‘Passages’ 2017
The City of Calgary, Ogden Road and Glenmore Trail
MATERIALS: Smalti glass
PHOTOS: Totino Busby Design
The Bow River flows through the west boundary of Ogden, Millican Estates and Riverbend. Beaver Dam Flats was originally farmed for hay while south of the river, the Burns cattle company stretched as far as Fish Creek.
A classic brick hotel transformed into a hospital during the First World War.
A CPR yardman carrying his lantern and tools is backed by the the unique roofline of some of the historical Ogden shops. The shops were constructed,
starting in 1912. Many of the original structures are still present today. A steam locomotive from the 1930’s moves its way across the prairie during a
winter night.
Houses were built by CPR carpenters and Ogden shop workers, providing homes within walking distance of the yards. Today many of these cottages
are treasured by present day residents. Restored to their original appearance they give the community the feel of a small town in the big city.
Paths through the town evolved into Ogden Streets. Employees travelled each morning to their workplaces at the CPR yards and shops, following the same routes home at night. Time spent together with colleagues was valued.
Newer transit alternatives of motorized buses and electric trams started running to Calgary and bicycles appeared as an alternative short distance commute. An early steam train heads east over the Ogden bridge.
Yard workers use manpower to propel a jigger to service the yard tracks.
Inside, workers maintain large engines in specific shops.
The steam powerhouse, the paint shop, wheelhouse and the air brake shop all contribute to the unique yard skyline.
Diesel engines replaced the last steam engines of the 1950’s. Rail cars and engines of all types continue to use the Ogden shops. The Bow River Pathway
cycling trail offers residents an alternative green transit option to commute daily or simply enjoy the opportunity to access the natural environment,
including the Bow River. The pathway adjacent to the overpass will accommodate both pedestrians and cyclists.