Comments on: With a brakeman riding the rear, a pair of SW1200RS units take a few cars around the newly completed diversion track between the CNR Coldwater spur and the remnant of the CPR Port McNicoll subdivision. This connecting track permitted CP to reach the CNR Midland sub at Coldwater when the large Hoggs Bay trestle was abandoned in 1971. A similar connecting track was built between McMillan on the Midland sub and the yard at Port. Prior to this CP had an interlocked diamond crossing of the CN spur. CP used trackage rights on CN to reach McMillan until 1991 when the Port McNicol sub was abandoned. The diamond remained in place for several years until the unused rails were lifted between this point and the trestle. The connecting track originally dipped south of the existing track before connecting to the existing track near the bridge over the Coldwater river. The connecting track was later reconfigured to a more conventional turn in the 1980′s due to difficulties with long trains. Six axle units were prohibited on this later track arrangement. Our family rode a UCRS excursion to Midland that went through this trackage in 1975. It was an interesting sight watching the 80 foot long coaches negotiate the shoofly. Visible in the background is the CPR Coldwater station with some work service cars in the siding. Between the bridge and flanger sign is visible one of the ancient crossing signs with a danger light on top of the post. This signal is now displayed at the Coldwater Museum. The County of Simcoe mapping website (https://opengis.simcoe.ca/public/) has aerial views of this area. The 1978 and 1983 views show the two different layouts. Unknown photographer from my collection.

By: Jacob Patterson

Jacob Patterson — Sat, 20 Jun 2026 14:00:33 +0000

Great stuff, Eric.

applegathc — Sat, 20 Jun 2026 01:18:33 +0000

Finally, some vintage Coldwater material! Thank you Eric!