Gulf of Georgia Cannery Society

Overview

The Gulf of Georgia Cannery Society is a non-profit organization committed to preserving and promoting the history of the West Coast fishing industry, with a particular focus on the Gulf of Georgia Cannery. Registered as a charity with the business registration number 107457764RR0001, the society plays a crucial role in the operation of the Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Historic Site.

Role and Responsibilities

In 2000, the society assumed full operational responsibility for the day-to-day management of the Gulf of Georgia Cannery through an agreement with Parks Canada. This includes overseeing visitor services, interpretation, programming, marketing, collections management, and ongoing maintenance. The society works closely with Parks Canada to ensure the site's historical integrity is maintained, with Parks Canada retaining responsibility for major repairs, renovations, setting user fees, and developing guidelines for conservation and maintenance.

Historical Context

The Gulf of Georgia Cannery, located in Steveston, Richmond, British Columbia, is a significant reminder of the historical importance of the fishing industry on Canada's West Coast. Established in 1894, it was once the largest cannery in the province. The cannery's evolution reflects the changing dynamics of the fishing industry, from canning salmon to herring reduction and eventually becoming a museum.

Collaborations and Significance

The society collaborates with Parks Canada to preserve, present, and promote the history of the cannery and the broader West Coast fishing industry. This collaborative effort helps maintain the site as one of a few National Historic Sites operated by a non-profit organization. The society's work contributes to the recognition of the West Coast fishing industry as a national historic event, acknowledged by the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada in 1976.

Community Involvement

The Gulf of Georgia Cannery Society was formed by a group of concerned citizens who recognized the importance of preserving their local heritage. This commitment to community involvement continues, ensuring that the cannery remains a vital part of Steveston's cultural landscape and educational resource on the history of fishing in Canada.

[1] https://gulfofgeorgiacannery.org [2] https://parks.canada.ca/lhn-nhs/bc/georgia [3] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gulf_of_Georgia_Cannery [4] https://parks.canada.ca/lhn-nhs/bc/georgia/info/plan/plan-2024 [5] http://parkscanadahistory.com/publications/georgia/backgrounder.pdf