Angus Shops Wide Vision Caboose

Prototype Information

The Canadian Pacific Railway (CP) began building its own steel cabooses at its Angus Shops in Montreal in 1947. These cars replaced older wooden models to better handle the heavy pull of modern steam and diesel locomotives. The Angus Shops design featured a classic cupola centered on a rugged, all-steel body. This sturdy construction protected crews during the harsh Canadian winters and the high-stress forces of long transcontinental trains.

The design evolved through several “phases” over three decades. Early versions used friction-bearing trucks, while later models from the 1970s featured roller bearings and improved cushioned underframes. These cars became famous for their bright “Action Red” paint and the iconic Multi-Mark logo. The Angus Shops built hundreds of these units, making them the standard rear-end car for CP operations from the Atlantic to the Pacific.

Safety and comfort remained a priority for the Angus-built fleet. Inside, crews found oil heaters, electric lights, and padded seats in the cupola. The railroad eventually phased them out in the late 1980s as electronic sensors replaced human eyes at the end of the train. Today, many Angus Shops cabooses survive across Canada. They serve as popular museum pieces, vacation rentals, and trackside icons.