IT’S A SORT’NGO SUMMER! Wellness Starts GET THE DETAILS ON THE Here NEW WASTE COLLECTION SERVICE IN PORT ALBERNI The Power of Three is a heart-felt business located in Port Alberni, British Columbia. Offering a wide variety of health and beauty services provided by expertly trained and Beginning this September, recycling, educated staff. waste and organics will be collected curbside in uniform carts distributed to We are excited to announce the expansion of the boutique store and yoga studio where you can find all all single-family homes. your gift or self-care needs. The boutique is filled with hand-made local items, art, lotions, potions, crystals, books, candles, teas, tarot cards, yoga-gear, and so much more. Contact us today to sign up for your monthly themed box of all your wellness/spiritual/natural product needs. NEW COLLECTION SCHEDULE Thank you for supporting local. Garbage collection occurs every two weeks, instead SORT’NGO of weekly, with organics pickup every week. ON THE GO! Download the Sort’nGo App for Android & iPhone and get alerts, Alberni Colour Corner Ltd Home Decorating Made Easy! or details on how to sort, track collection Alberni Colour Corner Ltd Home FlooringDecorating Paint Made Easy! schedules, play online Vinyl plank Art supplies ORGANICS RECYCLING • TRASH games, and more! Flooring PaintLaminate Custom blinds Weekly Alternating Bi-Weekly Vinyl plank ArtTile supplies @albernicolourcornerbenjaminmoore Laminate Custom blinds WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW Tile www.AlberniColour.netAlberni@albernicolourcornerbenjaminmoore Colour 4310 10th Corner Ave Ltd. 250.720.0030 Organics: Recycling: For all your decorating needs • Dispose of all food scraps, including meat, • The following items can go in blue cart for www.AlberniColour.net 4310 10th Ave 250.720.0030 bones and dairy, as well as yard waste and pickup: mixed paper, cardboard and boxboard; • Paint soiled papers like greasy pizza boxes. paper packaging that contained liquids; paper • Flooring & Tile • If you’re using a liner it should be paper, not beverage cups and lids; tin and aluminum • Arts & Crafts containers or foil; plastic bottles, containers plastic. Plastic bags cannot be accepted even • Custom Blinds if labeled compostable. and tubs under 25L; and empty aerosol cans. • Organics carts have bear-proof locking • Leave all recycling items loose in the cart Open mechanisms. Make sure to unclip lock from without a liner or bags. Monday - Saturday the cart and hook the clips together, when • Do not leave any overflow, all items must fit in 9am - 5pm placing roadside. the cart. 1-4310 10th Ave 250-720-0030

LET’S CONNECT Find us on Facebook 250-736-SORT (7678) · letsconnectacrd.ca · [email protected] Valley Vibe Summer 2021 3 24 ARLINGTON Contributors HOTEL ISSUE 11 Story of Henry Derby FOUNDER PHOTOGRAPHER CONTENTS PUBLISHER SHARLENE PATTERSON 26 MEGAN WARRENDER #enchantedforestphotography PN287 The far right of this BUSINESS image is the current site of [email protected] PN444 The original sawmill of Anderson & An experienced photographer and the Harbour Quay a dirt Business Spotlight Anderson Co – circa 1860 – is on the site of the Founder of the Valley Vibe magazine. local resident. road leads to New Alberni current Harbour Quay and Clock Tower area. with the Somass Hotel to 28 the left with buildings and KING EDWARD HOTEL WRITER trees in the background. WRITER circa 1910 A Look Back NICOLE BRAZZALE Glen Mofford [email protected] https://raincoasthistory.blogspot.ca/ 30 An experienced writer, life coach and Glen takes us back in time to the MCLEANS MILL personal trainer. history of the hotels, saloons and pubs of Vancouver Island. History of the Mill 8-17 LANDMARKS 34 Cover Design & Photography by Chris Pouget at Riverbend Store Exploring the history of the Alberni Valley GUESS WHERE I AM NOW Graphic Design by Houle Printing A Look Back 21 To VIEW our online edition go to A COMMUNITY INVESTMENT www.thevalleyvibe.ca Costal Community Credit Union “A great thank you of appreciation goes out to the Alberni THANK YOU 22 Valley Museum for suppling the beautiful historical photos for to the Alberni Valley for your support. By enjoying this issue you’re supporting our community. HUPACASATH FIRST NATIONS the issue of this magazine.” STANDINGSTANDINGSTANDING UP UPUP StorySTANDING of the Inlet UP STANDING UP We’re FOR COASTALFORFOR COASTALCOASTAL STANDINGFOR COASTAL UP STANDINGOpen! UP FOR COASTALSTANDING UP COMMUNITIESCOMMUNITIESCOMMUNITIESSTANDING UPFORCOMMUNITIESFOR COASTAL COASTAL FOR COASTAL STANDING UPCOMMUNITIES FORCOMMUNITIES COASTAL STANDINGSTANDINGLOW PRICE UP UP COMMUNITIES COMMUNITIESGUARANTEE FORCOMMUNITIES COASTAL FORFOR COASTAL COASTAL COMMUNITIES COMMUNITIESCOMMUNITIES Gord Johns Member of Parliament // Courtenay–Alberni

 [email protected]  1-844-620-9924  GordJohns  GordJohns.ca  GordJohnsNDP gordjohnsndp Port Alberni’s very own tree service… Member of ParliamentMemberMember // of ofCourtenay–Alberni Parliament Parliament // // Courtenay–Alberni Courtenay–AlberniMember of Parliament // Courtenay–Alberni Gord JohnsGordGord JohnsJohns Gord Johns DGE Gord Johns Member of Parliament // Courtenay–AlberniGord JohnsKNOWLE ABLE Member of Parliament // Courtenay–Alberni Member of Parliament // Courtenay–Alberni RING ST Born and raised in the Valley!Gord Johns AND CA AFF Gord Johns Member of Parliament // Courtenay–Alberni INTE T REST FR MEN  [email protected] [email protected]@parl.gc.ca  1-844-620-9924  1-844-620-99241-844-620-9924 [email protected] GordJohns GordJohnsGordJohns  1-844-620-9924  O  EE PAY  GordJohns   Here at Totem Tree Services, we pride ourselves in being the most reliable, Gordaffordable Johns Tree Member of [email protected] // Courtenay–Alberni 1-844-620-9924 PTIONS [email protected] 1-844-620-9924 GordJohns    VAILABLE Service to Port Alberni and surrounding areas.  We’reGordJohns.ca a family  owned GordJohns.caGordJohns.ca and operated [email protected] business [email protected]  GordJohnsNDPGordJohnsNDP    GordJohns.ca1-844-620-9924 GordJohns.ca gordjohnsndp1-844-620-9924 gordjohnsndpgordjohnsndp GordJohns GordJohnsNDPGord GordJohnsNDPGordJohns Gord gordjohnsndpGordJohns.ca gordjohnsndp Johns JohnsMember ofGordJohnsNDPMember Parliament // of Courtenay–Alberni Parliament gordjohnsndp // Courtenay–Alberni   committing ourselves to providing you with the utmost care. 250 730  [email protected] GordJohns.ca  1-844-620-9924GordJohnsNDPGordJohnsNDP GordJohnsgordjohnsndp gordjohnsndp 4957 Johnston Road www.jowseys.ca    [email protected]@parl.gc.ca  1-844-620-9924  1-844-620-9924 GordJohns  GordJohns www.totemtree.ca GordJohns.ca GordJohnsNDP gordjohnsndp 250-723-3922 Find us on Facebook and Instagram!   GordJohns.caGordJohns.ca  GordJohnsNDP GordJohnsNDP gordjohnsndp gordjohnsndp 4 Valley Vibe Summer 2021 Valley Vibe Summer 2021 5 Exploring the Landmarks of the Alberni Valley

Living in Port Alberni, you have the unique opportunity to glimpse into the past and present all around our beautiful town. From the rich history of the First Nations shown throughout North and South Port, to the heritage buildings scattered throughout the Valley, almost anywhere you look you’ll be met with a spot in this town with a rich story of its heritage. Take a journey with us this summer as we explore the fascinating landmarks we’ve become so accustomed to seeing in our day to day life, maybe you’ll learn something new!

Photo credit: Sharlene Patterson Port APlberniort Alberni City H Callity Hall The amalgamation of the two cities was the first voluntary intothe Rollin the early Arts years building of Port pays Alberni, homage providing to Ellen Rollin;links to she the By Appointment Only amalgamation in Canada. After the tsunami of 1967 the memorieswas one of of only early two settlers music toteachers the Valley, in the and Valley is now for home many The Port Alberni City Hall that we know today is located two cities recognized that they needed to work together toyears. our communityIt became a artspermanent centre andarts publiccentre garden.in 1977 with at 4850 Argyle St, and it officially opened its doors on May to recover after hundreds of homes were destroyed. The the help of many volunteers, and is one of the first arts 20, 1959. This is the third City Hall in the Alberni Valley, amalgamation allowed the city to combine resources Thecouncil beautiful operated garden centres pays in tribute BC. to Fred Rollin, who was but the first of the amalgamated communities. The first and recover losses from the devastation of the tsunami. an avid gardener, outdoorsmen, and naturalist. Fred was City Hall was built in 1903 and was located on Kingsway Although there was still a divide between the residents of knownThe Rollin throughout Arts Centre the cityis a symbolfor his spectacular of those who garden have and Ave, but wasn’t officially used as City Hall until 1912 after Alberni and Port Alberni, over the years that divide has unusualcommitted species themselves of trees, to shrubs, bringing and a strong spring presence bulbs. The of art the city was incorporated. The second City Hall was built lessened and the Valley has become one. groundsto the Alberni and garden Valley. were It offers developed an art ingallery 1987 andand featuregift shop in 1928 on Argyle and 5th, just up the street from the athat formal showcases garden, a nativevariety plants, of local a artstraditional and crafts Japanese from over current City Hall building; it was demolished after the garden,150 local a artists classic as fountain well as aand peaceful balustrade, respite a terracefrom city life third and current City Hall was built. Our current City Hall andin its gazebo, gardens. and a children’s garden. The garden is still originally housed the library and public health unit. This AVM Photo CollectionRollin PN00102 A Alberni’srts Cfirstentre council. A group maintained today and offers a peaceful respite from the building along with the Federal Building located directly portrait of seven gentlemen in three piece suits. Two sit at a wooden hub of the Harbour Quay surrounding areas. Thetable. Rollin Five sit Arts or stand Centre behind and wooden Garden partitions. is located Identified at l-r:3061 8th across from City Hall represented a new civic core for Port John Grieve, Frank Gibson, A.W. Neill, C.F. Bishop - Mayor, George Alberni following the economic boom of 1958. AveForrest, and James was originallyHills, G.A. Spencer. built inWritten 1914 onas the a home back in forpencil Fred While theT gardenrain pays Station tribute to Fred,+ R theailway present use of and“Pioneer Ellen Group”. Rolln. This simple two story building has a the Rollin Arts building pays homage to Ellen Rollin; she The present day City Hall is valued greatly because it simple wooden exterior with a hip roof, and a balcony off wasThe onerailway of only system two onmusic Vancouver teachers Island in the was Valley originally for many maintains continuity to the Alberni Valley’s past. Designed the second floor. The building offers a spectacular view years.known It as became the Esquimalt a permanent & Nanaimo arts centre Railway in 1977 (E&N); with the by architects Wade, Stockdill and Armour of Victoria, into the early years of Port Alberni, providing links to the helpconstruction of many volunteers,began in 1884 and and is oneby 1905 of the had first expanded arts council the this building portrays the 1950’s International Style memories of early settlers to the Valley, and is now home operatedoriginal E&N centres Railway in BC. line to Port Alberni. The railway architecture with horizontal articulation, horizontal to our community arts centre and public garden. name has since changed from E&N to Vancouver Island bands of blue porcelain- enamel panels, and clear glazed TheRailway, Rollin and Arts finally Centre the is aCanadian symbol ofPacific those whoRailway have (CPR) surfaces. It is built from wood, steel, and glass, which committedthat we know themselves today. The to railway bringing was a strongincorporated presence in of art was typical of this era. The landscape offers a look into to1883 the by Alberni coal baron Valley. Robert It offers Dunsmuir an art togallery support and thegift coalshop the past, with a war memorial, old growth log, a shelter thatand lumbershowcases industries, a variety as of well local as arts the andRoyal crafts Navy from Base over in made of timbers from the first sawmill in the Valley, and 150Esquimalt. local artists as well as a peaceful respite from city life a lilac bush descended from an original plant owned in its gardens. by A. Waterhouse, one of the city’s founders. After the

amalgamationAVM Photo Collection of Alberni PN00102 and Alberni’s Alberni first Valley council. in A 1967,group thisportrait building of seven became gentlemen a symbolin three piece of the suits. newly Two sit integrated at a wooden table. Five sit or stand behind wooden partitions. Identified l-r: AVM Photograph Collect PN06589 circa 1913. George Huff’s car (an Train Station + Railway communityJohn Grieve, andFrank combined Gibson, A.W. municipality Neill, C.F. Bishop of - PortMayor, Alberni. George early automobile) with 3 men and a woman, partly pulled off the Forrest, James Hills, G.A. Spencer. Written on the back in pencil road in Cathedral Grove. The car is dwarfed by the stand of tall “Pioneer Group”. The railway system on Vancouver Island was originally The amalgamation of the two cities was the first voluntary trees. Capt. G.A. Huff owned several businesses in Alberni in the amalgamation in Canada. After the tsunami of 1967 the years around the turn of the century. He was at one time M.L.A. for known as the Esquimalt & Nanaimo Railway (E&N); Alberni Cowichan area. two cities recognized that they needed to work together construction began in 1884 and by 1905 had expanded the original E&N Railway line to Port Alberni. The railway Theto recover present after day hundreds City Hall isof valued homes greatly were destroyed. because it The AVM Photograph Collection PN03943 circa 1913. Fred Rollin stands maintainsamalgamation continuity allowed to the the city Alberni to combine Valley’s resources past. Designed in the yard of his home, in front of a picket fence. He wears a suit, name has since changed from E&N to Vancouver Island white shirt and tie and flowers in his lapel. byand architects recover losses Wade, from Stockdill the devastation and Armour of of the Victoria, tsunami. Railway, and finally the Canadian Pacific Railway (CPR) Services Offered thisAlthough building there portrays was still the a divide1950’s Internationalbetween the residents Style of that we know today. The railway was incorporated in 1883 by coal baron Robert Dunsmuir to support the coal ∙ Cold Storage architectureAlberni and Port with Alberni, horizontal over articulation, the years that horizontal divide has The beautiful garden pays tribute to Fred Rollin, who was an avid gardener, outdoorsmen, and naturalist. Fred was andAVM lumber Photograph industries, Collection as PN00994 well as Dec. the 1911 Royal First train Navy leaving Base in Call bandslessened of blueand theporcelain- Valley has enamel become panels, one. and clear glazed Port Alberni. Group of people standing on the platform at the ∙ Blast Chilling surfaces. It is built from wood, steel, and glass, which known throughout the city for his spectacular garden and Esquimalt.station. Train is in the background, approaching the station. 778-421-5888 unusual species of trees, shrubs, and spring bulbs. The ∙ Fish Ice was typical of this era. The landscape offers a look into the past, with a war memorial, old growth log, a shelter grounds and garden were developed in 1987 and feature The first train came to Port Alberni in December 1911, madeRollin of timbers Arts from C theentre first sawmill in the Valley, and a formal garden, native plants, a traditional Japanese arriving in the newly built train station. Between 1911 a lilac bush descended from an original plant owned garden, a classic fountain and balustrade, a terrace andThe 1953,first thetrain train came station to Port was Alberni a bustling in December part of Port 1911, The Rollin Arts Centre and Garden is located at 3061 8th and gazebo, and a children’s garden. The garden is still Alberni,arriving within the trains newly coming built train in and station. out of Between town delivering 1911 Offering gourmet fresh by A. Waterhouse, one of the city’s founders. After the maintained today and offers a peaceful respite from the passengers,and 1953, the mail, train and station goods was to a the bustling Valley. part While of thePort train and smoked local amalgamationAve and was originally of Alberni built and in Alberni 1914 as Valleya home in for 1967, Fred AVM Photograph Collection PN00994 Dec. 1911 First train leaving was used primarily to ship lumber and coal, there were seafood and custom thisand Ellenbuilding Rolln. became This simplea symbol two of story the newly building integrated has a hub of the Harbour Quay surrounding areas. Alberni, with trains coming in and out of town delivering Port Alberni. Group of people standing on the platform at the passenger lines that connected throughout Vancouver processing. communitysimple wooden and exterior combined with municipality a hip roof, ofand Port a balcony Alberni. off station. Train is in the background, approaching the station. passengers, mail, and goods to the Valley. While the train the second floor. The building offers a spectacular view While the garden pays tribute to Fred, the present use of Island.was used The primarily train station to ship became lumber the and social coal, and there economic were

8 Valley Vibe Summer 2021 Valley Vibe Summer 2021 9 hubpassenger of the linescommunity, that connected with crowds throughout of people Vancouver excitedly Portused Albernias a museum Train Station.and ticket The office WVIIHS for hopes the train to have station. their TheBridge Riverbend Company Bridge, upgraded or more from commonly a wood to knownsteel structure. by theThe mid-1990’s Orange Bridge and namethe bridge has stuck was painted with us thethrough grey colourthe waitingIsland. The for thetrain next station train became to arrive. the social and economic trains up and running in the future. Today, the station is locals as The Orange Bridge, hasn’t always been the steel knownages! today. As locals still reference the Riverbend hub of the community, with crowds of people excitedly used as a museum and ticket office for the train station. structureFor decades we the know bridge today. was The painted first abridge bright was orange built as a Bridge as the Orange Bridge, it has caused some confusion waitingAt its peak, for thethe nextCanadian train Pacificto arrive. Railway had 45 stations woodencolour, which truss gavestructure it the in historical 1890 by Mr.name Pinkerton, of The Orange who was forThe travellers bridge is makinga hot spot their in theway summer through for the local Alberni youths, Valley. on the main line, and 8 in Port Alberni. Passenger service St. Andrew’s Church aBridge. local pioneer. Unfortunately, The following maintaining year the the acreage orange atcolour rivers Thewho Orangeuse the Bridgesurrounding name hascliffside stuck to with jump us inthrough the water the ranAt its until peak, 1953, the when Canadian it was Pacific discontinued Railway by had CPR. 45 Thestations bendproved was difficult, purchased due by to James fading, Thomson chipping, who and moved difficulty from ages!and cool off. The Somass River which runs below the laston the remaining main line, station and 8 in in Port Port Alberni Alberni. is Passenger located at servicethe Sitting on the corner of Elizabeth and Johnson, the Vancouvercolour matching. to the AlberniThe orange Valley colour with washis wife discontinued and five in bridge is a part of the salmon run, which takes place from entranceran until 1953,to the when Harbour it was Quay discontinued and is registered by CPR. as The a original St. Andrew’s church was built in 1892 by children. It was known for many years as the Thomson Themid-September bridge is a hot to November.spot in the summer for local youths, heritagelast remaining building station due toin itsPort value Alberni as a keyis located early entry at the and volunteersHistorically as a community The project Orange for the Presbytarian Bridge Bridge. who use the surrounding cliffside to jump in the water departureentrance to point the Harbour of the city; Quay representing and is registered a connection as a Church.(Also In 1914 known a new church as R wasiverbend built and wasBridge entrusted) and cool off. The Somass River which runs below the withheritage the otherbuilding communities due to its value on Vancouver as a key early Island entry between and to the status of church hall. Unfortunately, the new Between 1890-1913 the bridge was replaced by the Rockett bridge is a part of the salmon run, which takes place from 1912departure and 1970. point The of Train the city; Station representing was built a in connection 1911 from Thebuilding Riverbend burned Bridge, down onlyor more two commonlyyears later, known and church by Brothers before Norman Wood erected another wooden mid-SeptemberClock Tower to November. at T he Harbour drawingswith the other done communitiesby R.A Bainbridge, on Vancouver it was updated Island betweenin the localsgoers wereas The forced Orange back Bridge, to the hasn’t original always building. been the steel truss in 1913. George Cathcard was responsible for the 1950’s,1912 and reflecting 1970. The theTrain changing Station naturewas built of businessin 1911 from and structure we know today. The first bridge was built as a final wooden bridge project in 1928 before the Dominion Quay transportdrawings donein the by Valley, R.A Bainbridge, the last update it was was updated done in in 1990 the woodenThe present truss structure structure was in 1890built byin Mr.1939 Pinkerton, after it became who wasSt. Bridge Company upgraded from a wood to steel structure. when1950’s, the reflecting second storeythe changing was added. nature of business and aAndrew’s local pioneer. United The Church following in 1925. year After the theacreage amalgamation at rivers The CClocklock Tower T owerat the Harbour at TQuayhe was Harbour constructed transport in the Valley, the last update was done in 1990 bendin 2001 was with purchased the United by Church,James Thomson the building who movedwas left from For decades the bridge was painted a bright orange between 1983-1984 after FredQuay Duncan, a long time owner- whenSince the1983 second the Alberni storey Pacific was added. Railway has been maintained Vancouverempty. It has to sincethe Alberni been converted Valley with into his awife fish and and five chips colour, which gave it the historical name of The Orange publisher of the Alberni Valley Times, made a contribution through his estate. Prior to the amalgamation, the Valley by volunteers from the Western Vancouver Island children.restaurant It which was known has maintained for many years the original as the Thomson building Bridge. Unfortunately, maintaining the orange colour The Clock Tower at the Harbour Quay was constructed had two rival magazines, the Twin City Times and the West IndustrialSince 1983 Heritagethe Alberni Society. Pacific This Railway group hasof volunteersbeen maintained Bridge.design inside and out. proved difficult, due to fading, chipping, and difficulty between 1983-1984 after Fred Duncan, a long time owner- Coast Advocate. Fred purchased the West Coast Advocate wereby volunteers responsible from for the restoring Western the Vancouver Port Alberni Island Railway colour matching. The orange colour was discontinued in publisher of the Alberni Valley Times, made a contribution after the amalgamation and combined the two magazines StationIndustrial in 1990Heritage to its Society. original This appearance. group of volunteersUp until 2018 Between 1890-1913 the bridge was replaced by the Rockett the mid-1990’s and the bridge was painted the grey colour through his estate. Prior to the amalgamation, the Valley AVM Photograph Collection circa 1913. Five automobiles are lined into one, the Alberni Valley Times. The Alberni Valley whenwere responsiblethe 1929 Baldwin for restoring Steam Engine the Port had Alberni boiler Railway issues, the Brothers before Norman Wood erected another wooden knownup ontoday. the corner As locals of Johnston still andreference Victoria Quay the Riverbendat the junction of had two rival magazines, the Twin City Times and the West communityStation in 1990 enjoyed to its trainoriginal rides appearance. from McLeans Up until Mill 2018to the trussHistorically in 1913. George Cathcard The O wasrange responsible Bridge for the Bridgethe as Somass the OrangeRiver and Bridge,Kitsuksis Creek.it has Many caused people some are gathered confusion Times published daily on weekdays from 1967- 2007. there as well. Boat “Dexter” , seen in the river, belonged to Wallace Coast Advocate. Fred purchased the West Coast Advocate Portwhen Alberni the 1929 Train Baldwin Station. Steam The Engine WVIIHS had hopes boiler to issues,have their the final(Also wooden known bridge as project Riverbend in 1928 before Bridge the Dominion) for travellersFisheries, Kildonan.making their way through the Alberni Valley. after the amalgamation and combined the two magazines trainscommunity up and enjoyed running train in the rides future. from Today, McLeans the Mill station to the is In 2018 the city of Port Alberni entered into a partnership Nice to meet you.

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10 Valley Vibe Summer 2021 Valley Vibe Summer 2021 11 withinto one,the Tseshaht the Alberni First Valley Nations Times. to giveThe theAlberni Harbour Valley onfor foother fivein the children. pouring rainUnfortunately, to get help. this Once excursion she arrived took QuayTimes Clock published Tower daily a facelift. on weekdays Included from in the 1967- facelift 2007. is an ina toll Bamfield, on her body she found and she that passed help awaywasn’t five there, years so tooklater. it art piece which is being designed by Willard Gallic Jr, a uponIn 2011 herself she was to awardedrow out to an the engraved Quadra silver for help. tray After by the all of TseshahtIn 2018 the artist, city ofand Port manufactured Alberni entered by Electron into a partnership Metalwork. thisGovernment she walked of Canada.back to her home at the lighthouse to care Thewith art the piece Tseshaht is said First to portrayNations the to give history the ofHarbour the Harbour for her five children. Unfortunately, this excursion took Quay,Quay Clockwhich Tower was originally a facelift. used Included by the in Tseshaht the facelift First is an a toll on her body and she passed away five years later. Nationsart piece as which a winter is being village designed where theyby Willard celebrated Gallic their Jr, a yearlyTseshaht harvest artist, with and a manufactured “wolf ritual”. The by Electron city has startedMetalwork. Cathedral Grove referringThe art piece to the is saidclock to tower portray as athe Story history Tower, of the which Harbour is fittingQuay, which based was on theoriginally direction used it isby going.the Tseshaht The Story First Tower MacMillan Provincial Park, or more commonly known willNations compliment as a winter the village new mural where located they celebrated at the entrance their of as Cathedral Grove has served as a gateway to the West theyearly Harbour harvest Quay, with titleda “wolf Building ritual”. RelationshipsThe city has started Brick by Coast since time immemorial. Located on the traditional Brick,referring nicely. to the clock tower as a Story Tower, which is territories of the K’ómoks, Tseshaht, and the Te’mexw fitting based on the direction it is going. The Story Tower peoples, the 136 hectares of protected forest serve as an will compliment the new mural located at the entrance of intricate ecosystem for animals and plants alike. The the Harbour Quay, titled Building Relationships Brick by forest is filled with Douglas-fir, Western Hemlock, Grand LBrick,ighthouse nicely. and home to the fir and Western Red Cedar trees, and offers the most Maritime Heritage Society accessible access to old growth forests. The 136 hectares of Cathedral Grove was donated by H.R MacMillan in 1944 to Home to the Port Alberni Maritime Heritage Society, the BC government after numerous protests to protect the Lighthouse and home to the forest. Unfortunately the area surrounding the protected formed in 1989 to preserve maritime heritage on the AVM Photograph Collect PN06589 circa 1913. George Huff’s car (an West Coast,Maritime is the Lighthouse Heritage down the S inletociety from the spaceearly was automobile) logged and with threatened 3 men and a woman, to harm partly the pulled ecosystem off the within.road in Cathedral Grove. The car is dwarfed by the stand of tall Harbour Quay. While the base of the lighthouse was built trees. Capt. G.A. Huff owned several businesses in Alberni in the inHome the 1990’sto the Portby the Alberni Maritime Maritime Heritage Heritage Society, Society, the lantern years around the turn of the century. He was at one time M.L.A. for Once Alberniyou step Cowichan into thearea. forests of MacMillan Provincial wasformed donated in 1989 by to the preserve Chrome maritime Island Lighthouse heritage on in the 1989. Park, it’s no surprise where the name Cathedral Grove OriginallyWest Coast, located is the Lighthouseatop the keeper’s down housethe inlet in from1891, thethe came from; with trees reaching as high as 80 meters high ChromeHarbour IslandQuay. WhileLighthouse the base was of upgraded the lighthouse to a skeletal was built In 2011 she was awarded an engraved silver tray by the in some places, the forest resembles a great cathedral, towerin the with1990’s an by enclosed the Maritime lantern Heritage room in Society, 1922 before the lantern finally Government of Canada. even more beautiful than traditional gothic cathedrals. upgradingwas donated to bya concrete the Chrome tower Island in 1989. Lighthouse Chrome inIsland 1989. While gothic cathedrals date back hundreds of years, the isOriginally located onlocated the East atop Coast the keeper’s of Vancouver house Island in 1891, at thethe forests of Cathedral Grove are over 1000 years old, with entranceChrome Island to Baynes Lighthouse Sound justwas off upgraded the southern to a skeletal tip of trees as old as 800 years. Denmantower with Island. an enclosed lantern room in 1922 before finally Cathedral Grove upgrading to a concrete tower in 1989. Chrome Island The presence of the local Indigenous culture can be isWhile located the onbeacon the East on the Coast lighthouse of Vancouver does workIsland and at theis MacMillan Provincial Park, or more commonly known found throughout the forest with culturally modified entranceturned on to during Baynes the Sound day in just the off summer the southern season, tipthe of as Cathedral Grove has served as a gateway to the West trees (CMT), where the bark from cedars have been Denmanlighthouse Island. building is primarily used as a museum to Coast since time immemorial. Located on the traditional stripped off, or “strip cat faces”, and evidence of burn help educate the public on maritime history. Inside you territories of the K’ómoks, Tseshaht, and the Te’mexw felling with blackened hollowed out trees. Cedars are willWhile find the beacondisplays onof the lighthouseoriginal lighthouse does work structures and is peoples, the 136 hectares of protected forest serve as an considered sacred in Indigenous culture for their life- andturned their on keepers, during the as wellday inas thea variety summer of other season, materials the intricate ecosystem for animals and plants alike. The giving properties; providing shelter, tools, transportation oflighthouse local maritime building history. is primarily The heroic used storyas a museum of Minnie to forest is filled with Douglas-fir, Western Hemlock, Grand (canoes), and Totem Poles. Cathedral Grove served as an Pattersonhelp educate of Cape the public Beale onLighthouse maritime is history. told here; Inside Minnie you fir and Western Red Cedar trees, and offers the most ancient trading trail linking the East and West Coast of andwill findher husband displays Tom of the kept original the light lighthouse from 1895 structures to 1908. accessible access to old growth forests. The 136 hectares of Port Alberni CathedralVancouver GroveIsland. was Connecting donated byMount H.R MacMillanArrowsmith, in the1944 to Inand December their keepers, of 1906, as wella storm as a rolledvariety in, of and other with materials it, the Beaufort Range, and Cathedral Grove was known as “Yuts- Colomaof local maritimeship taking history. a cargo The of heroiclumber story from of the Minnie Puget the BC government after numerous protests to protect the whol-aht” or “Walking through the face of Mountains. is a lifestyle -- this is SoundPatterson to Australia. of Cape Beale The shipLighthouse sprung isa leaktold andhere; was Minnie spotted forest. Unfortunately the area surrounding the protected byand the her Patterson’s, husband Tom unfortunately kept the light they from were 1895 unable to 1908. to space was logged and threatened to harm the ecosystem The original road that travelled around Cameron Lake communicateIn December of with 1906, the a Bamfieldstorm rolled Inlet in, to and get with help it,to thethe within. and through Cathedral Grove was unpaved, rocky, and sinkingColoma ship,ship takingso Minnie a cargo and ofher lumber dog ventured from the over Puget 9km how we live it. Oncewith a you lot ofstep bends. into theThe forests road travelling of MacMillan through Provincial the Grove onSound foot to in Australia. the pouring The rain ship to sprung get help. a leak Once and she was arrived spotted was only wide enough for one car to squeeze between inby Bamfield,the Patterson’s, she found unfortunately that help theywasn’t were there, unable so took to it Park, it’s no surprise where the name Cathedral Grove the massive trees. Cathedral Grove has been a tourist uponcommunicate herself to with row the out Bamfield to the Quadra Inlet forto gethelp. help After to the all of came from; with trees reaching as high as 80 meters high Photo credit Starr Cameron destination since at least the 1920’s, when the Cameron thissinking she ship,walked so backMinnie to herand homeher dog at theventured lighthouse over 9kmto care in some places, the forest resembles a great cathedral, 12 Valley Vibe Summer 2021 Valley Vibe Summer 2021 13 even more beautiful than traditional gothic cathedrals. The original road that travelled around Cameron Lake Chalet was a thriving destination spot. What now takes us While gothic cathedrals date back hundreds of years, the and through Cathedral Grove was unpaved, rocky, and about 25 minutes to venture around the lake and through forests of Cathedral Grove are over 1000 years old, with with a lot of bends. The road travelling through the Grove the Grove, would haveSproat taken considerably Lake longer in the trees as old as 800 years. was only wide enough for one car to squeeze between 1920’s, especially if travelling by horse and carriage. Once the massive trees. Cathedral Grove has been a tourist theSproat road Lake was holds paved a inspecial the 1950’s, kind ofand wonder cars became for locals, more and destination since at least the 1920’s, when the Cameron accessible,has been a populartravelling destination through Cathedral for centuries, Grove dating became back Chalet was a thriving destination spot. What now takes us moreto the accessible,original First and Nations continued of the to Albernibe a tourist Valley. hub for about 25 minutes to venture around the lake and through many travellers making their way to the West Coast of the Grove, would have taken considerably longer in the VancouverSproat Lake Island. was home to the Kleh-Koot-Aht tribe who 1920’s, especially if travelling by horse and carriage. Once were a part of the Hupacasath First Nations. One of the the road was paved in the 1950’s, and cars became more most prominent features of the lake is the Petroglyph accessible, travelling through Cathedral Grove became Carvings located at Sproat Lake Provincial Park. The more accessible, and continued to be a tourist hub for SK’ak’awinproat petroglyphs Lake are thought to depict a tsunami that AVM Photograph Collection PN03943 circa 1913. Fred Rollin stands raged through the valley in the 1500’s, bringing ocean fish, manyin the yardtravellers of his home, making in front their of a picket way tofence. the He West wears Coast a suit, of AVM Photograph Collection circa 1913. Five automobiles are lined white shirt and tie and flowers in his lapel. Sproatincluding Lake a killer holds whale, a special into kind the oflake. wonder As the for teachings locals, and up on the corner of Johnston and Victoria Quay at the junction of Vancouver Island. the Somass River and Kitsuksis Creek. Many people are gathered hasgo, thebeen killer a popular whale wasdestination said to havefor centuries, lived in the dating lake forback there as well. Boat “Dexter” , seen in the river, belonged to Wallace tomonths the original before Firsteventually Nations dying of the on Alberni the shoreline. Valley. Fisheries, Kildonan. AVM Photograph Collection PN00759 circa 1910. Victoria Quay. Alberni Trading Store on the right, George Drinkwater’s barbershop St. Andrew’s Church SproatFurther Lake down was the home lake, toin thethe Kleh-Koot-AhtTaylor Arm section, tribe therewho is and bathhouse - third from right, and the old Alberni Hotel is on the far end. A man stands in a wagon pulled by two horses near the werean island a part referred of the Hupacasathto as Massacre First Island. Nations. The One story of goes the store. Sitting on the corner of Elizabeth and Johnson, the original St. Andrew’s church was built in 1892 by volunteers as a community project for the Presbytarian The presence of the local Indigenous culture can be Church. In 1914 a new church was built and was entrusted found throughout the forest with culturally modified to the status of church hall. Unfortunately, the new trees (CMT), where the bark from cedars have been building burned down only two years later, and church stripped off, or “strip cat faces”, and evidence of burn goers were forced back to the original building. felling with blackened hollowed out trees. Cedars are considered sacred in Indigenous culture for their life- giving properties; providing shelter, tools, transportation (canoes),AVM Photographand Totem Collection Poles. PN00759Cathedral circa Grove 1910. Victoria served Quay. as an ancientAlberni trading Trading trail Store linking on the right, the GeorgeEast and Drinkwater’s West Coast barbershop of and bathhouse - third from right, and the old Alberni Hotel is on Vancouver Island. Connecting Mount Arrowsmith, the AVM Photograph Collection PN00661 circa 1911. The first train and the far end. A man stands in a wagon pulled by two horses near the passengers going into Port Alberni at the Cameron Lake Chalet Beaufortstore. Range, and Cathedral Grove was known as “Yuts- AVM Photograph Collection PN00661 circa 1911. The first train and whol-aht” or “Walking through the face of Mountains. passengers going into Port Alberni at the Cameron Lake Chalet

mostthat there prominent was massive features warfare of the goinglake is on the between Petroglyph tribes Carvingsat the Sproat located Lake at falls, Sproat and Lake the HupacasathsProvincial Park. utilized The K’ak’awinMassacre Islandpetroglyphs as refuge are fromthought the to fighting. depict a tsunamiOne night that ragedthey were through attacked the valley by enemies, in the 1500’s,by morning bringing the oceanisland fish,was PN805 – St Andrew’s Presbyterian Church Johnston Road. circa 1912 includinglittered with a killer bodies whale, as the into Hupacasaths the lake. As triumphed the teachings over go,their the attackers. killer whale Those was who said survived to have livedmade in the the trip lake back for to monthsthe falls beforeto tell theeventually harrowing dying story. on the shoreline.

The present structure was built in 1939 after it became St. FurtherThe original down name the lake, given in to the the Taylor lake was Arm Kleh-Koot section, there or is Andrew’s United Church in 1925. After the amalgamation an“wide island open”, referred and the to aseastern Massacre most Island. arm of The the storylake is goes still in 2001 with the United Church, the building was left thatreferred there to was as Kleh-Koot; massive warfare once settlersgoing on arrived between the tribes lake empty. It has since been converted into a fish and chips atwas the renamed Sproat Lakein 1913 falls, by Robertand the Brown, Hupacasaths who named utilized the lake AVM Photograph Collection PN00156 circa 1911. Construction crew AVMpreparing Photograph the site Collection for the E & PN00156 N Train circa Station. 1911. Somass Construction Hotel increw restaurant which has maintained the original building Massacrein honour Islandof Gilbert as refuge Sproat. from Sproat the arrivedfighting. in theOne Valleynight in preparingbackground. the site for the E & N Train Station. Somass Hotel in they1860 werefrom attackedScotland, by he enemies, was an honoured by morning colonial the island officer was background. design inside and out. litteredand entrepreneur, with bodies he as helped the Hupacasaths found one oftriumphed Port Alberni’s over

14 Valley Vibe Summer 2021 Valley Vibe Summer 2021 15 Photo credit: Sharlene Patterson mountainSproat Lake’s ranges, history and is seemingly rich and fascinating.endless blue From waters, the surroundedFirst Nations by people old and who new have growth lived forests.off the landSproat for Lake trulythousands is one of of years, the best to theplaces European to visit settlers,this summer. Sproat Lake has a long and intercrite story to tell. With it’s magnificent mountain ranges, and seemingly endless blue waters, Windsor Plywood surrounded by old and new growth forests. Sproat Lake truly is oneT ofhe the Rbestiverbend places to visit R thisevival summer. Let Us Help You With Your For most of us alive today the Riverbend Store has been a fixture always in place – a little green and white thread Renovation, New Build, Or Twovenhe deeplyRiverbend into the fabric Revival of Alberni life and memory. There are some things that can never be changed. The Other Building Project! Forstories most made of us and alive shared today within the Riverbend the walls Store and even has beenthe aname fixture “Riverbend” always in itselfplace has – a anlittle eternal green life. and white thread woven deeply into the fabric of Alberni life and memory. ThereThe location are some has things long welcomed that can never locals be and changed. travellers The storiesto the banks made of and the shared Somass within River the as awalls place and of resteven and the namereplenishment. “Riverbend” The itself oral hashistory an eternal reveals life. the pre-Riverbend era even includes wooden bunk-houses built to sleep Thecrews location of a local has forestry long welcomed operation. locals Like and the travellers water at the torivers the banksbend it’s of thea place Somass we can River slow as downa place and of restgo with and the replenishment.flow. The oral history reveals the pre-Riverbend era even includes wooden bunk-houses built to sleep crewsBuilt in of 1936, a local the forestry Riverbend operation. Store began Like thea journey water atwith the the riversresidents bend of it’sthe a Alberni place we Valley can thatslow would down lastand generations.go with the flow.Providing a menu of items largely unchanged over decades the Riverbend Store has remained family-owned Builtand operated in 1936, the selling Riverbend groceries, Store basic began fishing/camping a journey with the We carry high quality, responsibly sourced their attackers. Those who survived made the trip back to Lodge from E.P Davis, which became a popular summer residentsamenities, of submarine the Alberni sandwiches Valley that andwould ice-cream. last generations. Also products and are committed to providing the falls to tell the harrowing story. destination and over the years many of the rich and Providingcandy; cause a menu who doesn’tof items like largely candy. unchanged over outstanding value and personalized, one-on-one first sawmills. When the sawmill burnt down in 1865 he famousvisit during visited the this summer, spot. In aptly 1920, named a millionaire Vanderbilt from Lodge. New decades the Riverbend Store has remained family-owned Themoved original back toname England, given butto the continued lake was to Kleh-Koot play an active or York,Locals Cornelius began calling Vanderbilt the island Jr., and Vanderbilt his wife Island,were travelling and it is andThe Albernioperated Valley’s selling relationship groceries, basic with fishing/camping cars and things that service to all of our customers: homeowners, “widerole in open”, the colony, and the finally eastern moving most backarm toof the lakeprovince is still in paststill Sproatreferred Lake to as on that their to waythis today. California when Mrs. amenities,go holds an submarine almost religious-like sandwiches presence and ice-cream. in the hearts Also do-it-yourselfers, renovators, builders, designers, referred1876. to as Kleh-Koot; once settlers arrived the lake was Vanderbilt spotted Arbutus Island and fell in love; Mr. candy;of its people. cause whoThe Riverbenddoesn’t like endured candy. many of its younger craftsmen, and contractors. Regardless of the renamed in 1913 by Robert Brown, who named the lake in VanderbiltSproat Lake then has purchased been home the to waterisland bombers,for his wife specifically, and lodge years as a gas station and in its day became a temple type or size of your project, we’ll help you bring honourIn 1855 a of road Gilbert was Sproat.constructed Sproat from arrived Port inAlberni the Valley to Sproat in wasthe Martinbuilt for Mars the coupleBomber. and The their Martin wealthy Mars friends was originally to visit Theof adventure Alberni Valley’s and good relationship times before with transforming cars and things into that your vision to life, from start to finish. 1860Lake, from and sinceScotland, then he it haswas been an honoured a highly soughtcolonial after officer duringbuilt by the the summer, Martin Company aptly named for theVanderbilt United StatesLodge. Navy, Locals goone holds of Vancouver an almost Island’s religious-like most known presence mushroom in the hearts buyer andresidence. entrepreneur, he helped found one of Port Alberni’s beganand was calling used the in World island War Vanderbilt II as a long Island, range and ocean it is still patrol oflocations. its people. The Riverbend endured many of its younger first sawmills. When the sawmill burnt down in 1865 he referredflying boat. to as Onlythat sevento this wereday. built, and four surviving years as a gas station and in its day became a temple • Doors • Kitchen After the building of Klitsa Lodge in 1910, which originally moved back to England, but continued to play an active aircrafts were later converted into firefighting water ofPurchased adventure by and a husband good times and wifebefore team transforming in summer into 2020, started as a summer home for prominent lawyer E.P • Flooring • Tools / Hardware role in the colony, finally moving back to the province in Sproatbombers Lake which has beenwere homepurchased to water by Forest bombers, Industries specifically, onethe revivalof Vancouver of the RiverbendIsland’s most is a known new chapter mushroom in an buyerold Davis, Sproat Lake began attracting people from across • Moulding / S4S 1876. theFlying Martin Tankers Mars (FIFT) Bomber. in 1959. The MartinThe aircrafts Mars waswere originally flown locations.story. As new owners/caretakers, Chris and Wish (Alicia) • Custom Shop Services Lumber the world. In 1915 a houseboat was built for Mrs.Wark builtto Fairey by the Aviation Martin at Company Victoria forand the converted United Statesinto water Navy, are proud and honoured to be a part of the Riverbend’s • Live-Edge / Specialty Inwho 1855 used a road it to was serve constructed tea and lunch. from In Port 1919 Alberni she purchased to Sproat andbombers. was used Only in two World tankers War II have as a survived, long range and ocean are patrol Purchasedstory. Their by love a husband of old things and wife and teampeople in has summer inspired 2020, • Panelling Wood Lake,Klitsa andLodge since from then E.P it Davis, has been which a highly became sought a popular after flyingstationed boat. on OnlySproat seven Lake. were These built, bombers and four offer surviving a sense of thethem revival to revitalize of the Riverbend the building is aand new forge chapter a connection in an old with • Outdoors • Interior Stair residence.summer destination and over the years many of the rich aircraftscommunity were pride later to converted both Sproat into Lake firefighting and Port Alberni water story.Alberni’s As newpast owners/caretakers,and future. The Riverbend Chris and Café Wish and (Alicia) General • Finishes / Adhesives Components and famous visited this spot. In 1920, a millionaire from bombersresidences. which were purchased by Forest Industries Flying areStore proud will offerand honoured a curated to and be arotating part of selectionthe Riverbend’s of hyper- AfterNew York, the building Cornelius of KlitsaVanderbilt Lodge Jr., in and 1910, his which wife wereoriginally Tankers (FIFT) in 1959. The aircrafts were flown to Fairey story.local makers, Their love bakers, of old artists things and and eclectic people wierdos.has inspired startedtravelling as pasta summer Sproat home Lake foron theirprominent way to lawyer California E.P when AviationSproat Lake’s at Victoria history and is convertedrich and fascinating. into water Frombombers. the them to revitalize the building and forge a connection with 4740 Tebo Ave, Port Alberni Davis,Mrs. Vanderbilt Sproat Lake spotted began Arbutus attracting Island people and fromfell in across love; OnlyFirst twoNations tankers people have who survived, have lived and offare thestationed land for on Alberni’sSet to swing past its and doors future. open The this Riverbend summer, Caféthe Riverbend and General www.windsorplywood.com theMr. world.Vanderbilt In 1915 then a houseboat purchased was the builtisland for for Mrs.Wark his wife whoand Sproatthousands Lake. of These years, bombers to the European offer a sensesettlers, of communitySproat Lake StoreCafé and will General offer a Storecurated is excitedand rotating to welcome selection guest of hyper-and Phone: 250-724-5751 usedlodge it was to servebuilt fortea theand couple lunch. andIn 1919 their she wealthy purchased friends Klitsa to pridehas a tolong both and Sproat intricate Lake story and toPort tell. Alberni With it’s residences. magnificent localnew friends makers, to bakers, the store. artists ☐ and eclectic wierdos. Fax: 250-724-3325

16 Valley Vibe Summer 2021 Valley Vibe Summer 2021 17 MOST INSTAGRAMABLE moments In the middle of everything there is a valley filled with adventure and astonishing beauty. You’ll find a boundless collection of trails leading up mountains and down streams, over waterfalls and under ancient rainforest. There are lakes for swimming, streams for floating, fish for catching and memories for making. We invite you to #ExplorePortAlberni and see why we are the valley of trails in the heart of Vancouver Island.

#craftbeer

#waterfall #food #hikemore #parks #nature

#fishing ALBERNIVALLEYTOURISM.COM Alport Insurance has been serving the Alberni Valley since We work for you 1986 and has helped thousands of customers since first opening along with our their doors. Our brokers act as Insurers to provide the ‘middle man’ between the you with the best insurance companies and the insurance coverage customer – always with the Insurancefor Products the best We premium. Offer: customer’s best interest in mind. A Shoppers Drugmart Pharmacist is always available to Your Best Insurance Alport Insurance has been Is an Insurance Broker serving• Home the Alberni Insurance Valley since help advance the health & wel:l ness of your entire family. 1986 and has helped thousands of Visit our pharmacy team to discover how we can We work for you • ICBC Auto Insurance customers since first opening help advance your healthcare needs through: along with our their •doors. Commercial Our brokers Insurance act as • Professional Knowledge and advice • HealthWATCH ® Insurers to provide the ‘middle man’ between the • One-on-one private counselling • Easy Refills ® you with the best insurance• Recreational companies andVehicles the 250.723.2545 • Personalized medication reviews • The convenience of ordering customer – always with the insurance coverage • Boat3767 Insurance 10th Avenue • Injection services prescription refills, 24 hours a day, customer’sPort best Alberni interest BC V9Y in 4W5 mind. Call today for • Free Delivery 7 days a week. for the best premium. • [email protected] Insurance Find Us on Facebook a free quote http://www.alportinsurance.ca TWO LOCALLY OWNED LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU

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Usma Nuu-chah-nulth Family & Child Services is seeking individuals, couples, and families to help care for children & youth. Providing a safe, stable, caring home is vital! Are you flexible, have a general understanding of child Motel development, trauma responses, & family dynamics? Are you able & willing to work as part of a team, attend on-going Restaurant training, and maintain records? RV Park Now is the time to call for more information and start your foster home application. For more information, please call and speak to Open 7 days a week, take out available a Resource worker at 1-250-724-3232 Voted best sushi in Port Alberni Visit our website at www.usmafosterhomes.ca Or attend a Foster Home Information Session 2404 Timberlane Road by Zoom (Contact to register) 250.723.9415 April 21st, 2021 • May 19th, 2021

20 Valley Vibe Summer 2021 Photo credit: #exploreportalberni First Nation 5500 Ahahswinis Dr., Port Alberni Phone: 250-724-4041 • hupacasath.ca

The Salvation Army first came to Canada in 1882, after being founded in London, England The Hupacasath First Nations have owned, used, and This area was commonly used as the main village for male, whichin 1865. was carved The original first, faces concept the highway of the Salvationwelcoming Army attending came from potlatches. William Booth, whose occupied the traditional territories of Central Vancouver the Hupacasath peoples; they would take part in fishing, people intophilosophy the valley. was The “soup,female whichsoap, facesand salvation” the water, for those in need; it has since developed into Island for thousands of years. The use of these territories potlatches, berry and fruit picking, as well as hunting. The which wascomprehensive historically the highwaysocial service of the Firstprograms, Nations and is nowThe the Inlet largest holds non-government an immense amount direct of history for the are governed by the seasons, as the Hupacasath First welcoming figures located at Victoria Quay pay homage to people, welcomesprovider neighbours of social services, from the servingBarclay Sound.more than 1.9 millionHupacasath people First in Nations. 400 communities They have travelled in on land Nations follow the migratory pattern of deer and the the Hupacasath First Nations. Canada. and sea for thousands of years, sustainably supporting seasonal runs of the salmon. The Inlet was used primarily for hunting and fishing. themselves. Their presence can be felt throughout Port As well, a life-sized monumental wood carving depicts Down theThe Inlet Port to Chu-ca-ca-cook, Alberni branch which has been is the serving smallest the communityAlberni, butfor especially75 years, originallyalong the Inlet. opening Check out the The Kleekoot, which is located on the Stamp and Sproat the strength and skills of the Nuu-chah-nulth whalers, Hupacasathin 1946.reserve, The located unique west part of ofthe the Inlet Salvation and north Army is thatbeautiful they trulywelcoming focus statues on all aspectsand phenomenal of life-sized Rivers west of Sproat Lake, this reserve was used primarily who would take to the open waters in massive wooden of Nahmintwellbeing; Bay; this reserveoffering was spiritual, used primarily physical, as a andstop emotionalcanoe support at the end to itsof Johnston patrons. Road They at haveVictoria Quay and for fishing and hunting; potlatches, berry picking, and canoes to hunt whales and other sea life. The two large over placeteamed to rest andup with fish ouras they local travelled Canadian the Inlet.Mental The Health prepareAssociation, to feel Literacy awed at the Alberni, magnificent KUU-US culture. fish preparation was done here as well. Heading down the cravings that stand tall at the bottom of Johnston Road Broken GroupCrisis Islands Line, asand well Barkley as the Sound, Bread is aof place Life, where which has allowed them to serve even more of the river to the traditional territory of Ahahswinis which now with outstretched arms represent the welcoming of people traditionallycommunity. they would conduct business with other First includes the township of Port Alberni. into their territory from the land and from the water. The Nations Groups; trading, bartering, visiting relatives and When COVID-19 hit a year ago the Salvation Army and the Bread of Life teamed up to

22 Valley Vibe Summer 2021 Valley Vibe Summer 2021 23 On January 6, 1925, the eight hour day came in effect in the Alberni Valley – important legislation for a labour intensive logging, milling and fishing community. Another significant piece of legislation passed by the federal Liberal government in the House of Commons on March William Henry Derby 4, 1927, was Bill 26, the Old Age Pension Act. Local Alberni representative Alan Webster Neill worked hard for the and the Arlington Hotel bill when the BC Legislation also voted in favour the Old Age Pension Act became Law. Neill was rewarded for his By Glen A. Mofford Meet Bob Foster hard work to present the very first pension cheque - $20, the maximum allowed at that time, to a deserving local resident in the Alberni Valley. The following article is dedicated to the memory of A. McNiff and O.H. Meagher who expanded the hotel to Kristi Dobson, local writer, photographer and runner. sixty rooms and had electric lights installed. Prohibition Seventy-five year old William Henry Derby was chosen came on September 1, 1917, closing the bar but the as the first recipient. He was certainly qualified as he On the southwest corner of 5022 Johnson Road (Alberni business managed to survive both the First World War and worked hard for years as a teamster. Pension Cheque Highway) and Margaret Street is the Blue Marlin Inn, but prohibition. number A-1 was presented to Mr. Derby by Alan Neill in most customers and regulars in the pub remember the old Serving the Alberni Valley 17 Years Experience the agent’s office in Port Alberni on October 16, 1927. name, the Arlington Hotel and especially the “Arlie Pub.” The mid-1920s saw the biggest changes. Prohibition The hotel celebrates its 128th birthday this year having ended in British Columbia 1921 and by April 1925, beer- The press had a field day as did the government. • Residential and Commercial opened in 1893. My article will look at a few special events by-the-glass was available in the new beer parlours inside Photographs of the presentation were taken by well-know • Carpet Cleaning that took place in the 1920s that may be interesting for hotels that applied for it which included the Arlington local photographer Joseph Clegg. After the ceremony • Upholstery Cleaning you, the reader, as well as significant to the community in Alberni, Beaufort, Somass and King Edward in Port Derby took off the tie, cashed his cheque and was later • Tile & Grout Cleaning then and into the future. Alberni. A nine ounce domestic glass of beer sold for ten found in the Arlington Hotel beer parlour drinking his cents. The beer parlour was initially very Spartan as no ten-cent beers with four rolls of dimes on the table. The Arlington Hotel, now operating as the Blue Marlin entertainment was allowed. No food was sold or consumed Enjoy Inn, was the social centre in the Alberni since it was built on the premises. Patrons could only order domestic Fresh, In 1928 the Alberni Valley was shaken by a mild Bouncy, in 1893 by Mathew A. Ward. The hotel opened with a ‘barn beer and had to sit down to drink it. In spite of the new earthquake, but nothing had such a lasting effect than Clean dance social’ where lanterns strung on a rope handrail led restrictions, hotel owners welcomed the reopening of the life-changing important legislation passed in those Carpets! the way to the dining room. Mrs. their bars as it provided a significant source of revenue. years and the fact that at least one man, Bill Derby, had his John “Jack” Burke, a jolly, hard-working man with a pot priorities in place when he headed straight to his favourite Ward provided extra entertainment by playing the belly was the popular owner of the Arlington and ran it bar to celebrate and share the first old age pension cheque Contact Bob at (778) 419 3500 piano. By 1912 the Wards sold the popular hotel to James from 1925 to 1934. with his buddies. ☐ www.trueclean.ca Find us on Facebook 24 Valley Vibe Summer 2021 Valley Vibe Summer 2021 25 SPOTLIGHT ON BUSINESSES IN THE ALBERNI VALLEY Val MacDonald, Jennifer Norn, Alberni Colour Corner Cameron & Megan Warrender, Jowseys Furniture With over 20 years of experience with Island Inspire Contracting Starting in 1947 when Jennifer’s Benjamin Moore, 13 years ago this Both born and raised in the grandparents opened the store, September Val has owned and operated Alberni Valley - two years ago Jennifer grew up in the store. Alberni Colour Corner here in the Alberni this couple decided to start their And as a three generation run Valley. For the past 8 years she has been own small construction business store, Jennifer for the past 25 involved on the board of directors with offering home renovations of all years she has been running the Huu-ay-aht First Nations. kinds. Cameron with over 13 years store as her own. Excited to experience in the concrete and celebrate their 74th Anniversary construction industry, and Megan this fall. Dave Potter, Totem Tree Service ready to tackle the behind the scenes cooridnating, the husband Dave grew up in the valley, and and wife pair were up for the Jessica and Tatiana have been friends for over a decade, exploring with over 25 years experience, 10 challenge. the ends of the Continent through their adventures in business as years ago decided to start his own well as fun. The duo always shared a fascination with self-care, the tree service. Over the last decade healing industry, and beauty products. The pair, began their journey Dave has been a strong operation 8 years ago when they moved to Port Alberni and opened in our valley, and now his son, Kai, The Power of Three. manages the day to day operations.

Bob Foster, True Clean Carpet Care Bob is the sole owner / operator at True Carpet Clean in the Valley. Bob says that he never gets tired of seeing happy faces of those seeing Dave Koszegi, Realtor their carpets and upholstery after A veteran of the industry with a they have been cleaned. “It makes fresh, enthusiastic and values-driven it all worthwhile for me — and after approach to Real Estate, Dave Koszegi over 15 years in the business, it’s has been widely recognized for his why I love what I do,” said Bob. sincere dedication to helping families buy and sell in the Alberni Valley! Mica Verbrugge, Effingham Oysters Cheryl MacLean, Dorothy Clarkstone & Matt Prior to purchasing the Effingham Oyster Investment & Insurance Dearin, Notary Publics farm in 2014, Mica worked as a commercial Broker In 1993, Dorothy purchased her fisherman, captaining Spot Prawn and Notary practice in the Alberni Tuna boats. The connections he made over Cheryl has been in the Valley, and moved here the the last 20 years in the fishing industry financial services industry following year. Matthew Dearin have positioned him to take his business to serving our valley for over joined the firm in 2017. Starting the next level. 25 years. Cheryl’s passion off with one staff member, they is to make sure you are Mica believes in the importance of have grown every year, and properly covered and save supporting local and making quality, now together they operate two you money. affordable BC seafood and shellfish offices in the Alberni Valley. available to everyone.

26 Valley Vibe Summer 2021 Valley Vibe Summer 2021 27 A look Back at the King Edward Hotel By Glen A. Mofford

The Port Hotel at Argyle and First Avenue in Port ALBERNI DISTRICT FALL FAIR Alberni has an interesting past. The hotel and pub are PRESENTS located on the same site where 114 years ago James S. Rollin (Rollin Art Centre) built the 38-room King Edward Hotel. In 1907, with lumber from the local sawmill owned by Mr. Bird, Rollin built his new hotel resulting in two major hotels in Port Alberni, the Somass at the bottom of Argyle Street, and the new King Edward Hotel with talk of a third hotel to be built on Third Avenue (the Beaufort Hotel). Alberni to the north had the Alberni Hotel and the Arlington Hotel. The twin cities were growing, and the addition of the new hotels was an important part of that growth. The following is a brief history of the King Edward Hotel with an emphasis on the rebuilt version following the devastating fire of 1947.

From 1907 to 1947, the King Edward Hotel operated in Port Alberni. Various owners and manager came and went through those forty years and many changes was spreading but a quick response by the firefighters a pandemic. Who knows what the future may bring for the from improvements and expansions took place to the put the blaze under control after some fire and water Port Hotel? Whatever happens, one can enjoy a beer and appearance of the hotel. In 1933 and in spite of the Great damage. The biggest loss was to the firefighters and the lunch there knowing that they are on the site where the Depression and its effects both worldwide and on the town as the Deputy Chief, Jock Redford collapsed during history stretches back to 1907. ☐ Alberni Valley, Jack Suffren, owner of the King Edward the event and died from a sudden heart attack.6 The Hotel for the past seven years, decided to build an addition hotel was repaired and a year later expanded east along to his hotel. The entrance to the three-story King Edward were treated for minor injuries including the hotel owner, Argyle with the addition of ten rooms and an expansion Hotel building changed to eliminate the lawn and stairway Mr. Isador Rosenbaum, his wife and two daughters.3 of the dining room. The improvements and expansion entrance and provide[d] a new building for a street-level There was one fatality, Tom “Casey” Jones, a watchman were significant, and it took until March 1956 to complete. beer parlour.” 1 at Bloedel, Stewart & Welsh sawmill, whose body was A new cocktail lounge, the Tyee Room, complete with recovered in the aftermath of the blaze.4 This was the fishnets and pictures of salmon on the walls all tastefully On a fateful day in the summer of 1944, a guest at the third major fire that took place in Port Alberni in the 1940s decorated with furnishings from the commercial and King Edward, Mr. Michael Wallace of Nanaimo, somehow that included the destruction of the Somass Hotel. home furnishing department of the local Woodward’s managed to fall off the verandah and ended up at the Department Store. The Tyee Room was a nice change from Westcoast Hospital in serious condition. He would pull The Rosenbaum family promised to replace the building the beer parlour in many ways, one being that the sexes through.2 Other than these few mishaps and a brawl or and within a year a thirty-room modern hotel complete could intermix in one room as beer parlours had the men’s 1 Jan Peterson, Twin Cities (Lantzville, BC: Oolichan Books, two in the new beer parlour, hotel life continued along with restaurant and beer parlour was constructed by side and ladies with escorts. Management warned that foul 1994), 126. without significant incident until 1947. F. Wilf Souther of Souther Construction. Mayor Jordan language in the cocktail lounge would not be tolerated and 2 officially opened the new King Edward Hotel in November Nanaimo Daily News, August 26, 1944, 3. shortly after it opened a customer in the lounge learned In the early hours of Tuesday November 18, 1947, guest 1948 with the first guests registered on November 21. Mr. 3 Alberni Valley Times, “Recalling the King Edward Hotel that the rules were enforced. at the King Edward were woken by frantic shouting and and Mrs. Earle Kalani, formally of the Newport Hotel in Fire,” December 1970. the smell of smoke. A fire broke out and was moving Vancouver have been appointed to the management of the In 2004 a new owner came along and changed the name 4 Jan Peterson, Twin Cities, 216. swiftly through the hotel. The fire moved so rapidly that hotel.5 of the hotel from the King Edward to the Port Hotel. The 5 some hotel guests were forced to escape the flames and Westcoast Advocate, November 25, 1948, 1. hotel went through a costly renovation and modernization. smoke by jumping out their room windows. Nine people In June 1954, the new King Edward Hotel was threatened 6 Nanaimo Daily News, June 8, 1954, 1. It is still with us today having survived a fire next door and with destruction by fire. A minor fire in one of the rooms 28 Valley Vibe Summer 2021 Valley Vibe Summer 2021 29 McLean Mill A Site of National and Local Historic Significance

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AVM Photograph PN8729 -This is an aerial view of a mill site (McLean Mill) taken circa 1950.

Step back in time and surround yourself with the rich The historical significance of the McLean Mill was the historical context. Business records for the McLean history of the McLean Mill National Historic Site. This recognized in 1989 by the Historic Society and Monuments Mill fill over 400 file boxes and are stored as part of the unique heirloom of the early British Columbia forestry Board of Canada and subsequently declared a National archives at the Alberni Valley Museum. Did you know there industry, is a steam-powered sawmill and lumber Historic Site. The site’s historical importance rests have been 2 archaeological digs on site? company located on 12.8 hectares of land backing onto primarily in its collection of expansive resources related the Beaufort Range. The national historic site contains to logging, sawmilling, transportation, and labour; as well While the centre of McLean Lumber Company was the 35 buildings and structures that form a self-contained as its close association to significant aspects of the forest mill, a community grew up around the operation that community of residences, offices, and service buildings industry. built a tiny village. The firm employed up to 40 people and centered around a sawmill and millpond. The RB McLean before the 1950’s, the work site was sufficiently remote Lumber Company was a family-run business established Much of the original machinery and buildings have enough from Port Alberni that it warranted providing by Robert Bartlett McLean, his wife Cora, and their three survived, making it a rare example of a sawmill complex room and board to the employees. Many families from Alberni Valley Corps sons, Walter, Arnold and Phillip, that ran from 1926 to 1965. from the first half of the 20th century. The site is in situ, the Alberni Valley still have connections with the McLean 4835 Argyle St. Tel: (250)723-6913 Although small in scale in comparison, the logging, milling meaning that most of this site is just how they would have Mill, as it was an important aspect of both Port Alberni’s Port Alberni BC V9Y 1V9 albernivalleysa.ca and marketing operations of the McLean Mill were similar left it. This level of preservation and accuracy can be rare economic and social history. “For more information on ways to volunteer please contact us directly.” to larger mills within the province. for this type of site, and it gives us important insight into 30 Valley Vibe Summer 2021 Valley Vibe Summer 2021 31 men to sleep. Poker Mortgage Insurance and cribbage where a are you properly covered? favourite evening pass time. As you peek through Eagles Nest the windows of the one RestaurantAlberni Golf Club remaining bunkhouse, at the Alberni Golf Club you will witness modest accommodations with two bedrooms and a central area for drying clothes and for washing up.

Unfortunately, not all coverage options are created equal. Although tiny by Benefits of Individually Owned Life Insurance: Located comparison with other • You own the coverage and choose who receives the death benefit on an 18 hole • Rates are guaranteed mills built in the same • Coverage remains intact if you switch lenders golf course era, the McLean Mill • Coverage amount stays the same even as your mortgage decreases Everyone Welcome! embodies a number • Underwriting takes place at time of application, no surprises at time of claim Reach out to me today to make sure you are properly covered. Open daily of characteristics that AVM Photograph PN14023 - A group of people swimming at the McLean Mill pond. People identified in the photo are: typify its time and place. Cheryl MacLean Muriel McLean (young woman standing 2nd from left), and Howard McLean (young boy sitting on railing beside Muriel. vices Ser Ltd Variety of specials daily. It produced lumber for Insurance & Investment Broker The other little girl is one of Muriel’s nieces. One of the Japanese houses (the Sumi’s) can be seen in the background. Circa 1926. export and participated in 3748 Meares Drive, Port Alberni Great Atmosphere and the burgeoning sales that 250 - 723 - 3224 Food, Affordable Dining The story of social and working life at the site can be best Insurance & Financial Services Ltd. made Port Alberni a centre of the industry. [email protected] told through its buildings. The first buildings constructed By Appointment Only www.cherylmaclean.com 6449 Cherry Creek Rd were houses for the McLean’s: one each for R.B., Arnold, www.albernigolf.com Immerse yourself in a bygone time as you step onto the Canada Life • Empire Life • Manulife Financial • Equitable Life • Humania 250.723.7111 Philip and Walter. Of these, only Arnold’s is still extant, historic site. Enjoy a scenic stroll through the rustic, and it was added onto by his son Howard in 1949. The forested property and discover an important piece of Port McLean houses often served as the centre for evening Alberni history. #exploreportalberni ☐ Canadian Seafood Processing, socializing among the married people in the camp. owned and operated by A l b e r n i V A l l e y M u s e u M Make our past your present Port Alberni local, Mica Verbrugge, Although the centre of A l b e r n i VownerA l of l Effingham e y M Oysters.u s e u M Make our past your present A l b e r n i V A l l e y M u s e u M Make our past your present businessExplore was thePermanent office, Galleries,the Located in “The Dock+” at the Port Explore Permanent Galleries, centre Changingof camp life Exhibits was the and our Alberni Food Hub. Explore Permanent Galleries, Changing Exhibits and our cook house. ThisMuseum is where Shop! the Changing Exhibits and our single men ate, and served as 3140 Harbour Road, old Port Fish Museum Shop! Shop! Building (waterside) a placeVisit where our website anyone for our could current hours stop for warmth,and Covid coffee, protocols. and VisitVisit our website for for our our current current hours hours and CovidCovid protocols. protocols. conversation. When you visitPLAYINPA.CA/MUSEUM-2/ the site, you’ll see the 250-720-2863 little side bedroom where PLAYINPA.CA/MUSEUM-2/PLAYINPA.CA/MUSEUM-2/ 250-720-2863 250-720-2863 one of Vancouver Island’s best communitymany ofmuseums the cooks lived.-Lonely The Planet first cook, R.B.’s wife, Cora -Lonely Planet one one of Vancouver of Vancouver Island’s Island’s best best community community museumsmuseums -Lonely Planet McLean, made big breakfasts consisting of bacon, eggs, and Featuring Effingham Oysters, Lingcod, Black Cod, BC Spot l b e r n i A l l e y u s e u M Make our past your present hotcakes. She was also well Prawns, Octopus, Shrimp, Salmon, Crab, Halibut, Clams, A V M known for her baked cookies Albacore Tuna, Rock Fish, Salt Ice by the bag, cooler or tote. Explore Permanent Galleries, Note some products have seasonal availability. Changing Exhibits and our and doughnuts. Museum Shop!

Preorder online at: shop.eatcanadianseafood.com Visit our website for our current hours When it was time to rest and Covid protocols. Follow us on Facebook: after a hard day’s work, www.facebook.com/eatcanadianseafood PLAYINPA.CA/MUSEUM-2/ 250-720-2863 the bunkhouses provided E: [email protected] a dry place for the single AVM Photograph PN12919 - A group of men working on and around the Washington Steam Donkey on a railway car T: (250) 661-9528 one of Vancouver Island’s best community museums -Lonely Planet at the McLean Mill. Circa 1930. 32 Valley Vibe Summer 2021 Valley Vibe Summer 2021 33 A Look Back in Time

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AVM Photograph Collection PN08201. In this photo is Argyle Street. 3 Landscaping Services In the right foreground is a railway crossing sign. On the right side AVM Photograph Collection PN01548. View looking down 3rd Avenue of the photo about half way up is a building with a sign reading, 3 near Argyle St. in 1948, Store fronts occupy 1. Dick’s Market / 2. HOTEL KING EDWARD. Bathroom Remodels McVicar’s Drug Store / 3. Compton’s Jewellery Store / 4. Comfort Shoe Store / 5. Imperial Laundry / 6. McGarrigle’s Meat Market / 3 Flooring 7. Across Argyle St on Corner-A.T. Sanders’ Building Lawyer (Pool Hall.) 3 Tiling 3 Home Renovations 3 Handyman Services 3 Concrete Patios, Walkways & Slabs 3 Fences 3 Retaining Walls

AVM Photograph Collection PNA1.41 cir ca 1900. A group of people, AVM Photograph Collection PN14127. The E&N Railway Station on including H.H. Browne, near Angel Rock at Cameron Lake. Four men the corner of Argyle St. and Kingsway, before it was restored. A sign stand on a gravel road. saying “Port Alberni” hangs from the roof at the side of the building closest to the foreground.

Contact us today! E: [email protected] AVM Photograph Collection PN00729. Old Post Office in Port Cameron & Megan Warrender W: http://islandinspire.now.site/ Alberni on the corner of Third Avenue and Angus Street. AVM Photograph Collection PN00410. Circa 1920. Port Alberni City T: 250 735 2788 Hall, corner of 5th. Ave. and Argyle St. 34 Valley Vibe Summer 2021 My Co-op

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