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FROM Water over the wheel by W H Olsen, 1963, p68-69
Chemanis December 15th 1871
Mr Pearse [PEARSE, BENJAMIN WILLIAM, surveyor, politician, office holder, and civil servant];
Dear Sir I have examined the Bridges & Culvearts that I let to Mr kier to repair & he has done them according to Contract he has repaired eight Bridges & Culvearts an the amount of the Contract was twenty five dollars he has also Cut out trees that was blown across the road & filled up holes in the road fulley to the amount of five dollars I agreed to pay it which will make the sum total of thirty dollars…
I think that he has well earned his money the road that was repaired starts from Davies faem & goes along the old road past young Skinners to the Crick & then he went the length of the Maple Bay road the road is in good repair there has ben the biggest flood in the Chemainis River that we have had for the last ten years it would swam a horse where our tenets stood Mr Mingey went over hobbarts timothy field with a canoo & could not tutch bottom with the paddle the Bridgeia as firm as a rock the flood swept away the siwashes fences & habbarts fence those small Bridges on the road going up the River to Richardsons are caried away & anney amount of logs across the road the road is impasable I think the old Covering will do again & perhaps the stringers may do the trail that Mr. Miller cut out is good all the way through & also the bridges that he repaired.
There was five or six large trees lodged against the pier but did no damage the nose piece that I spiked on the upper sid of the pier for the protection of the planking on the pier is getting considerabley brused by the flood wood I think it would be a good plan to put a plate of ironup an down on the nose piece & the watter has washed away the loos soil in front of the abutment on the west end of the Bridge down to the Clay that is the foundation of the abutment
I think it would be a good plan to rubble it with coarse rock it would prevent it from washing anney more.
Your most obeadient searvant C H Lambkins
In 1863, David Wishart Mainguy bought pre-empted land along the river and mouth of the Chemainus River, as well as Mainguy and Round Island. He developed the land with barns and gardens, chicken run and pig sty. From his first shack, to his house on Mainguy Island to the house he built across the river from All Saints Church, Westholme, he can be considered one of the original settlers.
FROM OUR FRIEND, THE CHEMAINUS VALLEY COURIER
The Bonsall Family, one of the original pioneering families
The Bonsall Family, one of the original pioneering families
Families came by the waves to Chemainus in the early days
Some interesting tidbits from early Chemainus:
Land for sale, 1 £per acre; no takers. That was the end result of advertisements for available land in the Chemainus valley in 1857. In November of 1858 one J. A. Grahame, a clerk for the Hudson Bay company in Fort Vancouver bought 75 acres (35 hectares) on River Road. Known as ‘Grahames’ Prairie’ or ‘Rainbow Ranch’ it is considered the first homestead in the Chemainus Country. There is no indication that he ever lived there or ever developed the property.
In 1859 the first ‘wave’ of settlers, six families of 212 applicants, settled in ‘Chemainus Prairie.’ By 1880, Chemainus Prairie’s name was known as Hall’s Crossing, named after the first owner of the Quist Farm. By 1886 the railway was put through and Captain C. E. Barkley became post-master (by general consensus). The little post office was called Westholme after the name of Captain Barkley’s house, and the name stayed. The 1861 census by the Land Office’s List of settlers names: William Robertson, George Watson, Robert Watson, James Mars, Thomas Cunningham and William Alexander Scott.
The Bonsall Family, one of the original pioneering families
The Bonsall Family, one of the original pioneering families
The Bonsall Family, one of the original pioneering families
In 1863, David Wishart Mainguy bought pre-empted land along the river and mouth of the Chemainus River, as well as Mainguy and Round Island. He developed the land with barns and gardens, chicken run and pig sty. From his first shack, to his house on Mainguy Island to the house he built across the river from All Saints Church, Westholme, he can be considered one of the original settlers.
The logging industry in the Chemainus Valley had begun to bustle in 1850 and Chemainus had been a thriving native community by 1858 (considered its founding year). It was the sawmill built on Horseshoe Bay in 1862 that drew in the people. The sawmill offered as many as 500 jobs and the town was born.
Step into the past by visiting the Chemainus Valley Museum and check out the logging display. It’s located next door to the Waterwheel Park, 9799 Waterwheel Cres.
Check out the interesting past of the area at the Chemainus Valley Museum
printed in the Chemainus Courier Sep. 24, 2017 11:00 a.m.
COMMUNITY
The story of Clements Pharmacy
St Michael's Church one of a few buildings in Chemainus that has rarely changed in appearance
Horseshoe Bay Hotel still looks very much the same
Location moved to Oak and Esplanade in 1952
Some buildings of Chemainus rarely change, but over the years different enterprises move in and then on.
Did you know one of the earliest pharmacies was housed in two buildings that are both still standing? Stuart Clements opened a pharmacy in the building on the corner of Chemainus Road and Mill Street in 1928. He bought it from Jerry Monk, who had been the town barber.
When Mr. Clements needed to expand, he moved down to Oak and Esplanade in 1952.
The Chemainus Valley Museum has a wonderful collection of artifacts from the Clements Pharmacy on display.
The museum is located at 9799 Waterwheel Cres.
printed in the Chemainus Courier Jun. 23, 2018 1:30 p.m.
COMMUNITY/DON BODGER
Horseshoe Bay Hotel still looks very much the same
St Michael's Church one of a few buildings in Chemainus that has rarely changed in appearance
Horseshoe Bay Hotel still looks very much the same
It’s one of those buildings in Chemainus that’s rarely changed
Some buildings of Chemainus rarely change.
Another example is the main part of the Horseshoe Bay Hotel that has been around since the late 1800s.
Its life started as a horse and carriage stop, and got its first liquor license in 1883.
Many famous people such as John D. Rockefeller and Andrew Carnegie have visited.
Drop in for a pint or a coffee, wander through the beautiful streets of Chemainus and then step back in time at the Chemainus Valley Museum.
The museum at 9799 Waterwheel Cres.
printed in the Chemainus Courier June 11, 2018 1:30 p.m
COMMUNITY/DON BODGER
St Michael's Church one of a few buildings in Chemainus that has rarely changed in appearance
St Michael's Church one of a few buildings in Chemainus that has rarely changed in appearance
St Michael's Church one of a few buildings in Chemainus that has rarely changed in appearance
Some buildings of Chemainus rarely change. St Michael's and All Angel's Anglican Church, in this ophoto circa 1890s, looks much the same today as when it was first built.
Come wander through the beautiful streets of Chemainus, then take a step back in time at the Chemainus valley Museum, 9799 Waterwheel Crescent.
printed in the Chemainus Courier May. 6, 2018 12:30 p.m
COMMUNITY/DON BODGER
Hotel names flip-flop between Green Lantern, Lewisville
Hotel names flip-flop between Green Lantern, Lewisville
St Michael's Church one of a few buildings in Chemainus that has rarely changed in appearance
First school teacher Sam Lewis the original builder
Many of Chemainus’ oldest buildings have evolved considerably over the years.
Before the First World War, the Green Lantern Hotel had been the Lewisville Hotel. Originally built by the first school teacher, Sam Lewis, the names have flipped back and forth from one to the other.
At one time, the Green Lantern Cafe was also part of the enterprise, serving Chinese food.
Wander through the beautiful streets of Chemainus, then take a step back in time at the Chemainus Valley Museum, 9799 Waterwheel Cres.
printed in the Chemainus Courier Apr. 27, 2018 1:30 p.m.
COMMUNITY/DON BODGER
Willow Street Cafe a versatile building over time
Hotel names flip-flop between Green Lantern, Lewisville
Willow Street Cafe a versatile building over time
Current site has housed a variety of establishments
Many of Chemainus’ oldest buildings have evolved over the years.
The present Willow Street Cafe has been the post office, a customs office, a bank and housed a realtor.
It began as the Masonic Hall, built in 1927.
Check out the Willow Street Cafe and then take a step back in time at the Chemainus Valley Museum.
The museum at 9799 Waterwheel Cres.
printed in the Chemainus Courier Mar. 30, 2018 2:30 p.m
COMMUNITY/DON BODGER
Mount Sicker once a booming townsite
Hotel names flip-flop between Green Lantern, Lewisville
Willow Street Cafe a versatile building over time
Decline in copper prices made its decline imminent
On May 16, 1897, Harry Smith and Harry Buzzard staked the Lenora Claim, initiating Mount Sicker as a mining centre.
By May of 1907 , Mount Sicker had reached its peak, boasting two hotels, two general stores, a butcher shop, livery stable and more than 70 dwellings.
In August of 1907, the town site narrowly escaped being destroyed by fire. Along with the decline of the price of copper, the downfall of Mount Sicker was imminent.
Closure followed in early 1908.
More great historical photos and stories can be viewed at the Chemainus Valley Museum, 9799 Waterwheel Crescent.
printed in the Chemainus Courier Mar. 11, 2018 7:30 a.m.
COMMUNITY
The Big Edger in the Chemainus sawmill
First taxi service around Chemainus circa 1920
First taxi service around Chemainus circa 1920
Chemainus’ European history was started by lumber mills as early as 1862. Here is a “modern view “ of the Big Edger, Victoria Lumber and Mill Company 1925.
Step back in time and see more great photos at the Chemainus Valley Museum, 9799 Waterwheel Cres.
The expanded museum opened on March 1. The grand opening is Saturday, Aug. 17 from noon to 1 p.m.
Current hours of operation are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily.
printed in the Chemainus Courier Aug. 12, 2019 10:20 a.m.
DON BODGER/COMMUNITY
First taxi service around Chemainus circa 1920
First taxi service around Chemainus circa 1920
First taxi service around Chemainus circa 1920
First taxi (Jitney service) with Albert Campbell behind the wheel, circa 1920. Many more great historical photos are on display at the Chemainus Valley Museum, 9799 Waterwheel Cres.
Printed in the Chemainus Valley Courier Sep. 24, 2019 2:55 p.m.
DON BODGER/COMMUNITY
Showing their class
First taxi service around Chemainus circa 1920
Showing their class
Chemainus Secondary students in the early 1960s
We often forget snapshots in time that show off the styles of the day.
Here’s a group of students from Chemainus Secondary School in the early 1960s.
Come and check out more great school photos at the Chemainus Valley Museum, 9799 Waterwheel Cres.
printed in the Chemainus Valley Courier Apr. 8, 2019 2:43 p.m.
DON BODGER/COMMUNITY
The Merlamac II
Historic Chemainus Houses
Showing their class
Joe Ordano a master boat-builder in his day.
Joe Ordano was well-known as a boat builder in Chemainus. Examples of his craft were everywhere, including the Merlamac II, built around 1950. ***
Step back in time and see more great photos at the Chemainus Valley Museum, 9799 Waterwheel Cres.
printed in the Chemainus Valley Courier Mar. 23, 2019 1:30 p.m.
DON BODGER/COMMUNITY
***[ The Merlamac II was actually built circa 1950, not 1920; typo in paper by Museum archivist not newspaper editor]***
Slinger’s Winery
Historic Chemainus Houses
Historic Chemainus Houses
Site became Joe Sandland’s house
Once upon a time there was Slinger’s Winery (1941) and then in 1976 it became Joe Sandland’s house. Step back in time to see more great photos at the Chemainus Valley Museum. ***
printed in Chemainus Courier Mar. 14, 2019 11:00 a.m.
DON BODGER/COMMUNITY
***[This photo was labeled Slinger's Winery 1976, however the Sandland's bought the property around 1941; typo in paper by Museum archivist not newspaper editor]***
Historic Chemainus Houses
Historic Chemainus Houses
Historic Chemainus Houses
Historic homes are abundant around Chemainus and notice the snow on the ground, typical with what’s been happening recently.
Chemainus has been home to quite a few familiar buildings, especially some homes. Now known as the Mattin’s House, this house was originally built for the Clement family.
Step back in time to see more great photos at the Chemainus Valley Museum.
printed in the Chemainus Courier Feb. 14, 2019 6:30 a.m.
DON BODGER/COMMUNITY
Japanese community big part of Chemainus
Japanese community big part of Chemainus
Japanese community big part of Chemainus
Class photo from the pre-Second World War era
The Japanese community had a strong presence in Chemainus, as this pre-Second World War class photo illustrates. The exact year and school can’t be made out from the photo. Anyone know?
You can see more great photos at the Chemainus Valley Museum.
printed in the Chemainus Courier Feb. 9, 2019 8:30 a.m.
DON BODGER/COMMUNITY
Reach For The Top
Japanese community big part of Chemainus
Japanese community big part of Chemainus
Popular TV quiz show once featured Chemainus students
Does anyone remember the Canadian TV quiz show ‘Reach for the Top’? Chemainus once had a group of students who participated on the program. You can see more great photos at the Chemainus Valley Museum.
printed in Chemainus Valley Courier Jan. 20, 2019 10:25 a.m.
DON BODGER/COMMUNITY
Students With Class
Japanese community big part of Chemainus
Barbershop Quartet Spreads Glee
Recognize anyone from Chemainus Elementary Div. 9 in 1962?
Classroom photos are always a favourite at the Chemainus Valley Museum, especially when faces are recognized. This photo of the 1962 Div. 9 class at Chemainus Elementary School is just one of many.
You can step back in time to see more great photos at the Chemainus Valley Museum.
printed in the Chemainus Courier Jan. 14, 2019 9:30 a.m.
DON BODGER/COMMUNITY
Barbershop Quartet Spreads Glee
Barbershop Quartet Spreads Glee
Barbershop Quartet Spreads Glee
Dapper-looking guys all tuned up
Those mustaches are pretty fancy. Here are Bill Jackson, Dickie Duncan, Dave Greenhorn and friend performing as a Barbershop quartet.
You can step back in time to see more great photos at the Chemainus Valley Museum.
printed Chemainus Courier Jan. 7, 2019 9:30 a.m.
DON BODGER/COMMUNITY
July 1 in Chemainus
Barbershop Quartet Spreads Glee
George Price’s Bakery
This is the parade scene in 1933
Parades have long been part of Canada Day celebrations, especially in Chemainus. This photo is from the July 1 parade in 1933, along what’s now Old Victoria Road.
You can step back in time to see more great photos at the Chemainus Valley Museum.
printed in Chemainus Courier Jan. 2, 2019 12:55 p.m.
DON BODGER/COMMUNITY
George Price’s Bakery
Barbershop Quartet Spreads Glee
George Price’s Bakery
Chemainus residents love to get their goodies
Bakeries have always been a big part of the Chemainus business community.Before the Chemainus Bakery in Old Town and Utopia, there was George Price’s Bakery.
See more great photos and step back in time at the Chemainus Valley Museum.The museum is located at 9799 Waterwheel Cresc. in downtown Chemainus.
printed in the Chemainus Courier Dec. 15, 2018 9:30 a.m.
DON BODGER/COMMUNITY
First aircraft Chemainus enters a new era
First aircraft Chemainus enters a new era
First aircraft Chemainus enters a new era
No one in Chemainus had ever seen an aircraft except for those who had served overseas until August 1919 when a PathfinderII was on its way from Victoria to Nanaimo at the breathtaking speed of 80 miles per hour.
It was carrying the first air mail on Vancouver Island by special arrangement with the Postal Authorities.
The Chemainus Valley Museum contains many interesting displays and stories about the area’s rich history.
The museum is located at 9799 Waterwheel Cres. in downtown Chemainus.
printed in the Chemainus Courier Oct. 26, 2018 7:25 a.m. DON BODGER/COMMUNITY
Chemainus General Hospital
First aircraft Chemainus enters a new era
First aircraft Chemainus enters a new era
Advancement of typhoid fever resulted in it being built
Typhoid Fever struck Chemainus in 1899. Within a week, the disease had struck down many, some resulting in death.
The epidemic soon abated, but the memory of the horror was still fresh. Sept. 13, 1899, Chemainus residents put forth a motion for the building of a hospital. The hospital was built by general subscription with the land donated by the Victoria Lumber Company.
The Chemainus Valley Museum contains many interesting displays and stories about the area’s rich history.
The museum is located at 9799 Waterwheel Cres. in downtown Chemainus.
Printed in the Chemainus Courier Nov. 24, 2018 12:30 p.m. DON BODGER/COMMUNITY.
Westholme Tree
First aircraft Chemainus enters a new era
Pine Street School 1917
Storm blows it down in 1913
The Westholme tree was blown down in the storm of 1913. The Chemainus Valley Museum contains many interesting displays and stories about the area’s rich history.
The museum is located at 9799 Waterwheel Cres. in downtown Chemainus.
Printed in the Chemainus Courier Oct. 20, 2018 9:00 a.m.
DON BODGER/ COMMUNITY
Pine Street School 1917
The Thetis Island to Kuper (Penelakut) Island Bridge
Pine Street School 1917
More memories from the Chemainus Valley Museum
In 1917, a school was built on Pine Street between Willow and Cedar.
It operated for 21 years until an expanding population demanded a larger facility. Students wishing to continue past Grade 10 had to travel to Ladysmith.
The Chemainus Valley Museum contains many interesting displays and stories about the area’s rich history.
The museum is located at 9799 Waterwheel Cres. in downtown Chemainus.
Printed in Chemainus Courier Oct. 4, 2018 3:30 p.m.
DON BODGER/ COMMUNITY
The Thetis Island to Kuper (Penelakut) Island Bridge
The Thetis Island to Kuper (Penelakut) Island Bridge
The Thetis Island to Kuper (Penelakut) Island Bridge
Connector eventually deemed unnecessary
This bridge crossed over to Kuper (Penelakut) Island mainly to visit the school and to access the post office.
Once the post office was moved to Thetis Island and with the installation of Government wharves on both Islands, the bridge was not essential. Removal of the bridge was requested to allow larger seine boats and tugs to pass through the dredged canal.
The Chemainus Valley Museum contains many interesting displays and stories about the area’s rich history.
The museum is located at 9799 Waterwheel Cres. in downtown Chemainus. It’s open seven days a week in September from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.Type your paragraph here.
printed in the Chemainus Courier Sep. 14, 2018 12:30 p.m.
DON BODGER/COMMUNITY
Charlie LaFleur
The Thetis Island to Kuper (Penelakut) Island Bridge
The Thetis Island to Kuper (Penelakut) Island Bridge
Man famous around town for being on his high horse
Charlie LaFleur arrived in Chemainus in 1946 at the age of 63.
He is remembered for his love of animals, especially horses. He could often be found riding around the streets of Chemainus on ‘Chico’ or ‘Pedro.’
For several years, LaFleur was the parade marshal for the July 1 parade in Chemainus.
The Chemainus Valley Museum contains many interesting displays and stories about the area’s rich history.
The museum is located at 9799 Waterwheel Cres. in downtown Chemainus.
printed in the Chemainus Courier Sep. 17, 2018 8:30 a.m.
DON BODGER/COMMUNITY
Allester lit up homes as an electrician and dance floors as a musician
Allester lit up homes as an electrician and dance floors as a musician
Allester lit up homes as an electrician and dance floors as a musician
Long history of talented musicians and groups in Chemainus
William Mackie Allester came to Chemainus with his wife and young family in 1923.
The Allesters camped in Halhed’s orchard (now Kin Park) while house hunting.
Will was an electrician, wiring many Chemainus homes as well as the Chemainus Planer Mill.
He was a choirmaster at the Anglican Church for many years, often taking choral groups to compete at Music Festivals between Nanaimo and Victoria.
Will led the Chemainus Dance Band and played violin for extras at club dances. It seems Chemainus has quite a long history of talented musicians and groups.
More great historical photos and stories can be viewed at the Chemainus Valley Museum, 9799 Waterwheel Crescent.
printed in the Chemainus Courier Feb. 24, 2018 12:30 p.m. DON BODGER/COMMUNITY
The Great Snowfall of 1916 in the Chemainus Valley
Allester lit up homes as an electrician and dance floors as a musician
Allester lit up homes as an electrician and dance floors as a musician
It kept falling in the region almost continuously for 47 days
Starting December 30, 1915, snowfall was almost continuous for 47 days in the Chemainus area.
Motor vehicles were rendered useless, with horses coming back to favour pulling sleighs. On the 27th day, the Chemainus River was completely frozen. On the 38th day, 3-4 feet of snow fell, and the following four days yielded another 6-7 feet.
Barns and unoccupied houses collapsed under the massive weight. At some isolated farms, the inhabitants cut up wreckage to keep the home fires burning.
More great historical photos and stories can be viewed at the Chemainus Valley Museum, 9799 Waterwheel Crescent.
printed in the Chemainus Courier Feb. 2, 2018 2:30 p.m.
COMMUNITY/DON BODGER
Sam Alexander operated locomotives in Chemainus for many years
Allester lit up homes as an electrician and dance floors as a musician
Sam Alexander operated locomotives in Chemainus for many years
The jack-of-all trades substituted in the position one day and never changed course
Sam Alexander was born in 1892 just north of Nanaimo.
His first job was starting and stopping a steam engine on a coal conveyor at the mine. He was 13 years old and received 75 cents a day.
Alexander also drove a mule team hauling cars of coal, worked as a blacksmith’s helper, was a pump man and spare brakeman, and a fireman on locomotives. He was skipper and engineer on the SSBute, carrying loggers to the camps and hauling freight and towing logs.
One day the regular locomotive engineer was away and Sam took over as locomotive engineer and shovel engineer. He operated locomotives in Chemainus from 1940 until his retirement in 1964.
You can find out more about Sam Alexander and other colourful characters who shaped the history of Chemainus at the Chemainus Valley Museum, 9799 Waterwheel Crescent.
printed in the Chemainus Courier Jan. 2, 2018 1:30 p.m.
COMMUNITY/DON BODGER
Thetis Island ferry named in honour of Ethel Hunter
Thetis Island ferry named in honour of Ethel Hunter
Sam Alexander operated locomotives in Chemainus for many years
Many descendants still live on the Island
he Chemainus Valley is rich in history and significant tales from the past. Watch for other historical tidbits in future issues.
Thetis Island was given ferry service in 1959.
The new ferry was named after Ethel Hunter, a pioneer of Thetis Island. Ethel Fawcett arrived on Thetis Island in 1908 and married Peter Hunter. Peter and his brother had bought some land on Thetis in the late 1800s and proceeded to clear the land to build their home.
Ethel and Peter had two children, Ena and son Adam. They were the pupils at the Island’s first school.
Ethel took part in the ferry inauguration ceremonies with relish and aplomb. She was 80 years old then and lived to be 92.
Many of her descendants still live on the Island.
To check out more stories and photographs, stop in at the Chemainus Valley Museum, 9799 Waterwheel Crescent in downtown Chemainus. Be a tourist in your own hometown.
printed in the Chemainus Courier Dec. 6, 2017 4:30 p.m.
COMMUNITY/DON BODGER
Chemainus Cenotaph
Thetis Island ferry named in honour of Ethel Hunter
Chemainus Cenotaph
Move to the current site next to Waterwheel Park occurred in 1950
The Chemainus Cenotaph’s previous location might not be known to many in the community.
Willow Street was once known as Albert Street which housed St. Michael’s Anglican Church, built in 1891.
The Cenotaph was located in the middle of the street. It was dedicated there in 1921 and moved to the present location next to Waterwheel Park in 1950. When this occurred, Albert Street became known as Willow Street.
The large building adjacent to the church was the Masonic building, completed in 1927.
Find out more about facts like this at the Chemainus Valley Museum on Willow Street.
printed in the Chemainus Courier Nov. 8, 2017 6:30 p.m.
COMMUNITY
Cap Bardot,
Thetis Island ferry named in honour of Ethel Hunter
Chemainus Cenotaph
one of the colourful characters from Chemainus’ past
Chemainus Valley Museum features many displays and stories of the region’s history
The past comes alive at the Chemainus Valley Museum.
When Alick Bardot first came to the Chemainus area, he lived on Reid Island with the Silvey Family. He fished with the Silveys, worked at the cannery on Reid Island and cooked on Seine boats.
He was known far and wide as ‘Cap’ probably because year in and year out, he wore a very salty old yachtsman’s cap. Everyone who knew him has a favourite ‘Cap’ Bardot story.
Some stories were far out and some were comical, but all of them were entertaining and most based on the truth. It is a fact he was once in the old North West Mounted Police, stationed in Regina in the early 1920’s.
He was very independent, in his later years rarely missing a Friday trip to Chemainus. His pastime was painting pictures, a great many of them miniatures painted on oyster shells.
The story of Cap and other pioneers can be found in ‘Memories of the Chemainus Valley,’ a book compiled by Lillian Gustafson in 1978.
printed in the Chemainus Courier Oct. 12, 2017 1:00 p.m.
COMMUNITY
The Marshall House in Chemainus
The First Chemainus Golf Course
The Marshall House in Chemainus
Log scaler located his residence at the corner of Oak Street and the Old Island Highway
The Home of J.F. Marshall, a Government Log scaler, was situated on the corner of the Old Island Highway and Oak Street.
The house was built in the late 1800s and was later owned by Locky Daniels.
The Chemainus Village Square now occupies this area.
The Chemainus Valley Museum contains many interesting displays and stories about the area’s rich history.
The museum is located at 9799 Waterwheel Cres.
printed in the Chemainus Courier Sep. 5, 2018 9:50 a.m.
COMMUNITY/ DON BODGER
Bare Point Lighthouse
The First Chemainus Golf Course
The Marshall House in Chemainus
Chemainus site popular for picnics
The Bare Point lighthouse was one of those longtime Chemainus landmarks.
Charles Laurence, one of the lighthouse keepers, would row across the harbour daily from Chemainus to light the lantern. The point was a favourite site for afternoon walks and a destination for picnics for locals of all ages.
The Chemainus Valley Museum contains many interesting displays and stories about the area’s rich history.
The museum is located at 9799 Waterheel Cres.
printed in the Chemainus Courier Aug. 28, 2018 5:30 p.m
COMMUNITY/ DON BODGER
The First Chemainus Golf Course
The First Chemainus Golf Course
The First Chemainus Golf Course
Sport’s roots in the region go back to 1926
The original Chemainus Golf Course was officially opened May 25, 1926.
The course was located on several acres of rough pasture land on Dodd’s Farm at the end of Chapman Road in North Chemainus.
It was leased year-to-year for that purpose.
The Chemainus Valley Museum contains many interesting displays and stories about the area’s rich history.
The museum is located at 9799 Waterwheel Cres. Our summer hours from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
printed in the Chemainus Courier Aug. 25, 2018 8:30 a.m.
COMMUNITY/ DON BODGER
Bert’s Log Cabin
McBride’s Service Station in Chemainus started as Imperial Garage
The First Chemainus Golf Course
Choicest logs used in its construction
In 1942, John Humbird, owner of the Chemainus sawmill, built an exclusive resort and hideaway for himself and his closest friends.
It was made with the choicest logs and shaped by the best woodsmen. It was built 35 miles up Copper Canyon Road.
Bert Beggs of Chemainus later bought the log home, dismantled it and reassembled it in the site where it’s currently situated.
The Chemainus Valley Museum contains many interesting displays and stories about the area’s rich history.
The museum is located at 9799 Waterwheel Cres.
printed in the Chemainus Courier
Jul. 29, 2018 7:30 a.m.
COMMUNITY/ DON BODGER
Tahiti treat
McBride’s Service Station in Chemainus started as Imperial Garage
McBride’s Service Station in Chemainus started as Imperial Garage
Tahitian Restaurant was a popular place between Chemainus and Crofton
Sometimes we forget what buildings used to stand at various locations around the Chemainus Valley.
Here’s one for nostalgia buffs and a glimpse into the past for the younger generation: the Tahitian Restaurant that used to stand at the corner of Chemainus and Crofton Roads. It was one of the great theme restaurants of its time.
Early followers of rec hockey in the Valley will also remember the restaurant sponsored a team called the Tahitian Natives in the rec league at Fuller Lake Arena.
printed in the Chemainus Courier Jul. 21, 2018 8:00 a.m.
COMMUNITY/DON BODGER
McBride’s Service Station in Chemainus started as Imperial Garage
McBride’s Service Station in Chemainus started as Imperial Garage
McBride’s Service Station in Chemainus started as Imperial Garage
Business enterprises documented at the Chemainus Valley Museum
Many of Chemainus’ oldest buildings have evolved over the years.
The McBride’s Garage’s origin, a well-known business in town on Chemainus Road, was the Imperial Garage built in 1925 by Francesco and Maria Crucil.
The accompanying ad from the McBride’s major expansion features some well-known and familiar faces.
The Chemainus Valley Museum includes interesting displays of the area’s rich business history.
The museum is located at 9799 Waterwheel Cres.
printed in the Chemainus Courier Jul. 13, 2018 3:30 p.m.
COMMUNITY/ DON BODGER
Lewisville Pub, a.k.a. Green Lantern, a landmark in Chemainus
Lewisville Pub, a.k.a. Green Lantern, a landmark in Chemainus
Lewisville Pub, a.k.a. Green Lantern, a landmark in Chemainus
In 1863, Sam Lewis was the first teacher in Chemainus. He gave up teaching to build and operate the Lewisville Hotel. It burned down in 1906, was eventually rebuilt and the name has flip-flopped to and from Green Lantern over the years.
https://www.chemainusvalleycourier.ca/community/historical-moment-4/
Chemainus Courier
Jul. 2, 2020 11:50 a.m.
Another glimpse into the Chemainus Valley’s past
Lewisville Pub, a.k.a. Green Lantern, a landmark in Chemainus
Lewisville Pub, a.k.a. Green Lantern, a landmark in Chemainus
Fred Hart sharpening saws. He came to Chemainus in the 1930s to be a filer in the Chemainus sawmill just like his father, Burton Hart.
https://www.chemainusvalleycourier.ca/community/historical-moment-6/
Chemainus Courier
Jul. 17, 2020 3:30 p.m.
Waiting for the Parade 1961
Lewisville Pub, a.k.a. Green Lantern, a landmark in Chemainus
Waiting for the Parade 1961
McBride’s Service Station an ideal vantage point
Robert McBride was the owner of the service station, followed by his widow Dorothy McBride, then nephew Pat Allester, Roy Bell and Jim Myers.
The girl in the red pants is none other than Val Galvin (Allester), hanging out on that incredible Plymouth. Other members of the gathering clan include: Ross behind Val, Carl the little guy at the far end, mom Joan Allester, gramma Allester, Gramma Saunders, Val’s Uncle Gerry and Auntie Belle plus cousins Heather and Gerdie.
Dan Myers became famous as the station’s longtime owner until his recent retirement.
Terry and Linda Dockrill are now the owners on the iconic McBride’s Business.
https://www.chemainusvalleycourier.ca/community/waiting-for-the-parade-1961/
Chemainus Courier
Jul. 25, 2020 1:09 p.m.
The tug “Chemainus”
Drop in copper price sealed the fate of Crofton Smelter
Drop in copper price sealed the fate of Crofton Smelter
Captain Bonde a fixture for his work in the area
Neilson Bonde, from Denmark, came to Victoria in 1880. When he wasn’t sealing, he was working on Chemainus tugs. This is the tug “Chemainus” with Captain Bonde in the doorway, circa 1912. Tug No. 126509 was built in 1909 for the Victoria Lumber and Manufacturing Company. She was 93 feet long, 22 feet in width, and 10 feet in depth. Her gross tonnage was 153. Originally designed to burn coal, she was converted to oil around the 1920s. Captain Bonde was proud of his record of never losing a boom, according to the book "Memories of the Chemainus Valley".
There are many more great historical photos on display at the Chemainus Valley Museum.
https://www.chemainusvalleycourier.ca/community/the-tug-chemainus/
Chemainus Courier
Oct. 24, 2019 2:45 p.m.
Drop in copper price sealed the fate of Crofton Smelter
Drop in copper price sealed the fate of Crofton Smelter
Drop in copper price sealed the fate of Crofton Smelter
Nothing much remains of the old Crofton smelter except for the black slag below the Crofton Seawalk.
In 1902, the smelter opened under the direction of Montanan H.C. Bellinger with connections to Henry Croft’s Lenora copper mine.
By 1907, the price of copper dropped, and the death of the smelter became imminent.
https://www.chemainusvalleycourier.ca/community/historical-moment-7/
Chemainus Courier
Aug. 2, 2020 8:30 a.m.
COMMUNITY/Don Bodger
We saw five ships come sailing in ….
Drop in copper price sealed the fate of Crofton Smelter
Our history is part of the First Nations' history,
Five sailing ships loading lumber: Hard to believe that sailing ships were once the freighters of the sea. By 1896, the Chemainus mill cut 100 million feet of lumber per year.
Aug. 30, 2020 2:00 p.m.
Our history is part of the First Nations' history,
Our history is part of the First Nations' history,
Our history is part of the First Nations' history,
from obsidian tools, dugout canoes and Cowichan sweaters.
lumber by sailing ship
Our history is part of the First Nations' history,
lumber by sailing ship
Our history goes back to the 1850s!
Step back in time,
Our history is part of the First Nations' history,
lumber by sailing ship
to see just what we have!
Thetis Island one-room schoolhouse marks 100 years
Thetis Island one-room schoolhouse marks 100 years
Thetis Island one-room schoolhouse marks 100 years
Thetis Island one-room schoolhouse marks 100 years
Cherished role in the community stands the test of time
As many head back to school this week, students at Thetis Island Elementary school are returning along a century-old path. September 2020 marks 100 years since the first school on Thetis opened with 15 students in a crude one-room building on the shore of Telegraph Harbour.
By 1922, a new school had been built by the community on North Cove Road. There were 14 students, including the legendary Adam Hunter. The school was heated by a wood stove. It was the teacher’s duty to ensure the stove was lit and the building was warm before the students arrived. The school was equipped with chairs and desks with inkwells. There were blackboards on the wall and students had slates and notebooks to do their work.
From 1930 to 1950, there were not enough students to support a school so children were taught by correspondence.
The third school was built in the current location on North Cove Road, after much advocacy by the community. This ‘modern’ one-room schoolhouse, complete with electricity, indoor plumbing and a phone line, was built at a cost of $14,000 for land and building. It opened in September 1951. Except for a brief closure by the Cowichan School District in 1972, it has remained open ever since despite a number of further attempts to close it. With each threat, community members have come together to ensure the school continues. The School District receives an annual ‘small community supplement’ government grant of $180,000 because of the Thetis school.
While people have come and gone and many things have changed over the 100-year history of the little one-room schoolhouse, something that has stood the test of time is the vital and cherished role of the school in the community. This has been proven over and over again by the generosity of spirit of community members who always supported the school to ensure the generations to come can experience the special quality of learning uniquely offered by the Thetis Island school. There is a strong sense of belonging for all who attended, knowing that the school is and always has been the heart of the Thetis Island community.
“Our community’s commitment to
our school is, and always has been, remarkable beyond words. This is the real reason that we celebrate 100 years of Thetis Island School,” said former school parent Kelly Bannister.
“Thetis Island Elementary School is the last teaching position of my career and it is certainly my best and most rewarding,” noted the school’s current teacher, Genny Redman. “You might wonder what makes this school so special and different from other schools. Well, there are so many reasons. Students care for and support each other. As a teacher you can connect with each child on a deeper level as you teach the students for multiple years.”
Educational Assistant Simone Luckham shares Redman’s sentiments: “What stands out the most for me in our multi-age, one-room school is the sense of family. Just like a family, the students have someone to look up to, and later on to take care and be mindful of.
“The students learn that each person counts and that they are all part of a whole.”
Luckham also reflects: “the school is like a fabric
woven of many different colours, textures, and patterns…. creating a strong cloth of extraordinary beauty that ties us all together and forms a unique bond with each and every one.”
“We call Thetis Island Elementary School TIES for short… it ties us all together!”
In honour of 100 years since the school first opened, the Thetis Island Parents Association is hosting a virtual celebration on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/100yearcelebrationofthetisislandschool
This Facebook group is for anyone (past and present) connected with Thetis Island school to share school photos, historical facts, and favourite school memories or reflections. The hope is to create a centennial memory book by the end of the 2020-21 school year from what is shared in the Facebook group.
Happy 100 years of community school spirit to Thetis Island!
printed in the Chemainus Courier
Sep. 10, 2020 10:10 a.m.
Historical highlights of Thetis Island School
Thetis Island one-room schoolhouse marks 100 years
Thetis Island one-room schoolhouse marks 100 years
Thetis Island Elementary School as it looks today. It TIES the community together with its appropriate abbreviation. Long-time school traditions are maintained, like the hand-ringing of a brass bell for recess. (Photo by Kelly Bannister)
Perseverance required on many occasions to keep the school open
The following Thetis Island School historical highlights are based on Westmacott (1990) and records of the Thetis Island Parents Association:
Mr. A. Tomlinson was the first teacher in the first school that opened in September 1920. He taught all subjects, including physical education, which sometimes involved a military drill with marching, standing at attention and standing at ease.
The second school built in 1922 was on property owned by the Burchell family. The building was paid for by the Thetis Island community. The teacher, Mr. A.J.W. Dodds, was from Saltspring Island and had a key role in advocating for the new school building. Mr. Dodds was known as a strict but fair disciplinarian. He did not let the kids get away with anything but he also did not use the strap.
After the gap years from 1930 to 1950 when there weren’t enough students to support a school, the third school was built on property formerly owned by Mr. Rupert Forbes. The first teacher in the new school was Mrs. Ruth Cooper who was from the Peace River District. The opening year, there were 18 students from Grades 1 to 8, including Don Hunter (son of Adam Hunter), who was too young to attend school but was allowed to come in the spring of 1952 “because he really wanted to go to school.” The children were excited to have a real school after doing their learning via correspondence for years. In the ensuing years, the school was frequently closed due to bad weather and power outages.
Until 1972, Thetis Island School was part of the Ladysmith School District. In 1972, the school fell under the Cowichan District and the school was closed. Parents protested to the Board, and the school reopened in 1973.
In the early 1980s, many one-room schoolhouses in BC were being closed and the government wanted to close Thetis Island school. The residents invited CBC to the island to create publicity and the news made the front page of the Vancouver Sun. The school has remained open since, despite further threats of closure by School District 79, which were met with strong opposition by the entire island community.
An addition was made to increase the size of school in 1997-98 but it was intentionally designed to ensure the building remained a one-room schoolhouse.
Throughout the long history of the school, there have been field trips to Victoria and other places, shared learning activities with Penelakut Island school, sports days, annual Christmas concerts and much outside play in the natural environment. The general sentiment echoed by students, teachers, support staff and families involved with the school throughout its history is the sense of extended family and a specialness to the quality of education that could never be reproduced in a city.
Today
The 2019-20 school year began rather typically with 20 students in grades K to 6 but ended rather abruptly due to the COVID-19 pandemic, with 15 students staying the year. Teacher Genny Redman and educational assistant Simone Luckham are continuing into the 2020-21 school year, and student enrolment is expected to increase again and span Grades K to 7.
The school continues to receive incredible support in all ways from the Thetis Island community, from participation at events hosted by the school, to volunteers in the classroom, to local experts who lead educational field trips to the ocean and forest, as well as financial contributions to support educational programs, field trips and equipment.
Reflections of current teacher Genny Redman
“Thetis Island Elementary School is a multi-age classroom with students from Kindergarten to Grade 7 and there are not many of these schools left in Canada. The classroom and outside environment are one of a community of learners where students care for and support each other. As a teacher you can connect with each child on a deeper level as you teach the students for multiple years.
“Here at Thetis Island Elementary School, we have an amazing Parent Association who support the students and the teachers in so many ways. This includes purchasing resources for teachers and students, providing funds for field trips, supporting curriculum with virtual programs and much more.
“The elders and other community members provide amazing support for our students. Their involvement in our school enriches student learning to a level that I have not seen before in an elementary school. We have had daily volunteer readers and listeners, community guest speakers, a seaquarium in the classroom, a mason bee program, piano accompaniment and much more all done by community volunteers.
“Our outdoor environment is a wonderful extension of our classroom. We have forests, hiking trails and of course an ever-evolving and changing ocean that surrounds us. All of this provides an ever-enriching learning environment for our students and teachers.”
Reflections by current EA Simone Luckham
“The students feel a strong connection to each other and have a sense of belonging, which is an important part of emotional development. Another unique feature of the daily routine is how easy and accessible it is for the students to be able to work within their abilities (not only in their age group). This instils a feeling of acceptance of all the different skills and abilities. All of this is done in a fluid, everyday flow of events, without specific scheduling, or planning.
“And just as every family has extended family members, so does our school: the Thetis Island community members (both young and old) are and always have been a tremendous support. A never-ending stream of support in the form of attending concerts, organizing book sales, labour, fundraisers, monetary, workshops – the list is too long!”
– compiled by Kelly Bannister and Don Bodger.
Printed in the Chemainus Courier
Sep. 10, 2020 9:30 a.m.
Chemainus Post Office 1960s
Thetis Island one-room schoolhouse marks 100 years
Chemainus Post Office 1960s
The Post office and Customs office 1960s: At one time, the Post Office and Customs House was housed in the Chemainus Mason Hall (present day Willow Street Café). This photograph shows a self-standing building in the 1960s that was across the street.
printed in Chemainus Courier
Sep. 9, 2020 1:08 p.m.
Don Bodger//COMMUNITY
MacMillian Bloedel Hockey team, the Lumber Kings
MacMillian Bloedel Hockey team, the Lumber Kings
MacMillian Bloedel Hockey team, the Lumber Kings
Sports has always played a big part of Chemainus’ history, from golf, to the Green Lantern basketball teams, to baseball teams and even hockey. The Chemainus Sawmill was owned and operated by MacMillan & Bloedel from the 1950s to 1999 when it was bought by Weyerhaeuser.
(Photo courtesy Chemainus Valley Museum)
Lumber Kings grabbed some lumber and headed onto the ice to hit the puck around
printed in the Chemainus Courier
Green Lantern Hotel baseball team 1936
MacMillian Bloedel Hockey team, the Lumber Kings
MacMillian Bloedel Hockey team, the Lumber Kings
Frank Crucil with the Green Lantern Hotel Baseball Team 1936: Frank Crucil and his wife Mary bought the Lewisville Hotel from executors of the Lewis estate circa 1924. Both of the Crucils were committed to sports in Chemainus. (Photo courtesy of the Chemainus Valley Museum)
printed in the Chemainus Courier
Oct. 23, 2020 10:10 a.m.
Don Bodger/COMMUNITY
Red Cross Appeal 1939
MacMillian Bloedel Hockey team, the Lumber Kings
Our Stuart Clement's Cabinet
The Chemainus Red Cross ladies received many orders during the Second World War years to create dressings, sterilize them and ship them overseas. The Victoria Lumber & Manufacturing Co. offered the use of a building to the Red Cross where dressings were made. This is from the Red Cross’ appeal in 1939.
Jan. 20, 2021 1:45 p.m.
https://www.chemainusvalleycourier.ca/community/historical-moment-dec-17/
Our Stuart Clement's Cabinet
Rules to be Observed by Patients
Our Stuart Clement's Cabinet
Arriving in 1928, Stuart Clement opened not one but two pharmacies - one in Gerry Monk's old barber shop on the corner of Mill and Chemainus (now gone), and later in 1952, moved the pharmacy to the corner of Oak and Esplanade
Rules to be Observed by Patients
Rules to be Observed by Patients
Rules to be Observed by Patients
2. Chewing Tobacco or spitting on the floors, is not permitted
Our First Nations' Display
Rules to be Observed by Patients
Rules to be Observed by Patients
Just some of our beautiful artifacts of our local indigenous population
Behind the Scenes
Scout’s Honour, Baden-Powell paid a visit
Foresters and Recreation Hall...
Our volunteer Peggy, who does the awesome window displays, has organized our new artifacts room so we can easily find everything we need to access
Foresters and Recreation Hall...
Scout’s Honour, Baden-Powell paid a visit
Foresters and Recreation Hall...
Served many purposes.
Situated across and just above the tracks [halfway up the hill to St Joseph’s] was the Employees Recreation Hall, built 1896, land and material given by the mill. January 01 1897 was the grand opening ball with sleighs arriving with guests from Duncan, Maple Bay and Westholme. It was used for sports, had a bowling alley, concerts, card games and dances. The small next to it was used as a dining room and eventually the town movie theatre.
Chemainus Valley Courier, January 28, 2021
Scout’s Honour, Baden-Powell paid a visit
Scout’s Honour, Baden-Powell paid a visit
Scout’s Honour, Baden-Powell paid a visit
A 1923 visit by Lord Baden-Powell and his wife to see his cousin R.B. Halhed brought out many members of the scouting fraternity.
Feb. 5, 2021 2:55 p.m.
TOUR GROUP
File it under ‘accident free’
Scout’s Honour, Baden-Powell paid a visit
A THREE-HOUR TOUR?
Ladies at a Chemainus sawmill open house in 1964
Open house 1964 at the MacMillan Bloedel and Powell River Ltd. Chemainus sawmill division. Anyone recognize any of those ladies on the tour?
Feb. 11, 2021 9:30 a.m. COMMUNITY
TOYS
File it under ‘accident free’
File it under ‘accident free’
Hospital Auxiliary through the years - the Barbie Doll Collection- over 100 hours in the making
See more toys in Chemainus Valley Museum January 8 2021 Facebook posting
File it under ‘accident free’
File it under ‘accident free’
File it under ‘accident free’
File it under ‘accident free’
Filing room crew at the Chemainus sawmill celebrates a milestone in this historical photo
Filing room crew at the Chemainus sawmill marks 2,668 working days without a compensable accident. Anyone recognize some of the men in this photo to identify the year this might have been taken?
Feb. 18, 2021 8:30 a.m. COMMUNITY
Site Content
The Old Ball Game
Historical Moment March 18
Historical Moment March 18
Chemainus baseball history
Empire Stevedores 1939-40 baseball team
Baseball is a big-time sport in the history of Chemainus.
Many outstanding players came out of Chemainus and gave the town a prominence in the sport for decades.
The 1939-40 Empire Stevedores baseball team is a case in point, with many well-known players from families with long-established Chemainus roots.
Back row, from left, are: Bob Cadwallader, Bill Jackson, Joe Horton, Harold (Shorty) Berkey, Danny Wylie, George Syrotuck, George Robinson, Tom Garner, Bill Horton.
Front row, from left: Jimmie Syme Sr. (manager), Joe Garner, Ernie Jackson, Jimmie Syme Jr. (bat boy), Fred Somerville, Jack Gill, Pete Hawryluk.
as printed in the Chemainus Courier
- Apr. 2, 2021 10:00 a.m.
- COMMUNITY
Historical Moment March 18
Historical Moment March 18
Historical Moment March 18
BAKING In THE MAKING
George Price’s Bakery at the corner of Oak and Croft Streets, 1946. (Photo courtesy Chemainus Valley Museum)
A look back through the Chemainus Valley Museum archives
as printed in
- Mar. 24, 2021 3:30 p.m.
- COMMUNITY
Pulling up their Sox
Historical Moment March 18
Pulling up their Sox
The 1954 Chemainus red Sox baseball team was loaded with talent. Back row from left: Zip Jackson, Doug English, Earl Patterson, Joe Copp, Doug Williams, Neil Kelly, Doug Brinham, Alan Goldie and Red Naylor. Front row, from left: Cub Wolf, Ken Thompson, Ron Gibbons, Bob Jansch Sr., Gerry brooks, Don Brooks, and Jimmy Webster (manager)
as printed in Chemainus Courier
Chemainus Valley Courier, April 8, 2021
Main Drag
A River Runs Through It
Pulling up their Sox
Willow Street, late 1950s, facing south towards the planer mill (in background).Pink Elephant Coin Laundry, Chemainus Sport’s Centre on left; Caprice Theatre, Marshall Wells Hardware and Pattison Pharmacy on the right. Notice the post office at the end of the street on the right and St. Michael’s Church spire in the distance on the left).
from the Chemainus Valley Courier
Life In Woods
A River Runs Through It
A River Runs Through It
A River Runs Through It
A River Runs Through It
A River Runs Through It
Our historical feature for the week is the Fisherman’s Resort on the Chemainus River.
from the Chemainus Courier