healthy ; no better in the world.
Not much dependence on open weather after 1st November. Some people sowed
in March this past season. I like the climate much ; it is dry and immensely
healthy.
1st November to middle of April. No hardship or loss; persons soon learn to
avoid them both. Climate undoubtedly healthy ; never hear a person cough-
ing in church.
6th November to middle of April. No hardships or loss. Have chopped in
woods in January with hat and mittens off. The climate is the best I have
seen as yet.
Last year frost came on the 7th of November, but no snow till the end. No
material loss or hardship, no worse tlian from Belleville to Montreal and in
Western Ontario. Climate very healthy ; those that come here will find that
out when they come to feed themselves. ^
12
PLAIN FACTS AS TO THE CANADIAN NOBTH-WEST.
Name.
i
I '
Rogers, Thos. ,
Downie, John,
Anderson, George...,
Young, Jno. M. L....
Doyle, W. A.
Oliver, Thomas
Sheppard, Joseph
Stevenson, T. W.....
Blackwell, James
McGr^or, D
Powers, C.'F
Rutherford, J
Carter, Thomafi
Bobier, Thomas,
McKitrick, Wm......
Cameron, G. A
Bailey, Z...
Black, G. R
McLennan, Thos
Farmer^ W. A
^/
Answer.
The climate is certainly
for them the winter is toO'
Last year, loth November to 15th March. No loss or hardship whatever-
Climate very healthy indeed ; can go three good square meals every time.
Ploughing stops 5th to 7th November. Winter doesn't begin, till, say, from
1st to loth December. No hardship compared with the settlers of Ontario-
Climate perfectly healthy; clear, dry atmosphere.
About 15th November to generally the 1st April. No hardship or loss. My
wife and family suflfered in Ontario, but not here. Climate healthy.
I can hardly say that winter always begins as early as November, but it generally
ends between March 15th and April ist. No hardship or loss. I drove su
yoke of oxen 140 miles in six successive days, starting February ist, about
the coldest time we had, and did not suffer. I consider th? . climate very '
healthy, far ahead. of Ontario. r
About 20th to 30th November to about last of March. No hardship or loss*
whatever. I have frequently in travelling slept inthe snow rolled up ixu
a buffalo robe and have never been frost:bitten. ~ -
healthy, except for consumptives in late stages ;
severe.
About the middle of November. I like the winter, as it is always dry and a
good deal of fine weather. Climate very healthy.
Last year loth November, and opened for seeding on the 25th March, if I was-
ready. This is a good climate to live in. It is healthy because the air i»-
pure and the nights cold.
Last year 9th November. No serious hardship or loss, but frost-bites now and
then. . Climate extremely healthy.
Latter end of November till generally the end of March. No loss or hardship-
Climate very healthy.
loth November till April 1st. A little loss both years. Climate healthy.
About the middle of November to about i st of March. No hardship or loss at all ..
All stock winter well. Climate very healthy. My wife came here weighing 130*
lbs. and sickly, now she weighs 184 lbs. and has good health.
About 1st November till ist week in April. No hardship or loss. Stock do
well, if half cared for. Climate the most healthy in the world.
About 2oth November till about 15th March. No hardship whatever. My
fowls also do well in winter. I have a few black Spanish fowls, and my
Brahmas also do well. I know the climate to be very healthy.
About '1st of November to end of March. The snow being dry a person never
has wet or damp feet during winter. The climate, is most decidedly healthy^
that is one of the reasons I am in this country.
15th November to ist April. I can say from experience this is a healthy
climate.
loth or 2oth of November. No hardship or loss. Climate is healthy ; I nevw
heard any one deny it.
Middle of November till April. No hardship or loss. We have all been very .
healthy ; consider climate very healthy.
Middle of November and breaks up in the beginning of April.. No hardship-
or loss whatei)«rj and I have roughed it as much as any of the settlers>v
Climate very healthy.
About 15th November to 1st April. A little hardship ; had to sleep out
15 or 16 nights, but no less whatever. Climate healthy, could not be
more so.
5th Npv. to 15th March. No hardship or loss. Climate very healthy.
»l»«Mtt*t« I
•d^mm
PLAIN FAOTS AS TO THE CANADIAN NOBTH-WBST.
13
Name.
Drew, D. W
Ogletree, F
Thompson, S
Bonesteel, C. H
Anderson, Geo
McDougall, A.G
Hume, Alex
Stevenson, G. B
"Wagner, Wm
Nelson, Bobert
Mcintosh, A
Bolton, F,
Morton, Thos. L
Wilson, James
Slater, Chas. B
Connerson, James . . . .
McKenzie, K
Kennedy, Thos
Harris, A. B« ....... .
Burtley, Noah . . ;
Chambers, W
Carroll, A. H
Answer.
About the middle of November ; we are apt to have some good weather after
that. Winter ends about end of March, but some grain was sown in Mavch
this year. No hardship or loss. Climate healthy, myself and fitmily all hailing
good health here.
Three years since I came, we ploughed until the middle of November, but
oftener the ground is closed the latter part of October. Never toffered
any hardship ; am well pleased with the winter. I consider the climate
very healthy.
1st week in November till about April. No hardship or loss. I have been
out a good deal with team in winter •, never been frozen yet.
About the last of November, and ends in April sure. I suffered no loss from
the climate last winter. I consider it a very fine winter, much more so
than I ever expected to see hete. Climate very healthy,
loth to 15th November and ends in March. No hardship or loss, and don't know
of any one in this section having Buffered anything serious.
About 15th to 20th November, ends about ist April. No hardship or loss.
Climate the healthiest in the world.
It freezes up about the 1st Nov. No hardship or loss. Climate healthy.
Have ploughed three years till 5th November. No hardship or loss. Climate
healthy.
1st to 15th November till 1st April. No hardship, but by the neelect of my
stableman I have lost two calves through being frozen ; cow calved during;
night. Very healthy climate. I left Toronto with a fever-ague and rheumatism,,
and to-day, 65 years old, I am strong and healthy.
About the Sth November till 1st April. Can*t say I have suffered any hard-
ship or loss, but have felt it cold, and I lost some poultry. Climate
healthy upon the whole. Climate, as far as I can judge, is favofable to sue-
cessftil settlement.
Have not suffered any serious losses. Climate extremely healthy.
About 20th November till 20th March. No hardship or loss. Winters are cold
but dry, and therefore I prefer it to softer climate. Climate particularly
healthy.
Averages from 15th November to 15th April. No hardship or loss whatever.
Climate very healthy.
Ploughing stopped about loth Nov. No hardship or los5i. Climate healthy.
In 1883, November 15th, ended 25th March, 1884. No hardship or loss in
the sHghtest. Extremely healthy.
About 15th November to 17th March. No hardship or loss. Climate by all
means healthy. All the family in perfect health; was twenty- eight years in
Holland, but never so well and happy as nere.
Ploughing stops about 7th November, but generally fine weather after. Ends-
about latter end of March. No hardship or loss. Climate healthy.
About 5th November till the loth to 20th April. No hardship or losff. l^either
myself nor family have had any sickness since conaing here.
1st November to 1st April. No hardship or loss. Climate very healthy.
1st November to loth April. No hardship or loss in any respect. Climate
considered very healthy by almost everybody. 1
About 1st November to middle of April. I hav«i found the winters most enjoy-^
able. I have been in various countries, and can say that this is the most
healthy of any I have ever lived in. '
About the last of November tili the latter end of March. No hardship or lost ;.
enjoyed the winters exceedingly. Climate v< ry healthy.
14
PLAIN FACTS AS TO THE CANADIAN NORTH-WEST.
Name.
Garratt &* Ferguson.
Bole,J
Garratt, R, S
McLean, J. A
Bedford, J
Elliott, Joshua
Todd, P. R
Dickson, Phillip ....
Hoard, Charles
Connell, Robert . . . .
Cox, William
Answei;.
About last week in November. We have only lost one ox, and that was
through neglect in the ist winter in the country. Climate very healthy.
Between the 15th and last of November, ends about the 20th April. A man
can do more work and' with greater comfort than he can do in Ontario.
Climate healthy.
From 1st to 15th November, ends from March 15th to April 1st. I say
emphatically I have suffered no hardship or loss. Climate healthy, rety
much so.
About i^th November, sometimes later. No hardship or loss whatever. Climate
certainly healthy ; I Bnd it so, and so do a good many more.
Commences at different times in- November, breaks up in April. No hard-
ship or loss. Climate healthy for young and healthy people ; too severe for
aged and infirm.
The plough is generally stopped by frost
suffered considerably from cold, hut do
Climate very healthy.
Ground frozen November 7th, not much
to graze about April ist ; some snow
loss. Climate healthy.
About last of the month to 1st of April. No hardship or loss.
more so than any country I have been in.
About 1st to loth November till about end of March. No loss or hardship.
Climate wonderfully healthy.
Beginning of November, sometimes in October. Not very many hardships or
losses. Climate healthy, but wants plenty of clothes in winter.
November 15th to April 15th. No hardship or losses. No healthier climate
could be desired.
1st to 15th November. We have
not know that we have lost much.
snow in November. Cattle b^an
till 18th April. No hardship o
Climate healthy,
The Farming Seasons.
The following are the farming seasons : —
Spring. — April and May. Snow disappears rapidly, and the ground dries up
quickly. Sowing commences from the middle to the end of April, and finishes in
the beginning of May.
Summer. — ^June, July, August and part of September. Weather bright and clear,
with frequent showers — very warm at times during the day ; night cool and
refreshing. Harvesting commences in August and ends in September.
Autumn. — Part of September and October and part of November, perhaps
the most enjoyable season of the year, the air being balmy and exceedingly pleasant.
At this period of the year the prairie fires take place, and the atmosphere has rather
a smoky appearance,, but it is not disagreeable.
Winter. — Part of November, December, January, February and March,
PLAIN TACTS AS TO THE OANAPIAN NORTH-WIST.
>5
In the early part of November the Indian summer generally commences, and then
follows the loveliest portion of the season, which usually lasts about a fortnight. The
weather is warm, the atmosphere hazy and calm, and every object appears to wear a
tranquil and drowsy aspect. Then comes .winter^ generally ushered in by a soft, fleecy
fall of snow, succeeded by days of extreme clearness, with a clear blue sky and
invigorating atmosphere. In December the winter regularly sets in, and, until (he
end of March, the weather continues steady, with perhaps one thaw in January, and
occasional snow-storms. The days are clear and bright, and the cold much softened
by the brilliancy of the sun.
Summer Frosts.
In considering answers to the question * ' Are summer frosts prevalent or exceptional ?"
it should be remembered tha,t last year a most exceptional frost appeared on one night in
September throughout the whole northern part of the United States, and in some parts
of British North America. The damage done to crops in the Canadian North- West was
proved by Government statistics to be much less than that generally experienced on the
continent of North America ; and the fact that the following replies were given immediately
after a frost, even though it was most exceptional; adds largely to the value of the
testimony.
It should further be remembered, as will be seen from the testimony of many settlers,
that ill-eflfects from summer frosts may be, in almost every case, avoided by a system of
early ploughing ; so that each settler has his remedy in his own hands.
104 farmers answered^ " Exceptional!^ Following are replies of others, whose
postal addresses may be found on pages 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, or .8.
Name.
Answer.
— \
Dicken, G jExceptional, doing little or no damage if wheat land is autumn ploughed. Have
I seen frost by chance in July, in England.
Urton, W. S ....'Exceptional; most certainly not the rule. . "^
Hutcbinf^on, A [Have never experienced any.
Smith, W, P .'.Il believe exceptional. This year up to date (September 13th) no frost to hurt
I the greenest grain.
Blythe, R !We have had two slight frosts, but not to do much harm.
Field, E.
Lawrence, J ', . ..
Screech, Jolin
Lothian, J
McGhee, J
Bruce, G
Wamock, William. . . .
I should say exceptional ; but after first week in September we generally get
frost.
I. never lost a dollar by summer frost.
There has been none here to do any harm.
Very rare. I have only seen it once, and that nothing to speak of.
No summer frosts here.
We have never suffered from frost during summer.^
Are the exception, the frost' of 1883 being the only one I have seen in six years
to do any harm.
i6
PLAIN FACTS AS TO THE CANADIAN NOBTH-WSST.
Name.
Reid, Alex
Orang, J
Perley, W. D
Grimmett, D. W
Purdy, T.F
Leepart, R. N
Ingrain, W. A
.Anderson, G . .-
Young, J. M. L
Doyle, W. A
Newman, C. F
Lang,R
Sheppard, J
Stevenson, F. W
Finlay, J
V/alker, J. C
Honor, T. R
Wat.J
Malcolm, A
Pollock, Jno
Reid, £• J ••••••
Rutherford, J
Robier,T
Little, James
McKitrick, W
McFellan, J...'.
Troyer, C :
Vandervoort, G.
Wood, J. H
!liJrown, W'. J
Chambers, S. W......
Patterson, A
Little, J
Black, G.R
Wright 6* Sons
Whitney, C
Answer.
The exception from all I can learn from men who have been ten years in the
country. Very seldom coming before the 25th September.
Once in four or five yeats, there is frost about 7th September.
We do have slight frost, but not to do any general or serious damage. As the
country becomes cultivated I feel sure they will disappear, as all new countries
in British America have had that experience.
Very rare in growing season.
I think they are exceptional. Cultivation will improve that as the turf gets
worked off the land.
No frost this summer.
Exceptional in our locality — Souris district.
Last year was the first that I have seen to injure.
Summer frosts that are injurious are very exceptional.
I have not lost $10 (2/.) per year by frosts. Late-sown grain is never safe from
September frosts.
Not hurt anything, except last year.
I can answer for Oak Lake only by experience. None whatever.
They are exceptional ; this is my second year, and th^y have done no harm. I
have peas, the second crop in blossom 'to-day (September 12th).
Prevalent, but seldom do harm. Vegetables not injured this year till 7th
September.
Summer frosts do no harm here.
Last year was the only frost that did any damage since I came here in 1877.
I have grown four crops, and had one damaged by frost.
Cannot tell yet, but I hear they are exceptional.
We have occasional summer frosts, but not often to do much damage. Grain
that was a little late has been damaged twice during my seven years resi-
dence here.
They are prevalent here to a certain extent. ■ , •
They are no worse than in Ontario.
We have, but seldom to do much harm.
Last year was considered the worst in ten years, and I raised 1,400 bushels of
grain and did not have 30 injured by frost as it all was sold for seed.
There was frost on 1st July, I883, but did not do much damage.
Light frosts are prevalent in my district, but heavy frosts are exceptional.
Never suffered but once in nine years.
I have never had anything frozen. They are the exception, late sowing the
cause.
We generally have a light one in this part about the first of June.
I have not suffered from summer frosts,
lliey are never looked for.
No, not to any serious extent ; still they are not exceptional in this part.
They are more exceptional than where I came from (Ontario).
I have farmed for 15 years and have never had frozen grain with the exception
of once...
Exceptional.
Have seen no serious summer frosts. ^
There was not the slightest frost this season from the first week in May until
the seventh September.
PLAIN FAOTS AS TO THE OANADIAN NORTH-WEST.
17
Name.
McLennan, T
Gilbert,;
Grigg.S
Fraser, D. D
Crilmour, H. C. ••••••
Drew, W. D
Ogletree, F ,
Harris, Jas
Smart, G ,
Elson, John.... ,
EUiott, T. D...,
!McArkie, ]...*.
Osborne, D . . . . ,
Harrison, D. H,
Thompson, S . . .
'Chester, A
3onesteel, C. H.
Nugent, A. J
McCormack, D . . .
Lambert, W. M..
Bowes, J
■Champion, W. M.
"Mclntyre, J
Tate, James
T^cMurtry, T
McCaughey, J. S.
Stevenson, G. B . ,
■ Shipley, M
Wagner, W. (M.P.P.)
Heaslip, J. J
Nelson, K...
. Stirton, J
Bolton, F.
Morton, T. L ,
Campbell, R.
Sifton, A. L
McDonell, D
Hall, P ,
McGee, T
McEwen, D'.
Answer.
iDay, Jno.'F,
Exceptional, I think. Never did me any harm, and I have had three crops.
We have had no frosts this summer. ^
Hoar frosts are exceptional.
Not common. Cut my first frozen wheat last season.
Here we have had none.
Summer frosts have done no harm here since I came, excepting September,
1883.
They are not prevalent in this part of the country. In my e^cperience of 16
years the frost last year was the first that ever injured wheat, exeept patches
sown late.
None to hurt this year, nor last either. '
Exceptional, such as last year, but often have slight frosts, not injurious.
Not prevalent m Southern Manitoba.
We were hurt with the frost last year ; none any other year. ,
Never saw any before the 7th of September, and that last year only.
None this year to hurt.
Exceptional ; not more frequent than in Ontario.
Last year we had early frost. The cucumbers are not hurt yet (September
19th).
They are the exception, not the rule.
I have not been here long enough to be certain, but I think they are exceptional.
Last summer we had frost, tUs summer none.
The exception till this season.
None.
We have had no frost to do any damage.
None in June, July and August this year. ' .
The exception since I have been here, as the frost of September 7th, 1883, is th«
only one I have seen.
No summer frost this year, 1884.
Summer frosts have done no damage in this part.
We^ are not troubled with summer frost.
In some localities prevalent, in others exceptional.
Have not seen any. Had an early frost last fall. I lost nothing by it, and only
late grain was hurt.
I have only seen one in eleven years do any harm worth mentioning.
Not prevalent ; last year was the first one which did damage to my knowledge.
Exceptional ; none since 1 came here.
My experience is that there is some danger from it.
Have had no summer frosts to hurt even the tenderest vegetables.
Exceptional. 1 883 is the only year frost did any harm since I came here.
Exceptional ; only one year smce 1873, ^ think 1875. Barley and oats were
cut on loth June, but no damage. ^
Summer frosts are not prevalent in this part.
None in this part.
Very exceptional in this part ; one this summer in the latter end of August.
None where I am.
Exceptional. More seasons without than with frost.
We have; had slight frosts this season from the 5th September, but so fiir no
damage to growing crops.
Never seen any.
i8
PLAIN FACTS AS TO THB CANADIAN NORTH-WAST.
Name.
Fargey, J. H
Connerson, J
Rorisnn, W. D
McKenzie, Kenneth . .
Daniel, J
Nickell, Wm
Harris, A. B
Bartlejr, N
Chambers, W
Faynter, W. D
Hayter,W. H
Wilmott, H. E
Wright, C...
Johnson, J
Garratt, R. S. (J.P.)-
Day, S. and A
McDonald, W. W...
McLean, J. A
Beaford, J....^
Elliott, J
Todd, P. R
Boldrick, R
Dickson, P
Cafferata dr* Jefferd. . .
Connell, R
Fisher H
(settled in 1884).
Miller, S
Answer.
They are exccf tional. We have only had one frost in seven summers — vii.,^
September 7th, 1883.
About the loth of June and loth of September we had very slight frost, but little-
harm done.
Prevalent from 7th September in this part.
They are not prevalent, only exceptional ; more exceptional than in Ontario.
Not prevalent. Seldom seen.
Prevalent in some districts about here. '
When grain is sown in April, or up to the 15th May, there is no danger of frost ;.
after that time it has to run chances. For five years we have had frost be-
tween the 25th August and 6th September.
I should say exceptional. Some light frosts sometimes cut tender plants.
My 1st year's experience was in '82 ; first severe frost that killed my tomatoes took
place on the night of September 26th. I think them exceptional.
Generally free from frost from the middle of June to end of August.
No worse than Ontario.
They are prevalent in this district.
We have always slight frosts in this part in June and early September, but the;-
seldom do harm.
Exceptional and not generally injurious.
Prevalent in certain localities. 'Iliey are exceptional, generally.
Haven't seen any yet.
They are exceptional ; never seen any.
We were visited with summer frost twice, since I came here.
Exceptional, generally one, the latest the first week in June.
Not in middle of summer, but it comes too soon for grain sown late.
Have ripe tomatoes grown in open air.
Summer frosts that do any serious harm are exceptional.
Have had frost in June, but never suffered from it.
No frost here from first week in April till September 7th.
Very prevalent this summer, but not done any damage.
I fear to some extent prevalent, but with good cultivation and activity in spring-
a farmer can escape ill effects.
We have had no frost to hurt any vegetable in the summer since I came to the
country (May, 1882).
PLAIN FACTS AS TO THK CANADIAN NOBTH-WKST.
«9
Winter and Summer Storms.
In many parts of America, anxiety is felt by farmers on account of winter and
•summer storms. Manitoba and the Canadian North- West are happily, for the most
part, outside of what is sometimes called the " storm belt," and it is but rarely that the
■country is visited in this way. This may be seen by the following testimony, and it is
noteworthy how great a number have experienced no loss whatever ; as many as 150
thinking the damage of so little real importance as to simply answer it by the words
^' No " or " None." Storms do, it will be seen, occasionally visit some few parts of the
country, but it is undoubted that they are exceptional.
The question asked was : — " Have you suffered anv nerious loss from storms during
either winter or summer?" — In reply 112 farmers simply answered " ZVf>," and 4a
answer e4 " None'' Following are the replies of the remainder. Their full names and
postal addresses are given on pages 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 or 8.
Name.
Urton, W. S
Hutchison, A
Proctor, H
■Warnock, Wm
Fraser, Jno...... ..
Perley, W. D
Miller, Solomon . . . .
Purdy, D. F
Davis, W. H
kogers, T
Kines, Wm
Doyle, W. A. (J. P.;
ItfcRae, R
Walker, J. C
Honor, T. R
Graham, M
Malcolm, A
Rutherford, J
Little, James
McKitrick, W
Cameron, G. A . . . .
Warren, R.J
■Chambers, S. W.. ..
Howey, Wm
JMercer, J
Answer.
No ; they are rare. ,
No loss whatever.
Very little.
No ; not worth mentioning.
No ; weather very pleasant.
This country has not suffered from storm.
Not to the value of 10 cents.
Nothing uncommon to Ontario.
Partial loss two seasons with hail.
None whatever, so far.
Not much.
None ; nor has any portion of this community.
Never.
I had my house roof blown off in June, 1884, but no other damage.
I have never suffered from storm.
Never until this year.
Three years ago my grain was all cut down with a hailstorm, but
up again*^ and I had a good crop.
We never have had any storms or blizzards here yet, and suffered no loss.
No, not yet.
Nothing serious from storms.
A little last year from hail.
No, we have no bad storms here as we had in Ontario.
No loss of any kind.
No, never. Never saw a bad storm here.
Not in winter. I have lost a great deal of haj through the heavy rains in
summer. ,iu,'ii_^
it grew
PLAIN FACTS AS TO THK CANADIAN NORTH- WIST.
Name.
Lawrence, J
McLennan, T
Gilmour, 'H. C
Ogletreee, F
McAskie, J
Harrison, D. H
Thompson, S . • . • < . •
Chester, A
Bonesteel, C. H
Anderson, G • •
McConnack, D
McDougall, A. 0
Dickson, j. W
Lambert, W. M
Hunoe, A
Tate, James
McGill, G
Stevenson, G. B
Shipley, M
Wagner, W. (M.P.P.).
Nelson, R
Orr,J. D
Upjohn, F
Bolton,F
Morton, T. L
McDonnell, D
Heaney, J
McBean, A
Connerscn, J
McDiarmid, C
Rawson, J
Bartley, N
Chambers, W
Bole.J
Garratt, R. S
McDonald, W. W....
Mitchell, John
Jones, James
McLean, J. A
Answer.
I lost part of my crop this year by hail storms, but it is the first I lost since-
I came here 5 years ago.
No, never saw a bad one in this part.
Have never suffered any loss from storms of any kind, either winter or
summer.
I never suflfere 1.
Yes, this harvest from hail storm.
No, we are not in the storm belt.
Have had the top blown off stacks, not hurt much.
I have never suffered any loss from storms.
I never have, and think that last winter was a very fine one.
No loss whatever.
From hail this summer, but crop has come along again well.
Yes. One hail storm last summer.
None yet of any kind. . . ■
None whatever.
I have not.
Have not suffered in any way from storms.
Lost none by shelling first year ; lost some last year and this year ; none
from winter.
A little, three years ago by hail.
Nothing worth mentioning.
Never. We had this year an hour's hail, but did no damage to any amount.
No, nothing to speak of.
Yes, all my crop in 1883. ' "
Never until this harvest.
Not in the least.
None in winter. In 1876 hail destroyed half crop.
The storms have never injured the stri,k or house and stable, <Sr^.
There was a little hail this summer which did a little damage.
Yes ; lost all crop by hail in 1883, and badly damaged by rain 1884.
No, had no damage whatever m six years.
Only from hail.
Yes, twice in summer from local hail storms and frost on 7th September, i88.3,.
though quite exceptional. „^ ,
Not any, except by thunder and lightning, which destroyed ontbuildings, stock
and implements.
Never have seen a storm other than thunder since I came.
This partis not subject to storms in summer. . \'- _.
A hail storm destroyed my crop in 1883. ' ' • '
I have never suffered or seen any bad storms.
Last year I lost all the grain 1 had, about the middle of August.
Not so far.
I suffered some, one year by hail storm during growing season.
PLAIM FACTS AS TO TUB CANADIAN NORTH-WIST,
ar
ist since-
The Soil.
The high average yield of crops in Manitoba and the Canadian North- West— more
than double that of the United States — is in itself a practical proof of the rich quality of
the laiul, and of its adaptability to agricultural purposes. Still, it is interesting to study
the chemical properties of this extraordinary agricultural tract excelled by none and
equalled only by the alluvial delta of the Nile.
Dr. Stevenson Macadam, of Edinburgh University, an undoubted authority, says
the soil is " very rich in organic matter, and contains the full amount of the saline
fertilizing matters found in all soils of a good bearing quality." The soil is in general a
deep black argillaceous mould or loam resting on a deep tenaceous clay subsoil, and is
so rich that it does not require the addition of manure for years after the first breaking
of the prairie, and in particular places where the loam is very deep it is practically
inexhaustible.
The question asked on this point was : " Please state the nature of soil on your farm,
and depth of black loam ?" The description of one farm in each district only is
given to economise space. Where, however, the description of lands in the same
district differ, the answer of each settler is given. (For postal address of each
, settler, see pages 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 or 8.)
Name.
Hind Brothers. . . .
Caflerata and
Jefferd
Urton
Rogers
Beesley ,
Phillips ,
Hutchinson . . . . ,
Proctor ,
Mercer ,
Pollard
Lawrence
Orr
Screech
Hoard
Upjohn
Harward
Cameron
Lothian
McGhee
Gibson
Bruce
District,
Pense .
Pense.
Moose Jaw,
Moose Jaw ,
Moose Jaw,
Rapid City,
Craven
Woodlands ,
Grenfell ....
Sidney
Clearwater. . .
Cartwright. . .
Rounthwaite. .
Lake Francis.
Lake Francis.
Littleton ....
Qu'Appelle...
Pipestone . . .
Blake
Wolseley
Gladstone ....
AiWwer.
Rich black loam, average depth 18 in.
Sandy loam : about 9 in. of black loam.
Soil various, all good ; loam.6 to 12 in. deep where tested.
Deep rich clay on clay subsoil.
Alluvial soil, 4 ft. of loam.
2 ft. black loam on clay subsoil.
Sandy loam on gravelly clay suhsoil, loam from 9 in. to 2 ft. .
Black loam, with clay under, 2 ft. deep.
Depth of black loam 18 in. Under black loam is gravel and
sand.
Sandy loam, with clay subsoil.
Blaek loam, 18 in. to 2 ft., with clay subsoil.
Soil is good, with foot of black loam and clay subsoil.
Soil heavy, black loam 15 in.
Soil is good but somewhat stony and bushy ; Slack loam 6 in;
to I ft., with clay subsoil.
Depth of black loam 8 in. to a foot.
Soil is varied, clay, sand, gravel and oLa^e from 6 to 24 in.
Black loam^ clay subsoil ; loam 8 to 12 in. deep.
Clay loam, from 16 in. to 2}4 ft- black soil.
Sandy soil, from 18 in. to 2 ft. deep.
Black loam 2 ft. deep, on a clay subsoil.
There is a small creek through my place, which also divides
the soil, the one half is sandy loam and the other black loam.
:32
PLAIN FACTS AS TO THB CANADIAN ' NORTH-WEST.
Name.
I'
McDiarmid
'McLean
Bell
Mitchell
Wamock
Raid
Fraser
Stevenson
Carroll
Agnew
Stewards
Kinnear
Hayter
McGill
Purdy
Lambert
Xines
Young
McGee
McKenzie
Sheppard
Armstrong
Findlay
Walker
Blackwell
Hall
Hornor
/Graham.
Hope
Malcolm
Davis
Rutherford
Little
Fraser
McKitrick
Warren .........
McKnight.. ......
£rown
Bailey
r^ack
'.McCorquodale . . .
District.
Gladstone.
Gladstone.
Belleview.
Brookdale.
Neepawa.
Millford..
Brandon .
Brandon. .
Brandon
Brandon
Arrow River
Plum Creek . .
Alameda . . . .
Souris
Regina,
Regina ...,
Osprey ...
Moosomin.
Burnside.
Burnside
Indian Head
Dalton
Shoal Lake
Glendale
Virden
Headingley ......
Pendennia
Portage la Prairie
Answer.
some scrub,
clay bottom.
On level prairie 2 to 3 ft.,
Carberry . . . .
Minnedosa. .,
McLean .....
Silver Creek,
Oak River. . ,
Oak River. ..
Crystal City..
Olive
Carman
Pomeroy ....
Lothair
Well wood...
Minnewashta.
Sandy loam, with 2 ft. of black loam.
Black sandy loam, 4 ft.
320 acres of clay loam, with black loam 30 in.; 160 acres of sandy
loam 24 in. deep.
From 1 2 to 18 in. of black loam, then yellow clay mixed lightly
with sand.
Black loam, i^ to 2}4 ft* in depth ; clay subsoil-
Sandy loam of 4|^ ft., with clay subsoil.
Black loam, top depth 2 ft.; clay bottom.
Some of it clear prairie ; depth of soil 15 to 20 in.
with 3 ft. loam.
Cousiderable alkali, 2 ft. loam.
Loam 3 ft. in depth.
Black loam, 20 in.
Good rich soil ; 2 to 3 ft. black loam ;
Rich loam, depth l ft.; clay bottom.
Rich black loam, average 15 in. deep.
rich alluvial soil on river slope.
Black clay loam, all alike as far as you may go down ; now and
then you strike gravel 25 or 30 ft. down.
Heavy clay, loam depth, 20 to 30 in.
Black loam, depth from I to 2 ft.
Black loam ranges from 8 in. to 22 in. deep, with sand on clay
subsoil.
Clay soil ; black loam 6 in. There is also a gravel ridge running
through the farm.
Black loam about 2 ft., and generally clay subsoil.
Clay, about 3 ft. of black loam.
1 black loam, or vegetaTile soil. Black loam from 18 to 36 in.
8 in. black loam, then clay below.
2 ft. of loam ; claysubsoil.
Top soil black loam, about 20 in. subsoil clay.
Clay loam, about 12 in.
8 to 12 in. of black loam, with clay subsoil.
Heavy black loam, varying from l}4 ft. to 2^ ft. with clay sub-
soil 6 ft.
Black loam and clay, 15 in. black loam, clay subsoil.
Black sandy loam, from about i to 2 ft. deep.
Clay and part sandy loam, black loam 10 in.
Black loam, slightly mixed with sand, depth of soil l^ to 3 ft.
2/4 ft- very black rich loam, very heavy clay under.
Black loam and clay subsoil, i to 3 ft.
The black loam is about 18 in. in depth, and 2 ft. of white marly
clay ; below that, clay and gravel.
Sandy losm" black, depth about 2ft.'
Clay loam, from I to 3 feet.
Sandy loam, from 2 to 3 ft. deep. . .
Sandy loam, varying from 6 in. to 2 ft. on black loam.
Clay subsoil, with 12 to 18 in. of black loam.
Sandy loam, with clay subsoil, black loam about 18 in.
i*:<
PLAIN FACTS AS TO THB CANADIAN NORTH-WEST.
*3
Name.
Comierson...
Whitney . . .
Boldrick...
McLennan .
Smart
King
Elliott
Harrison ...
Thompson . .
Chester ....
Nugent
Kenny . . . . .
McCormack
McDonald . .
Dickson . . . .
Barnes
Speers
Champion . .
Hume . ... .
Shipley . . . .
"Wagner. ...
Mcintosh .
Stirton
Coay
Campbell ..,
Hall
Wilson . . . ,
Kemp
Heaney , . . .
Slater
Rorison . . . ,
Nickell ....
Harris
Paynter. . ,.
Bartley
Chambers..,
Lawrie ....
Wilmott ...
Wright .....
Dick
Garrntt
Elliott
>utherland*. .
Hanna
; Speers . . . . .
District.
Minnewashta . . . .
Balgonie
Balgonie
Asessippi
Holland
Belle Plain
Alexandria. ;
Newdale
Beaver Creek
Marringhurst . . . .
Emerson
Wolf Creek
Fleming
Fleming
Arnaud
Morris
(mswold
Reaburn
Chater
Wavy Bank
Ossowo
Broadview
Calf Mountain.. .
Westbourne
Bridge Creek
South Antles
Stoddartville
Austin
Meadow Lea
Wapella
Oberon
Lucas
Beulah
Beulah
Birtle
Birtle
Birtle.....
Douglas
Beaconsfield
Moline
Kenlis.
Sourisbourg
St. Andrews
Griswold
Griswold
Answer.
First-class, can't be beat ; loam 4 ft.
Subsoil of grey clay, with about 3 in. of black loam.
Clay loam ; 6 in. black loam.
Black loam from 18 to 24 in.
Sandy loam, 4 ft.
Heavy clay loam, 3 ft. deep.
The soil is (irst-class, black rich soil i ft., then a rich brown day
for 6 ft.
18 in. black loam on a clay subsoil.
Sandy loam, black loam from 12 to 18 in.
Clay subsoil, with from 1 1 to 12 ft. black loam.
Black rich loam, depth 4 to 5 feet.
Black loam, from 6 in. to 2 ft.
Black loam, 12 to 15 i 1., with clay subsoil. >
Clay loam, 18 in,
All clay, and about I ft. of black.
Black loam and heavy clay.
Dark clay loam, depth about 4 ft.
Heavy black loam 14 in. Clay subsoil, more or less limestone.
Heavy clay, loam about 12 in.
Part sand loam, and part clay about I ft. -
Black loam from 5 to 12 in., with limestone, gravel or (^sCmb^
under which is heavy clay.
Black loam, on top from 10 to 16 in., with clay and loam subsoil.
Black sandy loam ; clay subsoil from 16 in. to 2 ft. .
About 3 ft. on clay subsoil.
Black loam, on clay subsoil, 12 to 15 in. deep.
Clay bottom, 10 in. black loam. '
White clay subsoil, black loam from 2 to 6 ft.
Black sandy loam from 2 to 3 feet deep.
Clay loam, about a foot en average.
I ft. to 2}^ ft of black loam.
Black Joam, 2 ft. deep.
Black loam, clay subsoil, 10 to 12 in. of loam.
Black loam, 12 to 36 in, clay and gravel subsoil.
Sandy loam, with gravel ridges, 18 in-
A rich sandy loam, 12 to 18 in.
The part of my farm under cultivation is grand gravelly loam^
warm early soil ; the black soil is from i ft to 18 in.
Black loam from 8 to 24 in. deep, clay subsoil.
A Mack clay loam with clay subsoil, the black loam from 8 to
15 in. deep.
Sandy clay loam, I to 2 ft.
Clay loam, 2 ft.
Clay loam, from I to 3 ft. of black loam.
Black loam fro>m I to 2 ft., with clay subsoil.
Black loam from 6 to 10 inches.
Black loam 2 ft., yellow clay subsoil.
Dark clay loam, depth about 4 ft.
^4
PLAIN PACTS AS TO THE CANADIAN NORTH-WEST.
Fuel and Water.
Recent investigations show that in addition to the clumps of wood to be found
"dotted here and there on the prairie, and the timber with which the rivers and creeks
are lined, there is in tliese new regions an ample supply of coal. The coal-beds in the
Bow and Belly River districts, tributary to Medicine Hat on the main line of the Cana-
dian Pacific Railway, are the first to be worked, and settlers now obtain this coal at
moderate prices. Other mines have been discovered immedi?.tely on the line of the
railway, between Medicine Hat and the summit of the Rocky Mountains, and some of
these will be in operation during the present season. Valuable and extensive cdal
beds also exist in the Souris district in Southern Manitoba and the south-eastern and
western part of the North- West, and these will shortly be opened up by the projected
Manitoba South-Western and other railways.
As regards the water supply, the North- West has not only numerous rivers and creeks,
but also a very large number of lakes and lakelets in almost every part of the country,
and it has been ascertained definitely that good water can be obtained almost anywhere
throughout the territory by means of wells ; in addition to which there are numerous
clear, running, never-failing springs to be found throughout the land. An ample
supply of water of different qualities may always be found on the prairie by sinking wells
which generally range in depth from eight to twenty feet. Rain generally falls freely
during the spring, while the summer and autumn are generally dry.
On these two points the farmers were asked : " What sort of fuel do you use, and
is it difficult to obtain ?" Have you plenty of water on your farm, and how obtained ?
If from a well, please state depth of same." The full name and postal address of each
settler may be found on pages 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 or 8.
Name.
Dickin, George. ..-,.«
Hind Brothers
-Urton, W.S
Yardley, Henry
Hutchinson, A
Proctor, Henry
Mercer, James
Knight, W. G
Jeffery, Wm
.Fisher, Henry
Answer.
Wood getting scarce ; will be able to get coal. Plenty of water, springs rising
to surface, usual depth 7 ft. to 20 ft.
Wood within four miles. Plenty of water from wells 15 to 20 ft. deep.
Wood, close at hand, is ratherscarce, but there is plenty within 15 miles. Coal is
cheap here. Plen/y of water from two wells 22 ft. each ; one in house, one in
stable with pumps.
Poplar, about three miles distant. Plenty of water for general use in summer ;
well, 4 ft. 6 in. I get water for cattle in winter at a swamp up to the middle
of February.
Wood is easily obtainable at present. I have Long Lake on one side of farm ;
also a spring of good water, and a well 30 ft. deep.
Plenty of poplar wood in this settlement. Five wells of the best water, depths
20, 25, 26, 30 and 36 ft.
Poplar ; no difficulty, lots of it here. Plenty of water, the Qu'Appelle River
runs through my farm.
Wood, and there is plenty in this district. Plenty of water from small lake for
cattle, and a well for house 7 ft.
Wood. I have never been short of fuel. Plenty of water from a spring, the
water rising to the surface.
Wood; chiefly, but it is costly. Water from Wascana Creek.
PLAIN FACTS AS TO THE CANADIAN NORTH-WEST.
Name.
mgs rising
Smith, W. P
Blythe, R
Field, Edward
Pollard, Alfred
Orr, James D
Screech, John
Robertson, F
Harward, F ........
Hall, D...
Lothian, James
Bruce, Geo
Bell, C.J
"Warnock, Wm
Haddow, Jas
Reid, Alex
Perley, W. D
Prat, Jno
Miller, Solomon
Grimmett, D. W
Leepart, R. N ,
McBean, Angus
Young, Jno. M. L. . . .
Doyle, W. A
Newman, C. F
Sheppard, Jos
Armstrong, George . . .
Pierce, S
Graham, Mark
Malcolm, A
McGregor. D
Answer.
Plenty of water- not very good. All neighbors have good^
Plenty of water from wells and
Wood, hard to get.
water at 15ft.
Poplar ; easily obtainable from the bluffs.
sloughs ; deepest well at present 16 ft.
Poplar; no difficulty. Plenty of excellent water from well 22 ft. deep.
Dry wood (poplar) in abundance. Splendid water by digging 12 ft.
Dry poplar and oak, which are not difficult to procure. Not too much water ;.
two wells, one 23 ft. and the other 10 ft.
Poplar poles, but rather scarce. Surface water for the cattle ; well for house-
6 ft.
Wood, getting difficult to obtain. Plenty of good water ; wells 10 to 20 ft.
Poplar wood. I have plenty on my own place. Plenty of water, a lake 6 ft.,
deep and a stream running in summer.
Poplar wood ; no difficulty to obtair . Water from running creek.
Wood, poplar ; about nine miles to haul. Good water for home use in well
16 ft. deep.
Poplar and hardwood ; I have a good deal on my place. I use river water in
winter and well water in summer. 3 ft. deep. The finest water in the province.
Coal and wood ; both are now difficult to get here.
Wood, popular and white birch, easily got. Plenty of water ; spring creek and
well 20 ft. deep.
Wood ; it is difficult to obtain, and so is water, on my farm.
Wood, no difficulty in getting it. Plenty of water. Oak creek runs through it.
Wood, and plenty in this district, at $3.00 per cord at your house. A good
lake, and could get water by digging a short distance.
Wood ; quite close to the house.. Plenty of water from a well about 4 ft. deep.
Coal and wood ; wood three miles to draw, coal about 25. Plenty of water j.
water from well 25 ft. deep.
Elm and maple ; enough on my farm to last twenty years. One elm measured 1 1
ft. 5 in. in circumference. Pipestone Creek runs through corner of my farm j;
depth of well 3 ft.
Poplar ; ten miles to get it. Water from well 16 ft. deep.
Wood very difficult to obtain. Plenty of water, boggy creek ; wells 12 to 14 ft.
deep.
Poplar, very handy. I have always had plenty of water from a well 6 ft. deep.
Wood, dry poplar ; an ample supply here. Water from two spring creeks and
seveiral good springs.
Poplar or ash, plenty of it. Plenty of water from a well 15 ft. deep and out
of my little lake.
Poplar wood, costs, six miles from my house, $1.50 per cord. Water is rather
hard to get in some places, but easy in others.
Wood, to be had for the drawing and a fee of 50 cents for enough for a year's
use, for house, stable and some fencing. Water for cattle from a deep pond
and for domestic use from wells. Have one well at 17 ft. never failing, and
another at 28 ft.
Wood in bluffs on homestead. Plenty of water.
Wood, poplar and oak. Not very difficult to obtain. Plenty of water by digging,
about 12 ft. .
Wood ; is plentiful here. Plenty of water from a living spring.
Elm. Plenty of water from Assiniboine River.
26
PLAIN PACTS AS TO THE CANADIAN NORTH-WEST.
Name.
Answer.
Bobier, Thos
Warren, R.J......
Niff, j. R
Chambers, S. W. . . .
Bailey, Z
Black, G, R
Champion Brothers.
McKenzie, D
Fraser, D
Farmer, W. A
King, M
Thompson, S
Anderson, George . .
McDougall, A, G.
Tate, James
McMurtry, Thos..
McCaughey, J. S,
Heaslip, J. J
Bolton, F
Campbell, Robert
Paynter, J. E
McEwen, D. ... .
Connerson, J. . . .
Kennedy, Thos. .
Johnston, Jas. . . . ,
McLean, J. A.
Wood ; have to draw.it six miles, but intend using coal, as I hear we are going
to have it at $6.50 per ton. Good water from wells 8 ft. deep; all of my
neighbors get plenty of gootl water by digging from 8 to 20 ft.
Wood ; have got plenty on my fiirm. Plenty of water from wells and springs ;
depth of well 14 ft.
Poplar ; difficult to obtain, but will use coal. Plenty of water from well 18 ft. deep.
Wood, any amount of it in this district. Plenty of water ; a spring for home
use, and a spring creek for cattle.
Wood, rather scarce, but coal, which is superior, is easily got at Railroad Station.
Plenty of spring and river water, wells 10 ft.
Poplar ; any quantity three miles off. Plenty of watei; and good well, 38 ft. deep.
Dry oak and poplar ; not difficult to obtain. Generally plenty of water, one
well 5 ft. and another 16 ft.
Poplar fuel. We have plenty yet, handy by. The Arrow River runs through
my farm. I have a spring at my house.
Wood getting scarce ; expect to use coal soon. Plenty of water. Ponds and wells
14 ft. and 30 ft. deep. Any amount in latter, could not be bailed dry. s
Wood and coal. River water.
iWood from Qu'Appelle, and coal at $9.00 per ton on Canadian Pacific Railway.
Water ia very scarce, and draw it five miles. Have no well yet.
Wood ; from three to five miles off. Plenty of water. Beaver Creek runs
through the farm. Wells are from 8 to 12 ft. round here.
Wood, abundance in this district ; the Weed Hills, Woolf Hills and Qu'Appelle
being very adjacent and well timbered. Price to townspeople 12s. per cord.
We depend on slough water in summer for stock. Wells range from 6 to 35
ft. in depth.
Wood. Coal this year $6.50 per ton. Plenty of water from well 14 feet deep .
Coal in winter, wood" in summer, both of which are easily obtainable. Get water
from a never -failing spring.
We uee coal, it is quite handy. We get water from a well about 12 ft. deep.
Coal and wood, easy to obtain. Water from well 25 to 40 ft. deep.
Coal from Souris, 18 miles from here ; not difficult to obtain. Plenty of water
from a well 15 ft. deep.
Poplar and oak wood in 'abundance ; haul three miles. Wells 28 ft. deep.
Ponds for cattle in summer.
We get our fire wood, fencing and building timber from the Riding Mountain,
four miles to draw. We get our water from Stoney Creek, a spring creek
rising in the mountain and running all the year round.
Wood, difficult to obtain. Plenty of water from a well 7 ft.
Wood at present, but intend using coal for winter. Expect to get it at Brandon,
about $7 (28s.) per ton. Plenty of water, well and sloughs. Wells, one 20
ft. another 35 ft.
All oak wood ; in abundance. Water in abundance all the year round from
"Dead Horse Creek." '
Wood, not difficult to obtain in my case, but some have to buy. It costs about
$2.50 per cord. Plenty of water. 1 lave a good spring creek.
Wood and coal. Have had no difficulty so far to obtain supply. I have a nice
creek crossing farm, but supply buildings by wells from 10 to 15 ft. First-
class water.
Poplar, oak and ash ; very easy to obtain. I have to dig for water, the depth
is from 8 tc 12 ft.
, PLAIN FACTS AS TO THE CANADIAN NORTH-WEST.
ar
Grain Crops.
The following tables, taken from official sources, will show at a glance the average
yield in bushels per acre of the crops of Manitoba during the last six years : —
■
1876.
1877.
1878.
1879.
1880.
1881.
1882.
1885-
1884.
General
Average.
Wheat
Oats
Barley
Peas
Rve
32
51
41
32
229
265<
59?<
32
30
304
26K
59H
63
34
308
26U
58
37%
32X
40
302
29K
57H
41
38K
40
318
30
59
40
38
35
320
'32
51
37
278
27
56
35
30
259
583
400
28
29
66
42
34
36
Potatoes
Turnips ......
Carrots
Fla- '.
287
688
400
28
I'ater
The following arfe the chief averages of the chief wheat-growing countries of the-
World, as officiallly given for a series of years : —
Irom
/
)OUt
lice
Irst-
[pth
Manitoba, average yield per acre in bushels. ..
Great Britain and Ireland
Minnesota (the Empire Wheat State^ of the Union)
United States , :
Ontario •
South Australia
Wisconsin
Iowa
Ohio
Indiana ^
HHnois
Wheat.
Barley.
29
42
288
34-2
1 1-4
325
13
13-6
8
24-67
11-3
6-6
24*5
»3-3
108
i6'4
26
8-2
»5'5
Oats.
66
43*2
35-6
39
28-6
26*2
277
23
33*4
Asked as to the probable jield per acre of their wheat, barley, and oats crops,
farmers replied as follows : —
28
PLAIN FACT8 AS TO THE CANADIAN NORTH-WEST.
1.
Name.
Sheppard, Joseph
Stevenson, T. W
Little, James
"Mortou, Thos. L
McLean, John A ,
Paul, James M
Rutherford, Jonathan . .
Wat, James
Boulding, G. T
Stowards, R. C
Day. John F
Leitch, Angus
Daniels, Joseph
Reid, E. J
Bobier, Thos
McKenzie, Kenneth . . .
Todd, P. R
McBean, Angus
Harris James
Osborre, Daniel ,
Slater, Charles B '.
AV right, Charles
Proctor, Henry
Smith, W. P
Robertson, P
Lothian, James
Bruce, George
Webster, A
Downie, John
Sirett, W. F
Young, John M. L. .
McRae, Roderick . . . .
Armstrong, Geo ....
Finlay, James
Deyell, John
Bailey, Zachary
Patterson, Abr
Howey, Wm
•Grigg, S
Elliott, T. D
Yield of Wheat per acre
in bushels.
About 40
40
Average 40
40 at least, I had 45 last
year
40.
About 35 . .
35
35
Expect 35
35
35
35
About 35
32
32, very good
32
32
About 3O or 40 . . . .
From 30 to 35
Between 35 and 40.
30 to 35
Between 30 and 35,
Average about 30 . .
A certain 30
30
30
30
30 •
30.
30-
30-
Barley.
Oats.
40.
40
About 30 ,
25
50
50.
40,
40.
30
About 40 or 50.
40 to 50
55
Black barley average 25
40 last year
35
30.
Over 40, 1 should think,
not thrashed yet ... .
30 on this sea4on's
breaking
50, the best I ever saw
40 ,..
have none ; but my
neighbors will yield
about 45
30 last year, and my crop
is better this year ....
30
30
30
30
30
30
On account of a dry
spring it will not go
over 30
30.
SO
40
35
40
50
About 40 .
About 50.
Partly 70 and partly 40.
Average 70.
50.
Some 60 and some 80.
About 50.
46.
.65-
Expect 70.
60.
so.
50 to 60.
About 45.
50-
About 80.
50 to 80.
About 60.
40 to 50.
60.
Average 50, good crop.
•70 at least.
60.
Badly wasted by hail
Ftorm.
40 on this season's
breaking.
60 to 70.
40. They did not do well
this year ; too dry in
the spring.
50 to 60.
About 60.
60. *
9( ■ ■ ■ .
50.
A dry spring makes a small
yield, say 35.
PLAIN FACTS AS TO THE CANADIAN NORTH-WEST.
29
Name.
Chester, A
'"viDeey 1? •..»•• . .•..«•
Muirhead, Thos
Mcintosh, Archd
Hall, P
Speers, A. R
Mitchell, Jno
Miller, Solomon
Hope, Geo ' . . . .
McLane, A. M
Gibson, John..
Thompson, S.
iHaney, A. W.
Hall, W. B
McKellar
Harrison, D. H.
Taylor, Wm
Sterenson, G. B
Yield of wheat per ache
in bushels.
Certainly expect 30.
30 ■
Average will be 30. . . .
30
30
40
35
Average 30 ... .
Good maturity.
30
Expect average,
probably 28 or 30 .
About 28
28
About 28
I expect it will yiled 26,
as it is a good crop. . .
30
26 on land broken last
year, not backset. . .
25 to 30
Heaslip, J. J
' Coay, Thomas
Pollard, Alfd
'McGhee, James
Austin, A., senr ... . .
•Purdy, Thos
Smith, Wm ,
Lang, Rbt..
Barley.
40
SO or 55.
40
30
35 on Spring backsett-
ing
40.
25 to 30
25 to 30..
25, and likely 30.
About 30 .
40
About 30.
Fully 50. .
25 to 30.
25 to 30
Averaging 25 . .
25
About 25
Estimated at 25 .
About 25.
25
About 25
Averaging 60.
35.
25 ; land not well tilled
40.
35-
Oats.
50 to 60 •
50
Average 50
50
60
70
Probably 40
Between 50 and 60
50-
25, on Spring backsetting
50
About 45
7c, on land broken last year,
and not backset.
About 40
40
50 to 60
About 40
Only about 40; last year
I had 65
From 50 to 70
About 50 or 60 on average
Averaging 50
40
About 40
40, badly tilled ; on ac-
count of dry weathej,
last year sod did not rot.
40
45
Roots and Vegetables.
All root crops yield wdl, turnips standing next to potatoes in area of cultivation.
They are in no reported instance infested by flies or other insects. Mangold-wurzels
.and carrots are not cultivated as field crops to any great extent. .
All garden vegetables produce prolific creeps, and the Province sustains an extraor-
dinary reputation for their production. During recent years a very large and general
■increase has taken place in the acreage devoted to the cultivation of garden products.
In the earlier years of the Province's history new settlers had but little time to devote to
gardening, but -once having srot their farms into good working order, they are
devoting more attention to it, with most satisfactory results.
30
PLAIN TACTS AS TO THE CANADIAN NORTH-WEST.
The following are instances taken from farmers' reports of successes in the growth
of vegetables, and in conjunction with these reports it must be remembered that Very
•few, if any; of these farmers used special means to produce these results. The question
asked was : " What yields of vegetables have you had, and what is your experience in-
raising them ?" For postal address of each settler, see pages 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 or 8.
Name.
Dicken, George.
Yardley, Henry.
Proctor, Henry.
Knight, W.G..
Jeffrey, William
Blythe, R
Field, Edward..
Pollard, Alfred.
Answer, in bushels per acre.
Orr, James B.... ,.
Lothian, James
McGhee, Jas
Gibson, Wm
Bruce, George
Mitchell, John
Middleton, Alex....
Have had carrots 12 inches round, and grown cucumbers successfully in the open. .
Beans and potatoes very good, better than I ever raised in England with 20 •
years' experience. Turnips very good, and mangolds good.
Potatoes, 300. I have grown in the garden beans, peas, carrots, parsnips, beets,
cabbage (several kinds), onions. With attention all do well.
Potatoes, 300, well manured; turnips, 600, well manured. Carrots and peas,,
beans and flax, have also done well in small lots. I have grown almost all
kinds of vegetables with the best results.
Potatoes, about 160. All kinds of garden produce grow luxuriously ; that is,
all and every kind that can be grown in England, and do not require manure-
for some years.
I have grown almost all kinds, and the quality is splendid
Potatoes, 150, on the breaking; my beans were frozen. The first year it is-
not well to sow vegetables on the breaking, except for home use ; other-
wise, aftere the ground has been properly worked, nearly all vegetables thrive-
well.
Potatoes, 300 ; turnips, from 500 to 700. Carrots, 'peas and beans, I have only
grown on a small scale ; the yield is good. Vegetables are a great success in^
this country, and come on very rapidly. I have grown potatoes, onions,
carrots, beets, com, cucumbers, parsnips, radishes, lettuce, cabbage, broccoli, .
cauliflower, melon ; in fact same as we grow in England.
Potatoes, 300. An abundant crop of turnips, carrots, peas and beans. My
vegetables have this year generally been a failure. I have grown almost every
description of vegetables with great success.
Potatoes, 300 ; turnips, 400. I have only grown vegetables in the garden, but-
they all do extremely well.
Potatoes, 300. Have raised cabbages, carrots, onions and beet, all of which did
well. With a little experience of the climate, I believe gardening can be
made a success in all sorts of vegetables.
Potatoes, 100. This country is second to none for vegetables.
Potatoes, 200. Cabbage, Scotch kail, rhubarb, onions, carrots, turnips, parsiey,
pe^s, pumpkins and sage, all do well with climate and soil. We have used
potatoes two months after planting them.
Potatoes, 400. I have grown almost every kind of cabbage and garden stuff
you can mention. I h«re lifted cabbage this fall 20 lbs. in weight.
Potatoes, 180. Turnips, carrots, onions, beets, parsnips, parsley, lettuce, and
iadishes all grow well. I have not made such headway with cabbage.
Ihubarb grows splendidly.
Ifind no difficulty in growing any of the vegetables I was acquainted with in^
Scotland. They all require to be sown early in the season.
PLAIX FACTS AS TO THE CANADIAN NORTH-WEST.
31
My
every
stuff
Name.
Perley, W. D.
Prat, Jno.
Miller, Solomon .
McGill, George. .
Smith, William.
Ingram, W. A.
Lawrie, J. M...
Hoyle, W. A. . .
'Sheppard, Jos. ...
Stevenson, T. W.
Aliswer, in bushels per acre.
iDepell, John . . . . T ■
Walker, J. C
Mooney, Jno.
.'Homor," T. R .
Davis, Jno. B.
Powers, C. F.
iRutherford, J .
Potatoes grow splendidly, and of fine quality, without manure. Carrots will
grow fine, but have not bad much experience. Peas grow splendidly. I be-
lieve manure would help and produce a large crop, but for quality, the
present can't be excelled.
Have some parsnips grown on land which had a crop of peas and potatoes on it
last, and no manure was put on it, and .took one or two potatoes, a week ago,
which were 2^ inches in diameter, and long in proportion,
otatoes, 400; turnips, 750.
Potatoes average 250 bushels (of 60 lbs.) per acre. Never saw a better crop of
potatoes, in any country, than I have this year. Turnips, carrots, peas, beans
and flax, are good.
Potatoes, 300 ; turnips, 800. Have also grown carrots, parsnips, onions, cab-
bage, cauliflowers, pumpkins, melons, citrons, cucumbers, lettuce,' squash,
tomatoes and raddish.
Potatoes, .300 to 500 ; turnips, carrots and beans do well ; peas 30, and flax 20.
Everything in the way of vegetables does immensely, except Indian corn and
tomatoes, which I do not find as yet a success.
Potatoes, 2150. Only raised turnips and carrots in garden, but they would do
well here. My experience is that vregetables cannot be raised mor€ success-
fully in any other country
Potatoes, about 250 ; peas about 25. Have never seen vegetables eqial to those
of Manitoba. We cannot raise squash melons or pumpkius to maturity,
however. Carrots, beets, maize, onions," salsify, celery, chicory, radishes and
cucumbers all do unusually well with us.
Potatoes, 200 ; peas 60 lbs. per acre. Vegetables very good ; you can raise every
kind to perfection.
Potatoes 300. Turnips not attended to, would have produced 400 or 500
bushels per acre. I never saw as fine vegetables anywhere else, except
turnips.
Potatoes, 359, turnips 800 Peas do well. Vegetables do very well.
Potatoes 3oo, turnips 600, carrots 300, peas 30 and beans 40. Have grown with
good results ; potatoes, turnips, mangold- wurtzels, beets, carrots, parsnips,
onions, radishes, cabbages, cauliflowers, and many others
Potatoes from 300 to 400. Turnips 600, and peas 30. All vegetables do well .
Have also grown carrots, beets, cabbage, tomatoes, squash, citrons, onions,
rhubarb and pumpkins.
1 never saw vegetables grown to better success than here ; in fact, they are the.
surest crops we can grow. I have grown potatoes, turnips, cairots and
beets with perfect satisfaction.
Potatoes 300, turnips 600, carrots 600, peas 30, beans 25, and flax 30.
' ■'■ pie
Have
plant.
also grown cabbage, beets, tomatoes, radishes, onions, salsify,
lettuce, pumpkins, grapes, artichokes, pepper, and parsnips.
Potatoes, 200 ; turnips, 500 ; carrots, 400 ; peas, 30. Beans do well. All vege-
tables can be grown with great success.
Potatoes, 350 ; turnips, 600 to 800 ; carrots, 400 to 500 ; and peas, 40 to 50. I
have grown successfully :— Cabbage, carrots, pai snips, beets, onions, lettuce,
radishes, beans, dr'c.
ith in^
3a
PLAIN PACTS A8 TO THE CANADIAN NORTH-WEST.
Name.
Bobier, Thos.
Stevenson, G. B...
Stirton, James
Slater, C. B.......
Burgess, J. W
Connerson, James, .
Rawson, James.
Patterson, Abr.
Fraser, D. D...
Osborne, Daniel
Harrison, D. H
Thomps<.n, S..^
Answer, in bushels per acre.
Potatoes, about 300. 1 umips generally have not done well this year, the weather
being very dry when they were sown in the spring. I never grew any
except in the garden ; these are excellent. Have grown peas two years ; .
they do first-class here. Beans can be grown here in. abundance. I have
grown the finest potatoes that I ever grew in my life, both in quantity and
quality. Carrots, cabbage, cauliflowers, and other garden stutlf grown in
this country are of the very best quality.
Potatoes, from 250 to 3(X), and turnips, 500. Carrots average 450. All kinds
of vegetables grow well. I have also grown beet, onions, radishes, cabbage,
cauliflower, melon, citron, and cucumbers.
Potatoes, turnips, carrots, peas, beans, and flax do very well, without any 'care
and trouble. If the seed is only sown early, with care and cultivation, the
yield is enormous.
Potatoes, 2CO bushels from half acre. The yield of turnips and carrots was
poor, owing to the drought in the spring. 1 1 ix was good. Vegetables
did fairly. All cullender vegetables do well hef<?.
Potatoes 300, really magnificent. Also turnips, carrots and mangolds ; the
latter yield well. Cabbages and cauliflowers do well.
Potatoes about 350. I had nine waggon loads (about 30 bushels each) of
turnips off half an acre last year. Carrots, 500 ; peas 50 bushels off two
acres one year ; beans. 40 to 60 ; flax 15 ; all kinds do well here — cabbages,
cauliflowers, beets, melons, cucumbers. &'c. Onions do splendidly. Tomatoes
are not a success ; we have lots of them, but they are green yet (Sep-
tember).
My potatoes are the best I ever saw i » this country. Turnips, very heavy yield,
also carrots ; peas 30. This equab any country for the growth of vegetation.
Have grown beets, onions, melons, citrons, cucumbers, pumpkins, tomatoes, .
radishes, celery and lettuces.
Potatoes, 400, and Peas 40 All garden vegetables usually grown on a farm,
grow first class. Onions and cabbages grow extra large and are of fine
quality.
I had a fair crop of potatoes this year. My turnips were poor on breaking. The
yield of carrots was good, but frost killed my beans. Carrots, cabbages, ^
onions, parsnips, potatoes and beets are all doing well.
Potatoes 500, turnips 1,000. Have also grown beets.
Potatoes 200, turnips abeut 250, and peas and beans from 14 to 15. I
think I could raise about 300 bushels of carrots per acre. Vegetables grow
first-class. Sweet corn, cabbages, carrots and long and turnip beets
grow to perfection, tomatoes splendidly ; onions in abundance. Have also
grown celery, musk and water melons, dr'c. Took $15 prize money two
years ago.
Yield of potatoes and turnips heavy ; carrots are simply immense ; peas are not
good here, the land is too heavy ; beans do well, and flax yields from 20
to 30. ITiis is a splendid country for vegetables. I have also grown
mangold-wurtzels, onions, beets, parsnips, tomatoes, cucumbers, melons,
citrons, squash, celery, cabbage, cauliflower, radishes, kail, brussels sprouts,
lettuce, salsify and mushrooms. I have the Provincial Diploma for the best;
collection of garden vegetables.
PLAIN rAOTS AS TO THU 0AIfiW4i<f NO«f*-. «ril8T.
33
the
Name.
Chambers, W,
Bole, J
Day, S. D. A
McDonald, W, M.
McLean, J. A.. ..
Speers, A. R . . . . .
Answer, in busiiels per acre.
Potatoes 300, turnips 1,000, and white Belgian carrots 500. Drought aAected
my peas this year, but they will yield 25 ; beans do well here. A little
capital invested in flax seed culture and the manufacture of twine or cord for
our self-binding machines, would result in great wealth. Onions, table
carrots, parsnips, beets, turnips, radishes, lettuces, melons, tomatoes, peas,
parsley, and all sorts of garden and field vegetables can be grown here to
perfection ; at least, that is my usual experience.
Potatoes 300. All kinds of vegetables do well in the Ncrth>West when the
ground is properly prepared.
Potatoes about 400 ; turnips 600, and peas 20. Have very fine cabbage, carrots,
turnips, beans, parsnips, beets, onions, lettuce, spinach, rhubarb, radishes
and cucumbers. Have raised tomatoes and Indian corn, but not with success.
Potatoes 500; turnips 1,000, and peas 30.
Potatoes 409, sometimes more ; turnips from 400 to 600. Peas and beans do
well. Any and every kind of vegetable does wonderfully well in this country.
I believe there is no better country in the konwn world that can come up to the
country for vegetable's.
Potatoes 400, turnips 1,000, peas 30, flax 40. Carrots remarkably good crop;
beans yield splendid.
The Use of Uanure.
The
sages,
grow
beets
also
two
re not
Im 20
Vown
elons,
grouts,
besti
Fertilisers are not used in the North- West, for they are not needed, and common
manure is used but sparingly. The land is, indeed, in most cases, so rich that the using
of it during the first years of cultivation would be apt to encourage the growth of straw,
and make the crops too rank. After the second year manure in limited quantities may
be used with advantage to prevent any exhaustion of the land.
This is the general experience of settlers to be found related with their opinions on
many other useful subjects in an additional pamphlet, to be had free on application to
Mr. Begg, Canadian Pacific Offices, 88 Cannon Street, London : — "When, you have it,
pu t it on your Hght land, don't waste it ; but it is not necessary for years." One settler,
Mr. Williaim Gibson, ofLoganstone Farm, Wolseley says : "I have used manure to a few
potatoes to try the effect it had along with others planted without manure, and they did
no better with it."
•
Stock Raising and the Hay Supply.
The general healthiness of the climate and the favorable conditions for feeding
horses, cattle, and sheep, make stock-raising a most profitable industry. The boundless
prairies, covered with luxuriant grasses, giving an unusually large yield, and the cool
nights for which Manitoba is famous, are most beneficial features in regard to stock j and
the remarkable dryness and healthiness of the winter tend to make cattle fat and well-
ponditioned. The easjr access to good water is another advantage in stock-raising. The
34
PLAIN FACTS AS TO THK CAN API AN NORTHWEST.
al)undance of hay almost everywhere makes it an easy matter for farmers to winter their
stock ; and in addition to this there is, and always will be, a ready home market for
beef.
Owing to the abundance and excellence of prairie hay, little has hitherto been done
in the cultivation of grasses, though what small quantity is cultivated is largely of the
Timothy and Hungarian classes. The average yield of hay per acre is 2 J to 3 tons ;
sometimes 4 tons are gathered, and in wet seasons as many as five tons. The crop of
1882 was an abundant one, and was generally saved in good condition, while in 1883
almost a double yield was gathered.
On these points the experience of settlers is especially valuable. Their statements
answer the questions :.'* How many horses and cattle have you ? Have you plenty
of hay, and do cattle thrive on the wild prairie grasses ? How do your animals
thrive in winter, and where do you stock them?" For postal address of each settler,
see pages 3, 4> 5» 6, 7 or 8.
Dickin, George.
Hind, Brothers
Urton, W. S...
Yardly, Henry.
Philips, S
Hutchison, A..
Mercer, Jas . . . .
Knight, W.G..
Field, Edward.
17 cattle. Can cut 20 tons, and can get ^ other oa goverment land. Cmttle
do equally as well as they did in pasture in England ; they thrive well in
winter with the same shelter they get there, pole and hay stable.
I horse and ten head uf cattle. Ves. Cattle do well ; wintered first class.
5 horses and I cow. Yes. Cattle do splendidly, better than on English hay.
They are slabled in winter during very bad days, but are turned out most
days.
I have 3 oxen and 2 yearling steers. I have sufficient hay for 20 head of cattle ;
they thrive first class. Last winter I took 12 head of cattle from a neighbor.
They came out in the spring eqnal to when I was in England. I kept them in
open sheds with yards last winter. My neighbour has his in stables, and they
do not do as well as mine.
30 horses and 20 head of cattle. Plenty of hay ; cattle get fat in summer on the
prairie grasses. I house them in a log stable during winter.
20 head of cattle, 3 horses, 19 flheep, and 2 pigs. Yes ; cattle get very fat on
the prairie grass in summer ; the do well in the stable in winter. I fed
them on liay alone last winter ; this winter I intend using grain and roots in
small quantities.
9 head of cattle at the presfcnt timp. Plenty of hay. Cattle thrive well on wild
grasses. I have wintered over twice the above number of cattle. I stable
young cattle ; large cattle run loose in open sheds.
No horses, 45 head of cattle. Plenty of hay. My thoroughbred short- homH
have nothing but the wild grasses of th« country, and ihey are in splendid
condition, in fact quite fat. I should take a prize for Christmas beef in Eng-
land; the beef cannot be beaten. Cattle thrive well in winter, on hay only.
Some are in stables and some out.
Plenty of hay. Cattle undoubtedly thrive well in winter, and get very fat
in summer. Both horses and cattle do well in the winter in the stable at
night. Heifers, steers, dr'c., in open sheds. Native horses and half-bred
horses thrive well out on the prairie all winter, if you have no work for
theni.
FfiAIIf r/OTS AH TO TIIK CAIfADlAy NORTH-W BRT.
$8
Name.
on the
-homH
lendid
lEng-
r only.
PolUrd, Alfred
Robertson, P
Cowlord, C
Gibson, Wm
Bruce, George . ,
Middleton, Alex
Warnock, Wm
Reid, Alex
Fraser, John
Perley, W. D...
Malhiot, Z
McGill, Geo • . . . .
Grimmett, D. W . ■ . . .
Purdy, Thos. F.
Pownie, Jno.
McBecn, A.,
Answer.
A scarcity of hay in this part. Cattle thrive wonderfully. I house them in
winter, and feed them on straw, hay, and roots.
3 horses and 12 cattle. Plenty of prairie hay, and cattle do well on it.
The)r get on well in stable in winter. I let them out every day, if
possible.
67 cattle and 3 horses Cattle do all that 1 can wish. I winter them in log
stables.
3 horses, 2 colts, i pair of oxen, 2 cows, i bull, and 2 sheep. I have hay in
abundance ; cut it this summer 66 inches long ; and cattle get ht on it with-
out any other seed in winter. I winter cattle in log stables, and they get
nothing but hay. Horses have hay, with a little oats.
18 head of cattle. They do well on prairie hay, and do well all winter.
2 work oxen and cow and 2 calves. Hay has been difficult to put up owing
to light crop. Cattle thrive on wild grass. When well housed ; tbwy thrive
well in winter on hay and water, with a little salt.
3 horses and 15 cattlo. I have enough hay for present stock ; they do better
on wild hay. I winter my horses and milk cows in stable ; steers and young
stock in shed open to south, and they thrive well.
Plenty of hay. Cattle lo splendidly on the wild grasses, better than on some
hay. They thrive 'ell in winter ; I stable them at night and let them out
during the day.
7 head of cattle and team -of horses. Plenty of hay, and cattle come out
fat on with nothing but prairie hay in spring ; they do well in stable in
winter.
1 have only a small stock, but they do fine in winter. I have not much hay,
but the prairie grass all over the N.W. far exceeds the best quality of cultivated
hav'in the, East. I never saw so fine and fat animals as this prairie grass will
make.
18 horses. Plenty of hay ; and cattle are doing very well. I winter them in a
frame stable, and they do first-class.
2 h6rsrs. % cows, and some young stock Cattle winter better on prairie hay
in this climate than they do in Ontario. A better name for it would be " lawn
hay," a quality well understood in Europe. 1 keep the cattle in rough weather
in winter, and they winter easily.
1 yoke of oxen and 2 ponies. Plenty of very nutritious hay. Cattle fatten on it
in winter. I can put it up at 200 dols. per ton, and make money. I winter
my stock in sod and strew stable, and they thrive well, that is, when I fatten
them.
6 horses, 4 oxen, 2 cows, and 2 yearlmgs. Hay [plenty in certain localities. Cattle
do splendidly ; never saw them get so fat on grass. I have a barn 16 by
45 dug in bank; it will house 16 head, horses and cattle. Lofl on top;
will hold 10 tons of hay. The cattle do well in winter.
2 horses and 12 cattle. Plenty of hay ; cattle fed on the hay here are fit for the
butcher in spring. I keep them in winter most generally in stables ; they
are rolling fat in the spring on hay and water.
15 horses and 50 cattle. Cattle thrive well on wild grasses ; I winter them all
inside and they thrive very well, >vhere feecj can be obtained.
3«
PLAIN FACTS AS TO THE CANADIAN NORTH-WEST.
Sirett, Wm.F.
Doyle, W. A.
Ivang, Robert
Riddle, Robt
Pollock, John....
Powers, C. F
Rutherford, J
Bobier, Thomas.
Little, James.
McKmght, R.
Vandcrvoort, Geo. . . ,
Black, G. R ,
Howey, Wm
Gilmour, H. C . . , . .
4 horses and seven head of cattle. Plenty of hay ; cattle do better here than on
the cultivated grasses or in the woods of Ontario. I stable them at night
. in the winter and keep them in a yard in the daytime ; they thrive w«^ll. I
milked my cows nearly all winter, bull and young stock lived at the straw
stack all winter.
2 horses and 47 head of cattle and hogs. Plenty of hay ; my cattle do
not seem to want anjrthing but the wild hay if well cured, and they
winter well without buildings, if in tinchel out of wind. The working
bullocks, milk cows, and calves are stabled in winter, the balance have
sheds as windbraks severely, and a belt of Tinchel to shelter from winds
also.
lo horses and 35 horned grades which do well. Plenty of hay. Never saw
cattle do better ; my stock does well in log stables during winter.
2 horses and head of cattle. I have an abundance of hay. Cattle do well. I
winter my stock in the open-air sheds, and they thrive well.
1 have I yoke of cattle. Plenty of hay, and cattle do very well on it without
grain They do splendidly in winter in a stable of sods or logs.
10 horses, 10 cattle and 20 sheep. I have 20 acres of Timothy, plenty of
wild hay. Cattle all do well. I winter my stock in stables made from
logs, and covered with straw. Cattle and sheep do better than in
Ontario.
2 horses, i yoke of oxen, 3 cows, 2 two year olds, I one year old, and 5
calves. I winter my stock in the house when very cold, otherwise let
them have their liberty, as stock thrive best to get their- liberty to move
about.
I cut too tons of hay (handless). Thousands of cattle in Ontario, and had 600
acres under pasture there, but never had cattle do so well in Ontario Cattle
and horses do very well in winter, and the great reason is that there are
no rain or sleet storms here during winter, I winter my stock in a stable built
of poplar posts sunk in ground, gided with lumber and sodded, covered with
poles and straw.
All kinds of stock do well here. There is all the hay that I require. I winter
my stock in stables, and some out of doors where there is shelter.
4 horses and 29 cattle. Anv amount of hay. Cattle do well on prairie grass.
In winter I stable my stock at nights,' and run out during days ; they are no
trouble to keep fat.
3 horses and 2 cows. There is a goodly supply of hay, and cattle thrive
better on wild hay than they do on cultivated. In winter I stable horses and
milch cows, but let the young run in an open shed around the straw stack.
They thrive splendidly, only I think horses require a little more grain than
they do in Ontario. .
9 horses and cattle. No hay, but cattle do exceedingly well on the wild
grasses. I stable my stock in winter with straw and a little grain. I have
no trouble.
4 horses, and 8 head of cattle ; lots of hay ; cattle keep fat on it all the
winter. I wintft my cows in stables, young stock outside, and they do
well.
We have a team of horses, and 28 head of cattle. We have plenty of hay, and
cattle do exceedingly well on it. They wiiit^r wejl in ^ log stable on the open
prairie, • - .
PLAIN PACTS AS TO THE CANADIAN NORTH-WEST.
37
Name.
Hartney, J. H.
Smart. George
Elliott, T. D..
Answer.
1 1 horses, 2 mules and 4 head cattle. Plenty of hay, and homed cattle thrive
exceedingly well on prairie hay. Up to this time I have wintered my stock
in log stable, covered with poles and straw, and they thrive well.
2 horses and 5 cattle. Plenty of hay, and cattle thrive well on wild grass. In
winter I feed my stock on prairie hay, *and let them run at straw stack.
They are as fat in the spring as in Ontario in the &11.
13 horse kind and 10 of cattle. Plenty of hay, and cattle do well. They all do
well in winter in sheds made of straw.
,^ Sheep Raising.
Sheep-growing is now becoming an important industry in the Canadian North- West,
and the climatic conditions are such as to render tlie yield of wool much finer and the
fibre considerably shorter than that from the same class or breed of sheep elsewhere.
Sheep have been entirely free from disease in the North-West, and foot-rot has never
occurred so far as can be ascertained.
" Do sheep thrive in the Canadian North-West, and is sheep-raising profitable ?"
In answering this question 57 settlers replied ''Yes" The replies of the others are
given below. The full name and postal address of each settler are given on pages 3, 4,
5, 6, 7 or 8.
I thrive
ss and
I stack.
than
wild
have
[11 the
[ey do
and
open
Name.
Dicken, G. ...
Urton, W. S..
Yardley, H...
Hutchinson, A
' Proctor, H. . . .
Mercer, J
Lawrence, J. . .
Pollard, A...,
Robertson, P..
Answer.
Yes, only cannot get them here to suit the settlers in small lots.
They thrive well and are veiy profitable.
In my opinion sheep will do well ; very profitable.
Am testing the above now, and believe they will both thrive and be profit-
able.
Very profitable and do well.
/
Yes, sheep thrive well and are profitable.
Yes. I don't think there is anything that will pay better. They do much better
than in England or Ontario.
Should like to go in for this branch largely, if means were forthcomihg.
Sheep require a great deal of attention in this country. No doubt they could
be raised to pay well here.
I
38
PLAIN FACTS AS TO THE CANADIAN NORTH-WEST.
Name.
Upjohn, F.
Harwardf F.
McGhee, J
Bruce, G.
Warnock, Wm.
Fraser, John . . .
Grang, J
Purdy,T. F....
Davis, W. H . .
Rogers, T.
Downie, J.
Anderson, Geo.
Young, J. M. L.
Doyle, W. A...
Armstrong, Geo ,
Walker, J. C...
Riddle, R
Wat, J
Powers, C F. . . .
Rutherford,;....
Carter, Tr
Bobier, T
Warren, R. T...
Mcknight, R
Chambers, S. W ,
Patterson, A. ...
Little, J
McLennan, T . . .
McKenzie, D. .
Gilmour, H. C
Ogletree, F
Harris, J ,
Smart, G
Elliott, T. D....
Shirk,]. M
Chester, A
Lambert, W; M
Boulding, G. W
Mclntyre, J
Wagner, W
Answer.
well.
well.
No stock pays so >yell, and they are neither
I find them unprofitable for want of mills in
In this location they do
trouble or cost.
Sheep are scarce, but do
my neigbourhood.
They do very well. Sheep raising is very profitable.
Sheep thrive well here and are very profitable.
Yes ; have found them do splendidly, with Mr profit.
Yes, sheep do well ; yery profitable.
Yes, for those who have capital to put into it.
Sheep do well ; very profitable at present.
Sheep thrive well, but would not pay in this part yet, as there are no woollen
manu&ctories in this part.
Sheep, I feel sure, will do well, and be profitable.
The best sheep I ever saw were raised in Manitoba. I saw mutton with three
inches of fat on the rib. S^^eep raising is profitable.
I have some sheep ; they thrive well, and would be profitable.
Sheep do well in some parts, but the spear grass in some places gets into their
wool, and is severe on them.
Yes ; will be profitable when market for wool is obtained.
Yes, particularly well, being profitable for mutton.
Sheep do well and pay well.
They thrive well and are profitable*
Yes, if we had a market for wool.
I think the most profitable of any stock.
Thrive well and are profitai le to those who have them.
Where there is no spear grasS they do well and pay well.
They do well, and will pay the man that raises them, as the wool and meat are
needed in the country.
Thrive well.
Sheep do well, they are a paying stock.
Sheep_thrive well. Nothing I know of would be more profitable.
Sheep'thrive well, and I think would be profitable if there were more.
Sheep thrive well and are very profitable.
Yes, sheep thrive, and sheep raising is profitable. It would be more
were wool factories in this neighbourhood. Good inducements
enterprizing man.
Sheep do well ; they are profitable.
I have a small flock of sheep, and they do exceedingly well. I think it very
profitable.
They thrive well, but I do not consider them very profitable at present.
Sheep have been tried in this country and do very well, and are profitable.
Yes ; no demand for wool, as yet, in this part, else it would pay better.
This is a first-class sheep country.
Yes, it is considered profitable.
There are not many sheep here. What there ar^ do well.
Sheep do well and are profitable.
Do well, with profit.
Sheep thrive well and are profitable.
Yes, and pay well. Farmers get from 12 to 14 cents per pound in carcase.
so if there
for some
C
c
c
r
t
a
I
r\
ti
F
iither
Is in
PLAIN PAOrS AS TO THE CANADIAN NORTH-WBST.
39
)ollen
three
) their
»t are
there
some
very
Name.
Nelson, R
Stirton, J
Cox,J.T
McDonell, D
Wilson,}
Heaney, J
Fargey, J. H...
Connerson, J
Rorison, W.O
McKenzie, K
Kennedy, T
Harris, A. B
Bartley, N
Chambers, W
Garratt and Ferguson.
Todd, P.R
Sutherland, W. R
Hoard,C
Speers, A. R
Cox, W
Answer.
Yes, they do well and will pay.
Sheep do splendidly, and pay better to raise than any other stock.
Sheep thrive well in different parts of the conntry.
Sheep raising is very profitable, if on a high scale.
They thrive well.
Do very well and pay well.
It is a first-class country for sheep raising.
Yes, very well and profitable by keeping them dry in winter.
No, unless on cultivated land.
They thrive well and will be profitable.
Yes, I believe it would be profitable if properly attended to.
They thrive well, but get too fat to breed to advantage. No fair trial has yet
been made in this vicinity.
Sheep are considered very profitable and thrive well.
All the sheep I have seen are doing well and will be profitable.
Yes, they thrive well and it will profitable to keep them.
Our sheep do exceedingly well ; they run the prairie in summer, and are under
shed in winter.
Sheep thrive well and are profitable.
They do splendidly. /
Yes, very profitable.
Sheep thrive very well and are found to be very profitable.
Horses, Pigs and Poultry.
The raising of horses has not as yet assumed any considerable proportions, though
what has. been done in this direction has met with success. There are few countries
where the horses have such immunity from the diseases of stock as they have in the
North-West.
As to pigs, the Berkshire breed seems best suited to the country, as the pigs of this
class mature rapidly and fatten easily, living on the grass and making' good pork in six
or seven months with proper feeding. The breeding and fattening of pigs increased
considerably in 1882 and subsequent years, and no disease was reported among them.
Poultry do exceedingly well in the North-West, especially turkeys, ovving to the dry-
ness of the climate. Manitoba is itself the home of the wild duck, goose and chicken, and
those who devote care and attention to the raising ^f poultry are sure of a good return.
It is important to add that no disease of a contagious or infectious character exists
among the cattle and sheep of t^e North-West, and that every care Is taken by the
Provincial Governments to promote the interest of breeders. Among the more recent
measures adopted is the appointment of veterinary surgeons in each county, to look after
the interests of stock raisers, and to carry out the stringent regulations now in force to
prevent the introduction of disease among cattle and horses.
40
PLAIN FACTS AS TO THE CANADIAN NORTH-WEST.
Raising of Bees.
Apiculture is successfully carried' on in the North- West, as bees r'squire a clear, dry
atmosphere and a rich harvest of flowers ; if the air is damp, or the weather cloudy, they
will not work so well. Another reason why they work less in a warm climate is that
the honey gathered remains fluid for sealing a longer time, and if gathered faster than it
thickens, it sours and spoils. The clear bright skies, dry air and rich flora are therefore
well adapted to bee culture.
Fruits.
Wild fruits, attaining to great perfection, abound in Manitoba and the North- West.
Wild plums, grapes, raspberries, gooseberries, strawberries^ cherries, cranberries, and
other berries of various kinds abound and are of luscious quality. Little attention has
hitherto been paid to fruit growing, owing to the time of settlers being too much occu-
pied with the important work of erecting buildings, and getting their lands fairly under
cultivation, but as the general improvement of the farm's progresses, fruit culture will
doubtless receive its due share of attention. . Following are but a few representative
statements from farmers on the subject ; a remarkable array of testimony on the subject
may be found in the pamphlet to be had free on application to Mr. Begg, Canadiant
Pacific Railway Offices, 88 Cannon Street, London, E.G..
'*' Strawberries, currants, gooseberries, raspberries, and in fact all small fruits, bear in the greates
abundance and give every promise of being very profitable.
" W. A. Farmer. Headingly."
'' Planted twenty apple trees two years ago, which are growing very well.
" Arthur J. Moore, Nelsonville."
*< I have over i,ooo apple trees doing very well, and also excellent black currants.
«* James Armson, High Bluff."
••Strawberry, raspberry, brambleberry, gooseberry, black currant, cherry, cranberry, saskatoonberry,
and ethers. Mrs. Gibson has made over loo lbs. of jelly this summer from wild fruit.
•'William Gibson, Loganstone Farm, Wolseley."
" I planted this spring currants, gooseberries, and mulberries, and so fax they are doing well.
•♦ John Prat, Rounthwaite."
•• Cuitantsi gooseberries, strawberries, plums, cherries, raspberries, huckleberries, in profusion.
Only commencing with apple trees and cultivated fruits ; going in for a nursery.
•' Thomas Rogers, Railway View Farm, Moose Jaw."
" Plums, black, white, and red currants, strawberries, raspberries, dnd saskatoons Rhubarb does
remarkably well.
•* W. F. SiRKTT, Glendale, P. O."
Hops.
Wild hopis, pronounced by brewers to be of ex^Uent quality for brewing purposes,
attain to a luxuriant growth in nearly every portion of Manitoba, the soil and climate
being apparently thoroughly suited to them. Hops from these parts have for some time
past commanded good prices, and the cultivation of the hop plant is believed to be most
profitable to the grower. A resident settler, writing on this subject, says : —
I"*
PLAIN PACTS AS TO THE CANADIAN NORTH-WEST.
4»
II
»
lisioQ.
fl
does
" Hops will do well cultivated. I have planted wild hops out of the bush into my garden along the
fence and trained on poles, bearing as full and fine and as large as any I ever saw at Yalding anc^ Staple-
hurst, in Kent, England.
" Louis DuNBSjNG (Emerson.)"
Flax and Hemp.*
These important crops were cultivated to k considerable extent by old settlers many
years ago, the product being of excellent quality ; but the universal complaint at that
time was the want of a market, or of machinery to work up the raw material, and this led
them to discontinue this important branch of husbandry. Its cultivation has been
renewed extensively by the Russian Mennonite settlers, on whose reserves in the
southern portion of Manitoba a considerable quantity is produced. At West Lynne
alone over 6,000 bushels were brought in during the first week in December, alone, in
one year, averaging 80c. (3s. 4d.) per bushel. Flax is peculiarly suited to the Province,
and so much is this felt that an English capitalist has started in Winnipeg an extensive
linseed-oil mill. This fact and the demand for flax seed that must necessarily arise,
will still further increase the area of its cultivation. Xt can only be raised successfully
in a cool region, the warm climates of the south causing the bark to become brittle and
hard, and the rapidity, with which it there matures preventing the lint from obtaining
consistency or tenacity. On account of their extremely favourable climate for this cereal,
Manitoba and the North- West territories are likely to prove formidable rivals to northern
Europe in its cultivation.
Shooting and Fishing.
There is excellent shooting everywhere in the woods and on the prairie, as may be
seen by the following list of birds and animals to be found :— Small Game : Prairie
chickens, ducks, geese, pheasants, partridges, pigeons, cranes, snipe, plover, rabbits,
&c. J Large Game : Moose, deer, antelope, buffalo, elk, and a large number of fur-
bearing animals.
The rivers and lakes abound with the following fish : — Sturgeon of large size, white
fish, pickerel, pike, bass, perch, suckers, sun-fish, gold eyes, carp, trout, and maskinonge.
llarkets.
Small centres of trade are continually springing into existence wherever settlemeots
take place, and these contain generally one or more stores where farmers can find a
ready market for their produce. The stations along the line of the Canadian Pacific
Railway are not more than eight or ten miles apart, and the liberal course adopted by
the railway company in dealing with persons willing to undertake the erection of
elevators for the' storage of wheat and other grains has led to the establishment of a
large number of these warehouses along the line of the railway in Manitoba alone. These
have a total capacity of over 1,500,000. and enable farmers to dispose of their grain at
good prices almost at their doors. A glance at the map demonstrates that Manitoba,
•
4«-
PLAIN FACTS AS TO THE CANADIAN NORTH-WEST.
via the Canadij'n Pacific Railway, will have closer connection with the seaboard than
Minnesota, DaKOta, or any of the more Western States now have with New York ; so
so that the export of grain from the Canadian North- West at remunerative prices is
assured. The very large influx of people, and the prosecution of railways and public
works will, however, cause a great home demand for some years, and for a time limit the
quantity for export.
Success of Settlers.
" Are you satisfied with the country, the climate, and the prospects ahead of you ?"
This is, after all, the most crucial question. For what are enonnous yields and sub-
stantial profits, if the country cannot be made a home — a resting place of comfort, of
independence and of freedom ? There are, of course, drawbacks in the Canadian North-
West, and in these pages the settlers speak their own minds fully on these points. But
what country under the sun has not some drawbacks ? If so, it were indeed an earthly
paradise How will old England or bonnie Scotland stand in the matter of drawbacks ?
The point is this: — Are the drawbacks of the Canadian North- West anything approach-
ing in importance those under which I am now living ? Is the. North- West a desirable
place for settlement in my own peculiar circumstances ?• Can I hope to live there with
greater comfort and less anxiety for the future of myself and my children than in the old
country ? No impartial reader will have difficulty in answering for himself by the aid of
these pages.
In regard to the replies to this particular question, it should borne in mind that thp
Canadian North-West is an immense country. Its perfect development is naturally a
work of some time. Railways have been during the past year or two built there at a
rate perhaps unknov({n in human history, and the work still proceeds. But there must
yet be districts without immediate contact with the iron horse, though another year may
see these very districts the centre of a system as has been the experience in the past. It is
of course natural that each farmer should want the railway running through his farm and
even close to his own door. But such a thing is impossible even in long established
Britain : how can it be expected in newly-settled Canada? It rests with each intending
ettler to ch90se his own land ; there is still ample to be had with good railway facilities.
In answering the question, Are you satisfied with the country, the climate, and the
prospects ahead of you ? %^ farmers replied simply "K?^." Following are the answers
given'by others. Their postal addresses are given on pages 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 or 8.
Name
Urton,W. S..
Yardley, H . . .
Hutchinson, A
Answer.
Very well satisfied.
Yes, I am quite satisfied. If I had more papttal. could make a fortune in a few
years.
Perfectly satisfied.
PLAIN FACTS AS TO THE CANADIAN NORTH-WEST.
43
few
..
Name.
Fisher, H ,
Field, E
Lawrence, J
Scrcecli, J
Upjolin, F
Harward, F
Cameron, Vr . C
Lothian, J
McGhee, J
Bruce, G
Bell, C.J
Middleton, A
Wamock, W
Reid, A.
Fraser, John.
Grang, J
Ferley, W. D.
Kinnear, J . H . . .
Miller, Solomon.
Webster, A,
McGill, G.,
Grimmett, D. W ,
Purdy, T. F
Davis, W. H...
Refers, T......
Smith, Wm
Downie, J
Kines, Wm...
Ingram, W. A.
Anderson, J . . . .
Young, J. M. L.
McRae, R
Oliver, T
Lang, R
Sheppard, J , . . ,
Answer,
••••••
Stevenson, F. W.
Armstrong, Geo..
Deyell, J
Walker, J. C
Robertson, P....
Settled in June, 1884 ; more residence is necessary to answer this question, but
I think with capital a man will do well.
Very.
I am ^«ell satisfied with the country and the climate.
Perfectly satisfied.
Yes, very.
Yes, fairly so.
Yes, by all means.
Perfectly satisfied with the country, and prospects are fair. ' . ,
Very. Prospects good.
Satisfied.
Yes, very well.
I am quite satisfied with the country, climate and future prospects.
Yes. Except to go on a visit, I have no desire to go back to the Old
Couiitry.
Yes, I am perfectly satisfied, if only a little more railway facility ic this dis-
trict (Millford).
Yes, perfectly contented and good prospects ahead.
Yes, if we hail railway communication to this place (Cartwright).
Remarkably well. It is a most wonderful country, and with energy and peit>
severance skilfully directed a fortune can be made soon.
Well satisfied.
I am well pleased with the country and climate, and if we had a railroad here
(Alameda) I would be well pleased with my prospects.
Yes, fully.
Yes. So far as climate, it is more desirable thap Great Britain or Ireland on
the whole. Winter is clear, dry and healthy ; no need of umbrella, mud-boots
or top-coat round home.
Well satisfied.
Very much indeed. I think this will be a great country.
We require railway facilities in this place (Crystal City).
Perfectly satisfied.
I am satisfied.
Perfectly satisfied, and would not go back to Ontario to farm if paid for it.
There is not half the hard work here that there is in Ontario.
Satisfied with country and climate.
I am. In this locality (Millford) we want a railroad, or a market where we
can go there and back in one day.
Certainly satisfied. All we want is railway facilities to this place.
am perfectly well satisfied.
Yes. you bet I am.
Yep, I am, if we had railways through the county (Burnside).
Perfectly,
lam. Although 62 years of age I am determined to make this my home for
the future, as it is a farming country.
Perfectly with all. Lovely weather is the rule here.
Yes, fully.
I am, if we had branch railway here (Plum Creek, Souris).
Perfectly.
I like the climate, the only drawback is the rather long winter.
44
PLAIN FACTS AS TO THE CANADIAN NORTJl-WEMT,
Name.
Blackwell, J
Honor, T, R
Hope, G
Malcolm, A
Pollock, Jno
Reed, E,J
McGregory, D
Powers, C. F
Rutherford J. (J.P-)
Carter, T."
Bobier, E
Little, Jas
McKirick,W
Taylor, W
"Warren, R. J
McKnight; R
Troyer, C
Vandervoort. G
Wood,J.H :...
Chambers, S. W
Baily, Z
Little, J
Rlack,G. R
McCroquodale, C.T.C
Wright 6r' Sons
Whitney, C
McLennan, T
McKenzie, D
Fraser, D. D
Gilmour, H. C
Drew, W. D
McKellar, D
Hartney, Jf. H
Ogletree, F
Harris, Jas
Smart, G
Shirk,;. M.. ,
McAskie, Jas
Osborne, D
Harrison, D. H.
Chester, A
Answer.
Am satisfied with the country and climate, but this country wants more rail-
roads to make it prosperous.
I am satisfied with the climate and natural resources of the country and my own
prospects ahead. •
Well satisfied. • .
I have no reason to be dissatisfied. There are drawbacks here as well as in
other countries, but I know of no place where I can go to better myself.
I am very well satisfied in every respect.
Well pleased. , . •
No.
lliree sons and myself all well satisfied with the country.
I am, and have great confidence in the future of the country.
Right well.
I consider it ahead of Ontario for farming and health. I am well pleased with
the country, or I would not be here if I was not.
Yes ; I find this country ahead of Ontario and better for crops and stock.
The country and cliuiate are better than I expected ; the scarcity of timber and
railroad facilities are drawbacks to this part (Crystal City).
Satisfied.
Yes, as I was worth 80/. when I came, and now I am worth 1,400/.
Perfectly satisfied and prospects are good.
I am, with one exception, railway facilities to this place (Alameda).
I am well satisfied with everything, even to the C.P.R.
Perfectly.
Yes, more than satisfied.
Perfectly satisfied.
Perfectly satisfied.
The country and climate can't be beaten : the prospects are fair.
Entirely so.
Well satisfied.
I am well satisfied.
Yes, very well satisfied with the country, climate and prospectis, if we only get
the railway to this place (Asessippi).
I am well satisfied. •
Certainly.
I am very well satisfied with the counntry.
I am well satisfied, and have unbounded faith in the future of the country.
Satisfied.
Perfectly, if we had a branch railway to this place (Souris). '
I am well satisfied with the country, the climate and prospects ahead, I would
not change under any consideration.
Yes, very much.
Yes, if we had a market and railroad here (Holland).
Personally not exactly, as I have been rather unfortunate in losing animals, &*c..,
but think the general prospects are good.
Very well ; the winter is pretty cold ; the spring, summer, and fall axt^ de-
lightful.
Very well satisfied.
Very much, would not leave.
I am well pleased with the country, thci Climate is good, and I am sure this
must be a grand country yet.
SI
Fj
Cd
«.
ail-
»wn
I in
with
and
y ge^
would
air^de-
PLAIN PACTS A8 TO THE OANADUIf NORTH-WEST.
45
— m
Name.
Bonesteel, C. H
Nugent, A. J ,
Obee, F
Anderson. George . . .
Answer.
Kenny, D. W....
McDougall, A. G
Muirhead, T
Barnes, F* A
Lambert, W. M . .
Bowes, J
Champion, W. M
Boulding, G. W . .
Tate, J
McMurty, T
McCaughey, J. S..
Taylor, Wm
Stevenson, G. B
Wagner, W. (M.P.P.)
Heaslip, J. J
Nelson, Rm . . • • •
Mcintosh, A
Stirton, J
>•••••
and
Bolton, F ..
Morton, T. L
Campbell, R.
Cox, J. T. . .
Sifton, A. L.
McDonell, D
Wilson, Jas . .
Kemp, J . . . .
Paynter. J. E
McGee, T.. ..
Heaney, J
McEwan, D
Slater, C. B . . . .
Frazer, J. S
Connerson, J . . . .
ire
this
Rawson, J ,
Nickell, W
Harris, A. B
Bartley, N
Chambers, W
Paynter, W, D
Payter, W.H . ,
Very well sati!>fied as yet.
All right, if change in Government policy, still I am a good Conservative.
I am well satisfied.
I am thoroughly satisfied with the country and climate, and my prospects art
good.
Perfectly satisfied at present.
With the country decidedly, but want a little more capital in my business.
I am quite satisfied.
Yes, and prospects are good ahead. •
Yes, they are all that can be desired.
Most decidedly.
This country has done well for me.
Very much.
Am satisfied with country and climate.
I am satisfied with the country. '
Yes, I am ; all we want is a railroad to this part (Alameda).
Well satisfied.
Yes, well satisfied.
Yes, very much.
Yes, perfectly, if we had a railroad here (Alameda) ; otherwise no.
As to country and climate, yes ; as to my own present prospects, no.
I have no reason to complain.
Quite satisfied with the country and climate, but want free trade in lumber
machinery, and the Hudson Bay Railway.
Yes, winters are a little too long ; but think this country equal to any.
Most decidedly so.
Yes, if, the Government would see fit to remove the duty off implements.
think it would be all right. •
Yes, well satisfied. • .
Perfectly satisfied with country and climate. The only drawbacks are want
additional shipping facilities, and high tariff on implements.
[Yes, very satisfied.
With the country and climate, yes.
Yes, the country and climate are first-class.
Not entirely.
I am. I came to the country without any experience, and am well satisfied with
it.
I am yery well satisfied.
Yes, perfectly.
Yes, perfectly. ,
Yes, tfwe had a railroad here (Beulah).
Yes, I feel happy, and all my family, six sons, four daughters, and twenty
grandchildren. All in Manitoba ; all well and happy.
With the country and climate, yes.
Fairly well satisfied with the country.
I am, if we get railway accommodation here (Beulah).
Yes, providing we can get market and railroad facilities here (Wattsview.)
If I were not satisfied I would have left long ago.
Yes, if we get railway accommodation here (Beulah),
Yes, quite sa(isfi^4<
of.
46
PLAlJT FACTS A« TO THE CANADIAN NORTH-WEST.
Name.
Parr, J. E
Wright, C
Garratt and Feiguson..
McLane, A. M
MeLean, J. A
Bedford. J
Todd, P. R
Boldrick, R
Tulloch, A
Speers, A. R
Caflferata and Jefferd. . .
Connell, R
Cox, W. T
Answer.
Yes, very well.
The country is all right, but we want more railways in this part (Beaconsfleld).
Quite satisfied, if we can get our grain sold at satisfactory price.
I have faith in the whole country.
I am satisfied with all of them.
I should like it better if December, January and February were warmer.
Well satisfied. Only objection is a little' too hard frost ; storms arc nothing
like I expected.
I do not know where i could better myself.
Perfectly satisfied.
Yes, perfectly.
Certainly.
Satisfied with the country and climate.
Yes. Our only drawback is the lack of local railway facilities (Milford)*
.
The Class of Settlers now in tlie North- West.— The great
number of settlers come from the Eastern Provinces of the Dominion, Ontario contributing
by far the largest proportion, composed principally of the very flower of her agricultural
population. The arrivals from Europe are piincipally English, Scotch, and Irish,
including tenant farmers, labourers, servants and others, most of whom readily adapt
themselves to their new life. There are also a good number cf Germans and
Scandinavians, hard-working, law-abiding citizens, whose co-patriots have proved them-
selves to be among the most valuable settlers in the United States. Some settlers are
contributed by the American Union, a small portion being repatriated French-Canadians,
principally from the State of Massachusetts, and the balance, farmers and farmers' sons,
almost entirely from the Western States, while there is also a large settlement of Russians,
Mennonites, and Icelandics, who are now comfortably settled, contented and prosperous,
the last-named having formed an Icelandic settlement at Big Island, Lake Winnipeg.
The French-Canadians settled along the Red River, who emigrated from Boston and
other cities of the New Englai.d States of America, are reported to be in good circum-
sances, and, their crops having yielded largely, their prospects aic excellent. Speaking
generally, the people of tho North-West are highly respectable, orderly, and law-
abiding.
Farm Ijaboiir* — It is difficult to give definite information on this point.
There is no doubt it has been high, especially during harvest time, when there is a great
demand for men to take in the crops, but the very large number of people going into the
country during the past few .^easons has tended materially to reduce the scale of wages.
One pcJint should be remembered — that the farmer in Manitoba, with his immense yield
and fair prices, can afford to pay a comparatively high rate of wages, and still find his
farming very profitable.
Churches* — ^The utmost religious liberty prevails everywhere in Canada.
Churches of nearly all denominations exist and are in a flourishing conditipp, and where
PLAIN FACTS AH TO THE OANAPIAN N0BTH-WK8T.
47
a settlement is not large enough to support a regular church, there are always visiting
clergymen to do the duty.
Schools* — Means of education, from the highest to the lowest, everywhere
abound in the Dominion. The poor and middle classes can send their children to free
schools, where excellent education is given ; and the road to the colleges and higher
education is opep and easy for all. In no country in the world is good education more
generally diffused than in Canada. It is on the separate school system, and receives not
only a very considerable grant from the local government, but there are also two sections
in each township set apart by the Dominion Government, the proceeds of which, when
sold are applied to the support of schools. There is a superintendent to each section,
and teachers are required to pass a rigid examination before they are appointed. A high
class of education is therefore administered.
Municipal Governmeilt* — There is a very perfect system of municipal
go ernment throughout the Dominion. The North-West country is divided into munici-
palities as fast as settlement progresses sufficiently to warrant it. These municipal
organisations take charge of roads'and road repairs — there being no toll charges — and
regulate the local taxation of roads, for schools, and other purposes, so that every man
directly vo'es for the taxes he pays ; and all matters of a local nature are administered
by the reeve and council, who are each year elected by the people of the district. This
system of responsibility, from the municipal representative up to the General Govern-
ment, causes everywhere a feeling of contentment and satisfaction, the people with truth
believing that no system of government could give them greater freedom.
Last Words of Settlers.
The last request made of settlers in the course of the enquiries dealt with in this pam-
phlet was that they would supply such information as they might " deem desirable to
place the Canadian North-West before the world in its true position as an agricultural
country and a land suitable for successful settlement." Space will allow of the publication
of but a very few herje.
C. H. BoNESTEEL, of Pheasant Plain, Kenlis, P. O , Assiniboia, N.W.T., says : — "I
consider this country a grand field for emigration for all that are homeless and farmless,
not only in the old country, but in Ontario. Why, I know of hundreds where I come
from that are working for daily and monthly wages, who, if they only knew or could be
persuaded what this country is, or the chances that there are here for them to get a home
of their own, they would come at once. Even if they only took a homestead, i6o acres,
which they get for lo dollars (;^2), it would make them a good farm and home, which
they can never hope to get? where they are. This is my honest belief."
Messrs. Campior Brothers, per R. E. Campior, who omit to forward their
Manitoba address, say : — "This country is surer and safer for a man with either small or
large capital, being less liable to flood and drought than any part of the Western States
of America, speaking from experience. Intending settlers on landing should first know
how to work and drive a team and stick to it, and they are bound to succeed."
4S
PLAIN rACT« A8 TO THl CANADIAN NORTH-WBHT.
William Wagner, M.P.P., of Woodlands, Ossowa, Manitoba, writes : — "Very ft)w
inhabitants have visited Manitoba and North West as myself. I have seen the settler in
his first j^ear, and again after three and four years, and what a difference. The first year
much misery, then again comfort. I have seen a good many English settlers in the first
year ; they are a great deal disappointed ; but, after they have been accustomed to our
ways, they ard happy and contented. We have in Woodlands about thirty English
families' who had but little, and they belong to-day to our best of farmers, and with us we
have ntver heard of ^ny discontent."
James Connerson, of Minnewashta, Manitoba, writes thus : — " Keep back from
whisky, contract no debts, sign no notes, stick hard at work for two years, and be up and
at it. If one has no means, work out with a farmer for a time ; pay as you go along.
Tb.at is my humble advice to all intending settlers. I know hundreds of very decent
P'iople in Glasgow (Scotland), also in Holland, who would be thankful to come out here
and get a homestead free."
James Little, Postmaster, of Oak River, Manitoba, says : — " This is the best
country in the world for settlers to come to ; for instance, they can get their land for
nearly nothing, and in three years be worth between 4,000 and 5,060 dollars (;^8oo
to ;^i,ooo) just in the rise of the price of the land ; besides, he can raise all the stock he
requires, perhaps the same amount or more. There is not much work to do, it can be
done with machinery, and a man that is fond of sport can shoot all the fowl he wants,
I can kill hundreds of all sorts of wild fowl here, geese ducks, prairie chickens, snipe
and wild turkeys in abundance.
Thomas Carter, of Woodlands, Manitoba, says : — " The Canadian North- West
needs no vindication. It will soon be as well known to the world as is the Rock of
Gibralter. As fqr the cold, I have been more miserably cold on the heights of Shom-
clifTe, Kent, (England), than I ever have been in the North- West. Of course a man may
allow himself to freeze to death if he chooses, or if he is standing near a fire he may
allow himself to burn if he chooses — it's all a matter of taste."
G. A. Cameron, of Indian Head, N.W.T,, writes : — "As good a place as a man can
find if he has plenty of money and brains, or if he has no money, but muscle and pluck.
Send as many here as you can and they will bless you for it."
William Taylor, of Beulah, P.O., Man., says : — "Settlers should be used to labour
with their hands without kid gloves, unless provided with ample means. The grumblers
here are composed of men raised idle at home, who have not means to carry it out here.
Laboring men and hired girls coming out with those that hire them do not want to be
bound for any length of time, as wages rule much higher here than in the old countries."
Christian Trover, of Sec. 22, T 2, R 2, W 2, Alameda, Assiniboia, N.W.T., says:
— "I should advise intending settlers to encumber themselves as little as possible with
extras, with the exception of clothing, and be cautious on their arrival to husband their
resources. As I claim to be a successful north-wester I would be pleased and most
happy to give advice and information to intending settlers free."
J. R. NiFF, of Moosonim, N.W.T., states : — "The fact that I settled shows that I had
confidence in the country, and after two seasons' experience I am more than satisfied.
As a grain-growing country I believe, with proper cultivation and energy, it cannot t>^
exceeded,"
I
I
11
n
PLAIN rxOTS AS TO THI CANADIAN N0RTH-WB8T.
49
George Vandervoort, of Alexandria, Man., says : — " I consider Manitoba or the
North-West is the proper place for a man to go to get a home with ease."
George H. Wood, of Birtle, Man., writes : — "Speaking from what I know as one of
the leaders of one hundred and fifty in this locality, I don't know a single instance of a
sober, industrious person who has not benefitted by coming here, and I do know of
many who always lived ''from hand to mouth" in Ontario, who are getting rich. All we
require is a railway to get on well, and all get rich. Farming pays here, the Farmers'
Union grumblers to the contrary notwithstanding."
S. W. Chambers, of Wattsview, P.O., Man., writes thus: — " Af^er more than five
years' experience in this country, I am satisfied that no other country in the world can
approach the Canadian North-West as a field for agricultural productions. And to the
man who is willing to rough it first and to roll up his sleeves and work for two or three
years, it offers a comfortable independence in a very few years, with very little capital
expenditure."
' Ct. R. Black, of Wellwood, County Norfolk, Manitoba, says ^ — " This country is
the best place for a man with a small capital to make a home that I have seen, and I
have been through eight states of the United States, and I have seen nothing to com-
pare to this Canadian North-West. I would advise settlers coming . from Europe to
bring nothing but clothes and bedding dnd light materials. I would say in explanation
that I have raised as high as 40 bushels of wheat and 75 of oats, but that is not the
rule."
Montreal Herald Print.
r
h
SUPPLEMENTARY.
TESTIMONY OF SETTLERS.
Mr. A. R. Speers, of Griswold, Manitoba, writes on 6th September, 1884: — "I consider this the
greatest grain producing country in the world without any exception, and as I have handled considerable
stock here I know that to pay well. Last spring I sold one stable rf cattle for 100 dollars (;^2o) per
head for butchering. My sheep have paid well. Milch cows do very well, and also poultry, and in fact
everything I have tried. No man need fear this country for producing anything except tropical fruit."
Mr. P. R. Todd, of Griswold, Manitolia, writes on 12th September, 1884: — "I believe that any
man who is willing to work, no matter how small his means, can improve his circumstances financially in
this country, and there is a good chance for a man of means or large capital to run business on a large
( <. scale profitably.
Mr. W. H. Hayter, of Alameda, Assiniboia, N. W. T., writes on i6th September, 1884: — *• A
single man can come here and farm on a small capital, say 500 dollars (j^ioo). I have a family of six
boys to start. We are well satisfied with the prospects ahead."
Mr. James Rawson, of Mountain City, Sec. 16, Township 2, R. 6, W., Manitoba, writes on 13th
September, 1884: — " Persons coming to this Province should have 500 dollars (j^ioo) in cash to start
with ; not but what a person can get along with less, as I have done, but it is difficult. Magnificent
count|:y for persons who have plenty of money. Climate healthy, water good, plenty of game."
Mr. Thomas McGee, of Burnside, Manitoba, writes on 19th September, 1884: — "I think that
the Canadian North-Westiswell for industrious haid working people, either laborers, farmers or mechanics.
I was a mechanic before I came here, and am sati^fled that the country is a good one for people that
want to make homes for themselves."
Mr. John Kemp, of Austin, Manitoba, writes on 7th September, 1884: — "The soil is immensely
rich, and will raise large crops for a long time without manure. I am a Canadian by birth, and have
travelled over a good part of the States and Canada, and, all things considered, I have seen no part of
America to equal this country for agricultural purposes."
Mr. Thomas L. Morton, of Gladstone, Manitoba, writes on 8th September, 1884 : — " My land is
all brush, which 1 consider the best in the end, but more labour. I have twenty acres dark loam, sown
with Timothy, red top and clover ; 25 head of stock, and 50 acres of crop, which pays far better than 100
acres of crop. Pigs pay well. Native hops grow well."
Mr. Robert Campbell, Bridge Creek P. O., Manitoba, writes on 15th September, 1884: — "My
opinion is that any man with, say, from 500 to 1,000 dollars (;^ioo to ;^2oo) and energy to go to work,
will have no difficulty in making a comfortable home tor himself and family."
Mr. John T. Cox, Box 44, Rapid City, Manitoba, writes on 12th September, 1884: — " As an
agricultural country it is a splendid one — that is the crops must be put in early,, and then they will do all
right."
;
Mr. DuNC/VN McDoMELL, Baie St. Paul, Manitoba, writes on 19th September, 1884 :— " The
Canadian North-West, if once settled, will be and is the best agricultural country of ail I have travelled
through."
Mr. Joshua Elliott, of Sourisburg, Manitoba, writes on 7th September, 1884: — "I think the
Canadian North- We:>t is one of the best farming countries in the world, and would think that many in the
British isles, with tact and energy, might do well here. This is a very poor country for those who will
not work."
Mr. W. W. McDonald, Fleming, North- West Territory, writes on 9th September, 1884: — "I
consider this country the best in the world for all classes of farmers. For the capitalist, plenty of room
and safe returns; and the man of limited capital, to secure a good home and be independent. I have
given you a true statement of my own experienc •. You have my address above, and persons wanting
infurmation by sending a stamped envelope 1 will answer it, and give them the benefit of all my
experience."
Mr. Samuel Day, Sec. 34, T. 13, R. 30, Fleming, N. W. T., writes on i8th September, 1884 : —
" I should like to see the emigration agents go more into the farming districts of England, and induce
more farm laborers to come to this country. I would suggest Devonshire, as labor is plentiful there and
wages low. I am afraid some of those city people will not make good settlers, and hence have a bad
effect by writing home bad accounts. I am satisfied this is one of the best countries for an industrious
man with energy."
Bolton, Ferris, of Calf Mountain, Manitoba, says: — "I firmly believe that this country has
advantages over all others for growing grain and raising stock, and would advise all young men who
have not made a start, and all tenant farmers with limited capital to come here — that is if they ha -c
perstverance to rough it for a few years "
THE FiVOMTE ROUTE TO TIE WEST
OWEN SOUND
AND THE
SPLENDID STEAMSHIPS
of the Company on Lake Superior, will be resumed on the opening of navigation.
It is fully expected that the
^\
^1,X mMWL m^WTM^
north of Lake Superior will be open for traffic in May next, and a first-c'ass through train service from
Montreal established.
Information in regard to rates for settlers and tlielr efitects ^ivlll
be furnlslied upon application to OBO. 1¥. HIBBARD, Asst. Genl.
Passeniper Agent, Montreal ; or to D. llIcNICOL,!^, General Passengfer
Affentf Ontario DlTlslon, Toronto.
Montreal, April ist, 1885.
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TAKE THE NENA/
CANADIAN PACIFIC LllSTB
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BETWEEN
TORONTO, OTTAWA AND MONTREAL
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AND ALL POINTS EAST AND WEST,
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• -*«» This thorough'y built and splendidly equipped line, which was only opened for traffic in August, 1884, has already earned
a reputation for comfort and regular time that few lines in America hav* ever reached, and none until after many years of
■t . operation. In the construction of this line the utmost care was taken with every detail, and nothing was left undone to make
it what it was intended by its projectors to be, tbe very best ne^w line ever Constructed on tlie
-9^ 4 American Continent.
TRACK AND BRIDGES.
ji
. ^ The cuttings are unusually wide and thoroughly drained ; the embankments are very wide and solid ; the bridges, resting
• " on first-class masonry, are of steel, and of twice the ordinary strenj;lh ; the rails are of the best steel, manufactured under rigid
inspection, and are laid with angle splices of double strength; the ties are large and closely laid, and the track is ballasted
'\ with the best materials. ,. ,
^ EQUIPMENT.
The new line is equipped with the finest Passenger, Sleeping and Parlor Cars in the world. The wheels used under all
the passenger rolling stock are of Krupp steel, 40 inches in diameter, not one of which has ever failed ; the axles are of steel
and of the full size of the iron axles used on other lines. The car bodies are strongly framed to meet any contingency, and are
• » ^ wider and higher than those of any other railway. Both first and second class cars are designed to secure uniform warmth
, Jk combined with perfect ventilation in winter and an abundance of cool air with freedom from dust in summer, and the cars of no
\ , other line cr.n compare with them in these respects, nor in strength, elegance and comfort.
THE SLEEPING AND PARLOR CARS
are owned and operated by the Company, and no expense has been spared to make them perfect. They are finished outside
; with polished mahogany and their interiors with their rich carvings and beautiful fittings are beyond comparison. The berths
^ are wider and longer than in other sleeping cars. The curtains, lilankets and linen, made expressly for the Company, are of
the finest (luality.
SECOND-CLASS SLEEPING CARS
1 are run on this line instead of the ordinary second class cars. They are handsomely finished in light woods, on the general
I plan of ordinary sleeping cars. They are bright and pleasant, and so comfortable that they are largely used by first-class
piissengers in making short trips. :no extra cliar{[e Is made in tliese Cars.
TIME.
The trains of this line are run sharply on time. The through trains m.ikc very few stops, and no annoying delays are
permitted to occur at stations. All freiLiht trains are kept well out of ihe way of passenger trains, and no train IS per*
niitted to follo^v a passeuKer train from a sta^tion until it has pat»sed t|te next-
station aliead. This IS the only Inie in America wlieie this rule is in force, .vj, ;•
SAFETY.
■ • Every appliance of proven value, calcul.ited to secure safety, has been adopted on this line without regard to cost These
are too numerous t(j mention, but they include an elaborate guard sysicni at all biidges, Cooke's patent safety switch at all
turn-outs from the main track —the unly safeiy switch in use in Canada, ,ind the only one known that will with certainty pre-
vent derailment from a niisplactd switch Kspecial care has been taken to make the heating apparatus on trains entire!)
safe, and the oil used in lighting the cars is manufactured expressly for the Company, and is safer even than candies, while 11
affords a most brilliant liglit.
CIVILITY AND ATTENTION.
i'lhe civility and attention of the ernployeesof the Company are spoken of by every traveller on the line. The cleanliness
of cars and stations is also noticed. I'hcsc two points are, next to safety, most carefully watched by the management.
SCENERY.
Some of the finest scenery in Canada is found along this line It varies from_ beautiful to magnificent, and is now()ere
uninteresting. Broad fields and rocks and lakes and forests are passed in succession. The beautiful Ottawa River is on One
side oi the other from Carleton Junction to Montreal. A fine view of the picturesque Parliament Buildings at Ottawa is
obtained from 'he passing trains, and the line crosses directly over the magnificent falls of the Lievre of Buckingham.
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