Search Results | Heritage Burnaby

Nancy Hansen for the Burnaby Junior Chamber of Commerce

https://search.heritageburnaby.ca/link/archivedescription45238

Repository: City of Burnaby Archives

Date: [1954 or 1955]

Collection/Fonds: Columbian Newspaper collection

Description Level: Item

Physical Description: 1 photograph : b&w ; 18.5 x 14.5 cm

Scope and Content: Photograph of Nancy Hansen, winner of both Miss Burnaby and Miss PNE (Pacific National Exhibition) 1954, in an act of publicity, showing how to attach a "legend plate" put out by the Junior Chamber of Commerce, which sold for $1 at service stations, their proceeds going to Burnaby Junior Chamber of…

1 image

Repository: City of Burnaby Archives

Date: [1954 or 1955]

Collection/Fonds: Columbian Newspaper collection

Physical Description: 1 photograph : b&w ; 18.5 x 14.5 cm

Description Level: Item

Record No.: 480-134

Access Restriction: No restrictions

Reproduction Restriction: Reproduce for fair dealing purposes only

Accession Number: 2003-02

Scope and Content: Photograph of Nancy Hansen, winner of both Miss Burnaby and Miss PNE (Pacific National Exhibition) 1954, in an act of publicity, showing how to attach a "legend plate" put out by the Junior Chamber of Commerce, which sold for $1 at service stations, their proceeds going to Burnaby Junior Chamber of Commerce projects.

Subjects: Transportation - Automobiles; Events - Fundraising

Names: Hansen, Nancy; Burnaby Junior Chamber of Commerce

Media Type: Photograph

Photographer: Atlee, Bob

Notes: Title based on contents of photograph; Newspaper clipping attached to verso of photograph reads: "Burnaby's Beauties are being ably promoted by the Junior Chamber of Commerce in offering these legend plates at attach to car licenses. Above is Miss Burnaby and Miss PNE, pretty Nancy Hansen, who joins in the publicity by showing how it is done. The $1 plates are sold at serivce stations, with proceeds for JCC Burnaby projects. Photo by Bob Atlee."

Images

Nancy Hansen for the Burnaby Junior Chamber of Commerce, [1954 or 1955] thumbnail

Spring Tea at Ellesmere United Church

https://search.heritageburnaby.ca/link/archivedescription53032

Repository: City of Burnaby Archives

Date: May 17, 1958

Collection/Fonds: Burnaby Historical Society fonds

Description Level: Item

Physical Description: 1 photograph : b&w ; 7.5 x 13.5 cm

Scope and Content: Composite photograph of the Spring Tea and Open House for the Tinkerbell Cooperative Kindergarten at Ellesmere United Church hall. The mothers of the kindergartners donated sandwiches, cookies and cakes and a net profit of $26.05 was made.

1 image

Repository: City of Burnaby Archives

Date: May 17, 1958

Collection/Fonds: Burnaby Historical Society fonds

Series: Community Archives Collection series

Subseries: Tinkerbell Kindergarten subseries

Physical Description: 1 photograph : b&w ; 7.5 x 13.5 cm

Description Level: Item

Record No.: 246-039

Access Restriction: No restrictions

Reproduction Restriction: Reproduce for fair dealing purposes only

Accession Number: BHS1990-12

Scope and Content: Composite photograph of the Spring Tea and Open House for the Tinkerbell Cooperative Kindergarten at Ellesmere United Church hall. The mothers of the kindergartners donated sandwiches, cookies and cakes and a net profit of $26.05 was made.

Subjects: Celebrations; Events - Fundraising

Names: Tinkerbell Cooperative Kindergarten; Ellesmere United Church

Media Type: Photograph

Notes: Title based on contents of photograph; Note on verso of photograph reads: "Thanks for a swell evening / Maurie K'

Geographic Access: Ellesmere Avenue; Hastings Street

Street Address: 300 Ellesmere Avenue North

Historic Neighbourhood: Capitol Hill (Historic Neighbourhood)

Planning Study Area: Capitol Hill Area

Images

Spring Tea at Ellesmere United Church, May 17, 1958 thumbnail

Opening of the Royal Bank at Edmonds

https://search.heritageburnaby.ca/link/archivedescription55611

Repository: City of Burnaby Archives

Date: [1955]

Collection/Fonds: Charles MacSorley fonds

Description Level: Item

Physical Description: 1 photograph : b&w ; 20.5 x 25 cm

Scope and Content: Photograph of Reeve Charles MacSorley preparing to cut the ribbon to officially open the Royal Bank on Edmonds Street in Burnaby.

1 image

Repository: City of Burnaby Archives

Date: [1955]

Collection/Fonds: Charles MacSorley fonds

Physical Description: 1 photograph : b&w ; 20.5 x 25 cm

Description Level: Item

Record No.: 486-005

Access Restriction: No restrictions

Reproduction Restriction: Reproduce for fair dealing purposes only

Accession Number: 2005-14

Scope and Content: Photograph of Reeve Charles MacSorley preparing to cut the ribbon to officially open the Royal Bank on Edmonds Street in Burnaby.

Subjects: Events - Openings; Officials - Mayors and Reeves; Buildings - Commercial - Banks

Names: Linden, Charles; MacSorley, Charles W.

Media Type: Photograph

Photographer: Allan Studios

Notes: Title based on contents of photograph; Handwritten note on recto of photograph reads: "opening Royal Bank / Edmonds / Charles Linden / Mangr."; Photographer's stamp on verso; Note on verso reads: "Edmonds Street. Burnaby."

Geographic Access: Edmonds Street

Historic Neighbourhood: Edmonds (Historic Neighbourhood)

Images

Opening of the Royal Bank at Edmonds, [1955] thumbnail

Ribbon cutting ceremony for Simpson-Sears

https://search.heritageburnaby.ca/link/archivedescription55637

Repository: City of Burnaby Archives

Date: [1954]

Collection/Fonds: Charles MacSorley fonds

Description Level: Item

Physical Description: 1 photograph : b&w ; 20.5 x 25.5 cm

Scope and Content: Photograph of Charles MacSorley cutting the ribbon at the opening of Simpson-Sears. A large crowd is gathered behind him.

1 image

Repository: City of Burnaby Archives

Date: [1954]

Collection/Fonds: Charles MacSorley fonds

Physical Description: 1 photograph : b&w ; 20.5 x 25.5 cm

Description Level: Item

Record No.: 486-031

Access Restriction: No restrictions

Reproduction Restriction: Reproduce for fair dealing purposes only

Accession Number: 2005-14

Scope and Content: Photograph of Charles MacSorley cutting the ribbon at the opening of Simpson-Sears. A large crowd is gathered behind him.

Subjects: Events - Openings; Officials - Mayors and Reeves; Persons - Crowds; Buildings - Commercial - Stores

Names: Simpsons-Sears Limited; MacSorley, Charles W.

Media Type: Photograph

Notes: Title based on contents of photograph

Geographic Access: Sussex Avenue; Kingsway

Historic Neighbourhood: Central Park (Historic Neighbourhood)

Planning Study Area: Maywood Area

Images

Ribbon cutting ceremony for Simpson-Sears, [1954] thumbnail

Royal Bank Opening

https://search.heritageburnaby.ca/link/archivedescription55639

Repository: City of Burnaby Archives

Date: [1955]

Collection/Fonds: Charles MacSorley fonds

Description Level: Item

Physical Description: 1 photograph : b&w ; 20.5 x 25.5 cm

Scope and Content: Photograph of seven unidentified men in the new Royal Bank on Edmonds. This photograph appears to have been taken during the official opening of the bank.

1 image

Repository: City of Burnaby Archives

Date: [1955]

Collection/Fonds: Charles MacSorley fonds

Physical Description: 1 photograph : b&w ; 20.5 x 25.5 cm

Description Level: Item

Record No.: 486-033

Access Restriction: No restrictions

Reproduction Restriction: Reproduce for fair dealing purposes only

Accession Number: 2005-14

Scope and Content: Photograph of seven unidentified men in the new Royal Bank on Edmonds. This photograph appears to have been taken during the official opening of the bank.

Subjects: Buildings - Commercial - Banks; Events - Openings

Names: Royal Bank of Canada

Media Type: Photograph

Photographer: Allan Studios

Notes: Title based on contents of photograph; Photographer's stamp on verso

Geographic Access: Edmonds Street

Historic Neighbourhood: Edmonds (Historic Neighbourhood)

Images

Royal Bank Opening

https://search.heritageburnaby.ca/link/archivedescription55650

Repository: City of Burnaby Archives

Date: [1955]

Collection/Fonds: Charles MacSorley fonds

Description Level: Item

Physical Description: 1 photograph : b&w ; 20 x 24.5 cm

Scope and Content: Photograph of Reeve Charles MacSorley standing in front of a teller's window handing over a bankbook to a teller during the official opening of the Royal Bank Edmonds branch in Burnaby. A number of other bank officials and employees can be seen in the background, but none are identified.

1 image

Repository: City of Burnaby Archives

Date: [1955]

Collection/Fonds: Charles MacSorley fonds

Physical Description: 1 photograph : b&w ; 20 x 24.5 cm

Description Level: Item

Record No.: 486-044

Access Restriction: No restrictions

Reproduction Restriction: Reproduce for fair dealing purposes only

Accession Number: 2005-14

Scope and Content: Photograph of Reeve Charles MacSorley standing in front of a teller's window handing over a bankbook to a teller during the official opening of the Royal Bank Edmonds branch in Burnaby. A number of other bank officials and employees can be seen in the background, but none are identified.

Subjects: Buildings - Commercial - Banks; Events - Openings; Officials - Mayors and Reeves

Names: MacSorley, Charles W.; Royal Bank of Canada

Media Type: Photograph

Photographer: Allan Studios

Notes: Title based on contents of photograph; Photographer's stamp on verso

Historic Neighbourhood: Edmonds (Historic Neighbourhood)

Images

Haida Grill at the Astor Hotel

https://search.heritageburnaby.ca/link/archivedescription37173

Repository: City of Burnaby Archives

Date: [between 1955 and 1959]

Collection/Fonds: Burnaby Historical Society fonds

Description Level: Item

Physical Description: 1 postcard ; col. ; 8 x 13 cm

Scope and Content: Postcard with a photograph of the Haida Grill at the Astor Hotel, which was known as being Burnaby's million dollar, ultra-modern hotel.

1 image

Repository: City of Burnaby Archives

Date: [between 1955 and 1959]

Collection/Fonds: Burnaby Historical Society fonds

Series: Community Archives Collection series

Subseries: Lee Lightfoot subseries

Physical Description: 1 postcard ; col. ; 8 x 13 cm

Description Level: Item

Record No.: 327-001

Access Restriction: No restrictions

Reproduction Restriction: Reproduce for fair dealing purposes only

Accession Number: BHS1996-13

Scope and Content: Postcard with a photograph of the Haida Grill at the Astor Hotel, which was known as being Burnaby's million dollar, ultra-modern hotel.

Subjects: Buildings - Commercial - Hotels and Motels; Buildings - Commercial - Restaurants; Documentary Artifacts - Postcards

Names: Astor Hotel

Media Type: Photograph

Notes: Title based on contents of photograph; Caption on recto of postcard reads: "ASTOR HOTEL . 4561 KINGSWAY, BURNABY 1, B.C."; Caption on verso of postcard reads: "THE HAIDA GRILL/ The delightful setting and excellent cuisine makes the Haida Grill a must for dining pleasure. A Photograph [sic] showing the Haida Grill with its table side service."

Geographic Access: Kingsway

Street Address: 4561 Kingsway

Historic Neighbourhood: Central Park (Historic Neighbourhood)

Planning Study Area: Marlborough Area

Images

Haida Grill at the Astor Hotel, [between 1955 and 1959] thumbnail

Hotel Burnaby

https://search.heritageburnaby.ca/link/archivedescription34700

Repository: City of Burnaby Archives

Date: [1958]

Collection/Fonds: Burnaby Historical Society fonds

Description Level: Item

Physical Description: 1 photograph : b&w ; 20.3 x 25.2 cm

Scope and Content: Photograph of Hotel Burnaby at 1385 Kingsway (later renumbered 7610 Kingsway). An electric "Hotel Burnaby / Vacancy / Parking" sign can be seen on the right. A diner can be seen on the left side of the building with signs reading, "Dining Room," "Diner," "Soda Fountain," "Breakfasts, Lunches, Din…

1 image

Repository: City of Burnaby Archives

Date: [1958]

Collection/Fonds: Burnaby Historical Society fonds

Series: Community Archives Collection series

Subseries: Photographs subseries

Physical Description: 1 photograph : b&w ; 20.3 x 25.2 cm

Description Level: Item

Record No.: 105-001

Access Restriction: No restrictions

Reproduction Restriction: Reproduce for fair dealing purposes only

Accession Number: BHS2007-04

Scope and Content: Photograph of Hotel Burnaby at 1385 Kingsway (later renumbered 7610 Kingsway). An electric "Hotel Burnaby / Vacancy / Parking" sign can be seen on the right. A diner can be seen on the left side of the building with signs reading, "Dining Room," "Diner," "Soda Fountain," "Breakfasts, Lunches, Dinners," "Coffee Bar," and "Licensed Premises." Coca-Cola advertisements are also visible. There are entrances to the building with signs above them readings, "Lobby," "Men," and "Ladies and Escorts."

Subjects: Advertising Medium - Signs and Signboards; Buildings - Commercial - Hotels and Motels; Buildings - Commercial - Restaurants

Names: Hotel Burnaby Limited

Media Type: Photograph

Photographer: Croton Studio Limited

Notes: Title based on contents of photograph; Stamp on back of photograph reads, "Croton Studio / New Westminster BC"

Geographic Access: Kingsway

Street Address: 7610 Kingsway

Historic Neighbourhood: Edmonds (Historic Neighbourhood)

Planning Study Area: Edmonds Area

Images

Interview with Tony and Hazel Padula by Eric Damer November 27, 2012 - Track 3

https://search.heritageburnaby.ca/link/oralhistory373

Repository: City of Burnaby Archives

Date Range: 1940-1965

Length: 0:10:25

Summary: This portion of the recording pertains to Tony Padula and Hazel (Bongea) Padula's memories of night life the nineteen-forties and fifties. Tony and Hazel discuss Italian restaurants and dance halls in Vancouver and Tony mentions playing in a dance orchestra in the nineteen-forties. Tony and Hazel m…

1 image 1 audio

Repository: City of Burnaby Archives

Summary: This portion of the recording pertains to Tony Padula and Hazel (Bongea) Padula's memories of night life the nineteen-forties and fifties. Tony and Hazel discuss Italian restaurants and dance halls in Vancouver and Tony mentions playing in a dance orchestra in the nineteen-forties. Tony and Hazel mention department stores in that era as well.

Date Range: 1940-1965

Photo Info: Hazel (Bongea) Padula standing on the steps of her home at High Lawn, [195-]. Item no. 549-052.

Length: 0:10:25

Subjects: Buildings - Commercial - Restaurants; Buildings - Commercial - Department Stores

Interviewer: Damer, Eric

Interview Date: November 27, 2012

Scope and Content: Recording is an interview with Tony Padula and Hazel (Bongea) Padula conducted by Burnaby Village Museum employee Eric Damer, November 27, 2012. Major themes discussed are: neighbourhoods and family heritage.

Biographical Notes: Tony Padula’s family came to Vancouver from Italy in 1926, the year Tony was born. After graduating from school, Tony entered the shoe industry as a salesman. Hazel Bongea (later Padula) was born in 1931 in Saskatchewan and moved to Vancouver with her family when she was ten years old. After graduating from school, Hazel found work with Standard Oil in Vancouver. Tony Padula and Hazel (Bongea) Padula married in 1951. By 1953 they had bought property in the Brentwood neighbourhood of Burnaby where they built a home and began a family. The Padulas moved away in 1959 but returned five years later to a new home in central Burnaby, where they lived for twenty-two years before moving again, this time to North Vancouver. After six years in North Vancouver, Tony and Hazel retired to New Westminster.

Total Tracks: 8

Total Length: 1:09:21

Interviewee Name: Padula, Hazel Bongea; Padula, Tony

Interview Location: Burnaby Village Museum

Interviewer Bio: Eric Damer is a lifelong British Columbian born in Victoria, raised in Kamloops, and currently residing in Burnaby. After studying philosophy at the University of Victoria, he became interested in the educational forces that had shaped his own life. He completed master’s and doctoral degrees in educational studies at the University of British Columbia with a particular interest in the history of adult and higher education in the province. In 2012, Eric worked for the City of Burnaby as a field researcher and writer, conducting interviews for the City Archives and Museum Oral History Program.

Collection/Fonds: Community Heritage Commission Special Projects fonds

Series: Burna-Boom Oral History Project series

Transcript Available: None

Media Type: Sound Recording

Images

Hazel (Bongea) Padula standing on the steps of her home at High Lawn, [195-]. Item no. 549-052. thumbnail

Audio Tracks

Track three of recording of interview with Tony and Hazel Padula

https://search.heritageburnaby.ca/media/hpo/_Data/_Archives_Oral_Histories/_Unrestricted/MSS171-020/MSS171-020_Track_3.mp3

Interview with Sev Morin by Rod Fowler April 4, 1990 - Track 2

https://search.heritageburnaby.ca/link/oralhistory538

Repository: City of Burnaby Archives

Date Range: 1950-1990

Length: 00:06:16

Summary: This portion of the interview is about Sev Morin’s description of Burnaby’s growth and business development along Kingsway and Hastings, the Lake City Industrial Park, and the purchase of property in 1958 for the Heritage Park and Art Gallery.

1 image 1 audio

Repository: City of Burnaby Archives

Summary: This portion of the interview is about Sev Morin’s description of Burnaby’s growth and business development along Kingsway and Hastings, the Lake City Industrial Park, and the purchase of property in 1958 for the Heritage Park and Art Gallery.

Date Range: 1950-1990

Photo Info: Sev Morin (left) of Severin's in Burnaby (formerly the Gai Paree) hosting a gala New Year's celebration, 1979. Item no. 480-712

Length: 00:06:16

Subjects: Buildings - Commercial; Buildings - Civic; Buildings - Industrial; Buildings - Schools - Universities and Colleges

Historic Neighbourhood: Central Park (Historic Neighbourhood); Burnaby Lake (Historic Neighbourhood); Vancouver Heights (Historic Neighbourhood); Edmonds (Historic Neighbourhood)

Planning Study Area: Burnaby Heights Area; Lake City Area; Burnaby Mountain Area; Kingsway-Beresford Area; Douglas-Gilpin Area

Interviewer: Fowler, Rod

Interview Date: April 4, 1990

Scope and Content: Recording is of an interview with Severin "Sev" Morin, conducted by Rod Fowler. Sev Morin was one of eleven participants interviewed as part of the SFU/Burnaby Centennial Committee's oral history series titled, "Voices of Burnaby". The interview is mainly about Sev Morin’s banquet hall, restaurant and night club business on Kingsway, originally named the “Gai Paree Supper Club” (1947-1976) and later “Severin’s” (1976-1985) and “Diego’s” (1985-1994), its function as a Burnaby landmark, and the entertainment and political people he met through his business. He also describes his many volunteer activities in Burnaby, including member of the SFU Senate, Rotary Club, Variety Club and Telethon, fund raising for Burnaby Hospital, and tourism related groups, and his political work for the federal Liberal party. He talks about his parents’ origins, the lives of his brothers Rudy and Rene, and the family’s involvement in establishing the “Gai Paree”. He also shares his views about the business and cultural development of Burnaby. To view “Narrow By” terms for each track expand this description and see “Notes”.

Biographical Notes: Severin “Sev” Rene Morin was born September 21, 1927, in Bonneville, Alberta, to Rene Pierre Morin (1878-1963) and Anne Marie (nee Lachiver) Morin (1886-1956). Mr. and Mrs. R. P. Morin and their son Rene Francois (1905-1954) immigrated to Edmonton, Alberta, from France in 1913, where Rene Pierre Morin worked for the C.N.R. and a second son Adolphe “Rudy” Ferdinand (1922-1969) was born, followed by their third son Severin. In 1943, after R.P. Morin retired, the family moved to Burnaby to a house on Sperling Avenue. Sometime earlier the two older Morin brothers found work in Trail at the smelter and developed musical careers. In 1946/47 the Morin family purchased property on Kingsway and built a banquet hall, the “Gai Paree Supper Club”. Sev and Rudy Morin managed the club and Rene F. Morin moved to Burnaby to join them with his band. The supper club, with its live music and dance floor, became a popular meeting place and wedding venue, eventually expanding into a restaurant and nightclub in the 1970s. The “Gai Paree” was renamed “Severin’s” in 1976 and “Diego’s” in 1985, closing finally in 1994. Sev Morin’s business life included three record stores which he owned with his friend Jack Cullen. Through these businesses Sev Morin was well known in the entertainment and hospitality industry. He and his restaurant also hosted political and social events that made the restaurant a community landmark. Sev Morin contributed many volunteer hours to community and charitable organizations, including an appointment to the SFU Senate, fundraising for the Burnaby Hospital, Director of the Variety Club and Rotary Club, and consultant for a variety of tourism related ventures. He also was active in the federal Liberal Party. Sev Morin and his wife Pauline married in 1950 and had three children. Sev Morin died at age 86 on March 28, 2014.

Total Tracks: 10

Total Length: 00:56:44

Interviewee Name: Morin, Severin "Sev"

Interviewer Bio: Rod Fowler returned to university as a mature student in the 1980s after working about twenty years in the field of economics and computerization in business in England, Europe and Western Canada. He graduated with a BA from SFU in both History and Sociology in 1987, his MA degree in Geography in 1989, and his PhD in Cultural Geography at SFU. He taught courses in Geography, Sociology, History and Canadian Studies at several Lower Mainland colleges, before becoming a full time member of the Geography Department at Kwantlen University College.

Collection/Fonds: SFU/Burnaby Centennial Committee fonds

Series: Centennial Oral History project series

Transcript Available: Transcript available

Media Type: Sound Recording

Web Notes: Interviews were digitized in 2015 allowing them to be accessible on Heritage Burnaby. The digitization project was initiated by the Community Heritage Commission with support from City of Burnaby Council.

Images

Sev Morin (left) of Severin's in Burnaby (formerly the Gai Paree) hosting a gala New Year's celebration, 1979. Item no. 480-712 thumbnail

Audio Tracks

Track two of interview with Sev Morin

https://search.heritageburnaby.ca/media/hpo/_Data/_Archives_Oral_Histories/_Unrestricted/MSS187-021/MSS187-021_Track%202.mp3

Esso Filling Station

https://search.heritageburnaby.ca/link/archivedescription34591

Repository: City of Burnaby Archives

Date: 1958

Collection/Fonds: Burnaby Historical Society fonds

Description Level: Item

Physical Description: 1 photograph : b&w ; 20.2 x 25.4 cm

Scope and Content: Photograph of the Esso filling station at Lake City with trucks parked in an industrial area.

1 image

Repository: City of Burnaby Archives

Date: 1958

Collection/Fonds: Burnaby Historical Society fonds

Series: Community Archives Collection series

Subseries: Photographs subseries

Physical Description: 1 photograph : b&w ; 20.2 x 25.4 cm

Description Level: Item

Record No.: 064-001

Access Restriction: No restrictions

Reproduction Restriction: Reproduce for fair dealing purposes only

Accession Number: BHS2007-04

Scope and Content: Photograph of the Esso filling station at Lake City with trucks parked in an industrial area.

Subjects: Buildings - Industrial; Buildings - Commercial - Service Stations; Transportation - Trucks

Names: Esso

Media Type: Photograph

Notes: Title based on contents of photograph

Planning Study Area: Lake City Area

Images

Interview with Don Brown by Rod Fowler February 26, 1990 - Track 4

https://search.heritageburnaby.ca/link/oralhistory505

Repository: City of Burnaby Archives

Date Range: 1954-1963

Length: 00:05:41

Summary: This portion of the interview is about Don Brown’s memories of what familiar places were like in 1954 and how they had changed when he returned to Burnaby in 1963, particularly mentioning Kingsway, Grandview, and the Lake City industrial park on Burnaby Mountain

1 image 1 audio

Repository: City of Burnaby Archives

Summary: This portion of the interview is about Don Brown’s memories of what familiar places were like in 1954 and how they had changed when he returned to Burnaby in 1963, particularly mentioning Kingsway, Grandview, and the Lake City industrial park on Burnaby Mountain

Date Range: 1954-1963

Photo Info: Royal Canadian Mounted Police Sergeant Don Brown, November 2, 1997. Item no. 535-0979

Length: 00:05:41

Subjects: Buildings; Buildings - Commercial - Drive-In Theatres; Industries; Transportation - Automobiles

Historic Neighbourhood: Burnaby Lake (Historic Neighbourhood); Central Park (Historic Neighbourhood)

Planning Study Area: Lake City Area; Douglas-Gilpin Area; Maywood Area

Interviewer: Fowler, Rod

Interview Date: February 26, 1990

Scope and Content: Recording is of an interview with Don Brown, conducted by Rod Fowler. Don Brown was one of eleven participants interviewed as part of the SFU/Burnaby Centennial Committee's oral history series titled, "Voices of Burnaby". The interview is mainly about Don Brown’s description of the changes in Burnaby’s built and natural landscapes and socioeconomic conditions, especially between 1947 and 1975, the strong impression made on him by those changes evident in the interview. He talks about his work and career as a police officer with the Burnaby Provincial Police and RCMP. The interview also details his involvement in Burnaby politics and volunteer community groups. To view “Narrow By” terms for each track expand this description and see “Notes”.

Biographical Notes: Donald Neil “Don” Brown was born in Birmingham, England May 4, 1919, and immigrated with his parents and siblings to Winnipeg in 1922. At the outbreak of WWII Don Brown left high school and enlisted in the 12th Field Company, Royal Canadian Engineers, serving six years in the army. Before going overseas he married Helen Birch in 1939. In 1947 Don Brown joined the B.C. Provincial Police which was absorbed by the RCMP in 1950. He worked as a police officer in Burnaby from 1947 to 1954, and then was transferred to Ottawa (with a stop in Regina) for nine and a half years where he attended Carleton University to study forensics. In 1963 Don Brown was transferred back to Vancouver and bought and moved into a house on Watling Street in Burnaby where he still lived in 1990. Another transfer took him to Edmonton for five years, returning to Burnaby in 1975. Following retirement in 1980 with the rank of Supervisor and after 22 years in forensic laboratories, Don Brown started his own business as a private document examiner. Don Brown was active in Burnaby politics, serving as Alderman from 1979-1985. He was also involved in many community groups including the South Burnaby Men’s Club, which he helped found in 1952, as well as active in the Burnaby Historical Society, and served on the Burnaby School Board, Burnaby Centennial Committee, and the Community College for the Retired. Don and Helen Brown had six children: Donna, Don, Gina, Patricia, Christopher and Susan. Don Brown died May 16, 2009.

Total Tracks: 14

Total Length: 01:35:07

Interviewee Name: Brown, Donald N. "Don"

Interviewer Bio: Rod Fowler returned to university as a mature student in the 1980s after working about twenty years in the field of economics and computerization in business in England, Europe and Western Canada. He graduated with a BA from SFU in both History and Sociology in 1987, his MA degree in Geography in 1989, and his PhD in Cultural Geography at SFU. He taught courses in Geography, Sociology, History and Canadian Studies at several Lower Mainland colleges, before becoming a full time member of the Geography Department at Kwantlen University College.

Collection/Fonds: SFU/Burnaby Centennial Committee fonds

Series: Centennial Oral History project series

Transcript Available: Transcript available

Media Type: Sound Recording

Web Notes: Interviews were digitized in 2015 allowing them to be accessible on Heritage Burnaby. The digitization project was initiated by the Community Heritage Commission with support from City of Burnaby Council.

Images

Royal Canadian Mounted Police Sergeant Don Brown, November 2, 1997. Item no. 535-0979 thumbnail

Audio Tracks

Track four of interview with Don Brown

https://search.heritageburnaby.ca/media/hpo/_Data/_Archives_Oral_Histories/_Unrestricted/MSS187-016/MSS187-016_Track%204.mp3

Alfred Hickman

https://search.heritageburnaby.ca/link/archivedescription35054

Repository: City of Burnaby Archives

Date: [195-] (date of original), copied 1986

Collection/Fonds: Burnaby Historical Society fonds

Description Level: Item

Physical Description: 1 photograph : b&w ; 7.5 x 11 cm print

Scope and Content: Photograph of two men standing outside Hickman's Grocery on Patterson Avenue near the railroad tracks. One of the men is Alfred Hickman, the store's owner. Signs on the store read, "Hickmans / Groceries / Produce" and "Groceries / Hickmans / Meats." Signs in the window advertise wieners and "Mea…

1 image

Repository: City of Burnaby Archives

Date: [195-] (date of original), copied 1986

Collection/Fonds: Burnaby Historical Society fonds

Series: Community Archives Collection series

Subseries: Alfred Hickman subseries

Physical Description: 1 photograph : b&w ; 7.5 x 11 cm print

Description Level: Item

Record No.: 183-002

Access Restriction: No restrictions

Reproduction Restriction: Reproduce for fair dealing purposes only

Accession Number: BHS1986-31

Scope and Content: Photograph of two men standing outside Hickman's Grocery on Patterson Avenue near the railroad tracks. One of the men is Alfred Hickman, the store's owner. Signs on the store read, "Hickmans / Groceries / Produce" and "Groceries / Hickmans / Meats." Signs in the window advertise wieners and "Meat Makes the Meal."

Subjects: Buildings - Commercial - Grocery Stores; Occupations - Grocers; Advertising Medium - Signs and Signboards

Names: Hickman, Alfred "Alf"; Hickman and Son Market

Media Type: Photograph

Notes: Title based on contents of photograph; Street address for the grocery store later numbered 5932 Patterson Avenue

Geographic Access: Patterson Avenue

Street Address: 5932 Patterson Avenue

Historic Neighbourhood: Central Park (Historic Neighbourhood)

Planning Study Area: Maywood Area

Images

Alfred Hickman, [195-] (date of original), copied 1986 thumbnail

A. Matheson and Sons Market

https://search.heritageburnaby.ca/link/archivedescription34063

Repository: City of Burnaby Archives

Date: 1957

Collection/Fonds: Burnaby Historical Society fonds

Description Level: Item

Physical Description: 1 photograph : b&w ; 8.9 x 9.0 cm

Scope and Content: Photograph of the A. Matheson & Sons store building located at 3576 Kingsway (later renumbered 4920 Kingsway) and Nelson Avenue. Signs on the store read, "A. Matheson & Sons Market / Fresh Meats - Groceries / Quality and Service / Dexter 1372, 1373 / Free Delivery." Additional signs and billboard…

1 image

Repository: City of Burnaby Archives

Date: 1957

Collection/Fonds: Burnaby Historical Society fonds

Series: Community Archives Collection series

Subseries: Photographs subseries

Physical Description: 1 photograph : b&w ; 8.9 x 9.0 cm

Description Level: Item

Record No.: 006-002

Access Restriction: No restrictions

Reproduction Restriction: Reproduce for fair dealing purposes only

Accession Number: BHS2007-04

Scope and Content: Photograph of the A. Matheson & Sons store building located at 3576 Kingsway (later renumbered 4920 Kingsway) and Nelson Avenue. Signs on the store read, "A. Matheson & Sons Market / Fresh Meats - Groceries / Quality and Service / Dexter 1372, 1373 / Free Delivery." Additional signs and billboards include "Burnaby Liberal Committee Rooms" and a cigarette billboard. This store was previously owned and operated by Alexander MacKenzie.

Subjects: Buildings - Commercial - Grocery Stores; Advertising Medium - Signs and Signboards

Names: Matheson and Sons Market; A. MacKenzie and Company Jubilee Store

Media Type: Photograph

Notes: Title based on contents of photograph

Geographic Access: Kingsway

Street Address: 4920 Kingsway

Historic Neighbourhood: Central Park (Historic Neighbourhood)

Planning Study Area: Marlborough Area

Images

A. Matheson and Sons Market, 1957 thumbnail

Astor Hotel

https://search.heritageburnaby.ca/link/archivedescription34586

Repository: City of Burnaby Archives

Date: 1958

Collection/Fonds: Burnaby Historical Society fonds

Description Level: Item

Physical Description: 1 photograph : b&w ; 20.5 x 25.6 cm

Scope and Content: Photograph of the Astor Hotel at 4561 Kingsway and McKay Avenue. A hotel sign reads, "Welcome HRH Princess Margaret to Burnaby." The Astor Coffee Shop is to the right of the hotel.

1 image

Repository: City of Burnaby Archives

Date: 1958

Collection/Fonds: Burnaby Historical Society fonds

Series: Community Archives Collection series

Subseries: Photographs subseries

Physical Description: 1 photograph : b&w ; 20.5 x 25.6 cm

Description Level: Item

Record No.: 060-001

Access Restriction: No restrictions

Reproduction Restriction: Reproduce for fair dealing purposes only

Accession Number: BHS2007-04

Scope and Content: Photograph of the Astor Hotel at 4561 Kingsway and McKay Avenue. A hotel sign reads, "Welcome HRH Princess Margaret to Burnaby." The Astor Coffee Shop is to the right of the hotel.

Subjects: Advertising Medium - Signs and Signboards; Buildings - Commercial - Hotels and Motels

Names: Astor Hotel

Media Type: Photograph

Notes: Title based on contents of photograph

Geographic Access: Kingsway

Street Address: 4561 Kingsway

Historic Neighbourhood: Central Park (Historic Neighbourhood)

Planning Study Area: Marlborough Area

Images

Bank of Montreal

https://search.heritageburnaby.ca/link/archivedescription34638

Repository: City of Burnaby Archives

Date: [195-]

Collection/Fonds: Burnaby Historical Society fonds

Description Level: Item

Physical Description: 1 photograph : b&w ; 24.7 x 17.4 cm

Scope and Content: Photograph of the exterior of the Bank of Montreal at 418 Willingdon Avenue and Hastings Street.

1 image

Repository: City of Burnaby Archives

Date: [195-]

Collection/Fonds: Burnaby Historical Society fonds

Series: Community Archives Collection series

Subseries: Photographs subseries

Physical Description: 1 photograph : b&w ; 24.7 x 17.4 cm

Description Level: Item

Record No.: 073-001

Access Restriction: No restrictions

Reproduction Restriction: Reproduce for fair dealing purposes only

Accession Number: BHS2007-04

Scope and Content: Photograph of the exterior of the Bank of Montreal at 418 Willingdon Avenue and Hastings Street.

Subjects: Buildings - Commercial - Banks

Names: Bank of Montreal

Media Type: Photograph

Notes: Title based on contents of photograph

Geographic Access: Willingdon Avenue

Street Address: 418 Willingdon Avenue

Historic Neighbourhood: Vancouver Heights (Historic Neighbourhood)

Planning Study Area: Brentwood Area

Images

Blue Haven Motel

https://search.heritageburnaby.ca/link/archivedescription35136

Repository: City of Burnaby Archives

Date: [195-]

Collection/Fonds: Burnaby Historical Society fonds

Description Level: Item

Physical Description: 1 photograph : col. postcard ; 8.9 x 13.9 cm

Scope and Content: Photographic postcard of the Blue Haven Motel, 7026 Kingsway. The description printed on the back of the postcard reads, "Blue Haven Motel / 7026 Kingsway, South Burnaby, B.C., Canada / Mrgs.: Mr. and Mrs. A. Pearson / 22 Units - 4 Stars - AAA - ACRA / T.V. Equipped / Telephone LA 1-9942." The bui…

1 image

Repository: City of Burnaby Archives

Date: [195-]

Collection/Fonds: Burnaby Historical Society fonds

Series: Community Archives Collection series

Subseries: Photographs subseries

Physical Description: 1 photograph : col. postcard ; 8.9 x 13.9 cm

Description Level: Item

Record No.: 199-001

Access Restriction: No restrictions

Reproduction Restriction: Reproduce for fair dealing purposes only

Accession Number: BHS1987-10

Scope and Content: Photographic postcard of the Blue Haven Motel, 7026 Kingsway. The description printed on the back of the postcard reads, "Blue Haven Motel / 7026 Kingsway, South Burnaby, B.C., Canada / Mrgs.: Mr. and Mrs. A. Pearson / 22 Units - 4 Stars - AAA - ACRA / T.V. Equipped / Telephone LA 1-9942." The building on the left side of the photograph has "Office" written on the door. Cars and motel units are seen at the right.

Subjects: Buildings - Commercial - Hotels and Motels; Documentary Artifacts - Postcards

Names: Blue Haven Motel

Media Type: Photograph

Responsibility: Printed on back of postcard: "Traveltime product. Made in Vancouver, Canada, by Grant-Mann Lithographers, Ltd."

Notes: Title based on contents of photograph

Geographic Access: Kingsway

Street Address: 7026 Kingsway

Historic Neighbourhood: Edmonds (Historic Neighbourhood)

Planning Study Area: Stride Avenue Area

Images

Boundary Road and Kingsway

https://search.heritageburnaby.ca/link/archivedescription34709

Repository: City of Burnaby Archives

Date: [1959]

Collection/Fonds: Burnaby Historical Society fonds

Description Level: Item

Physical Description: 1 photograph : b&w ; 16.0 x 25.3 cm

Scope and Content: Photograph of buildings at Boundary Road and Kingsway, southwest corner. A typed description on the back of the photograph reads, "The new Hemlock (automatic) and old Dexter (manual) exchanges. / B.C. Telephone Company."

1 image

Repository: City of Burnaby Archives

Date: [1959]

Collection/Fonds: Burnaby Historical Society fonds

Series: Community Archives Collection series

Subseries: Photographs subseries

Physical Description: 1 photograph : b&w ; 16.0 x 25.3 cm

Description Level: Item

Record No.: 113-001

Access Restriction: No restrictions

Reproduction Restriction: Reproduce for fair dealing purposes only

Accession Number: BHS2007-04

Scope and Content: Photograph of buildings at Boundary Road and Kingsway, southwest corner. A typed description on the back of the photograph reads, "The new Hemlock (automatic) and old Dexter (manual) exchanges. / B.C. Telephone Company."

Subjects: Buildings - Commercial; Geographic Features - Roads

Names: British Columbia Telephone Company

Media Type: Photograph

Photographer: Williams Brothers Photographers Limited

Notes: Title based on contents of photograph; Stamp on back of photograph reads, "Williams Bros. Photographers Ltd. / 413 Granville St. Vancouver 2, B.C. / Phone Tatlow 8588"

Geographic Access: Boundary Road; Kingsway

Historic Neighbourhood: Central Park (Historic Neighbourhood)

Planning Study Area: Garden Village Area

Images

Boundary Road and Kingsway, [1959] thumbnail

Burquitlam Plaza

https://search.heritageburnaby.ca/link/archivedescription88384

Repository: City of Burnaby Archives

Date: June 1958

Collection/Fonds: Church of Nazarene fonds

Description Level: Item

Physical Description: 1 photograph : b&w ; 6 x 9.5 cm

Scope and Content: Photograph of the sign for "Burquitlam Plaza" and the "Grand Opening on Thursday May 29". This mall is located at 526 Clarke Road. Cars can be seen parked and driving along Clarke Road out in front of the mall.

1 image

Repository: City of Burnaby Archives

Date: June 1958

Collection/Fonds: Church of Nazarene fonds

Physical Description: 1 photograph : b&w ; 6 x 9.5 cm

Description Level: Item

Record No.: 575-008

Access Restriction: No restrictions

Reproduction Restriction: No restrictions

Accession Number: 2014-41

Scope and Content: Photograph of the sign for "Burquitlam Plaza" and the "Grand Opening on Thursday May 29". This mall is located at 526 Clarke Road. Cars can be seen parked and driving along Clarke Road out in front of the mall.