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Interview with Don Brown by Rod Fowler February 26, 1990 - Track 12

https://search.heritageburnaby.ca/link/oralhistory513
Repository
City of Burnaby Archives
Date Range
1980-1990
Length
00:05:42
Summary
This portion of the interview is about Don Brown’s retirement from the RCMP in 1980 and the establishment of his business as a private document examiner. He talks about some of his cases and explains about his work.
Repository
City of Burnaby Archives
Summary
This portion of the interview is about Don Brown’s retirement from the RCMP in 1980 and the establishment of his business as a private document examiner. He talks about some of his cases and explains about his work.
Date Range
1980-1990
Photo Info
Royal Canadian Mounted Police Sergeant Don Brown, November 2, 1997. Item no. 535-0979
Length
00:05:42
Subjects
Public Services - Policing
Occupations - Entrepreneurs
Crimes
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
Audio Tracks

Track twelve of interview with Don Brown

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Interview with Don Brown by Rod Fowler February 26, 1990 - Track 13

https://search.heritageburnaby.ca/link/oralhistory514
Repository
City of Burnaby Archives
Date Range
1950-1990
Length
00:04:09
Summary
This portion of the interview takes place while looking at photographs. Don Brown talks about the move from Provincial Police to RCMP, and how service was calculated. He also talks about the importance of owning his own home, and some information about the RCMP forensic labs he supervised
Repository
City of Burnaby Archives
Summary
This portion of the interview takes place while looking at photographs. Don Brown talks about the move from Provincial Police to RCMP, and how service was calculated. He also talks about the importance of owning his own home, and some information about the RCMP forensic labs he supervised
Date Range
1950-1990
Photo Info
Royal Canadian Mounted Police Sergeant Don Brown, November 2, 1997. Item no. 535-0979
Length
00:04:09
Subjects
Public Services - Policing
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
Audio Tracks

Track thirteen of interview with Don Brown

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Interview with Kay Zimmerman by Rod Fowler [February] 1990 - Track 4

https://search.heritageburnaby.ca/link/oralhistory530
Repository
City of Burnaby Archives
Date Range
1920-1990
Length
00:07:37
Summary
This portion of the interview is about Burnaby growing from “a dreamy little community” with little business to transact in council, to a municipality providing many more services and planning for and supporting industrial, commercial and residential growth. She talks about the first malls at Brent…
Repository
City of Burnaby Archives
Summary
This portion of the interview is about Burnaby growing from “a dreamy little community” with little business to transact in council, to a municipality providing many more services and planning for and supporting industrial, commercial and residential growth. She talks about the first malls at Brentwood and Lougheed, the George Derby lands, and the return of Oakalla Prison lands to Burnaby.
Date Range
1920-1990
Photo Info
Kay Zimmerman, [1973]. Item no. 231-021
Length
00:07:37
Subjects
Government - Local Government
Taxes
Public Services
Interviewer
Fowler, Rod
Interview Date
[February] 1990
Scope and Content
Recording is of an interview with Kay Zimmerman, conducted by Rod Fowler. Kay Zimmerman 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 Kay Zimmerman’s political activities in Burnaby and her description of her Lochdale neighbourhood in the 1960s. She provides an excellent overview of the municipal political groups and important political issues in Burnaby from 1960 to 1980. She tells the story about an early and successful political action that convinced her that an individual can make a difference. To view “Narrow By” terms for each track expand this description and see “Notes”.
Biographical Notes
Kathleen “Kay” Zimmerman, her husband Gordon and their young son Rick moved to Burnaby from Vancouver in 1960 to a house on Curtis Avenue near Duthie Street (a second son Bruce was born in Burnaby). Kay Zimmerman worked 12 years at Royal Columbian Hospital in the admitting office, then 4 years (1974-1979) as special assistant to Senator Ray Perrault, followed by work as a judge on the Citizenship Court before retiring. Gordon Zimmerman worked at the Shell Refinery. A member of the Liberal Party and political activist before arriving in Burnaby, Kay Zimmerman continued her involvement in national and local politics. She campaigned for Ray Perrault during the Trudeau years, and was a founder and active member of the Burnaby Voters Association (BVA). Her political activities encompassed 30 years that saw major changes in Burnaby, including the building of SFU, creation of Heritage Village, an awakening environmental sensibility, and a dramatic increase in population and development in Burnaby.
Total Tracks
10
Total Length
01:04:36
Interviewee Name
Zimmerman, Kay
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
Audio Tracks

Track four of interview with Kay Zimmerman

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Interview with Lee Rankin by Kathy Bossort December 2, 2015 - Track 7

https://search.heritageburnaby.ca/link/oralhistory648
Repository
City of Burnaby Archives
Date Range
1973-2015
Length
0:08:51
Summary
This portion of the interview is about Lee Rankin talking about the Simon Fraser Liaison Committee’s activities after 1996 and land use at UniverCity. He talks about the challenge that SFU faces as a land developer and the City’s response to UniverCity residents’ demands for services. He tells a st…
Repository
City of Burnaby Archives
Summary
This portion of the interview is about Lee Rankin talking about the Simon Fraser Liaison Committee’s activities after 1996 and land use at UniverCity. He talks about the challenge that SFU faces as a land developer and the City’s response to UniverCity residents’ demands for services. He tells a story about his time as a SFU student and the proposed ice rink on campus.
Date Range
1973-2015
Length
0:08:51
Names
Simon Fraser Liaison Committee.
Simon Fraser University
UniverCity
Subjects
Public Services
Geographic Access
Burnaby Mountain Conservation Area
Interviewer
Bossort, Kathy
Interview Date
December 2, 2015
Scope and Content
Recording is of an interview with Lee Rankin conducted by Kathy Bossort. Lee Rankin was one of 23 participants interviewed as part of the Community Heritage Commission’s Burnaby Mountain Oral History Project. The interview is mainly about Lee Rankin’s involvement in finding a resolution to the dispute between the City of Burnaby and Simon Fraser University over land ownership and control on Burnaby Mountain. He talks about the origin of the dispute, the positions taken by the two sides, the key people who brought about a resolution, and the main features of the agreement between the City, SFU and the province of BC. He talks about how the agreement met SFU’s goals, fostered trust between the City and university, and removed uncertainty from protecting parkland on Burnaby Mountain.
Biographical Notes
Lee Rankin was born in 1953 in Vancouver. He attended SFU 1973-78, completing his BA degree in 1985. He earned his law degree at UBC in 1988, was called to the Bar in 1989, and practiced in immigration and refugee law. Lee has lived in Burnaby since 1976 and was a member of Burnaby Council for 22 years, from 1983-1999 and 2002-2008. His particular interests as a Councillor were in community planning, housing and environment. Among other duties and accomplishments as Councillor, Lee served as chair of the Simon Fraser Liaison Committee and was involved in the negotiations with the province and SFU that resulted in the university returning more than 800 acres of land to the City, which was dedicated as part of the Burnaby Mountain Conservation Area. He has also served on the GVRD, volunteers as a coach for team sports in Burnaby, and has served on numerous community and business associations and committees. Lee is married to Ragini Venkat Rankin and has one son Henry.
Total Tracks
8
Total Length
1:50:35
Interviewee Name
Rankin, Lee A.
Interview Location
Lee Rankin's home in Burnaby
Interviewer Bio
Kathy Bossort is a retired archivist living in Ladner, BC. She worked at the Delta Museum and Archives after graduating from SLAIS (UBC) in 2001 with Masters degrees in library science and archival studies. Kathy grew up in Calgary, Alberta, and, prior to this career change, she lived in the West Kootenays, earning her living as a cook for BC tourist lodges and work camps. She continues to be interested in oral histories as a way to fill the gaps in the written record and bring richer meaning to history.
Collection/Fonds
Community Heritage Commission Special Projects fonds
Series
Burnaby Mountain Oral History Project series
Media Type
Sound Recording
Audio Tracks

Track seven of interview with Lee Rankin

Less detail

Interview with Ron Baker by Kathy Bossort November 27, 2015 - Track 6

https://search.heritageburnaby.ca/link/oralhistory640
Repository
City of Burnaby Archives
Date Range
1950-2015
Length
0:10:17
Summary
This portion of the interview is about Dr. Ron Baker’s discussion about the choice of branding SFU the “engaged” university at the time of its 50th Anniversary, and the need for university Presidents to fund raise. He talks about the relationship between UBC and SFU, and the reasons for hostility t…
Repository
City of Burnaby Archives
Summary
This portion of the interview is about Dr. Ron Baker’s discussion about the choice of branding SFU the “engaged” university at the time of its 50th Anniversary, and the need for university Presidents to fund raise. He talks about the relationship between UBC and SFU, and the reasons for hostility towards UBC in the 1950s, especially from interior BC communities.
Date Range
1950-2015
Length
0:10:17
Names
Simon Fraser University
University of British Columbia
Subjects
Education
Public Services
Events - Anniversaries
Geographic Access
Burnaby Mountain Conservation Area
Interviewer
Bossort, Kathy
Interview Date
November 27, 2015
Scope and Content
Recording is of an interview with Dr. Ronald James Baker conducted by Kathy Bossort. Ron Baker was one of 23 participants interviewed as part of the Community Heritage Commission’s Burnaby Mountain Oral History Project. The interview is mainly about the founding of Simon Fraser University from the perspective of SFU’s first faculty member and Director of Academic Planning, Ron Baker. Ron Baker talks about John B. Macdonald’s report on higher education in BC (1962) and how it lead to the provincial government’s decision to establish a new university and to put it in the Burnaby area. He tells stories about how the site on Burnaby Mountain was chosen; about the building of the campus; and about the challenges of planning the academic structure of the university. He also talks about the attraction of creating with little interference an institution trying out new ideas and tells stories about his working relationship with Gordon Shrum. He considers the problems created by building universities in out of the way places and the ideas such as UniverCity for dealing with SFU’s isolation.
Biographical Notes
Ron Baker was born in London, England, in 1924, and served in the Royal Air Force during WW2. He emigrated to Canada in 1947 and studied at UBC where he obtained a BA degree (1951) and MA degree (1953) in English Language and Literature. He served on the faculty of the UBC English Department beginning as a lecturer in 1951 and advanced to positions of Assistant Professor (1958-63) and Associate Professor (1963-65). He was a contributor to John B. Macdonald’s 1962 report “Higher Education in British Columbia and a Plan for the Future”, and continued to make significant contributions to the establishment of the community college system in Canada throughout his career. In 1963 the newly established Simon Fraser University hired Ron as its first Director of Academic Planning, serving also as first head of SFU’s English Department. In 1969 Ron left SFU to become the first President of the University of Prince Edward Island, a position he held until 1978. In 1978 he was made an Officer of the Order of Canada for his contributions to higher education. Ron has contributed to many organizations, including serving as a member of the Board of Directors of the Association of Universities and Colleges of Canada, on Canada Council, and as President of Association of Atlantic Universities and the Association of Canadian University Teachers of English. In 1990 Ron Baker was asked by the government of BC to prepare a preliminary report on the establishment of the future UNBC in Prince George. Now retired Ron Baker lives in the Edmonds area of Burnaby.
Total Tracks
7
Total Length
1:33:46
Interviewee Name
Baker, Ronald J. "Ron"
Interview Location
Ron Baker's home in Burnaby
Interviewer Bio
Kathy Bossort is a retired archivist living in Ladner, BC. She worked at the Delta Museum and Archives after graduating from SLAIS (UBC) in 2001 with Masters degrees in library science and archival studies. Kathy grew up in Calgary, Alberta, and, prior to this career change, she lived in the West Kootenays, earning her living as a cook for BC tourist lodges and work camps. She continues to be interested in oral histories as a way to fill the gaps in the written record and bring richer meaning to history.
Collection/Fonds
Community Heritage Commission Special Projects fonds
Series
Burnaby Mountain Oral History Project series
Media Type
Sound Recording
Audio Tracks

Track six of interview with Dr. Ron Baker

Less detail

Interview with William J. Copeland by Rod Fowler February 18, 1990 - Track 1

https://search.heritageburnaby.ca/link/oralhistory435
Repository
City of Burnaby Archives
Date Range
1960-1990
Length
00:03:16
Summary
This portion of the interview is about Bill Copeland's involvement in the International Association of Fire Fighters union.
Repository
City of Burnaby Archives
Summary
This portion of the interview is about Bill Copeland's involvement in the International Association of Fire Fighters union.
Date Range
1960-1990
Photo Info
Mayor Bill Copeland cutting the ribbon for the opening of the Shadbolt Centre for the Arts accompanied by Jack and Doris Shadbolt and Councillors Doug Drummond and Derek Corrigan, 1995. Item no. 535-0067
Length
00:03:16
Subjects
Public Services - Fire Protection
Organizations - Unions
Interviewer
Fowler, Rod
Interview Date
February 18, 1990
Scope and Content
Recording is of an interview with former Burnaby Mayor William J. Copeland conducted by Rod Fowler. Bill Copeland 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 Bill Copeland’s education, career and experience as a Burnaby firefighter from 1955 to 1987, and his work for the union International Association of Fire Fighters. He talks about his early family life in Burnaby and Vancouver, war service, training with the Federal Fire Service, the organizations he has belonged to, and the careers of his three children. He briefly talks about Burnaby politics and his unexpected election to Mayor of Burnaby. Major themes of the interview, described by track: Track 1: Organizations - Unions; Public Services - Fire Protection; International Association of Fire Fighters; Track 2: Public Services - Fire Protection; Track 3: Elections; Track 4: family history and education; Track 5: Public Services - Fire Protection; Track 6: Elections
Biographical Notes
William John (Bill) Copeland (1927-2002) was born in Vancouver May 19, 1927. As a young child he lived with his parents on Southwood Street in South Burnaby on a chicken ranch. Bill’s father was a miner and was often away from home. The family moved to Pioneer Mines at Bridge River for a few years and then moved back to Vancouver in 1941 when his father contracted silicosis. Bill served in the navy for about a year near the end of WWII, was in the Canadian Merchant Marine and worked as a pipe fitter, before beginning his career as a fire fighter. He trained with the Federal Fire Service and worked two years at the Wireless Station in Delta. In 1955 he started work as Fire Fighter No. 53 in Burnaby, retiring 33 years later in 1987. Most of his career was spent at the Control Station or Number 1 Firehall, first located at Wiilingdon and Hastings (now No.5 Station) and later on Sperling near Canada Way. Bill worked as a first aid instructor, eventually moving into the training office, and retired as assistant chief. In 1987, shortly after retiring, Bill was asked to run for Mayor for the Burnaby Citizens Association (BCA). Much to his surprise he won. He served with distinction for three terms (1987-1996). Bill, his wife Ruth, and their three children, Doug and Dan (both firefighters) and Emily (a teacher), lived in North Burnaby on Cliff Avenue, the family home for about 35 years. Bill was active in many organizations including the Cliff Avenue soccer organization, St. John Ambulance, Burnaby Red Cross, and CNIB, among others. He began representing firefighters locally in the International Association of Fire Fighters in the early 1960s, eventually becoming President of the provincial association and then Vice President of the 6th District representing Western Canada.
Total Tracks
6
Total Length
0:25:35
Interviewee Name
Copeland, William J
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 business computerization 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
Audio Tracks

Track one of interview with William J. Copeland

Less detail

Interview with William J. Copeland by Rod Fowler February 18, 1990 - Track 2

https://search.heritageburnaby.ca/link/oralhistory436
Repository
City of Burnaby Archives
Date Range
1953-1990
Length
00:02:44
Summary
This portion of the interview is about Bill Copeland's training as a firefighter in the Federal Fire Service at the Wireless Station in Delta, and his career in Burnaby, mainly at Control Station.
Repository
City of Burnaby Archives
Summary
This portion of the interview is about Bill Copeland's training as a firefighter in the Federal Fire Service at the Wireless Station in Delta, and his career in Burnaby, mainly at Control Station.
Date Range
1953-1990
Photo Info
Mayor Bill Copeland cutting the ribbon for the opening of the Shadbolt Centre for the Arts accompanied by Jack and Doris Shadbolt and Councillors Doug Drummond and Derek Corrigan, 1995. Item no. 535-0067
Length
00:02:44
Subjects
Public Services - Fire Protection
Interviewer
Fowler, Rod
Interview Date
February 18, 1990
Scope and Content
Recording is of an interview with former Burnaby Mayor William J. Copeland conducted by Rod Fowler. Bill Copeland 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 Bill Copeland’s education, career and experience as a Burnaby firefighter from 1955 to 1987, and his work for the union International Association of Fire Fighters. He talks about his early family life in Burnaby and Vancouver, war service, training with the Federal Fire Service, the organizations he has belonged to, and the careers of his three children. He briefly talks about Burnaby politics and his unexpected election to Mayor of Burnaby. Major themes of the interview, described by track: Track 1: Organizations - Unions; Public Services - Fire Protection; International Association of Fire Fighters; Track 2: Public Services - Fire Protection; Track 3: Elections; Track 4: family history and education; Track 5: Public Services - Fire Protection; Track 6: Elections
Biographical Notes
William John (Bill) Copeland (1927-2002) was born in Vancouver May 19, 1927. As a young child he lived with his parents on Southwood Street in South Burnaby on a chicken ranch. Bill’s father was a miner and was often away from home. The family moved to Pioneer Mines at Bridge River for a few years and then moved back to Vancouver in 1941 when his father contracted silicosis. Bill served in the navy for about a year near the end of WWII, was in the Canadian Merchant Marine and worked as a pipe fitter, before beginning his career as a fire fighter. He trained with the Federal Fire Service and worked two years at the Wireless Station in Delta. In 1955 he started work as Fire Fighter No. 53 in Burnaby, retiring 33 years later in 1987. Most of his career was spent at the Control Station or Number 1 Firehall, first located at Wiilingdon and Hastings (now No.5 Station) and later on Sperling near Canada Way. Bill worked as a first aid instructor, eventually moving into the training office, and retired as assistant chief. In 1987, shortly after retiring, Bill was asked to run for Mayor for the Burnaby Citizens Association (BCA). Much to his surprise he won. He served with distinction for three terms (1987-1996). Bill, his wife Ruth, and their three children, Doug and Dan (both firefighters) and Emily (a teacher), lived in North Burnaby on Cliff Avenue, the family home for about 35 years. Bill was active in many organizations including the Cliff Avenue soccer organization, St. John Ambulance, Burnaby Red Cross, and CNIB, among others. He began representing firefighters locally in the International Association of Fire Fighters in the early 1960s, eventually becoming President of the provincial association and then Vice President of the 6th District representing Western Canada.
Total Tracks
6
Total Length
0:25:35
Interviewee Name
Copeland, William J
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 business computerization 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
Audio Tracks

Track two of interview with William J. Copeland

Less detail

Interview with William J. Copeland by Rod Fowler February 18, 1990 - Track 5

https://search.heritageburnaby.ca/link/oralhistory439
Repository
City of Burnaby Archives
Date Range
1955-1986
Length
00:06:41
Summary
This portion of the interview is about particular fires that Bill remembers, the kinds of calls attended, and the stress caused by some of the calls and the shift work.
Repository
City of Burnaby Archives
Summary
This portion of the interview is about particular fires that Bill remembers, the kinds of calls attended, and the stress caused by some of the calls and the shift work.
Date Range
1955-1986
Photo Info
Mayor Bill Copeland cutting the ribbon for the opening of the Shadbolt Centre for the Arts accompanied by Jack and Doris Shadbolt and Councillors Doug Drummond and Derek Corrigan, 1995. Item no. 535-0067
Length
00:06:41
Subjects
Public Services - Fire Protection
Interviewer
Fowler, Rod
Interview Date
February 18, 1990
Scope and Content
Recording is of an interview with former Burnaby Mayor William J. Copeland conducted by Rod Fowler. Bill Copeland 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 Bill Copeland’s education, career and experience as a Burnaby firefighter from 1955 to 1987, and his work for the union International Association of Fire Fighters. He talks about his early family life in Burnaby and Vancouver, war service, training with the Federal Fire Service, the organizations he has belonged to, and the careers of his three children. He briefly talks about Burnaby politics and his unexpected election to Mayor of Burnaby. Major themes of the interview, described by track: Track 1: Organizations - Unions; Public Services - Fire Protection; International Association of Fire Fighters; Track 2: Public Services - Fire Protection; Track 3: Elections; Track 4: family history and education; Track 5: Public Services - Fire Protection; Track 6: Elections
Biographical Notes
William John (Bill) Copeland (1927-2002) was born in Vancouver May 19, 1927. As a young child he lived with his parents on Southwood Street in South Burnaby on a chicken ranch. Bill’s father was a miner and was often away from home. The family moved to Pioneer Mines at Bridge River for a few years and then moved back to Vancouver in 1941 when his father contracted silicosis. Bill served in the navy for about a year near the end of WWII, was in the Canadian Merchant Marine and worked as a pipe fitter, before beginning his career as a fire fighter. He trained with the Federal Fire Service and worked two years at the Wireless Station in Delta. In 1955 he started work as Fire Fighter No. 53 in Burnaby, retiring 33 years later in 1987. Most of his career was spent at the Control Station or Number 1 Firehall, first located at Wiilingdon and Hastings (now No.5 Station) and later on Sperling near Canada Way. Bill worked as a first aid instructor, eventually moving into the training office, and retired as assistant chief. In 1987, shortly after retiring, Bill was asked to run for Mayor for the Burnaby Citizens Association (BCA). Much to his surprise he won. He served with distinction for three terms (1987-1996). Bill, his wife Ruth, and their three children, Doug and Dan (both firefighters) and Emily (a teacher), lived in North Burnaby on Cliff Avenue, the family home for about 35 years. Bill was active in many organizations including the Cliff Avenue soccer organization, St. John Ambulance, Burnaby Red Cross, and CNIB, among others. He began representing firefighters locally in the International Association of Fire Fighters in the early 1960s, eventually becoming President of the provincial association and then Vice President of the 6th District representing Western Canada.
Total Tracks
6
Total Length
0:25:35
Interviewee Name
Copeland, William J
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 business computerization 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
Audio Tracks

Track five of interview with William J. Copeland

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Lower Regional Correctional Centre

https://search.heritageburnaby.ca/link/museumdescription17073
Repository
Burnaby Village Museum
Date
[1985]
Collection/Fonds
Oakalla Prison collection
Description Level
Item
Physical Description
1 photograph : col. slide ; 35 mm
Scope and Content
Photograph of the exterior of Oakalla Prison (Lower Regional Correctional Centre).
Repository
Burnaby Village Museum
Collection/Fonds
Oakalla Prison collection
Series
Oakalla correctional facility photographs series
Description Level
Item
Physical Description
1 photograph : col. slide ; 35 mm
Scope and Content
Photograph of the exterior of Oakalla Prison (Lower Regional Correctional Centre).
Subjects
Public Services - Correctional
Names
Oakalla Prison Farm
Lower Mainland Regional Correctional Centre
Geographic Access
Oakmount Crescent
Street Address
5220 Oakmount Crescent
Accession Code
BV991.45.541
Access Restriction
No restrictions
Reproduction Restriction
May be restricted by third party rights
Date
[1985]
Media Type
Photograph
Historic Neighbourhood
Burnaby Lake (Historic Neighbourhood)
Planning Study Area
Oakalla Area
Scan Resolution
2400
Notes
Title based on contents of photograph
note in black ink on slide frame reads: "OAKALLA"
Images
Less detail

Main gate of Oakalla

https://search.heritageburnaby.ca/link/museumdescription17071
Repository
Burnaby Village Museum
Date
[1985]
Collection/Fonds
Oakalla Prison collection
Description Level
Item
Physical Description
1 photograph : col. slide ; 35 mm
Scope and Content
Photograph of the main gate of Oakalla Prison (Lower Regional Correctional Centre) with car outside of the entrance.
Repository
Burnaby Village Museum
Collection/Fonds
Oakalla Prison collection
Series
Oakalla correctional facility photographs series
Description Level
Item
Physical Description
1 photograph : col. slide ; 35 mm
Scope and Content
Photograph of the main gate of Oakalla Prison (Lower Regional Correctional Centre) with car outside of the entrance.
Subjects
Public Services - Correctional
Names
Oakalla Prison Farm
Lower Mainland Regional Correctional Centre
Geographic Access
Oakmount Crescent
Street Address
5220 Oakmount Crescent
Accession Code
BV991.45.539
Access Restriction
No restrictions
Reproduction Restriction
May be restricted by third party rights
Date
[1985]
Media Type
Photograph
Historic Neighbourhood
Burnaby Lake (Historic Neighbourhood)
Planning Study Area
Oakalla Area
Scan Resolution
2400
Notes
Title based on contents of photograph
note in black ink on slide frame reads: "OAKALLA / MAIN GATE / c. 1985?"
Images
Less detail

Male offender facility

https://search.heritageburnaby.ca/link/museumdescription16661
Repository
Burnaby Village Museum
Date
January 1981
Collection/Fonds
Oakalla Prison collection
Description Level
Item
Physical Description
2 cm of textual records (71p.)
Scope and Content
Item consists of a copy of a typewritten report titled "Male Offender Facility - 150 Sentenced Beds Oakalla Grounds", from Project Directors, D.M. Bahr and O. Krahnbel presented to Commissioner of Corrections, B. Robinson; January, 1981. Report includes memo from Project Director, D.M. Bahr, to K…
Repository
Burnaby Village Museum
Collection/Fonds
Oakalla Prison collection
Series
Oakalla correctional facility records series
Description Level
Item
Physical Description
2 cm of textual records (71p.)
Material Details
Includes index
Scope and Content
Item consists of a copy of a typewritten report titled "Male Offender Facility - 150 Sentenced Beds Oakalla Grounds", from Project Directors, D.M. Bahr and O. Krahnbel presented to Commissioner of Corrections, B. Robinson; January, 1981. Report includes memo from Project Director, D.M. Bahr, to Ken Nygaard in "Facilities Management Unit, re: upgrading facility and work placement, Jan. 14 1981; and working paper No. 1 -- summary of area requirements for new men's and women's facilities, Dec. 19, 1980, Oakalla.
Creator
Bahr, D.M.
Krahnbel, O.
Subjects
Public Services - Correctional
Names
Oakalla Prison Farm
Lower Mainland Regional Correctional Centre
Accession Code
BV991.45.154
Access Restriction
No restrictions
Reproduction Restriction
May be restricted by third party rights
Date
January 1981
Media Type
Textual Record
Notes
Title based on contents of item
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Male offender facility, female offender facility : Study of impact of the proposed two new institutions on Oakalla grounds

https://search.heritageburnaby.ca/link/museumdescription16665
Repository
Burnaby Village Museum
Date
May 1981
Collection/Fonds
Oakalla Prison collection
Description Level
Item
Physical Description
2 cm of textual records (88 p.)
Scope and Content
Item consists of a copy of a report titled; "Male offender facility, female offender facility : Study of impact of the proposed two new institutions on Oakalla grounds" created by, Senior Correctional Officer of Oakalla District, O. Krahnbel and presented to Regional Director of Corrections, E.W. H…
Repository
Burnaby Village Museum
Collection/Fonds
Oakalla Prison collection
Series
Oakalla correctional facility records series
Description Level
Item
Physical Description
2 cm of textual records (88 p.)
Scope and Content
Item consists of a copy of a report titled; "Male offender facility, female offender facility : Study of impact of the proposed two new institutions on Oakalla grounds" created by, Senior Correctional Officer of Oakalla District, O. Krahnbel and presented to Regional Director of Corrections, E.W. Harrison; May 1981. Cover page for the report reads "OAKALLA".
Creator
Krahnbel, O.
Subjects
Public Services - Correctional
Names
Oakalla Prison Farm
Lower Mainland Regional Correctional Centre
Accession Code
BV991.45.168
Access Restriction
No restrictions
Reproduction Restriction
May be restricted by third party rights
Date
May 1981
Media Type
Textual Record
Arrangement
File of records were removed from black binder where they were originally housed
Notes
Title based on contents of item
Less detail

Oakalla cell block

https://search.heritageburnaby.ca/link/museumdescription17070
Repository
Burnaby Village Museum
Date
Mar. 1985
Collection/Fonds
Oakalla Prison collection
Description Level
Item
Physical Description
1 photograph : col. slide ; 35 mm
Scope and Content
Photograph of the cell block inside Oakalla Prison.
Repository
Burnaby Village Museum
Collection/Fonds
Oakalla Prison collection
Series
Oakalla correctional facility photographs series
Description Level
Item
Physical Description
1 photograph : col. slide ; 35 mm
Scope and Content
Photograph of the cell block inside Oakalla Prison.
Subjects
Public Services - Correctional
Names
Oakalla Prison Farm
Lower Mainland Regional Correctional Centre
Geographic Access
Oakmount Crescent
Street Address
5220 Oakmount Crescent
Accession Code
BV991.45.538
Access Restriction
No restrictions
Reproduction Restriction
May be restricted by third party rights
Date
Mar. 1985
Media Type
Photograph
Historic Neighbourhood
Burnaby Lake (Historic Neighbourhood)
Planning Study Area
Oakalla Area
Scan Resolution
2400
Notes
Title based on contents of photograph
note in black ink on slide frame reads: "OAKALLA / MAR 85
Images
Less detail

Oakalla hospital

https://search.heritageburnaby.ca/link/museumdescription17072
Repository
Burnaby Village Museum
Date
[1985]
Collection/Fonds
Oakalla Prison collection
Description Level
Item
Physical Description
1 photograph : col. slide ; 35 mm
Scope and Content
Photograph of Oakalla Prison hospital (Lower Regional Correctional Centre).
Repository
Burnaby Village Museum
Collection/Fonds
Oakalla Prison collection
Series
Oakalla correctional facility photographs series
Description Level
Item
Physical Description
1 photograph : col. slide ; 35 mm
Scope and Content
Photograph of Oakalla Prison hospital (Lower Regional Correctional Centre).
Subjects
Public Services - Correctional
Names
Oakalla Prison Farm
Lower Mainland Regional Correctional Centre
Geographic Access
Oakmount Crescent
Street Address
5220 Oakmount Crescent
Accession Code
BV991.45.540
Access Restriction
No restrictions
Reproduction Restriction
May be restricted by third party rights
Date
[1985]
Media Type
Photograph
Historic Neighbourhood
Burnaby Lake (Historic Neighbourhood)
Planning Study Area
Oakalla Area
Notes
Title based on contents of photograph
Note in black ink on slide frame reads "Oakalla hospital / 1985?"
Images
Less detail

Oakalla prison correctional officer 2765

https://search.heritageburnaby.ca/link/museumdescription16689
Repository
Burnaby Village Museum
Date
[198-]
Collection/Fonds
Oakalla Prison collection
Description Level
Item
Physical Description
1 photograph : b&w ; 4.5 x 5 cm
Scope and Content
Photograph of an unidentified correctional officer of Oakalla Prison. Photograph may have been used for identification purposes. Officer is dressed in uniform with the numbers "4214" displayed below.
Repository
Burnaby Village Museum
Collection/Fonds
Oakalla Prison collection
Series
Oakalla correctional facility photographs series
Description Level
Item
Physical Description
1 photograph : b&w ; 4.5 x 5 cm
Scope and Content
Photograph of an unidentified correctional officer of Oakalla Prison. Photograph may have been used for identification purposes. Officer is dressed in uniform with the numbers "4214" displayed below.
History
Salvaged from Oakalla Prison Farm site in October 1991
Subjects
Public Services - Correctional
Names
Oakalla Prison Farm
Lower Mainland Regional Correctional Centre
Geographic Access
Oakmount Crescent
Street Address
5220 Oakmount Crescent
Accession Code
BV991.45.418
Access Restriction
Restricted access
Reproduction Restriction
May be restricted by third party rights
Date
[198-]
Media Type
Photograph
Historic Neighbourhood
Burnaby Lake (Historic Neighbourhood)
Planning Study Area
Oakalla Area
Scan Resolution
1000
Scan Date
June 7, 2021
Scale
100
Notes
Title based on contents of photograph
Less detail

Oakalla prison correctional officer 4214

https://search.heritageburnaby.ca/link/museumdescription16688
Repository
Burnaby Village Museum
Date
[198-]
Collection/Fonds
Oakalla Prison collection
Description Level
Item
Physical Description
1 photograph : b&w ; 4.5 x 5 cm
Scope and Content
Photograph of an unidentified correctional officer of Oakalla Prison. Photograph may have been used to identification purposes. Officer has short hair and mustache, dressed in uniform with the numbers "4214" displayed below.
Repository
Burnaby Village Museum
Collection/Fonds
Oakalla Prison collection
Series
Oakalla correctional facility photographs series
Description Level
Item
Physical Description
1 photograph : b&w ; 4.5 x 5 cm
Scope and Content
Photograph of an unidentified correctional officer of Oakalla Prison. Photograph may have been used to identification purposes. Officer has short hair and mustache, dressed in uniform with the numbers "4214" displayed below.
History
Salvaged from Oakalla Prison Farm site in October 1991
Subjects
Public Services - Correctional
Names
Oakalla Prison Farm
Lower Mainland Regional Correctional Centre
Geographic Access
Oakmount Crescent
Street Address
5220 Oakmount Crescent
Accession Code
BV991.45.417
Access Restriction
Restricted access
Reproduction Restriction
May be restricted by third party rights
Date
[198-]
Media Type
Photograph
Historic Neighbourhood
Burnaby Lake (Historic Neighbourhood)
Planning Study Area
Oakalla Area
Scan Resolution
1000
Scan Date
June 7, 2021
Scale
100
Notes
Title based on contents of photograph
Note in pencil on verso of photograph reads: "Pohl"
Less detail

Oakalla Prison Farm buildings and grounds

https://search.heritageburnaby.ca/link/museumdescription3126
Repository
Burnaby Village Museum
Date
[198-]
Collection/Fonds
Oakalla Prison collection
Description Level
Item
Physical Description
1 photograph : b&w negative ; 10 x 12.5 cm
Scope and Content
Photograph of the grounds and buildings of Oakalla Prison Farm looking north towards Deer Lake. An open field is visible in the foreground with a barn and other other farm buildings located down the slope towards the lake.
Repository
Burnaby Village Museum
Collection/Fonds
Oakalla Prison collection
Series
Oakalla correctional facility photographs series
Description Level
Item
Physical Description
1 photograph : b&w negative ; 10 x 12.5 cm
Scope and Content
Photograph of the grounds and buildings of Oakalla Prison Farm looking north towards Deer Lake. An open field is visible in the foreground with a barn and other other farm buildings located down the slope towards the lake.
History
Salvaged from Oakalla Prison Farm site in October, 1991
Subjects
Public Services - Correctional
Names
Lower Mainland Regional Correctional Centre
Oakalla Prison Farm
Geographic Access
Oakmount Crescent
Street Address
5220 Oakmount Crescent
Accession Code
BV991.45.505
Access Restriction
No restrictions
Reproduction Restriction
May be restricted by third party rights
Date
[198-]
Media Type
Photograph
Historic Neighbourhood
Burnaby Lake (Historic Neighbourhood)
Planning Study Area
Oakalla Area
Scan Resolution
1200
Scan Date
2022-01-10
Notes
Title based on contents of photograph
Images
Less detail

Oakalla prison staff 4192

https://search.heritageburnaby.ca/link/museumdescription1117
Repository
Burnaby Village Museum
Date
[198-]
Collection/Fonds
Oakalla Prison collection
Description Level
Item
Physical Description
1 photograph : b&w ; 4.5 x 5 cm
Scope and Content
Photograph of an unidentified staff member of Oakalla Prison. Photograph may have been used to identification purposes. Staff member appears to be female with short hair, dressed in dark jacket and white shirt with the numbers "4192" displayed below (bottom half of numbers are not visible).
Repository
Burnaby Village Museum
Collection/Fonds
Oakalla Prison collection
Series
Oakalla correctional facility photographs series
Description Level
Item
Physical Description
1 photograph : b&w ; 4.5 x 5 cm
Scope and Content
Photograph of an unidentified staff member of Oakalla Prison. Photograph may have been used to identification purposes. Staff member appears to be female with short hair, dressed in dark jacket and white shirt with the numbers "4192" displayed below (bottom half of numbers are not visible).
History
Salvaged from Oakalla Prison Farm site in October 1991
Subjects
Public Services - Correctional
Names
Oakalla Prison Farm
Lower Mainland Regional Correctional Centre
Geographic Access
Oakmount Crescent
Street Address
5220 Oakmount Crescent
Accession Code
BV991.45.416
Access Restriction
Restricted access
Reproduction Restriction
May be restricted by third party rights
Date
[198-]
Media Type
Photograph
Historic Neighbourhood
Burnaby Lake (Historic Neighbourhood)
Planning Study Area
Oakalla Area
Scan Resolution
1000
Scan Date
June 7, 2021
Scale
100
Notes
Title based on contents of photograph
Less detail

Robert H. Simmonds

https://search.heritageburnaby.ca/link/archivedescription45889
Repository
City of Burnaby Archives
Date
April 30, 1980
Collection/Fonds
Columbian Newspaper collection
Description Level
Item
Physical Description
1 photograph : b&w ; 7.5 x 5 cm
Scope and Content
Photograph of Royal Canadian Mounted Police commissioner Robert H. Simmonds at a session of the Royal Commission on the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) in Ottawa.
Repository
City of Burnaby Archives
Date
April 30, 1980
Collection/Fonds
Columbian Newspaper collection
Physical Description
1 photograph : b&w ; 7.5 x 5 cm
Description Level
Item
Record No.
480-783
Access Restriction
No restrictions
Reproduction Restriction
Reproduce for fair dealing purposes only
Accession Number
2003-02
Scope and Content
Photograph of Royal Canadian Mounted Police commissioner Robert H. Simmonds at a session of the Royal Commission on the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) in Ottawa.
Subjects
Public Services - Policing
Names
Simmonds, Robert H.
Royal Canadian Mounted Police
Media Type
Photograph
Photographer
Canadian Press Photo
Notes
Title based on contents of photograph
Images
Less detail

Spacial requirements for female facility on Oakalla grounds

https://search.heritageburnaby.ca/link/museumdescription16660
Repository
Burnaby Village Museum
Date
16 Dec 1980
Collection/Fonds
Oakalla Prison collection
Description Level
Item
Physical Description
1.5 cm of textual records (51 p.)
Scope and Content
Item consists of a copy of a typewritten report titled "Spacial requirements for female facility on Oakalla grounds". Contents includes; A. Generative Concepts; B. Functional Components; C. Inmate Profile
Repository
Burnaby Village Museum
Collection/Fonds
Oakalla Prison collection
Series
Oakalla correctional facility records series
Description Level
Item
Physical Description
1.5 cm of textual records (51 p.)
Material Details
Includes index
Scope and Content
Item consists of a copy of a typewritten report titled "Spacial requirements for female facility on Oakalla grounds". Contents includes; A. Generative Concepts; B. Functional Components; C. Inmate Profile
Subjects
Public Services - Correctional
Names
Oakalla Prison Farm
Lower Mainland Regional Correctional Centre
Responsibility
Province of British Columbia
Accession Code
BV991.45.153
Access Restriction
No restrictions
Reproduction Restriction
May be restricted by third party rights
Date
16 Dec 1980
Media Type
Textual Record
Notes
Title based on contents of item
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66 records – page 3 of 4.