Since
its construction in 1894, the Gulf of Georgia Cannery
National Historic Site, in Steveston, has been a landmark
for fishermen. This historic site commemorates Canada's
West Coast fishing industry, and contains relics from
the past, when the canneries operated day and night.
Gulf
of Georgia Cannery
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A
model of a 1930s production line is set up along one
long L-shaped counter. Murals of fish and trawlers cover
the walls; showcases full of glass net floats from Japan,
various shiny salmon tins, and model boats help convey
a sense of Steveston's heritage.
Mountains of fishing gear and nets are arranged outside.
It is hard to imagine that at the turn of the century
there were 49 canneries on the Fraser River from Steveston
to New Westminster - fifteen of those were in Steveston
alone!
Hours:
April - May 31 Thursday through Monday, 10 am - 5 pm
June 1 - August 31 seven days a week, 10 am - 6 pm
September - Seven days a week, 10 am - 5 pm
October - Thursday through Monday, 10 am - 5 pm
Admission includes a 20-minute film presentation in
the Boiler House Theatre.
The Cannery is located within easy commuting distance
of Vancouver,
follow the Steveston Highway west, and watch for signs.
Also located in Steveston
at the south foot of Railway Avenue is the Britannia
Heritage Shipyard. Visitors can take a self-guided
walking tour of this National Heritage Site. Britannia
is one of the few surviving examples from Steveston's
rich past, when a mix of canneries, net lofts, boatyards,
residences, and stores defined the neighbourhood. Restoration
of the site is in the development stage, and over the
coming years much of its former glory is slated to be
restored. At present, the Britannia Shipyard augments
a walking or cycling tour of the Steveston harbour.
Contact details:
12138 Fourth Avenue
Richmond
B.C V7E 3J1
Telephone: (604) 664-9009
Fax: (604) 664-9008
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