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Railway Partners

The Edmonton Exhibition Association (EEA) was aware of costs that might impede individuals with livestock from participating in the various events that took place on its exhibition grounds throughout the year. Prices for transporting large animals such as dairy cows and racehorses could add up to a significant sum of money—especially when moving animals from one prairie exhibition to another. With the purpose of assisting livestock owners in this matter, the EEA negotiated with the Canadian Pacific Railway and the Canadian National Railway. Letter from CPR

Successful partnerships were struck between the railways resulting in tailored arrangements such as cost coverage for switching trains (which would have normally been charged to the traveller). Special passenger tLetter from CPRariff designations meant reduced travel rates for livestock owners and their accompanying staff. Altered load weight tariffs also allowed for a decreased cost for carrying a cargo of heavy animals. By facilitating the movement of agriculturalists, the industry partners helped to boost economic growth while increasing their businesses via rail users, and fair participants.

Letter from CPRWith time, rumblings of exceptional deals being offered by the railways got around to the general public and created tension; railway companies had become aware of non-agriculturalists using false designations to receive special tariffs. Feeling that their goodwill was being abused, railway companies clearly articulated the stipulations for special rates to the CNR's crew members EEA and announced that applications and official documentation confirming status as a livestock breeder would be necessary for privileges to be extended. Validating their partners’ concerns, the EEA collaborated in the application process in an effort to maintain its partnership with the railway companies.

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