1

And the population grew. By 1899, Trail had a population of 1500 residents. The smelter employed 600 men and had a monthly payroll of $60,000. The smelter offered steady employment at a decent wage, which attracted men and their families from Canada, the United States and Europe.

2

Louis Forte discussing the availability of employment in the early years.
4 March 2007
Trail, British Columbia, Canada

Credits:
Louis Forte
Rose Calderon

3

Many of the men were previously employed in the mining and railroad industry in Canada and the US and accepted the hard work and long hours in the smelter without complaint, given the steady income and the possibility of raising a family here.

4

Leda Creegan on immigration factors.
13 January 2008
Trail, British Columbia, Canada

Credits:
Leda Creegan
Rose Calderon

5

Trail's reputation as a fast moving industrious city broadened and residents had much to boast about.

6

Trail Creek News, 1913

"One place better than most in British Columbia is Trail. But we have just moved along indifferent to industrial advantages, prosperity and the other good things God has given. Small in ideas, slow in actions, we hoped nothing would disturb us, but now accomplishments on the Hill will make it everyone's Mecca and Trail will not be stopped. We can no longer keep it dark." - W.F. Thompson, Editor.

7

Economically, Europe was on the verge of much financial and social hardship. Despite the many economical benefits of the Industrial Revolution, war would take its toll not only the demographics, but on the pocketbook. With mass government borrowing came many long years of high inflation, resulting in job loss and sky-rocketing commodity prices. As Western Canada was in the midst of an industrial revolution of its own, the call of employment and the promise of stability was heard around the world, most predominantly in Western Europe and across Canada.

8

Angelo Pellizzari on immigration factors.
17 March 2008
Trail, British Columbia, Canada

Credits:
Angelo Pellizzari
Rose Calderon

9

Mass mobilization and a budding communications industry meant the world was becoming smaller and more accessible. The prospect of relocating across the world was no longer impossible. And they came.

10

The Conti di Savoie steam liner
1940
Trail, British Columbia, Canada

11

Steamer Trunk
1930-1950
Trail Museum, Trail, British Columbia

Credits:
Trail Museum

12

Sticker on steamer trunk
1930-1950
Trail Museum, Trail, British Columbia

Credits:
Trail Museum

13

More of the townsite was cleared, streets were graded and a bridge across Trail Creek was planned.

14

Dominion Day Parade led by Trail Citizen's Band
1899
Bay Avenue Bridge, Trail, British Columbia, Canada

Credits:
Trail City Archives