The Kettle Valley Railway played a vital role in developing the southern interior of British Columbia. It is
closely associated with one of Canada’s greatest railway engineers, Andrew McCulloch. But who really
built the KVR? This talk focuses on the unsung navvies who performed the arduous work of leveling the
grades, digging the foundations, and pounding the spikes. Their work enabled the KVR to link the
Kootenays to the Pacific coast, transporting its resources and people to the wider world.
Maurice (Maury) Williams is a retired History Professor from UBC Okanagan He is the author of Myra’s
Men; Building the Kettle Valley Railway. He has also conducted two historical archaeological digs in
Myra Canyon, both associated with the railway. His current research focuses on some of the individuals
still associated with the KVR. Copies of his book will be on sale at the presentation.
Admission by donation. Light refreshments will be served.
