2023 Ornament
“The Newfie Bullet in Clarenville“
Inspiration for the Painting:
The Newfoundland railway ran from 1881-1988
The official name for the Newfie Bullet was the Caribou. On July 3, 1969, an era had ended for Newfoundland transportation when the Newfie Bullet made its last run from Port aux Basques to St. John’s.
It was an essential mode of transportation for the province, bringing goods and services to many areas of the island that coastal boats could not reach. Many families could visit loved ones in other parts of the island from St. John’s to Port aux Basques and many places in between. The painting depicts a couple coming home via NL Rail to be with their family and friends for Christmas.
With this being the 25th anniversary of the Newfoundland-Labrador Christmas Pewter Ornament Project, the Chamber’s Board of Directors decided to have this painting geared towards Clarenville. The Board provided photos of the train station to incorporate the building and layout of the train yard on Marine Drive into the painting as well as adding the Bare Mountain Star located on Memorial Drive; which is well known to many residents and visitors.
I would like to extend my deepest appreciation and gratitude to Kenneth Pieroway for providing information on the Newfie Bullet; to Paul Tilley for providing the pictures of the Bare Mountain Star; and to the Clarenville Heritage Society for providing pictures of the Train Station and Rail Yard.
About the Artist
Rod Hand was born and raised in St. John’s, Newfoundland by parents Gary and Lorraine Hand. Rod was a self-taught artist starting at the age of seven.
Influenced by his surroundings Rod started to draw and paint by trial and error creating his own distinctive style.
Rod lived up north for 5 years working and painting a wide range of scenes from that area. Upon returning to Newfoundland in 2000, Rod started releasing limited edition prints that were well received by the public.
Rod now resides with his wife Christine in Renews, Capahayden on the southern shore in their cabin…a peaceful haven for any artist.
Rod’s children Janessa, Natalie, Aaron and his grandchildren Lucy and Arlo all have a flare for art and drawing …Rod’s stepson Justin went into the computer field.
Rods work can be viewed at www.newfoundlandshop.ca
Clarenville Area Chamber of Commerce
263 Memorial Drive
Clarenville, NL A5A 1R5
Ph: 709-466-5800
Toll Free: 1-888-466-5800
Fax: 709-466-5803
info@clarenvilleareachamber.com
Emergency Contacts
RCMP: 466-3211
Fire Department: 466-7777
Ambulance: 466-3468
Hospital: 466-3411
Poison Control: 1-800-722-1110
Mental Health Crisis: 1-888-737-4668
Photography by Paul Tilley.