Built in 1955 by the Anglo-British Packing Company for its Phoenix Cannery, the Seine Net Loft was once used in the construction and repair of large seine nets for fishing.
The Seine Net Loft represents the use, fabrication, repair and dry storage of fishing nets as an integral part of Steveston’s fishing industry. Net lofts were constructed at cannery sites along the Steveston waterfront, built on pilings over water to allow fishermen to easily load and unload their large heavy nets from fishing boats.
In the 1960s, the wide use of synthetic fishing nets, which were originally made of linen, brought the need for large drying structures. The Seine Net Loft’s later use for gill net storage reflects the adaptation in building use, a common theme for buildings on this heritage site.
Today, a series of interactive exhibits in the Seine Net Loft look at innovation and human ingenuity in the fishing and boatbuilding industries of Steveston. Explore fascinating stories of our changing waterfront and the individuals from many cultures who worked together to achieve prosperity during times of plenty and times of economic, political and social turmoil.
Engaging photographs, artefacts, films, audio clips, activity kits and an interactive touch screen guide visitors through the rich history that shaped present day Steveston. Explore four exhibits: “Our Coastal Connection”, “At the Helm: The Marine Products Company”, “Our Changing Waterfront” and “Mechanizing the Industry: Marine Engines and Machine Shops”.
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The Seine Net Loft building stands on pilings over the water, and may be closed seasonally due to high tides.
View a 3D Virtual tour of the Seine Net Loft here.
