On Saturday, June 21st, National Indigenous Peoples Day, we highlight the unique cultures and traditions of Indigenous Peoples and honour their strength and achievements.
Britannia Shipyards National Historic Site
The land on which Britannia Shipyards National Historic Site sits is the long-time summer grounds held traditionally by the Musqueam, a Coast Salish First Nation. For centuries, men, women and children paddled from their villages to seasonal camps in Richmond to fish and gather shellfish and berries from these plentiful shores.
When companies began to build canneries on the riverfront, many First Nations fished and canned for wages while working to uphold their seasonal traditions and cultural practices among the new inhabitants of the region currently known as the City of Richmond.
The First Nations Building
The First Nations Building sits on the west entrance of the Britannia Shipyards site. Constructed in 1886, the First Nations Building has a unique gable roof and originally stood on 3 foot pilings above the Fraser River.
It is similar to Coast Salish smokehouses from the late 1880s and is the only structure of its kind remaining on the BC Coastline. There is evidence to suggest that the building was used as a residence for First Nations cannery workers at an early fish camp situated just west of the Britannia Shipyards site.
The First Nations Building has seen other uses since that time. After World War II, it was moved and used for gear and net storage by the Phoenix Cannery.
The First Nations Building Today
The First Nations Building has recently had scaffolding installed to allow for experts to assess its condition and to identify treatment options for its conservation. The City of Richmond is collaborating with the Musqueam Nation to plan for the future restoration of this important heritage resource. Future exhibits and education programs will interpret the First Nations use of this land, their relationship with the community, and the evolution of the building over time.
National Indigenous History Month in Richmond
For a list of events and activities taking place in Richmond during National Indigenous History Month in June, visit this website for programs showcasing the richness and diversity of Indigenous cultural expression and stories.
Photo: Richmond Archives – 1977 16 2. First Nations Camp at Imperial Cannery, 1913
