Guide Book No. 8: Transcontinental Excursion C1 – Toronto to Victoria and Return via Canadian Pacific and Canadian Northern Railways (Parts I–III); 1913

An exceptional Geological Survey of Canada publication, Guide Book No. 8: Transcontinental Excursion C1 (1913) represents one of the most ambitious field guides produced during the early 20th century.

Issued in three parts, this work documents a transcontinental geological journey from Toronto to Victoria and return, following major rail corridors including the Canadian Pacific and Canadian Northern Railways. The volumes provide detailed, locality-by-locality geological descriptions across the country, covering classic regions in Ontario, the Prairies, and British Columbia. Topics include stratigraphy, physiography, economic mineral deposits, and key field localities—many of which remain foundational to Canadian geology.

These excursion guide books were produced for organized geological field trips and international geological gatherings, and are far more detailed and site-specific than standard Survey publications. Complete multi-volume sets such as this are increasingly scarce, particularly when retaining their original bindings.

This set includes all three parts and remains in solid condition, with typical light wear to the cloth covers from age and handling. The interiors are clean and well-preserved. A standout piece of Canadian geological literature, appealing to collectors of Geological Survey publications, mining history, and early transcontinental exploration.

Title: Guide Book No. 8: Transcontinental Excursion C1 – Toronto to Victoria and Return via Canadian Pacific and Canadian Northern Railways (Parts I–III)
Author: Geological Survey of Canada
Publisher: Geological Survey, Department of Mines (Government of Canada)
Place of publication: Ottawa
Year: 1913
Format: Three-volume set, original cloth with gilt lettering
Language: English
Contents: Extensive transcontinental geological excursion guide covering Ontario to British Columbia, including regional geology, stratigraphy, economic deposits, and numerous maps and plates.