2019
Event # 1
The Yukon Telegraph Trail
Sunday January 13, 2019
A Vancouver Postcard Club meeting, open to the public
Jolene Castillou Cumming presents an illustrated talk with over 50 rare postcards and photographs from her grandfather, Judge Henry Castillou’s, collection. It features early 1900 images of the named and numbered telegraph & refuge cabins (including interiors), telegraph operators and linemen, bridges, activities on the trail, landscapes and animals.
Hastings Community Centre
3096 E. Hastings St., Vancouver, BC.
Doors open at 11:30 am for trading, with the presentation beginning shortly after noon, and proceedings wrapping up by 2 pm.
FREE: All interested in postcards and our local and national history are welcome to attend.
2019 Event # 2
West End Newspaperwomen and Journalists
NEW DATE & TIME
Wednesday, January 16, 2019
4:30 to 6:00, story telling from 4:45-5:45
Tales From the West End series
This month historian and researcher, Jolene Castillou Cumming, is our featured storyteller. Jolene will present the illustrated talk West End Newspaperwomen and Journalists. Over a dozen women’s stories from the first half of the 1900’s and featuring rare historical photographs.
JJ Bean Cafe, 1209 Bidwell (Bidwell & Davie)
Free, complimentary coffee and tea thanks to JJ Bean
2018 Events
Sunday July 22, 2018 The Women of Barclay Street Historical Walking Tour
1:00pm – 3:00pm
Stroll along this beautiful tree-lined street in Vancouver’s West End and hear stories about over 30 remarkable women that lived on it during the early 1900’s. Includes rare historical photographs.
Meet at the corner of Barclay St. and Lagoon Drive, at the edge of Stanley Park
$10 cash (sliding scale offered) Drop-in only
The tour ends at Thurlow Street. Rain or shine.
Thursday October 12, 2017
OCTOBER IS WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH
The Struggle for Women’s Suffrage in British Columbia
Hosted at, and by, the City of Vancouver Archives
Co-sponsored by Café Minerva and Dept. of Gender, Sexuality, and Women’s Studies (SFU) FREE, open to the public, drop-in only, limited seating
http://www.sfu.ca/gsws/community-outreach/events/upcoming-events.html
Featuring 3 Panelist:
1) Lara Campbell (GSWS professor, SFU and author of Human Rights and the Struggle for Democracy: The History of the Women’s Suffrage Movement in British Columbia).
TOPIC: Class and Militancy in Vancouver and Victoria
2) Sherry Edmunds-Flett (Doctoral Candidate, SFU and Community Activist).
TOPIC: Black Women, Suffrage, and Social Reform in Vancouver and Victoria
3) Veronica Strong-Boag (Professor Emerita, UBC and Women Suffrage and Beyond website: womensuffrage.org). TOPIC: Where was Democracy? The Struggle for Suffrage
TOUR #3 Sunday June 25, 2017 Stanley Park Zoo Historical Walking Tour
If you grew up in Vancouver before the mid 1990’s like I did, you will most likely have vivid memories of the Stanley Park Zoo. On this tour, hear decades of Zoo stories and see rare historical Zoo photos, some dating back to the 1800’s.
Join Jolene Castillou Cumming for a historical walk which covers 100 years of the Zoo’s past, from buffalos to flamingos, from penguins to the smelly old reptile house and the Seal Pool and Otter Slide. We visit the site of the very first zoo, where Lord Stanley’s statue is today, to hear who the original zookeeper was (it wasn’t Henry Avison). The tour then crosses the old stone bridge over the Duck Ponds to visit the concrete Bear Pits where Tuk the polar bear lived and zoo relics still exist. We then stop at the previous Lower and Upper zoo sites, and on to the Lumbermen’s Arch animal paddocks at Whoi Whoi. The tour then travels to the west, where the rustic Children’s Zoo building still stands. This is the area where Pete, the last peacock, roamed freely. Next, hear about Canada’s most famous monkey, when we visit the location where Emily Carr’s Woo, spent her last days in the old Stanley Park Monkey House.
Viewing deer in a paddock at Whoi Whoi / Lumbermen’s Arch, ca 1916. Photo: Vancouver Archives SGN 1594
Tour # 2 Sunday April 2, 2017 “Votes For [some] Women“: 100th Anniversary of B.C.’s Women’s Suffrage Historical Walking Tour. This tour also covers past women’s rallies, protests, gatherings and demonstrations that took place around the Stanley Park Dining Pavilion.
2 Suffragists: Park Board Commissioner Susie Lane Clark and City of Vancouver Alderwoman Helena Gutteridge (Vancouver’s first female City Councillor) examining a C.C.F. annual picnic brochure, ca 1938. Photo: Vancouver Archives CVA 371-1234
TOUR # 1 Celebrate International Women’s Day / Week Sunday March 5, 2017: The Annual E. Pauline JohnsonTekahionwake Historical Walking Tour in Stanley Park Departs from Lost Lagoon, travels through the forest trails to the Pauline Johnson Memorial Monument at Ferguson Point, her final resting place, then returns to the Lagoon via the seawall. Meet at the viewing plaza overlooking Lost Lagoon at the foot of Alberni St. (at Chilco St). $10 cash per person (with a sliding scale) and drop-in only .
Please wear appropriate walking shoes, as we may be on uneven ground at times.
Photo: E. Pauline Johnson Tekahionwake Vancouver Public Library VPL 9429
Talk: Thursday January 19, 2017
7:00pm – 8:00pm
E. Pauline Johnson Tekahionwake’s Vancouver Years: 1909-1913
Join us at the Joe Fortes Branch Library for an illustrated talk by Jolene Castillou Cumming about Canadian cultural icon, E. Pauline Johnson Tekahionwake (1861-1913), a passionate Mohawk-British poet, writer, travelling stage performer, New Woman, First Nations advocate and one of Vancouver’s most famous residents. Hosted by the Joe Fortes Library & West End Community Centre, 870 Denman St, free admission.
2016
Tour #9 Sunday October 23, 2016 Woo`s Zoo – A Stanley Park Zoo Historical Walking Tour
This zoo history tour is named “Woo’s Zoo” in honour of Emily Carr’s famous monkey, Woo, who spent her last days in the Stanley Park Monkey House.
If you grew up in Vancouver before the mid 1990’s, you will most likely have vivid memories of the Stanley Park Zoo. Join us to hear over 100 years of the Zoo’s history, from buffalos to flamingos, from penguins to the old reptile house and the Seal Pool and Otter slide. Visit the site of the first zoo, where Lord Stanley’s statue is today, and hear who the original zookeeper was (it wasn’t Henry Avison). The tour then crosses the old stone bridge over the Duck Ponds to visit the Bear Pits where Tuk the polar bear lived and zoo relics still exist. We then stop at the previous Lower and Upper zoo sites, and on to the Lumbermen’s Arch animal paddocks at Whoi Whoi. The tour travels to the west, where the rustic Children’s Zoo building still stands. This is the area where Pete, the last peacock, roamed freely. Learn about “headline making escapes” (bears, monkeys, Russell the goat, and wolves) and find out what happened to the remaining 3 swans from Lost Lagoon. Decades of Zoo stories and rare historical photos. Rain or shine.
$10 cash. Drop-in only. Meet at the Lost Lagoon viewing plaza overlooking the lagoon, at the foot of Alberni St, at Chilco St.
Canadian Youth Hostel bike hike [in front of the grizzly bear cage at the zoo, 1943. Photo: Vancouver Archives CVA 586-1337
Tour #8 Sunday October 2, 2016
Special WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH tour
HERSTORIES: A West of Denman Historical Walking Tour
Stroll the streets between Denman Street and Stanley Park and hear about the lives of the remarkable women who lived in this legendary historical Vancouver neighbourhood; from activists to actresses, the elite to domestics… journalists, artists, filmmakers, publishers, adventurous, politicians, educators, business women, and the mysterious. Includes rare historical photographs. $10 cash per person or, in recognition of the feminist-based method of ticket pricing, we offer a Sliding Scale Payment for this tour.
Tour # 7 Sunday June 26, 2016 Old Money: West of Denman Historical Walking Tour
Tour #6 Sunday May 22, 2016 Women of English Bay Historical Walking Tour
1:00pm – 2:30pm
Stroll the beachfront and the neighbourhood of one Vancouver’s most historic places and hear stories about the remarkable women that once lived there. Tour includes historical photographs. $10 cash. Drop-in only. Meet outside the Sylvia Hotel on Gilford St.
Mackey family: “The Heroine of English Bay” Susannah Florence (Mrs. P. Nye) standing at back, and her parents Horace and Maud Mackey, 1888. Photo: Vancouver Archives Port P1540
Tour #5 Sunday May 8, 2016 Special Mother’s Day tour: The Women of Stanley Park Historical Walking Tour
1:00pm – 2:30pm
Bring mom (or not) and hear stories about the famous and the forgotten women who lived in and visited Stanley Park. The tour includes rare historical photographs.
$10 cash. Drop-in only. Meet at the Lost Lagoon viewing plaza overlooking the lagoon, at the foot of Alberni Street, at Chilco St.
Mrs. Henry Stanley Avison , Mrs. Henry (Kate) Avison and Jessie Carolina Avison, ca 1922. Kate, not her Park Ranger husband Henry, started the first Stanley Park Zoo. Photo Vancouver Archives Port P200.2
Tour #4 Saturday April 23, 2016
Shakespeare 400: Stanley Park Historical Gardens Walking Tour
1:00pm – 2:30pm
The Bard died exactly 400 years ago on this date. Tour includes a visit to his commemorative tree planted 100 years ago in Shakespeare’s Garden (see photo below). Stroll through Shakespeare’s Garden and explore the monuments, commemorative trees, historic plaques, the Rose Cottage, the Comedy & Tragedy Trees, the old nursery greenhouse sites, the beautiful garden beds, and other features found in this iconic section of Stanley Park. Other gardens we will visit: the Pavilion Garden, The Rose Garden and the famous Lost Rock Garden. The tour includes rare historical photographs.
April 23 1916 – 100 years ago today – Elizabeth Rogers plants an oak to commemorate William Shakespeare’s Tercentary near pipeline road. Also, George Eldon, C.E. Mahon, A. Dunbar Taylor, G.W. Hutchings, her husband Jonathan Rogers, W.R. Dunlop, Francis Bursill, W.S. Rawlings, St. John Mildmay, A.C. Cummings, H.P. McCraney, Alfred Buckley, A.E. Lees, M.S. Logan and others Photo: Vancouver Archives Tr P24.
Tour #3 Sunday April 17, 2016
1:00pm – 2:30pm
“Drinks & Cigars 2 Bits” Stanley Park Businesses Historical Walking Tour. Hear about the many leases to private businesses, and others, that have operated in the Park since the late 1800’s. Companies & groups like; the original Stanley Park Brewery, Gun Club Crow Shoots, photographers like Frank Gowen & his Hollow Tree hut & Prospect Point Postcard stand, Ellen Neel’s Totem Art’s Studio, The Refreshment Pavilion, concession venders and Steve & Eva Floris of the 1950’s Teahouse Restaurant. For entertianment, the public were charged to ride; a Barge from downtown to the Brockton Point wharf, a tour on the Tally Ho, the ponies and 2 different Miniature Trains. Revenue was also generated from countless types of rentals over the years, everything from; boats, bathing suits, bicycles, fishing rods and horses. These are just a few of the former businesses in the Park you will learn about as we stroll along. Includes historical photographs. $10 cash. Drop-in only. Meet at the Lost Lagoon viewing plaza overlooking the lagoon, at the foot of Alberni Street, at Chilco St.
The sign above them reads, “Drinks Cigars, 2 bits.” The Stanley Park Hotel in the Hollow Tree, ca 1890. Photograph shows Michael Wilkinson Brighouse, Sam Brighouse, William Beech, A. McCallum (serving drinks) and others . Photo: Vancouver Archives St Pk P34.
Tour #2 Sunday April 10, 2016 Old Money: West of Denman Historical Walking Tour
Tour # 1 Sunday March 6, 2016
1:00pm – 3:00pm
The annual “Pauline Johnson / Tekahionwake Stanley Park Historical Walking Tour”. Departs from Lost Lagoon, travels through the forest trails to the Pauline Johnson Memorial Monument at Ferguson Point, her final resting place, then returns to the Lagoon via the seawall. Meet at the viewing plaza overlooking Lost Lagoon at the foot of Alberni St. (at Chilco St). $10 cash per person and drop-in only. Rain or shine and please wear appropriate walking shoes as we may be on uneven ground at times.
Pauline Johnson, ca 1900. Photo: Vancouver Archives Port P637
2016
Tour # 8 Sunday December 27, 2015
Stanley Park’s Secrets Historical Walking Tour
1:00pm – 2:30pm
There are countless mysteries, myths & misconceptions about the history of Stanley Park. On this tour, discover many of those hidden stories about the “Jewel of Vancouver.” The tour includes rare historical photographs..
Meet at the viewing plaza overlooking Lost Lagoon at the foot of Alberni St. (at Chilco St). $10 cash per person and drop-in only.
TOUR # 7 Sunday – November 29, 2015
From Whoi Whoi to Chaythoos Historical Walking Tour, 1870 – 1970.
Join us to hear 100 years of the layers of history that took place on these 2 important sites. The tour includes rare historical photographs and maps.
People on beach in front of Lumbermen’s Arch on the shores of Burrard Inlet, Stanley Park, ca 1913. Photo: Vancouver Archives SGN 1589.
TOUR # 6 Sunday – July 12, 2015
English Bay Historical Walking Tour
1:00pm – 2:30pm
Stroll the beachfront and neighbourhood of one Vancouver’s most historic places and hear stories about its remarkable history. Tour includes historical photographs. Meet outside the Sylvia Hotel on Beach Ave at the 1154 Gilford Street entrance.
Camping was all the rage. A camp at English Bay named Hogan’s Alley,1897. Mrs. Sam Scott seated in chair and behind her is Olive and Mrs. Alex Smith.Photo: Vancouver Archives Be P70.1
Tour # 5 Sunday – June 14, 2015
Stanley Park Historical Walking Tour: Monuments, Memorials and Plaques of Brockton Point
1:00pm – 2:30pm
The new Luke Marston SHORE TO SHORE sculpture – Portuguese Joe Silvey, Khaltinhat and Kwatleemaat. Photo by Jolene Cumming
TOUR # 4 Sunday May 17, 2015
Old Money: West of Denman Historical Walking Tour
1:00pm – 2:30pm
Before Vancouver’s upper class elite moved to Shaughnessy Heights, “West of Denman” by Stanley Park, was where many of the “Who’s Who” lived until the First World War. Discover who they were, where and how they lived and what lured them out. This tour also explores the lives of the domestic workers, sellers and nursemaids like Janet Smith. Stroll the streets of the West End to hear fascinating stories about this early Vancouver neighbourhood. Meet beside the little Buchan Hotel at 1906 Haro St. (at Gilford Street). $10 cash. Drop-in only. Rain or Shine.
TOUR # 3 Sunday April 19, 2015
Stanley Park’s Secrets Historical Walking Tour
1:00pm – 2:30pm
There are countless mysteries, myths & misconceptions about the history of Stanley Park. On this tour, discover many of those hidden stories about the “Jewel of Vancouver.” The tour includes rare historical photographs..
Meet at the viewing plaza overlooking Lost Lagoon at the foot of Alberni St. (at Chilco St). $10 cash per person and drop-in only.
TOUR # 2 Saturday March 7, 2015
Pauline Johnson/Tekahionwake Stanley Park Historical Walking Tour
1:00pm-3:00pm An International Women’s Day / Week event
E. Pauline Johnson died in Vancouver on this date, March 7th 1913. She routinely visited Stanley Park. On this tour, we will walk in her footsteps, from Lost Lagoon, through the Coastal Rain Forest trails, and visit her iconic gravesite memorial monument at Ferguson Point. We will return to Lost Lagoon via the seawall and across Ceperly Meadow.
Ceremony at Pauline Johnson’s grave, ca 1922. Photo: Vancouver Archives CVA 99-1328
#1 Saturday February 7, 2015
Stanley Park Postcard Secrets
An Illustrated talk by Stanley Park History Group founder Jolene Cumming
1:00pm – 2:30pm
At the Roedde House Museum (NOTE: not a walking tour)
Discover hidden stories about the Jewel of Vancouver’s fascinating past through Stanley Park historical postcards and over 70 rare photographs.
1415 Barclay Street – $10, includes light refreshments
www.roeddehouse.org 
Tour # 23 Sunday December 28, 2014
Stanley Park’s Secrets Historical Walking Tour
TOUR # 22
Sunday November 16, 2014 – Old Money: West of Denman Historical Walking Tour
1:00pm – 2:30pm
Before Vancouver’s upper class elite moved to Shaughnessy Heights, “West of Denman” by Stanley Park, was where many of the “Who’s Who” lived until the First World War. Discover who they were, where and how they lived and what lured them out. This tour also explores the lives of the domestic workers, sellers and nursemaids like Janet Smith. Stroll the streets of the West End to hear fascinating stories about this early Vancouver neighbourhood. Meet beside the Buchan Hotel at 1906 Haro St. (at Gilford Street).
“Ladies” in Edwardian hats in the tiers of the Horse Show Building at Gilford St and Georgia St, 1910. Photo: Vancouver Archives Bu P555.
TOUR # 21 Sunday November 9, 2014
The Military History of Stanley Park Historical Walking Tour
A Remembrance Day Weekend event
In the mid 1800’s Stanley Park was declared a British Military Reserve…or was it? On this tour discover over 150 years of military related stories, ranging from; secret defence sites, monuments, memorial gardens, sites of protests and peace gatherings, Deadman’s Island’s Royal Canadian Naval Reserve HMSC Discovery, soldier stories, and the war effort activities that took place in the park.
TOUR # 20 Saturday October 25, 2014
Stanley Park Noir, a Historical Walking Tour
Discover the darker side of Stanley Park’s past. Murders, suicides, tragic accidents, violent crimes, drownings and mysterious incidences are all part of “The Jewel of Vancouver’s” 126 years of history. From the unsolved murder of The Babes in the Woods, to a connection to the Janet Smith murder mystery, this tour covers headline making crimes, as well as the more “secret” ones. It also features stories about: park cemeteries & final resting places, unusual hunting stories, buried treasure, storm damage, memorials to the dead, protests, court cases and much more.
Tour # 19 Sunday October 12, 2014
Special Women’s History Month tour
The Remarkable Women of English Bay Historical Walking Tour
1:00pm – 2:30pm
$10 and drop-in only
Meet OUTSIDE at The Sylvia Hotel, 1154 Gilford St entrance (at Beach Ave)
Hear stories about the famous and the forgotten women who lived in and visited this historic section of Vancouver. Stroll the beachfront and the streets of the neighbourhood, visit monuments, buildings, houses and former business sites.
Women in bathing suits, 1924. Photo: Vancouver Archives CVA 1477-935
.TOUR # 18 Sunday August 24, 2014
Stanley Park’s Secrets Historical Walking Tour
1:00pm – 2:30pm
Explore the park and discover the many fascinating stories about its hidden past. The tour includes rare historical photographs. $10 cash. Drop-in only. Meet at the Lost Lagoon viewing plaza overlooking the lagoon, at the foot of Alberni Street
Four women gathered on porch of James Stark’s summer cottage at English Bay, 1897. Photo: Vancouver Archives SGN 1074.2
Tour # 17 Sunday August 17, 2014
The Remarkable Women of English Bay Historical Walking Tour (& English Bay neighbourhood).
1:00pm – 2:30pm
Meet OUTSIDE at The Sylvia Hotel, 1154 Gilford St entrance (at Beach Ave)
Hear stories about the famous and the forgotten women who lived in and visited this historic section of Vancouver. Stroll the beachfront and the streets of the neighbourhood, visit monuments, buildings, houses, former business sites and see rare historical photographs.
grave pedestal found in the bushes in Stanley Park. Possibly used to repair the seawall.
Tour # 16 Sunday August 10, 2014 Stanley Park Noir, a Historical Walking Tour
Discover the darker side of Stanley Park’s past.
Tour # 15 MONDAY August 4, 2014 – BC DAY holiday
Old Money, a West of Denman Historical Walking Tour
1:00pm – 2:30pm
Before Vancouver’s upper class elite moved to Shaughnessy Heights, “West of Denman” by Stanley Park, was where many of the “Who’s Who” lived until the First World War.
Tour # 14 Sunday July 27, 2014
Shakespeare and the Rose Gardens: a Stanley Park Historical Walking Tour
1:00pm – 2:30pm
Stroll the through the gardens and explore the monuments, commemorative trees, historic plaques, the Rose Garden Cottage, the Comedy & Tragedy Trees, the old nursery greenhouse sites, the horse stables, the beautiful garden beds in full bloom, and other features found in this iconic section of Stanley Park. The tour includes rare historical photographs.
$10 cash. Drop-in only. Meet at the Lost Lagoon viewing plaza overlooking the lagoon, at the foot of Alberni Street, at Chilco St.
(see 8 tour related photos below)
Tour # 13 SATURDAY July 26, 2014
* NEW!! Stanley Park Noir, a Historical Walking Tour
1:00pm-3:00pm
Discover the darker side of Stanley Park’s past.
Tour # 12 Sunday July 6, 2014
Brockton Point’s Secrets Historical Walking Tour
1:00pm – 2:30pm
This popular tour features hidden histories and forgotten stories about this famous point, its monuments, memorials, landmarks and tales about the people who lived there and visited its shores. A few of the highlights include: Pioneer Cemetery, families of Fisherman’s Cove, the Chehalis disaster, Deadman’s Island’s Pest House, 9 o’clock gun, totem tales, the bicycle craze of the 1890′s, Vancouver’s first sawmill site, the gun club’s 1908 Crow Shoot and much more. Tour also includes rare historical photographs. Meet at the Totem Poles at Brockton Point, (please arrive 10 minutes early). $10 cash. Drop-in only. (see 10 related historical photos below)
Kwakiutl carver Ellen Neel and boys working on a totem pole, 1952. Photo: City of Vancouver Archives CVA 180-1849
Tour # 11 Sunday June 29, 2014
Lost Lagoon’s Secrets
1:00pm – 2:30pm
Stroll the shorelines and forests surrounding this artificial lake and hear the history of this popular Vancouver landmark. The tour includes rare historical photographs.
$10 cash. Drop-in only. Meet at the Lost Lagoon viewing plaza overlooking the lagoon, at the foot of Alberni Street
Speed boats on Lost Lagoon, 1929. Photo: City of Vancouver Archives CVA 99-1957.
TOUR # 10 Sunday June 22, 2014
Stanley Park’s Secrets Historical Walking Tour
1:00pm – 2:30pm
Explore the park and discover the many fascinating stories about its hidden past. The tour includes rare historical photographs. $10 cash. Drop-in only. Meet at the Lost Lagoon viewing plaza overlooking the lagoon, at the foot of Alberni Street
Henry Avison and his son Henry Stanley Avison outside Stanley Park’s Ranger’s cottage, ca. 1896. Photo: City of Vancouver Archives SS-5-4
TOUR # 9 Sunday June 15, 2014
Old Money: a West of Denman Historical Walking Tour
1:00pm – 2:30pm
Before Vancouver’s upper class elite moved to Shaughnessy Heights, “West of Denman” by Stanley Park, was where many of the “Who’s Who” lived until the First World War. Discover who they were, where and how they lived and what lured them out. This tour also explores the lives of the domestic workers, sellers and nursemaids like Janet Smith. Stroll the streets of the West End to hear fascinating stories about this early Vancouver neighbourhood. The tour includes rare historical photographs. $10 cash. Drop in only. Meet beside the Buchan Hotel at 1906 Haro Street (at Gilford Street).
A picnic in Stanley Park, 1888. Group portrait showing Mrs. Benwell, J.C. Keith, John Williams, Bob Spinks, Elizabeth Alexander (Mrs. J.G.L. Abbott, Mrs. Blaiklock, Beatrice Abbott, Miss Crease, Helen Cambie, Mable Tatlow, R.G. Tatlow, Elizabeth Cambie, Mrs. Sewell (nee Freer), Miss Pooley (Lady Stanley), W.F. Salbury, Mrs. John Williams, Mrs. W.F. Salsbury, Miss Leaycroft, Hamilton Abbott, Dick Spinks, Arthur Salsbury, Mrs. A.O. Leask, Rose Townley (Mrs. Grange Holt), Mrs. A.J. Dana, Mr. Geddes, Dick Harvey, Mrs. Spinks, Miss Wales, Mr. Bevan, Mr. Spinks, Allen Cameron, Mrs. Wilgress, Mrs. J.C. Keith, Miss Laycroft, R.G. Tatlow, H.O. Alexander and others. Photo: City of Vancouver Archives Port P475
TOUR # 8 Sunday June 1st, 2014
E. Pauline Johnson’s (Tekahionwake) Stanley Park Historical Walking Tour
1:00pm – 3:00pm
In 1913 flags flew at half mast the day Mohawk poet & stage performer E. Pauline Johnson (Tekahionwake) died in Vancouver’s West End. Johnson loved, routinely visited and wrote about Stanley Park. Hers is the only marked grave in the park. On this tour we will walk the shores where she paddled her canoe, visit the body of water she wrote a poem about, and then named it “Lost Lagoon”, follow the forest trails she walked and visit her final resting place, the iconic Pauline Johnson Monument. Johnson’s ashes are buried under this stone memorial located by Ferguson Point, in a small grove of trees, overlooking Siwash Rock.On this tour we will visit the sites along the trail that she wrote about: “The Lure in Stanley Park” and the Cathedral Trees/Seven Sisters. Her “Legends of Vancouver” are based on legends told to her by her good friends Chief Joseph Capilano and Mary Agnes Capilano. Those stories include many other Stanley Park connections; “The Deadman’s Island”, “The Sea-Serpent” and “The Lost Salmon Run. ” The tour also features rare historical photographs relating to E. Pauline Johnson and the Park.
Meet at the Lost Lagoon viewing plaza overlooking the lagoon, at the foot of Alberni Street. Drop-in only. $10 cash per person.
Siwash Rock, Stanley Park, ca 1930. Photo: City of Vancouver CVA 371-2851
TOUR # 7 Sunday May 18th, 2014
Shakespeare’s Garden 450: a Stanley Park Historical Walking Tour
1:00pm – 2:30pm
Join us to celebrate the 450th anniversary year of the birth of William Shakespeare. The Bard was born on an unknown date in 1564. The Shakespeare Garden was officially opened by Governor-General Lord Tweedsmuir in 1936. This tour explores the Shakespeare Monument, commemorative trees, other historic gardens, numerous plaques honouring the famous and the forgotten, the diverse historical usages of this site, the Rose Cottage, and other features found in this iconic section of Stanley Park. The tour includes rare historical photographs.
Meet at the viewing plaza overlooking Lost Lagoon, at the foot of Alberni Street at Chilco Street. $10 cash and drop in only.
One of many tree labels in Shakespeare Garden. Photo: Jolene Cumming
TOUR # 6 SATURDAY APRIL 26, 2014
Lumbermen’s Arch Secrets: a Stanley Park Historical Walking Tour
1:00pm – 2:30pm
Meet at the viewing plaza overlooking Lost Lagoon, at the foot of Alberni Street at Chilco Street. $10 cash and drop in only.
We will walk along the same route as others did over 100 years ago to arrive at the historic site of Lumbermen’s Arch.
Lumbermen’s Arch at Stanley Park, ca. 1913. Photo: City of Vancouver Archives Arch P40.
TOUR # 5 Sunday April 6, 2014
Brockton Point’s Secrets: a Stanley Park Historical Walking Tour
1:00pm -2:30pm
Meet in front of the totem poles on Brockton Point.
Discover the Point’s hidden past; the Pioneer Cemetery, families of Fisherman’s Cove, Chehalis disaster monument, Deadman’s Is. Pest House (no access, sorry), visit a sawmill site and the 1800’s Athletic grounds, the 9 o’clock gun, see a CMT and more. Includes rare historical photographs.
Tour # 4 Sunday March 23, 2014
Old Money: a West of Denman Historical Walking Tour
1:00pm – 2:30pm
Before Vancouver’s upper class elite moved to Shaughnessy Heights, “West of Denman” by Stanley Park, was where many of the “Who’s Who” lived until the First World War. Discover who they were, where and how they lived and what lured them out. This tour also explores the lives of the domestic workers, sellers and nursemaids like Janet Smith. Stroll the streets of the West End to hear fascinating stories about this early Vancouver neighbourhood. The tour includes rare historical photographs.
Meet beside the Buchan Hotel at 1906 Haro Street (at Gilford Street).
View of the 1900 Block and 2000 Block of Nelson Street, 1908. Photo: Vancouver Archives PAN P103
A special tour to mark International Women’s Day 2014
TOUR # 3 Sunday March 9th, 2014
E. Pauline Johnson’s (Tekahionwake) Stanley Park Historical Walking Tour
1:00pm – 2:30pm
In 1913 flags flew at half mast the day Mohawk poet & stage performer E. Pauline Johnson (Tekahionwake) died in Vancouver’s West End. Johnson loved, routinely visited and wrote about Stanley Park. This tour will follow the trails she walked, stroll through the “Cathedral Trees” from her “The Lure of Stanley Park” story, walk the shores where she paddled her canoe, and visit the body of water she named Lost Lagoon. Also hear about other park themes from Johnson’s best selling 1912 “Legends of Vancouver” book, like Deadman’s Island and Siwash Rock. Includes rare historical photographs relating to E.P.J.
Departs from & returns to the Lost Lagoon viewing plaza overlooking the lagoon at the foot of Alberni Street. Drop-in only. $10 cash per person.
First edition of Legends of Vancouver privately printed in Vancouver in 1911. City of Vancouver Archives collection.
TOUR # 2 Sunday February 16, 2014
Stanley Park’s Secrets Historical Walking Tour
1:00pm – 2:30pm
Explore the park and discover the many fascinating stories about its hidden past. The tour includes rare historical photographs.
Meet at the viewing plaza overlooking the lagoon at the foot of Alberni St.
$10 cash. Drop-in only.
TOUR # 1 Sunday January 19, 2014
Lost Lagoon’s Secrets: A Stanley Park Historical Walking Tour
1:00pm – 2:30pm
Explore the shores and forests surrounding this legendary artificial lake and discover the many fascinating stories about its hidden past. The tour includes rare historical photographs.
Meet at the viewing plaza overlooking the lagoon at the foot of Alberni St.
$10 cash. Drop-in only.
Photograph shows the Coal Harbour bridge and the entrance to the park, taken from the park and facing the West End. Major Matthews’ notes with this print say that “this was taken from a point about a few feet south of Queen Victoria’s monument in Stanley Park”. Matthews says it shows “West End of Vancouver in autumn of 1889, looking southwest across the Coal Harbour Bridge, showing “Park Road”, entrance the Stanley Park before bridge built 1888, and arch erected for Lord Stanley Oct 1889. Stanley Park Brewery is at foot of Alberni Street. Big tree beside arch is well-known tree at foot Georgia Street. The house was built by George Grant Mackay and was afterwards ‘Stanley Park Brewery’, Royal Brewing Co Ltd.” 1889. City of Vancouver Archives St Pk P115.
TOUR # 17 Sunday December 29, 2013
Stanley Park Secrets 125 Anniversary Historical Walking Tour
1:00pm – 2:30pm
Hear historical “secrets” of the Park’s past and highlights from Jolene Cumming as she celebrates 10 years of presenting historical walking tours in Stanley Park. The tour also features rare historical photographs. Departs and returns to the Viewing Plaza overlooking Lost Lagoon, at the foot of Alberni St. $10 cash. Drop-in only.
Buffalo at Stanley Park, 1939. Photo: City of Vancouver Archives St Pk N46.
TOUR # 16 War and Peace in Stanley Park, a Historical Perspective
Sunday November 10, 2013 A Remembrance Day Weekend Walking Tour
1:30pm – 3:00pm
In the mid 1800’s Stanley Park was declared a British Military Reserve…or was it? On this tour discover over 125 years of military related stories, ranging from secret defence sites, monuments, memorial gardens, protests, gathering places and the war effort activities that took place in the park. Includes rare historical photographs.
Fiji Islanders at the Hollow Tree on their way to the front, 1914-1918. Vancouver Archives Mil P56
Tour #15 THIS TOUR IS POSTPONED UNTIL THE SPRING OF 2014
Pauline Johnson/Tekahionwake: 100th Anniversary, A Stanley Park Historical Walking Tour
Sunday October 6, 2013
Pauline Johnson on right, at Stanley Park’s Hollow Tree, 1904. Photo: VPL 9431
Tour #14 Brockton Point Secrets Historical Walking Tour
Sunday September 15, 2013
1:30pm – 3:00pm
This Stanley Park tour includes hidden histories and forgotten stories about this famous point, its monuments, memorials, landmarks and tales about the people who lived there and visited its shores. A few of the highlights include: Pioneer Cemetery, families of Fisherman’s Cove, the Chehalis disaster, Deadman’s Island’s Pest House, 9 o’clock gun, totem tales, the bicycle craze of the 1890’s, Vancouver’s first sawmill site, the gun club’s 1908 Crow Shoot …. and much more. Tour also includes rare historical photographs. Meet in front of the Brockton Pt. totem poles (please arrive 10 minutes early). $10 cash. Drop-in only. Rain or shine.
STANLEY PARK 125 ANNIVERSARY
A HISTORY EXHIBITION IN VPL’s SPECIAL COLLECTIONS.
Sunday September 8, 2013, 1pm-4:30pm. Central Library, 7th floor. Free admission
EXHIBITS INCLUDE:Stanley Park Natural History by the Stanley Park Ecology Society, E. Pauline Johnson by Jolene Cumming, Herstory Cafe, Touring Vehicles in Stanley Park by Maurice Guibord, Memorials in Stanley Park by the British Columbia Genealogical Society’s Lorraine Irving and M. Diane Rogers, Theatre Under the Stars by Roger and Cecila Smith and Maddalena Acconci, Lumbermen’s Arch by Tim Woodland, Vancouver Postcard Club, Stanley Park Historical Postcard Display by the Stanley Park History Group and a wide varitey of other Stanley Park exhibits by the Vancouver Public Library’s Special Collections.
Tour # 13 Saturday September 7th, 2013
Stanley Park Secrets 125 Anniversary Historical Walking Tour
1:30pm – 3:00pm
Hear historical “secrets” of the Park’s past and highlights from Jolene Cumming as she celebrates 10 years of presenting historical walking tours in Stanley Park. The tour also features rare historical photographs. Departs and returns to the Viewing Plaza overlooking Lost Lagoon, at the foot of Alberni St. $10 cash. Drop-in only.
What family of 12 lived in this isolated little house in 1900… and why? City of Vancouver Archives photo SGN 977
Tour # 12 Protests, Rallies & Demonstrations in Stanley Park: a Labour Day weekend tour.Sunday September 1, 2013 from 1:30pm – 3:00pm
Stanley Park has a long history as a place of mass gatherings… and not all were of the recreational kind.
Lumberman’s Arch, Stanley Park. May Day Labour Speeches, 1950. Banner reads: “National Federation of Labour, Youth For Peace”. Photo: VPL 81275
From the 1919 Massive Peace Rally Celebrations at the old bandstand, the 1960’s Vietnam anti-war rallies, the 1930’s Mother’s Council & relief camps protest at Malkin Bowl, the 1944 disrobing Sons of Freedom Doukhobors, the 1970’s Greenpeace, Wilderness Committee to the “No Tanks” (oil tankers off BC coast) protests at Second Beach and the 1950’s Free Speech gatherings at Lumberman’s Arch, people gathered to have their voices heard in Stanley Park. Join this special Labour Day weekend tour and walk on the ground where these historic events happened. Hear the stories of over 20 protests, rallies & demonstrations. Departs and returns to the Viewing Plaza overlooking Lost Lagoon, at the foot of Alberni St.
Tour # 11 Saturday August 3, 2013.
Where the Park Meets the City: West of Denman & Stanley Park Entrance
10:30am – 12:00pm noon
Stroll the West End streets on the edge of Stanley Park and hear stories of the fascinating people who lived in and visited this neighbourhood, such as “Peerless Percy” Williams; the social elite, Sir & Lady Tupper, the Cambie’s, Tatlow’s and regular visitor actress Katherine Hepburn, (who had her favourite penthouse suite by the park). Discover the park’s Georgia Street entrance area and explore the decades of changes since the opening of the park in 1888, such as the formation of Lost Lagoon, the first Park Ranger’s family home & first zoo, the old arch & streetcar stop, industrial & recreational Coal Harbour and the big arenas that attracted thousands of Vancouverites. Tour includes rare historical photographs. Meet in front of the Stanley Park Manor at 1915 Haro St. (one block west of Denman St. at Gilford St. & across from the Buchan Hotel). Drop-in only. Rain or shine. $10 cash per person.
Chilco Street & Robson Street house and showing behind it, The Horse Show Building on the leftside , 191- . City of Vancouver Archives M-11-59
Tour # 10 Sunday July 28, 2013 Brockton Point Secrets Walking Tour (includes access to Deadman’s Island, with permission to “come aboard” from the HMCS Discovery, Canadian Navy)
1:30pm – 3:30pm (please arrive 10 minutes early)
**Meet in front of the Totem Poles at Brockton Point**
This tour includes “secrets” about: Deadman’s Island, the Pest House, The Pioneer Cemetery, Fisherman’s Cove family stories, the Chehalis disaster, “hidden” sport related stories about the early Athletic Grounds, Hallelujah Point, 9 O’clock Gun surprises and much more…
Limit 15 people. $10 cash per person. Rain or shine.
Fishermen’s Cove settlement on Coal Harbour at Brockton Point, 1894. CVA St Pk P96
Tour # 9 Wednesday evening, July 17, 2013.
Where the Park Meets the City: West of Denman & Stanley Park Entrance
6:30pm – 8:00pm
Stroll the West End streets on the edge of Stanley Park and hear stories of the fascinating people who lived in and visited this neighbourhood, such as “Peerless Percy” Williams; the social elite, Sir & Lady Tupper, the Cambie’s, Tatlow’s and regular visitor actress Katherine Hepburn, (who had her favourite penthouse suite by the park). Discover the park’s Georgia Street entrance area and explore the decades of changes since the opening of the park in 1888, such as the formation of Lost Lagoon, the first Park Ranger’s family home & first zoo, the old arch & streetcar stop, industrial & recreational Coal Harbour and the big arenas that attracted thousands of Vancouverites. Tour includes rare historical photographs. Meet in front of the Stanley Park Manor at 1915 Haro St. (one block west of Denman St. at Gilford St. & across from the Buchan Hotel). Drop-in only. Rain or shine. $10 cash per person.
Street car number 21 at the entrance to Stanley Park, ca. 1900. City of Vancouver Archives St Pk P39.2
Tour # 8 Friday July 12, 2013
Historical Gardens of Stanley Park Walking Tour
10:30am – 12:00pm
Stroll the remarkable gardens of Stanley Park. Hear their history and discover their hidden stories. Includes: The Lost Rock Garden, the formal Pavilion Garden, the Kiwanis Club’s Rose Garden, Shakespeare’s Garden and the Women’s Auxiliary of the Air Force’s Garden of Remembrance. Also hear stories of the park’s early resident’s and Park employee’s family gardens. Includes rare historical photographs.
Departs & returns to the Viewing Plaza overlooking Lost Lagoon at Chilco St & Alberni St. Drop-in only. Rain or shine. $10 cash per person.
Tour # 7 Saturday July 6, 2013
Stanley Park Secrets 125 Anniversary Historical Walking Tour
10:30am – 12:00pm
Hear historical “secrets” of the Park’s past and highlights from Jolene Cumming as she celebrates 10 years of presenting historical walking tours in Stanley Park. The tour features rare historical photographs. Meet at Stanley Park Dining Pavilion (across from Malkin Bowl & near the #19 city bus loop). $10 cash. Drop-in only. Rain or shine.
Tour # 6 Sunday June 30, 2013
Brockton Point Secrets Walking Tour (includes access to Deadman’s Island, with permission to “come aboard” from the HMCS Discovery, Canadian Navy)
1:30pm – 3:30pm
Meet in front of the Totem Poles at Brockton Point
This tour includes “secrets” about: Deadman’s Island, the Pest House, The Pioneer Cemetery, Fisherman’s Cove family stories, the Chehalis disaster, “hidden” sport related stories about the early Athletic Grounds, Hallelujah Point, 9 O’clock Gun surprises and much more…
Limit 15 people.$10 cash per person. Rain or shine.
Tour # 5 Saturday June 22, 2013
Historical Trails Tales Walking Tour
1:30pm – 3:00pm
From Tillicum Trail, Bridle Path to skid roads, explore the diverse cultural significance of Stanley Park’s miles of trails and pathways. Stroll the forest trails and discover the stories behind their names, how have they evolved since the 1860’s, “hidden” trail related secrets, who used them and why? $10 cash. Departs & returns to the Viewing Plaza overlooking Lost Lagoon at Chilco St & Alberni St. Drop-in only. Rain or shine.
Tour # 4 Saturday June 15, 2013
Historical Gardens of Stanley Park Walking Tour
1:30pm – 3:00pm
Stroll the remarkable gardens of Stanley Park. Hear their history and discover their hidden stories. Includes: The Lost Rock Garden, the formal Pavilion Garden, the Kiwanis Club’s Rose Garden, Shakespeare’s Garden and the Women’s Auxiliary of the Air Force’s Garden of Remembrance. Also hear stories of the park’s early resident’s and Park employee’s family gardens. Includes rare historical photographs. Meet at the Stanley Park Pavilion. Drop-in only. Rain or shine. $10 cash per person. Rain or shine
TOUR #3 Saturday June 8, 2013
Stanley Park, Vancouver’s Playground: Sports & Recreation Historical Walking Tour.
1:30pm – 3:30pm
Discover how active Vancouverites spent their time in Stanley Park, from the 1880’s into the 1920’s. Includes rare historical photographs.
Meet in front of the Stanley Park Dining Pavilion
TOUR # 2 Sunday June 2nd, 2013 E. Pauline Johnson 100 Years: A Stanley Park Historical Walking Tour
1:00pm – 2:30pm
In 1913 flags flew at half mast the day poet & stage performer E. Pauline Johnson (Tekahionwake) died in Vancouver’s West End. Johnson loved, routinely visited and wrote about Stanley Park. This tour will follow the trails she walked, stroll through the “Cathedral Trees” from her “The Lure of Stanley Park” story, walk the shores where she paddled her canoe, and visit the body of water she named Lost Lagoon. Also hear about other park themes from Johnson’s best selling 1912 “Legends of Vancouver” book, like Deadman’s Island and Siwash Rock. Includes rare historical photographs relating to E.P.J.
Departs from & returns to the Lost Lagoon viewing plaza at Alberni St. & Chilco St.
Drop-in only. $10 cash per person. Rain or shine.
2013 Tour #1 Stanley Park Secrets 125 Anniversary Historical Walking Tour. Hear “secrets” and highlights from Jolene Cumming as she celebrates 10 years of presenting historical walking tours in Stanley Park. Saturday May 25. 1:30pm-3:30pm. Meet at Stanley Park Pavilion. $10 cash. Drop-in. Rain or shine.
Janet Rogers and Sino General at the E. Pauline Johnson monument.
March 10, 2013
HERSTORY CAFE PRESENTS: Celebrate International Women’s Day/Week at TWO E. Pauline Johnson/Tekahionwake events with Mohawk writer and poet Janet Rogers.
Saturday March 9th, 2013. The Inspiration of E. Pauline at the Rhizome Cafe. Janet Rogers presents over 10 years of research through performance poetry, audio recordings, video and power-point presentation. Special Guests: Garry Gottfriedson and Michelle Sylliboy.
Sunday March 10th, 2013. Poetry in the Park for Pauline at her memorial monument in Stanley Park. Poetry Offerings by Mohawk poet Janet Rogers, Victoria’s Poet Laureate. Janet Rogers presents a poetic performance and poetry reading at her literary predecessor, E. Pauline Johnson’s memorial monument. Special Guests: Sino General and Murray Porter.
JANET ROGERS: “A Mohawk writer from the Six Nations band in southern Ontario, Janet Rogers was born in Vancouver. A published and award-winning poet, she has worked and studied in the genres of poetry, short fiction, spoken word performance poetry, video poetry and recorded poems with music and scriptwriting.
Janet Rogers hosts Native Waves Radio on CFUV 101.9fm and Tribal Clefs every Tuesday on CBC Radio One. Her video poem What Did You Do Boy, created in support of a spoken word track from her CD Firewater, earned nominations at the Canadian Aboriginal Music Awards 2009 and the Native American Music Awards 2010. Rogers’ radio documentary Bring Your Drum (50 Years of Indigenous Protest Music), aired in July 2011 on CBC’s Inside the Music and won the Best Radio award at the imagineNATIVE Film and Media Festival 2011. Her newest poetry collection is titled Unearthed.”
VALENTINE’S DAY HISTORICAL WALKING TOUR
ROMANTIC STANLEY PARK: THE AMOROUS, CURIOUS & SHADY SIDES
Sunday February 10, 2013 1:30pm – 3:30pm
For over 125 years, Stanley Park has been called “The Most Romantic Spot in Vancouver”. Join us for a stroll through the park, hear intriguing stories and see rare historical photographs. Tour presented by historical interpreter Jolene Cumming. More info: Stanley Park Ecology Society. Departs from the Stanley Park Nature House on Lost Lagoon, located under the viewing plaza at the corner of Alberni St & Chilco St.
Registration recommended at programs@stanleyparkecology.ca.
Stanley Park’s Secrets Historical Walking Tour
October 6, Saturday 1pm-3pm
There are countless mysteries, myths & misconceptions about the history of Stanley Park. Whose park is it? Why is Lost Lagoon lost? Where was the forgotten Fisherman’s Cove settlement? Walk through the “Lost Rock Garden”. Was there a Pioneer Cemetery and a Pest House in the park? Who really started the first zoo? Was there really artillery guns in the park? Where did the first grey squirrels come from? Find the answers to these questions, and dozens of others, on this myth busting historical tour. $10 cash. Drop in only. Departs and returns to the Stanley Park Dining Pavilion.
September 8, Saturday 1pm – 3pm
Final Resting Places, a Stanley Park Historical Walking
Departs from Brockton Point Visitors Centre (at the totem poles)
Joining the tour is Lorraine Irving, president of the BC Genealogical Society. The BCGS has been researching and preserving BC’s Genealogical Heritage Since 1971. The tour focuses on those who “rest in peace” in Stanley Park. The tour visits the old historic Pioneer Cemetery (the unofficial cemetery of Granville/Gastown until Mt. View Cemetery opens in 1887), the monument to those who drowned in the 1913 Chehalis boat disaster, Deadman’s Island’s small pox Pest House site and various other memorials honouring the dead in the park. It also features stories of the darker side of the park, including accidents, suicides and murders.
Sept 1, Saturday 11am-12:30pm
Departs and returns to the Stanley Park Dining Pavilion. Tickets: $12 cash.
Protests, Rallies & Demonstrations Historical Walking Tour. Stanley Park has a long history as a place of mass gatherings… and not all were of the recreational kind. From the 1919 Massive Peace Rally Celebrations at the old bandstand, the1960’s Vietnam anti-war rallies, the 1930’s Mother’s Council & relief camps protest at Malkin Bowl, the 1944 disrobing Sons of Freedom Doukhobors, the 1970’s Greenpeace, Wilderness Committee and “No Tanks” (oil tankers off BC coast) protests at Second Beach and the 1950’s Free Speech gatherings at Lumberman’s Arch, people gathered to have their voices heard in Stanley Park. Join this special Labour Day weekend tour and walk on the ground where these historic events happened. Hear the stories of over 20 protests, rallies & demonstrations.
Photo: VPL 81275 Lumberman’s Arch, Stanley Park. May Day Labour Speeches, 1950. Banner reads: “National Federation of Labour, Youth For Peace”.
Aug 25, Saturday 11am-12:30pm
Departs and returns to the Stanley Park Dining Pavilion
Horse Tales and Bridle Trails. Early Vancouver was a real Horse City before the car put an end to it. Up until 1910, Vancouverites got about by streetcar, bicycle and “horse power.” Stanley Park was the main recreational destination and people rode in the park on horses; from the Stanley Park Stables, in horse-drawn buggies, hackney-carriages, and Tally Hos. Pony rides, police on horseback, riding rings, The Horse Show Building and Saddle Clubs ruled the park. Walk the original “Bridle Trail”, created especially for horses and hear all other things horse related.
August 23, Thursday 11am-12:30pm
Departs from the Lost Lagoon viewing plaza at Alberni St & Chilco St
E. Pauline Johnson’s Stanley Park. In 1913, flags flew at half mast in Vancouver the day of poet & stage performer E. Pauline Johnson’s (Tekahionwake) funeral. She loved, visited and wrote about the park. This tour will follow the trails she walked, visit the “Cathedral Trees” from her “The Lure of Stanley Park” story, stroll the shores where she paddled her canoe, and visit the body of water she named Lost Lagoon. Also hear about other themes from Johnson’s best selling 1912 “Legends of Vancouver” book, like Deadman’s Island and Siwash Rock.
Sunday August 19 1:30pm-3:30pm
Historic Trails of Stanley Park, A Historical Walking Tour
A Stanley Park Ecology Society Discovery Walk Tour
From Tillicum Trail to skid roads, join historical interpreter Jolene Cumming to explore the diverse cultural significance of Stanley Park’s miles of trails. Stroll the trails and discover the stories behind their names, how have they evolved since the 1860’s, who used them and why? A Stanley Park Ecology Society Discovery Walk. Registration is suggested as space is limited. Stanley Park Ecology Society. Members, seniors and children $5, non-members $10. Meet at the Lost Lagoon Nature House located at the water’s edge at the west end of Alberni St (under the observation deck).
August 18, Saturday 11am-12:30pm
Departs and returns to the Stanley Park Dining Pavilion
Stanley Park’s Secrets Historical Walking Tour
There are countless mysteries, myths & misconceptions about the history of Stanley Park.Whose park is it? Why is Lost Lagoon lost? Where is the forgotten Fisherman’s Cove settlement? Was there a Pioneer Cemetery? Who really started the first zoo? Were there really artillery guns in the park? Where did the first grey squirrels come from? Find the answers to these questions, and dozens of others, on this myth busting historical tour.
August 2, Thursday 11am-12:30pm & August 11, Saturday 11am-12:30pm
Departs and returns to the Stanley Park Dining Pavilion
Historical Gardens of Stanley Park. Stroll the pathways of the many gardens of Stanley Park and hear the fascinating stories about their history and the parks history. The tour passes through the Lost Rock Garden, the Rose Garden, the Shakespeare Garden, the Air Force Memorial Garden and the Pavilion Gardens. Hear about the Stanley Park Community and Native Gardens, clam gardens, Ted & Mary Greig Rhododendron Garden and the gardens of the early park settlers.
Shakespeare`s Monument in Shakespeare`s Garden
Saturday May 26, 2012. Between 10:00am-12:00pm
90th Anniversary of the 1922 unveiling of the E. Pauline Johnson Memorial in Stanley Park. Join the Friends of the Vancouver City Archives Society at the memorial at Ferguson Point in Stanley Park to mark this historic anniversary and the recent City of Vancouver Archives donation of its original 1922 blueprints from J.B. Newall Memorials Ltd. Drop by that day, meet the Friends and see; a copy of the blueprints, E. Pauline Johnson historical photographs and other related items.
(see History Bites on this site)
Saturday May 5, 2012. 1:00pm – 2:30pm. A Jane’s Walk – Stanley Park’s Forgotten History: Where Human and Natural History Met. Did you know the big storm of 2006 uncovered portions of the once famous mile long “Lost” Rock Garden which contains a previously buried plaque to forgotten feminist WCTU leader Frances Willard? Join historical interpreter Jolene Cumming and see this hidden park history and much more, while strolling through Vancouver’s favourite green space. The walk includes rare archival photographs. On this guided tour we will visit monuments, plaques, gardens, historical sites and ghost sites.
Wednesday April 25, 2012. 7pm-8:30pm. Herstory Cafe at the Sylvia Hotel.
The Life and Art of Mildred Valley Thornton, an illustrated talk by author Sheryl Salloum, 2012 BC Book Prize Roderick Haig-Brown Prize Nominee.
Thornton`s paintings included many of Stanley Park and were a regular fixture on the walls of Clark`s Gallery of B.C. Artists, situated from 1961-1980 at Chilco & Georgia. The full story of this distinctive artist, accomplished with landscapes and portraits, watercolours and oils, is being told for the first time. She was also a noted journalist, Vancouver Sun art critic (1944-1959), book reviewer, published poet and recipient of a Canadian Authors’ Association Award for her book Indian Lives and Legends (1966). Herstory Cafe .
Saturday March 10, 2012: E. Pauline Johnson’s (Tekahionwake) Vancouver Days Exhibit. The display includes historical photographs and other material relating to poet and stage performer, E. Pauline Johnson’s, life and death in our city, 1909-1913. Find out why Johnson named this body of water “Lost Lagoon”. This special exhibit also marks Johnson’s March 10th birthday and International Women’s Day/Week. Exhibit is for one day only in the Stanley Park Nature House on Lost Lagoon. 12:00pm-3:00pm. Presented by the Stanley Park Ecology Society and the Stanley Park History Group.
Sunday March 11, 2012. The Environmental History of Stanley Park Walking Tour. Maximum 20 people.1:30pm-3:30pm. SPES members, under 18 yrs & seniors $5. Non-members $10. More info and a park map visit http://www.stanleyparkecology.ca Departs & Returns to the STANLEY PARK DINING PAVILION near the #19 city bus loop.
Sunday February 12, 2012. St. Valentine’s Day tour:
The Amorous, Curious and Shady Side of Romantic Stanley Park, a historical walking tour with historical interpreter Jolene Cumming, Herstory Cafe . A Stanley Park Ecology Society (SPES) Discovery Walk. Tour leaves the Lost Lagoon Nature House (located at the water’s edge of the lagoon under the lagoon viewing plaza at the corner of Chilco St & Alberni St.).1:30pm-3:30pm. SPES members, children & Seniors $5. Non-members $10. http://www.stanleyparkecology.ca.
Sunday February 5, 2012. Herstory Cafe & the Roedde House Museum present: The Women of Roedde House Tour. Roedde House, built in 1893, is a late-Victorian house in the Queen Anne revival style that has been restored and furnished with period and family artefacts. Tour the house while hearing stories by 4 historians about this early German immigrant family, including their special connections to Stanley Park. 1415 Barclay St. 11am-12:30pm. $5 per person, includes reception and light refreshments. Maximum 20 people. info@roeddehouse.org or jolene@herstorycafe.ca. All proceeds to The Roedde House Preservation Society. More info at: www.herstorycafe.ca
Saturday January 21, 2012. PART 2 – Stanley Park Historical Photographs Exhibit. Over 100 people came to Part 1. Join us again and see all new photographs. Drop by the Nature House on Lost Lagoon between 12:00 noon and 3:00pm and view a collection of remarkable archival photographs of Stanley Park. Admission by donation (no one turned away) and a complimentary cup of hot chocolate. Historical interpreter Jolene Cumming on site. Presented by the Stanley Park Ecology Society and the Stanley Park History Group. The Nature House is located at the water’s edge of the lagoon under the Lagoon viewing plaza at the corner of Chilco St & Alberni St.
Saturday December 17, 2011. PART 1 – Stanley Park Historical Photographs Exhibit. Drop by the Nature House on Lost Lagoon between 12:00 noon and 3:00pm and view a collection of remarkable archival photographs of Stanley Park. Admission by donation (no one turned away) and a complimentary cup of hot chocolate. Historical interpreter Jolene Cumming on site. Presented by the Stanley Park Ecology Society and the Stanley Park History Group. The Nature House is located at the water’s edge of the lagoon under the Lagoon viewing plaza at the corner of Chilco St & Alberni St.
Stanley Park & Vancouver Women's History Events 
