Despite Vancouver’s reputation as a young, modern city, not all things in it are gleaming and shiny. In fact, if you know where to look, you’ll find that Vancouver is filled with interesting historical spots that attract both tourists and locals. During your stay in Vancouver, capture some of Vancouver’s fascinating past as a trading outpost and a major settlement on the West Coast with these attractions.
Trading Outpost Past: The Britannia Shipyards
Built in the late 19th century, the Britannia Shipyards were the boating centre of the Lower Mainland. This is where ships would be built and would dock, where canneries would put food in preserves to be sent overseas, and where shipwrights would rub elbows with merchants, residents and visitors of Chinese, European, First Nations and Japanese descent.
These are the oldest surviving shipyard buildings in British Columbia. They are open for tours throughout the year, with more hours in the summer. Volunteers are there to guide you through the fascinating history of BC’s shipyard industry.
The Britannia Shipyards are located in Richmond’s historical Steveston district.
Settlement Past: Hastings Mill Store Museum
Built in 1865, this building surprisingly survived the great fire of 1886, and is one of the few from before the fire that still stand today. Moved in 1930 to its present location, the Hastings Mill Store still features untold treasures from Vancouver’s settler past, including items from the lumber baron period, artifacts from the famous steamship SS Beaver and many others.
The museum also displays examples of First Nations and settler crafts, including basketry, carvings, textiles and furniture. The first Vancouver city council table is housed at the Hastings Mill Store Museum!
The museum is located at 1575 Alma Street, a few blocks away from Jericho Park.
Even though the breathtaking natural scenery of Vancouver and its attractive, gleaming modern towers might catch your eye, don’t forget to learn how our beautiful city became what it is today. Come witness our past—it’s more interesting than you think!
Photo by Roaming the Planet
