Project background (updated September 2026)
Heritage Alteration Permit # HA 26-011972
The First Nations Building is a municipally protected heritage building and an important feature of the site. The building is a 3,500 sq. ft. single-storey wood-frame structure, clad in board and batten siding, with evidence of openings for doors, windows, and vents remaining on all elevations.
The City of Richmond is deconstructing and reconstructing the First Nations Building, starting in Fall 2026 and continuing throughout 2027. The project will include:
- Careful deconstruction, salvaging as much original material as is possible for reuse in the reconstructed building; and
- Reproducing the exterior appearance and heritage character of the original 1890s building with similar siding, reinstated windows, and a cedar shake roof.
The reconstructed building will meet current building codes and have new doors on the west end, washrooms, and a kitchenette to support future programming. Details about the construction project can be found in the Council Report found here Open_GP_7-20-2026.pdf.
Occasional temporary closures to the boardwalk pathway nearest the First Nations Building may be required to facilitate the transfer of construction materials to and from the building. An alternate walking route will be available during these times.
Advisory Committee
The City has established an advisory committee for this project, including the construction, interpretive exhibits and program use. Musqueam have a representative on this committee to provide input on all aspects of the project. Additionally, construction will be guided by heritage professionals and follow national standards for heritage conservation.
History of the Building
The Phoenix Cannery (First Nations) Building was built by the ABC Packing Company and is known have been constructed in the 1890s, through dendrochronology testing of the building material. It is believed to have been originally used as a residence for First Nations people working in Steveston’s fishing industry based on oral histories and its similarity to other buildings known to have served this purpose. This building was not a traditional longhouse and is not intended to be reconstructed as a longhouse. The building was moved from its original location (across Westwater Dr. where the modern condos now sit) to its current location in 1946. From this point onwards it served as gear storage for the cannery.
A structural assessment conducted in August 2024 confirmed that the building is in poor condition, is “not safe to occupy”. The City has exhausted all avenues to save the current building but due to its poor condition, this is not feasible.
Future Use of Building
On February 12, 2024, Council endorsed the plan for this space to be used for interpretive programming and exhibits that interpret First Nations’ history and cultural heritage. The exact details of this will be determined in collaboration with Musqueam.
A new public name for the facility will be determined as part of the future planning and interpretation.
Contact
Questions about this project can be directed to Rebecca Clarke, Manager of Museum and Heritage Services at rclarke@richmond.ca