Canadian Military Pattern Field Artillery Tractor
The Canadian Military Pattern (CMP) were devised in the 1930s as a standard pattern of vehicle to be manufactured in Canada to British Army standards. It has been said that CMP production was Canada’s most important contribution to Allied victory during the Second World War.
Length: 14’1” Width: 7’6” Height: 8’0” Weight: 10,800 Lbs Speed: 80 kph Max Payload: 2,320 Lbs
The Field Artillery Tractor (FAT) was used by the field artillery (including our namesake 15th Canadian Field Regiment) in Europe during World War 2. It was also used after the war by the 15th Field Artillery Regiment, RCA until the late 1950s when it was replaced by the M-135 deuce and a half. The FAT had room for the 5 man gun detachment and towed the limber and gun.
Length: 14’1” Width: 7’6” Height: 8’0” Weight: 10,800 Lbs Speed: 80 kph Max Payload: 2,320 Lbs
The Field Artillery Tractor (FAT) was used by the field artillery (including our namesake 15th Canadian Field Regiment) in Europe during World War 2. It was also used after the war by the 15th Field Artillery Regiment, RCA until the late 1950s when it was replaced by the M-135 deuce and a half. The FAT had room for the 5 man gun detachment and towed the limber and gun.
Captain (retired) John Hawthorne was instrumental in the restoration of our Field Artillery Tractor. Check out the excellent work that was done in 2003 to enable us to proudly showcase this heritage item.
The Field Artillery Tractor is part of the 15th Field Artillery Regiment Museum & Archives outreach program and is intended to be displayed at local parades and festivals throughout the lower mainland. It is registered with the Insurance Corporation of British Columbia as a Vintage vehicle. In order to qualify under this designation, it must be at least 30 years old, maintained as close as possible to its original condition with original parts, restored to a condition that conforms as nearly as possible to the original manufacturer's specifications, owned as a collector's item and mechanically sound.
Vehicles with vintage plates may only be used for special occasions for example; exhibitions, parades, club activities, community events, weddings and graduations. Everyday pleasure driving is not permitted. Approval for the use of the FAT must be provided by the Museum Director or Museum Curator.
All operators must undergo a familiarization lesson and perform a first parade prior to use.
Vehicles with vintage plates may only be used for special occasions for example; exhibitions, parades, club activities, community events, weddings and graduations. Everyday pleasure driving is not permitted. Approval for the use of the FAT must be provided by the Museum Director or Museum Curator.
All operators must undergo a familiarization lesson and perform a first parade prior to use.
The 15th Field Artillery Regiment RCA Museum & Archives envisions itself as a nationally and locally recognized museum that preserves and presents the history of the diverse Canadians that have served and are serving in The Royal Regiment of Canadian Artillery in British Columbia.
The mission of the 15th Field Artillery Regiment RCA Museum and Archives is to engage the Regimental Family and the local community in the story of Vancouver’s Gunners, including the citizen soldiers in peace and war, their units and the affiliated cadet corps that have called the Bessborough Armoury home for generations. The museum will do this by organizing interactive, hands-on and digital content within the Armoury and in an outreach program to local celebrations.
The 15th Field Artillery Museum & Archives requires additional items to complete the FAT artefact collection. Donations of the following items would be greatly appreciated:
World War 2 Battle Dress to outfit the re-enactors
Canvas for limber
The mission of the 15th Field Artillery Regiment RCA Museum and Archives is to engage the Regimental Family and the local community in the story of Vancouver’s Gunners, including the citizen soldiers in peace and war, their units and the affiliated cadet corps that have called the Bessborough Armoury home for generations. The museum will do this by organizing interactive, hands-on and digital content within the Armoury and in an outreach program to local celebrations.
The 15th Field Artillery Museum & Archives requires additional items to complete the FAT artefact collection. Donations of the following items would be greatly appreciated:
World War 2 Battle Dress to outfit the re-enactors
Canvas for limber
The 15th Field Artillery Museum & Archives Society is a registered charitable organization. Donations to the Society will provide a charitable tax receipt for the donor. Contact president.vcrgunners@gmail.com for additional information.