When the industrial city of Prince Rupert was founded in 1910, hopes and expectations were high. It was expected that a northern rail line would also open up opportunities for mining, agriculture and forestry. The terminus of a transcontinental rail line was the impetus for extensive settlement. Goods shipped by rail en route to Asian markets would find their final destination in Canada at the city's port.

The Canadian Fish & Cold Storage Plant, opened in 1912, was the reason Prince Rupert was long known as the halibut capital of the world.

On April 9, 1914, the first through train arrived from Winnipeg, fulfilling the vision that had been set.