Re: Library display marks 25 years since Stittsville’s last VIA train
The man waving in the beige jacket is my grandfather and the man driving the train is his best friend. They have both since passed. It’s a special picture.
I was only 8 when this photo was taken. My grandfather’s name was Phil Barton. He’s waving at his best friend, Lorne Blackburn. He lived in Richmond. (My grandmother thinks his son still lives there.)
This particular day was Lorne’s last run. He retired after spending his entire working life on the railways. It was also my Grampa’s birthday. My grandmother was also there that day but obviously not standing near him. She said that they had been friends since they were teenagers and obviously shared many stories.
My grandparents moved to Stittsville in 1989. I have lived in Stittsville since the summer after that picture and still live here.
My grandmother was very pleased that you’ve shown interest in this, so thank you!
Amanda Wilson
Stittsville
Also my grandfather! I have this picture framed in my home. Proud that my grandfather is included in one of the great historical pictures of Stittsville.