June is National Indigenous History Month, a time to reflect on and learn about the histories, cultures, traditions and experiences of First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples in Canada. This Sunday, June 21st, 2026 is National Indigenous Peoples Day .
Coast Salish peoples have lived throughout the Fraser River estuary and have been its stewards for thousands of years, long before shipyards and canneries dotted the river shores.
Did you know that the “Point House,” now located at Britannia Shipyards National Historic Site, was once the family home of Musqueam Chief James Point?
The English surname Point was derived from the family’s location at Garry Point in Steveston, a historic Musqueam settlement. Chief James Point lived to over 100 years old and was one of the signing members of the Musqueam Declaration. The Declaration, now 50 years old, publicly affirmed the Musqueam First Nation’s inherent title and rights to their traditional lands, waters and resources. Chief James Point was a steward of Musqueam history and worked primarily as a fisherman in Steveston. Several of his descendants were employed at Imperial and other local canneries.
The house was built by the Burrard Canning Company and leased to the Point family by B.C Packers from the 1940s until 1957. The Point House is now a protected heritage building, cared for by the City of Richmond.
Watch this Doors Open 2026 video featuring Musqueam elder Mary Point speaking about her family and community’s connection to Steveston.
