The NFB is committed to respecting your privacy

We use cookies to ensure that our site works efficiently, as well as for advertising purposes.

If you do not wish to have your information used in this way, you can modify your browser settings before continuing your visit.

Learn more
Skip to content Accessibility
My List
Your request could not be processed.
This film is already in your list
New release
Coming 
None

Trans-Canada Express

1944 9 min
Leaving soon

This short documentary from the Canada Carries On series celebrates the contribution of Canada’s railroads to the war effort. The film includes a sequence from Buster Keaton's 1926 silent comedy The General, as well as a re-enactment of Lord Strathcona driving the final spike into the Canadian Pacific Railway Line.

We're sorry, this content is not available in your location.
Your rental expires on
None
You've already purchased this film.
Download it from My purchases.
Not available
Share
Trans-Canada Express

Details

This short documentary from the Canada Carries On series celebrates the contribution of Canada’s railroads to the war effort. The film includes a sequence from Buster Keaton's 1926 silent comedy The General, as well as a re-enactment of Lord Strathcona driving the final spike into the Canadian Pacific Railway Line.
  • director
    Stanley Hawes
  • producer
    Sydney Newman
  • camera
    Donald Fraser
  • narrator
    Lorne Greene
  • music
    Louis Applebaum

Enjoy the NFB experience on your favourite device

Education

Ages 12 to 15
School subjects
Before viewing, study history of Canadian Pacific Railway Line. Why was its creation important to Canada as a nation? View film; study how use of the Railway has changed and/or declined over time. Examine alternate means of cargo/transport; evaluate efficiency and environmental impact. View other NFB films about Canada during WW2 and industries that were transformed by the war. Compare/contrast the films as propaganda. What purpose did this media serve?
Trans-Canada Express
Purchase options
Also available