"Simpsons Sears" found 187 records

Patterson family subseries

https://search.heritageburnaby.ca/link/archivedescription32

Repository: City of Burnaby Archives

Date: 1898-1952

Collection/Fonds: Burnaby Historical Society fonds

Description Level: Subseries

Physical Description: Textual records and photographs

Scope and Content: Subseries consists of documents and photographs pertaining to the Patterson family.

Repository: City of Burnaby Archives

Date: 1898-1952

Collection/Fonds: Burnaby Historical Society fonds

Series: Community Archives Collection series

Subseries: Patterson family subseries

Physical Description: Textual records and photographs

Description Level: Subseries

Accession Number: BHS1986-19; BHS1986-20; BHS1988-13; BHS1995-16; BHS1996-05; BHS1996-11

Scope and Content: Subseries consists of documents and photographs pertaining to the Patterson family.

History: Frances Mabel "May" Webb was born in Cradley, England on December 5, 1872. She sailed from England to Victoria, BC with her parents, Joseph William Webb and Frances Jane Webb (nee Yapp) on the SS Lake Winnipeg in 1889. One of the few possessions that she brought with her was an old wood-rimmed bicycle which she found quite useful after her move to Burnaby. She would ride it all the way from Patterson’s Trail and Westminster Road (today’s Patterson Avenue and Kingsway) to the Woodward’s store in Vancouver where she would place her grocery order. She packed a pearl handled revolver with her in order to scare any bears she might see along her ride. In 1890, Frances married Dugald Campbell Patterson (b. 1860, d. 1931) in Victoria, BC. In 1894, the couple built a pioneer homestead and farm on five acres at what would become the north east section of Central Park. Dugald founded Vulcan Iron Works (later Dominion Bridge Company) in New Westminister in 1903, and the couple settled in the Central Park district. By 1904, the family moved to the Edmonds district where in 1909 she operated the post office that her husband founded. In 1910, they began construction of a new house, complete with tennis courts and a gazebo, on 14 acres purchased for $720. The house is now located at 7106 18th Avenue and is a dedicated heritage building. The couple had seven children: William H. "Bill", Jean, Frances Mabel Lili., Dugald C. Jr, Mary, Charles Bruce, and Alice. The Pattersons were community-minded citizens that served Burnaby through their involvement with local municipal affairs and politics. In 1909, Dugald became the first postmaster of Edmonds. He also served as a School Trustee from 1912-13 and was one of the first residents to lobby Burnaby City Council to preserve the local ravines as parks. They also helped build the Central Park Presbyterian Church, along with other pioneer families. The family name is remembered and honoured by the naming of Patterson Avenue and the Patterson SkyTrain Station located in the Metrotown area. Frances Mabel assisted her husband with an insurance and real estate company that he founded in Burnaby and New Westminster. This experience would prove invaluable, as she would later become an insurance agent for the Wawanesa Insurance Company (founded in 1896). Frances never owned an automobile, so she met her insurance clients all over Burnaby, New Westminster and Vancouver by using the Lower Mainland’s street car system. The insurance profession continued to provide her with a steady income long after her husband’s death. Frances Mabel died in New Westminster, BC on August 30, 1960. Frances Mabel Lili Patterson was born on June 9, 1905 and was the fifth child born to Dugald Campbell and Frances Mabel Patterson. She became the first PBX switchboard operator for the Municipality of Burnaby in the early 1920’s. PBX, or Private Branch Exchange, was the term used for an internal telephone system. Frances later became president of the Professional Women’s Association of New Westminster, and volunteered her time with the May Day celebrations in New Westminster. She was also a dedicated member of the Rebekah Lodge (the women’s division of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows). While in the lodge, she met her future husband, Walter Duke and they married on July 12, 1939. They couple moved to Wenatchee, Washington after getting married, and Frances relocated to Victoria after her husband died. Frances died on January 13, 1974. Doreen Nettie Patterson was born December 12, 1927, the youngest daughter of Charles Bruce Patterson and Elva Eleanore Patterson (nee Elliott). At age 23, Doreen became the first woman from BC to enlist in the new Women’s Royal Canadian Naval Service and by the fall of 1951, she had become a Wren in the Royal Canadian Navy. She received her basic training at HMCS Cornwallis and became a radio intelligence operator for the wireless communications base at Naval Radio Station Coverdale near Moncton, New Brunswick. In 1953, she was chosen to serve a term at the naval base in Churchill, Manitoba. She was one of only eleven women to ever serve there. After her career in the navy, Doreen worked in the accounting division for Simpsons-Sears in Burnaby near her grandparent’s original family home at Patterson Avenue and Kingsway. Doreen married Gerard Reitsma on August 18, 1960. Doreen died on April 30, 2000.

Media Type: Textual Record; Photograph

Creator: Patterson, Frances Mabel Webb; Patterson, Dugald C. Sr.

Notes: Title based on contents of subseries; PC171, PC213, PC322, PC326, MSS024, MSS039

Digney Family fonds

https://search.heritageburnaby.ca/link/archivedescription85415

Repository: City of Burnaby Archives

Date: 1936-19[61]

Collection/Fonds: Digney Family fonds

Description Level: Fonds

Physical Description: 1 photograph : b&w + 1 film reel : col. ; 16mm + 7 optical discs (DVDs) + 1 portable drive

Scope and Content: Fonds consists of a reel of film (digitized into four segments) created by Andy Digney; a panorama photograph of the Digney Pee-Wee Bowling League from 1958 or 1959; and 18 film segments on DVD that were originally created by Andy Digney between 1934 and 1961 and digitized by his grandson Paul Dign…

Repository: City of Burnaby Archives

Date: 1936-19[61]

Collection/Fonds: Digney Family fonds

Physical Description: 1 photograph : b&w + 1 film reel : col. ; 16mm + 7 optical discs (DVDs) + 1 portable drive

Description Level: Fonds

Access Restriction: No restrictions

Reproduction Restriction: May be restricted by third party rights

Scope and Content: Fonds consists of a reel of film (digitized into four segments) created by Andy Digney; a panorama photograph of the Digney Pee-Wee Bowling League from 1958 or 1959; and 18 film segments on DVD that were originally created by Andy Digney between 1934 and 1961 and digitized by his grandson Paul Digney in 2012. The 16mm film is divided into the following segments: the Oak Theatre in 1936 (construction and opening); the Royal Visit (from the King and Queen) in 1939; Burnaby Sports and May Day events (ca. 1937); and the Labour parade (ca. 1935). The 18 film segments contain footage of the Digney family at their home in Brandon, Manitoba, and Burnaby; views of the Oak Theatre and Digney Speedway in operation; and their travels throughout British Columbia and abroad. The 18 film segments are described at the item level and titled: Andy's first film; Brandon, Manitoba; Burnaby and Digney recreational events; Trip to Kamloops; Burnaby; Burnaby, Vancouver and the north shore; Galiano Island, Oak Theatre and Calgary; Travels to Ontario, Quebec and England; Travels to England #2; Travels to England #3; Parades; Digney family in Burnaby; Paul Digney and family; Digney family and the Oak Theatre gardens; Digney family at Bonsor Avenue and family outings; Building and opening the Digney Speedway; Digney family travel the praries; and San Francisco Trip.

History: Andy Digney was born in London, England, on July 27, 1886. His given names were Andrew Charles. In 1905, he immigrated with his elder brother to Raymore, Saskatchewan, and worked on a farm. In 1914, he met and married Alice Swan and in 1920 they had their one and only child, Ernest ('Dig'). The young family lived in Beatty, Saskatchewan, where they ran a small general store with a pool hall over the top. Andy sold the store and they moved to Carberry, Manitoba, where Andy worked selling lightning rods and hanging wallpaper. At this time, he met and formed a partnership with someone who owned a hand cranked move projector and in the evenings, he and his wife traveled to church halls in neighbouring towns, showing movies. Eventually, Digney purchased his own movie projector and opened a small theatre in Carberry. He worked odd jobs during the daytime and projected movies in his small theatre at night. Eventually he made enough money to move to Brandon, Manitoba, where he purchased a restaurant, which he turned into a theatre with living quarters above. Andy called the theatre 'The Oak' since the mighty oak was strong and stood forever. After starting the first Oak Theatre in Brandon, Manitoba, when talking pictures came along, Andy Digney, his wife Alice and son Ernest ('Dig') moved to Burnaby in 1935 and chose the site of their new theatre and home at the corner of Kingsway and Marlborough. The Oak Theatre - which opened on August 4, 1937 - was hailed as an artistic masterpiece for its ultra modern white stucco exterior, floodlights and pink-and-green neon marquee. The interior featured a mirrored ceiling, fireplace, and aquarium and had a colour scheme of orchid, royal blue, silver and black. Andy was a very involved member of the Burnaby community, becoming the founding president of the Lion's club and the chairman of the committee raising money for war bonds during World War II. In 1944, Andy suffered a severe heart attack, forcing him to retire, so in 1945, he sold the theatre to Odeon Theatres of Canada who continued to operate at this location until 1968 when competition forced its closure and demolition. Andy and his family relocated to a home on Bonsor Avenue on 3/4 acres where he spent much of his time cultivating a lovely garden. In about 1946, Andy was approached by the B.C. Midget Auto Racing Association [original name retained for historical accuracy], who were looking for a good location to race the smaller racing cars popular at the time. Andy was interested and purchased 10 acres of property located near the corner of Irmin Street and MacPherson Avenue and built a race track. The Digney Speedway opened on July 8, 1948, with stands that had capacity of holding 4500 people. In 1949, when the popularity of this kind of racing declined, Digney started racing roadsters. However, he struggled to find local drivers, and it was expensive to bring in drivers from elsewhere. In 1951, Digney found a winner: jalopy racing. Local men would buy 1930s cars and strip them down, remove the glass, and weld the doors shut. By early 1952 over 40 cars were showing up for jalopy races. By the early 1950s, the Speedway was well established, with coverage in the sports pages and on radio. Andy's son Dig worked at the race track but moved away with his wife in 1951 to work in Seattle. Dig and his wife Joyce, along with their two young sons, Paul and Bruce, returned to Burnaby in 1953, moving into a 550-square-foot apartment located above the Digney Speedway restrooms. In 1954, Simpson Sears built a large store on Kingsway and their parking lot came up to the back garden of the family home on Bonsor Avenue. Andy thought of building small stores on his property but in the end decided to build a bowling alley, clearing out his beautiful garden. The Digney Bowl opened on August 19, 1955, and Andy, Alice, Dig, and Joyce all worked at both the Speedway and the bowling alley. In 1956, Andy decided to finally retire and sold the bowling alley and home to his son Dig, which he paid for over time. Dig and his family moved into the house on Bonsor Avenue and ran the bowling alley until their son Bruce took over in 1980. Andy Digney died in 1964 while travelling with his wife in England. Alice died on June 3, 1982, and Dig died on November 27, 2009.

Media Type: Moving Images

Photographer: Digney, Andy

Creator: Digney family

Notes: Title based on contents of fonds; Photo/MI catalogue 562

Kingsway West School

https://search.heritageburnaby.ca/link/archivedescription34513

Repository: City of Burnaby Archives

Date: 1943

Collection/Fonds: Burnaby Historical Society fonds

Description Level: Item

Physical Description: 1 photograph : b&w ; 18.1 x 26.1 cm

Scope and Content: Photograph of the exterior of Kingsway West School (originally named West Burnaby School). In 1952 the school ceased operations. Simpson Sears was later built on this site.

1 image

Repository: City of Burnaby Archives

Date: 1943

Collection/Fonds: Burnaby Historical Society fonds

Series: Community Archives Collection series

Subseries: Jeanie Brown subseries

Physical Description: 1 photograph : b&w ; 18.1 x 26.1 cm

Description Level: Item

Record No.: 033-001

Access Restriction: No restrictions

Reproduction Restriction: No known restrictions

Accession Number: BHS2007-04

Scope and Content: Photograph of the exterior of Kingsway West School (originally named West Burnaby School). In 1952 the school ceased operations. Simpson Sears was later built on this site.

Subjects: Buildings - Schools

Names: Kingsway West School

Media Type: Photograph

Notes: Title based on contents of photograph; Stamp on back reads, "Universal Appraisal Company Limited"

Geographic Access: Kingsway

Street Address: 4800 Kingsway

Historic Neighbourhood: Central Park (Historic Neighbourhood)

Planning Study Area: Maywood Area

Images

Sears construction

https://search.heritageburnaby.ca/link/archivedescription36953

Repository: City of Burnaby Archives

Date: [between 1948 and 1950] (date of original), copied 1992

Collection/Fonds: Burnaby Historical Society fonds

Description Level: Item

Physical Description: 1 photograph : b&w ; 8.8 x 9.6 cm print

Scope and Content: Photograph of the beginning of the construction of Simpson Sears.

1 image

Repository: City of Burnaby Archives

Date: [between 1948 and 1950] (date of original), copied 1992

Collection/Fonds: Burnaby Historical Society fonds

Series: Community Archives Collection series

Subseries: Burnaby Centennial Anthology subseries

Physical Description: 1 photograph : b&w ; 8.8 x 9.6 cm print

Description Level: Item

Record No.: 315-411

Access Restriction: No restrictions

Reproduction Restriction: No known restrictions

Accession Number: BHS1994-04

Scope and Content: Photograph of the beginning of the construction of Simpson Sears.

Subjects: Construction; Buildings - Commercial - Stores

Names: Simpsons-Sears Limited

Media Type: Photograph

Notes: Title based on contents of photograph

Geographic Access: Kingsway; Sussex Avenue

Historic Neighbourhood: Central Park (Historic Neighbourhood)

Planning Study Area: Maywood Area

Images

Sears construction

https://search.heritageburnaby.ca/link/archivedescription36954

Repository: City of Burnaby Archives

Date: [between 1948 and 1950] (date of original), copied 1992

Collection/Fonds: Burnaby Historical Society fonds

Description Level: Item

Physical Description: 1 photograph : b&w ; 7.3 x 9.6 cm print

Scope and Content: Photograph of the beginning of the construction of Simpson Sears.

1 image

Repository: City of Burnaby Archives

Date: [between 1948 and 1950] (date of original), copied 1992

Collection/Fonds: Burnaby Historical Society fonds

Series: Community Archives Collection series

Subseries: Burnaby Centennial Anthology subseries

Physical Description: 1 photograph : b&w ; 7.3 x 9.6 cm print

Description Level: Item

Record No.: 315-412

Access Restriction: No restrictions

Reproduction Restriction: No known restrictions

Accession Number: BHS1994-04

Scope and Content: Photograph of the beginning of the construction of Simpson Sears.

Subjects: Construction; Buildings - Commercial - Stores

Names: Simpsons-Sears Limited

Media Type: Photograph

Notes: Title based on contents of photograph

Geographic Access: Kingsway; Sussex Avenue

Historic Neighbourhood: Central Park (Historic Neighbourhood)

Planning Study Area: Maywood Area

Images

Hotel Burnaby Ltd.

https://search.heritageburnaby.ca/link/archivedescription38656

Repository: City of Burnaby Archives

Date: [1955]

Collection/Fonds: Burnaby Historical Society fonds

Description Level: Item

Physical Description: 1 photograph : col. postcard ; 9 x 14 cm

Scope and Content: Photographic postcard of Burnaby Hotel located at 1385 Kingsway (old street numbering system). Printed at the bottom of the postcard is the following: Hotel Burnaby Ltd. / 1385 Kingsway at 14th Avenue / Burnaby 3, New Westminster, B.C., Telephone LA 1-8891. On the reverse is written: "Hotel Burna…

1 image

Repository: City of Burnaby Archives

Date: [1955]

Collection/Fonds: Burnaby Historical Society fonds

Series: Community Archives Collection series

Subseries: Jim Wolf subseries

Physical Description: 1 photograph : col. postcard ; 9 x 14 cm

Description Level: Item

Record No.: 474-001

Access Restriction: No restrictions

Reproduction Restriction: Reproduce for fair dealing purposes only

Accession Number: BHS2005-6

Scope and Content: Photographic postcard of Burnaby Hotel located at 1385 Kingsway (old street numbering system). Printed at the bottom of the postcard is the following: Hotel Burnaby Ltd. / 1385 Kingsway at 14th Avenue / Burnaby 3, New Westminster, B.C., Telephone LA 1-8891. On the reverse is written: "Hotel Burnaby: Located between new Simpson-Sears and new Woodwards shopping centres. You will remember Hotel Burnaby for the rest of your life."

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

Names: Hotel Burnaby Limited

Media Type: Photograph

Photographer: Grant-Mann Lithographers Limited

Notes: Title based on caption of postcard; Made by Grant-Mann Lithographers Ltd. "Colour Card" Division, Vancouver British Columbia

Geographic Access: Kingsway

Historic Neighbourhood: Edmonds (Historic Neighbourhood)

Planning Study Area: Stride Avenue Area

Images

Hotel Burnaby

https://search.heritageburnaby.ca/link/archivedescription38341

Repository: City of Burnaby Archives

Date: [1953]

Collection/Fonds: Burnaby Historical Society fonds

Description Level: Item

Physical Description: 1 photograph : b&w postcard ; 8.7 x 13.1 cm

Scope and Content: Photographic postcard advertising the Hotel Burnaby at 1385 Kingsway (old street numbering). A caption on the reverse of the postcard reads: Hotel Burnaby / :Located between new Simpsons-Sears and new Woodwards shopping centres / You will remember Hotel Burnaby for the REST of your life."

1 image

Repository: City of Burnaby Archives

Date: [1953]

Collection/Fonds: Burnaby Historical Society fonds

Series: Community Archives Collection series

Subseries: Jim Wolf subseries

Physical Description: 1 photograph : b&w postcard ; 8.7 x 13.1 cm

Description Level: Item

Record No.: 410-001

Access Restriction: No restrictions

Reproduction Restriction: Reproduce for fair dealing purposes only

Accession Number: BHS2000-11

Scope and Content: Photographic postcard advertising the Hotel Burnaby at 1385 Kingsway (old street numbering). A caption on the reverse of the postcard reads: Hotel Burnaby / :Located between new Simpsons-Sears and new Woodwards shopping centres / You will remember Hotel Burnaby for the REST of your life."

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

Names: Hotel Burnaby Limited

Media Type: Photograph

Notes: Title based on contents of photograph

Geographic Access: Kingsway

Historic Neighbourhood: Edmonds (Historic Neighbourhood)

Planning Study Area: Stride Avenue Area

Images

Approval for Simpson-Sears Ltd. To Construct a Storm Drain Through and Under Sussex Avenue

https://search.heritageburnaby.ca/link/councilreport46395

Repository: City of Burnaby Archives

Report ID: 45643

Meeting Date: 23-Feb-1953

Format: Council - Committee Report

Collection/Fonds: City Council and Office of the City Clerk fonds

2 documents

Repository: City of Burnaby Archives

Report ID: 45643

Meeting Date: 23-Feb-1953

Format: Council - Committee Report

Collection/Fonds: City Council and Office of the City Clerk fonds

Documents

Report 45643

23-Feb-1953 Meeting Minutes

Application of BC Electric Railway to Construct a Spur Line from the Central Park Right-of-way to the Simpson-Sears Development

https://search.heritageburnaby.ca/link/councilreport46396

Repository: City of Burnaby Archives

Report ID: 45644

Meeting Date: 23-Feb-1953

Format: Council - Committee Report

Collection/Fonds: City Council and Office of the City Clerk fonds

2 documents

Repository: City of Burnaby Archives

Report ID: 45644

Meeting Date: 23-Feb-1953

Format: Council - Committee Report

Collection/Fonds: City Council and Office of the City Clerk fonds

Documents

Report 45644

23-Feb-1953 Meeting Minutes

Acquisition of Right-of-way for the Simpsons-Sears Storm Drain

https://search.heritageburnaby.ca/link/councilreport46385

Repository: City of Burnaby Archives

Report ID: 45659

Meeting Date: 9-Mar-1953

Format: Council - Mayor/Councillor/Staff Report

Collection/Fonds: City Council and Office of the City Clerk fonds

2 documents

Repository: City of Burnaby Archives

Report ID: 45659

Meeting Date: 9-Mar-1953

Format: Council - Mayor/Councillor/Staff Report

Collection/Fonds: City Council and Office of the City Clerk fonds

Documents

Report 45659

9-Mar-1953 Meeting Minutes

Opening of Simpson-Sears

https://search.heritageburnaby.ca/link/archivedescription55632

Repository: City of Burnaby Archives

Date: 1954

Collection/Fonds: Charles MacSorley fonds

Description Level: Item

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

Scope and Content: Photograph of Charles MacSorley (left) speaking into a microphone at the opening of Simpson-Sears. The man standing to the right of Charles is identified as Mr. Haskell. The microphones have the call letters CKNW on them.

1 image

Repository: City of Burnaby Archives

Date: 1954

Collection/Fonds: Charles MacSorley fonds

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

Description Level: Item

Record No.: 486-026

Access Restriction: No restrictions

Reproduction Restriction: Reproduce for fair dealing purposes only

Accession Number: 2005-14

Scope and Content: Photograph of Charles MacSorley (left) speaking into a microphone at the opening of Simpson-Sears. The man standing to the right of Charles is identified as Mr. Haskell. The microphones have the call letters CKNW on them.

Subjects: Events - Openings; Officials - Mayors and Reeves

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

Media Type: Photograph

Notes: Title based on caption; Caption on recto reads: "Opening Simpson-Sears 1954 Mr. Haskell"

Geographic Access: Sussex Avenue; Kingsway

Historic Neighbourhood: Central Park (Historic Neighbourhood)

Planning Study Area: Maywood Area

Images

Opening of Simpson-Sears, 1954 thumbnail

Ribbon cutting ceremony for Simpson-Sears

https://search.heritageburnaby.ca/link/archivedescription55636

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 (centre) and two unidentified men at the Simpson-Sears ribbon cutting ceremony.

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.: 486-030

Access Restriction: No restrictions

Reproduction Restriction: Reproduce for fair dealing purposes only

Accession Number: 2005-14

Scope and Content: Photograph of Charles MacSorley (centre) and two unidentified men at the Simpson-Sears ribbon cutting ceremony.

Subjects: Events - Openings; Officials - Mayors and Reeves

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

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

Simpson-Sears

https://search.heritageburnaby.ca/link/landmark696

Repository: Burnaby Heritage Planning

Associated Dates: 1954

1 image

Repository: Burnaby Heritage Planning

Geographic Access: Kingsway

Associated Dates: 1954

Heritage Value: The Simpson-Sears store on Kingsway opened in 1954 and was the second Simpson-Sears to be located in British Columbia. The store helped to solidify the neighbourhood's growing reputation as a major commercial centre in the Lower Mainland and became a prototype for the company's large format stores across Canada.

Historic Neighbourhood: Central Park (Historic Neighbourhood)

Planning Study Area: Maywood Area

Street Address: 4700 Kingsway

Images

Digney Family fonds

https://search.heritageburnaby.ca/link/museumdescription10597

Repository: Burnaby Village Museum

Date: [between 1954 and 1964] (date of originals), copied in 2016 and 2019

Collection/Fonds: Digney Family fonds

Description Level: Fonds

Physical Description: 6 video recordings (mp4) (approx. 3hr., 18 min.) : digital, 23 fps

Scope and Content: Fonds consists of compilation of six films (including film clips) created by Andy Digney and his son Ernest "Dig" Digney. Film content includes footage of members of the Digney family and friends in Burnaby; the Digney homes on Bonsor Avenue and Kaymar Drive; construction of the Digney Bowling Alle…

Repository: Burnaby Village Museum

Collection/Fonds: Digney Family fonds

Description Level: Fonds

Physical Description: 6 video recordings (mp4) (approx. 3hr., 18 min.) : digital, 23 fps

Material Details: Films were digitized in 2019 from original 8 mm format

Scope and Content: Fonds consists of compilation of six films (including film clips) created by Andy Digney and his son Ernest "Dig" Digney. Film content includes footage of members of the Digney family and friends in Burnaby; the Digney homes on Bonsor Avenue and Kaymar Drive; construction of the Digney Bowling Alley and the Simpsons-Sears building; Lawn bowling at Central Park as well as various family events, gatherings, vacations and trips.

History: Andy Digney was born in London, England on July 27, 1886. His given names were Andrew Charles and in 1905, he immigrated with his elder brother to Raymore Saskatchewan and worked on a farm. In 1914, he met and married Alice Swan and in 1920 they had their one and only child, Ernest ('Dig'). The young family lived in Beatty Saskatchewan where they ran a small general store with a pool hall over the top. Andy sold the store and they moved to Carberry Manitoba where Andy worked selling lightening rods and hanging wallpaper. At this time he met and formed a partnership with someone who owned a hand cranked move projector and in the evenings, he and his wife, traveled to church halls in neighbouring towns showing movies. Eventually, he purchased his own movie projector and opened a small theatre in Carberry. He worked odd jobs during the daytime and projected movies in his small theatre at night. Eventually he made enough money to move to Brandon, Manitoba where he purchased a restaurant which he turned into a theatre with living quarters above. Andy called the theatre 'The Oak' since the mighty oak was strong and stood forever. After starting the first Oak Theatre in Brandon, Manitoba when talking pictures came along, Andy Digney, his wife Alice and son Ernest ('Dig') moved to Burnaby in 1936 and chose the site of their new theatre and home at the corner of Kingsway and Marlborough. The Oak Theatre - which opened on August 4, 1937 - was hailed as an artistic masterpiece for its ultra modern white stucco exterior, floodlights and pink-and-green neon marquee. The interior featured a mirrored ceiling, fireplace, and aquarium and had a colour scheme of orchid, royal blue, silver and black. Andy was a very involved member of the Burnaby community becoming the founding president of the Lion's club and the chairman of the committee raising money for war bonds during World War II. In 1944, Andy suffered a severe heart attack, forcing him to retire, so in 1945 he sold the theatre to Odeon Theatres of Canada who continued to operate at this location until 1968 when competition forced its closure and demolition. Andy and his family relocated to a house at 2698 Bonsor Avenue (after 1959-6521 Bonsor Ave.) on 3/4 acres where he spent much of his time cultivating a lovely garden. In about 1946, Andy was approached by the B.C. Midget Auto Racing Association, who were looking for a good location to race the smaller, racing cars, popular at the time. Andy was interested and purchased 10 acres of property located near the corner of Irmin Street and MacPherson Avenue and built a race track. The Digney Speedway opened on July 8, 1948 with stands that had capacity of holding 4500 people. In 1949, when the popularity of midget racing declined, Digney started racing roadsters. However, he struggled to find local drivers, and it was expensive to bring in drivers from elsewhere. In 1951 Digney found a winner: jalopy racing. Local men would buy 1930s cars and strip them down, remove the glass, and weld the doors shut. By early 1952 over forty cars were showing up for jalopy races. By the early 1950s the Speedway was well established, with coverage in the sports pages and on radio. Andy's son Ernest Digney (also known as Dig) worked at the race track but moved away with his wife in 1951 to work in Seattle. Dig and his wife Joyce, along with their two young sons, Paul and Bruce returned to Burnaby in 1953 moving into a 550 square foot apartment located above the Digney Speedway restrooms. In 1954 Simpsons-Sears built a large store on Kingsway and their parking lot came up to the back garden of the family home on Bonsor Avenue. Andy thought of building small stores on his property but in the end decided to build a bowling alley, clearing out his beautiful garden. The Digney Bowl opened on August 19,1955 and Andy Digney, his wife Alice, son 'Dig' and daughter in law Joyce all worked at both the Speedway and the Bowling Alley. In 1956 Andy decided to finally retire and sold the bowling alley and home to his son 'Dig' which he paid for over time. 'Dig' and his family moved into the house on Bonsor Avenue and ran the bowling alley until their son Bruce took over in 1980. Andy Digney died in England in 1964 while on his world tour. His wife Alice died on June 3, 1982 and their son, Ernest ('Dig') died November 27, 2009.

Creator: Digney, Andy; Digney, Ernest Frank "Dig"

Accession Code: BV019.18

Access Restriction: No restrictions

Reproduction Restriction: May be restricted by third party rights

Date: [between 1954 and 1964] (date of originals), copied in 2016 and 2019

Media Type: Moving Images

Related Material: See also City of Burnaby Archives Digney Family fonds Photo/MI catalogue 562

Arrangement: Films are arranged and described at item level along with film clip segments. Master film footage numbered BV019.18.3 through BV019.18.8 were described in original order at item level. Digitized film content within the master film footage was also broken down into shorter film clips according to natural breaks within the original content and described separately as film clips (accession parts) in their original order: BV019.8.3.1 to BV019.8.3.28; BV019.8.4.1 to BV019.8.4.16; BV019.18.5.1 to BV019.8.5.7; BV019.18.6.1 to BV019.18.6.8; BV019.18.7.1 to BV019.18.7.15; BV019.18.8.1 to BV019.18.8.20

Notes: Title based on contents of fonds

Digney film 2 - Family in Burnaby, Construction of Simpsons-Sears building and wedding

https://search.heritageburnaby.ca/link/museumdescription10598

Repository: Burnaby Village Museum

Date: [between 1954 and 1964] (date of original), copied 2019

Collection/Fonds: Digney Family fonds

Description Level: File

Physical Description: 1 video recording (mp4) (26 min., 51 sec.) : digital, 16 fps, col., si.

Scope and Content: Film compilation created by Andy Digney and his son Ernest "Dig" Digney. The film opens with scenes of different dogs playing outside; exterior of Andy and Alice Digney’s house on Kaymar Drive; interior of the Digney bowling alley with pins being reset; interior of Andy Digney’s greenhouse at his h…

Repository: Burnaby Village Museum

Collection/Fonds: Digney Family fonds

Description Level: File

Physical Description: 1 video recording (mp4) (26 min., 51 sec.) : digital, 16 fps, col., si.

Scope and Content: Film compilation created by Andy Digney and his son Ernest "Dig" Digney. The film opens with scenes of different dogs playing outside; exterior of Andy and Alice Digney’s house on Kaymar Drive; interior of the Digney bowling alley with pins being reset; interior of Andy Digney’s greenhouse at his house on Kaymar Drive; construction of the Simpsons-Sears building in 1954 behind the Digney home at 3698 Bonsor Street; unidentified outdoor wedding attended by the Digney's and Swans; Campbell family gathering in Victoria; gathering of friends and family inside Alice and Andy Digney’s home on Kaymar Drive before they leave for their World tour in 1964.

Creator: Digney, Andy

Subjects: Sports - Bowling; Buildings - Commercial - Stores; Buildings - Recreational - Bowling Alleys

Names: Digney, Andy; Digney, Ernest Frank "Dig"

Geographic Access: Bonsor Avenue; Kaymar Drive

Accession Code: BV019.18.4

Access Restriction: No restrictions

Reproduction Restriction: No known restrictions

Date: [between 1954 and 1964] (date of original), copied 2019

Media Type: Moving Images

Photographer: Digney, Andy; Digney, Ernest Frank "Dig"

Notes: Title based on contents of film; Digitized film is a copy from original 8 mm film; 9 film clips from this compilation are described at item level and available for viewing on Heritage Burnaby; Contact Burnaby Village Museum to view entire content

Digney film 2 - Construction of Simpsons-Sears

https://search.heritageburnaby.ca/link/museumdescription10640

Repository: Burnaby Village Museum

Date: [1954] (date of original), copied 2019

Collection/Fonds: Digney Family fonds

Description Level: Item

Physical Description: 1 video recording (mp4) (5 sec.) : digital, 23 fps, col., si.

Scope and Content: Short Film clip of a view from the Digney's backyard at 3698 Bonsor Avenue (address changed to 6521 Bonsor Ave. after 1958) of the construction of the Simpsons-Sears building on Kingsway in Burnaby.

1 image 1 video

Repository: Burnaby Village Museum

Collection/Fonds: Digney Family fonds

Description Level: Item

Physical Description: 1 video recording (mp4) (5 sec.) : digital, 23 fps, col., si.

Scope and Content: Short Film clip of a view from the Digney's backyard at 3698 Bonsor Avenue (address changed to 6521 Bonsor Ave. after 1958) of the construction of the Simpsons-Sears building on Kingsway in Burnaby.

Creator: Digney, Andy

Subjects: Buildings - Commercial - Malls

Names: Simpsons-Sears Limited

Geographic Access: Bonsor Avenue

Street Address: 6521 Bonsor Avenue

Accession Code: BV019.18.4.9

Access Restriction: No restrictions

Reproduction Restriction: No known restrictions

Date: [1954] (date of original), copied 2019

Media Type: Moving Images

Historic Neighbourhood: Central Park (Historic Neighbourhood)

Planning Study Area: Maywood Area

Photographer: Digney, Andy

Notes: Title based on contents of film segment; Film segment originates from digitized version of original 8 mm film (See BV019.18.4)

Images

Video

Digney film 2 - Construction of Simpsons-Sears, [1954] (date of original), copied 2019

https://search.heritageburnaby.ca/media/hpo/_Data/_BVM_Moving_Images/2019_0018_0004_009.mp4

Digney film 2 - Construction of Simpsons-Sears building

https://search.heritageburnaby.ca/link/museumdescription10644

Repository: Burnaby Village Museum

Date: [1954] (date of original), copied 2019

Collection/Fonds: Digney Family fonds

Description Level: Item

Physical Description: 1 video recording (mp4) (1 min., 30 sec.) : digital, 23 fps, col., si.

Scope and Content: Film segment documenting the construction of the Simpsons-Sears building located at 3660 Kingsway in Burnaby (address changed to 4750 Kingsway after 1958). The film footage is shot by Andy Digney from his backyard at 2698 Bonsor Avenue (address changed to 6521 Bonsor Avenue after 1958).

1 image 1 video

Repository: Burnaby Village Museum

Collection/Fonds: Digney Family fonds

Description Level: Item

Physical Description: 1 video recording (mp4) (1 min., 30 sec.) : digital, 23 fps, col., si.

Scope and Content: Film segment documenting the construction of the Simpsons-Sears building located at 3660 Kingsway in Burnaby (address changed to 4750 Kingsway after 1958). The film footage is shot by Andy Digney from his backyard at 2698 Bonsor Avenue (address changed to 6521 Bonsor Avenue after 1958).

Creator: Digney, Andy

Subjects: Buildings - Commercial - Malls; Buildings - Commercial - Stores

Names: Simpsons-Sears Limited

Geographic Access: Kingsway

Street Address: 4750 Kingsway

Accession Code: BV019.18.4.13

Access Restriction: No restrictions

Reproduction Restriction: No known restrictions

Date: [1954] (date of original), copied 2019

Media Type: Moving Images

Historic Neighbourhood: Central Park (Historic Neighbourhood)

Planning Study Area: Maywood Area

Photographer: Digney, Andy

Notes: Title based on contents of film segment; Film segment originates from digitized version of original 8 mm film (See BV019.18.4)

Images

Video

Digney film 2 - Construction of Simpsons-Sears building, [1954] (date of original), copied 2019

https://search.heritageburnaby.ca/media/hpo/_Data/_BVM_Moving_Images/2019_0018_0004_013.mp4

Simpsons-Sears executive

https://search.heritageburnaby.ca/link/museumdescription17251

Repository: Burnaby Village Museum

Date: 3 May 1954

Collection/Fonds: Simpsons-Sears Limited Burnaby fonds

Description Level: Item

Physical Description: 1 photograph : b&w ; 25.5 x 20 cm

Scope and Content: Photograph of (left to right) Edgar G. Burton, President of Simpsons-Sears Ltd.; unidentified man; Charles Luther Burton, Chairman of the Board, Simpsons-Sears standing together outside of the Canadian National train station in Vancouver.

1 image

Repository: Burnaby Village Museum

Collection/Fonds: Simpsons-Sears Limited Burnaby fonds

Series: Simpsons-Sears scrapbook series

Description Level: Item

Physical Description: 1 photograph : b&w ; 25.5 x 20 cm

Scope and Content: Photograph of (left to right) Edgar G. Burton, President of Simpsons-Sears Ltd.; unidentified man; Charles Luther Burton, Chairman of the Board, Simpsons-Sears standing together outside of the Canadian National train station in Vancouver.

Names: Burton, Charles Luther; Burton, Edgar G.; Simpsons-Sears Limited

Geographic Access: Vancouver

Accession Code: BV021.26.1

Access Restriction: No restrictions

Reproduction Restriction: May be restricted by third party rights

Date: 3 May 1954

Media Type: Photograph

Scan Resolution: 600

Scan Date: 2021-09-21

Notes: Title based on contents of photograph; Photograph was removed from original scrapbook with newspaper clippings, photographs and ephemera

Images

Simpsons-Sears executive, 3 May 1954 thumbnail

General manager of Simpsons-Sears Burnaby greeting Simpsons-Sears executive

https://search.heritageburnaby.ca/link/museumdescription17252

Repository: Burnaby Village Museum

Date: 3 May 1954

Collection/Fonds: Simpsons-Sears Limited Burnaby fonds

Description Level: Item

Physical Description: 1 photograph : b&w ; 25.5 x 20 cm

Scope and Content: Photograph of General Manager of Simpsons-Sears, Burnaby, T. Boyd Haskell shaking hands with unidentified member of Simpsons-Sears executive. The men are standing in front of an airplane with the name "Sears" above the door. Senior exectuive members of Simpsons-Sears Limited arrived in Vancouver b…

1 image

Repository: Burnaby Village Museum

Collection/Fonds: Simpsons-Sears Limited Burnaby fonds

Series: Simpsons-Sears scrapbook series

Description Level: Item

Physical Description: 1 photograph : b&w ; 25.5 x 20 cm

Scope and Content: Photograph of General Manager of Simpsons-Sears, Burnaby, T. Boyd Haskell shaking hands with unidentified member of Simpsons-Sears executive. The men are standing in front of an airplane with the name "Sears" above the door. Senior exectuive members of Simpsons-Sears Limited arrived in Vancouver by plane on May 3, 1954.

Names: Simpsons-Sears Limited; Haskell, T. Boyd

Geographic Access: Vancouver

Accession Code: BV021.26.3

Access Restriction: No restrictions

Reproduction Restriction: May be restricted by third party rights

Date: 3 May 1954

Media Type: Photograph

Scan Resolution: 600

Scan Date: 2022-10-07

Scale: 100

Photographer: On-The-Spot Photographers

Notes: Title based on contents of photograph; Photograph was removed from original scrapbook with newspaper clippings, photographs and ephemera; Stamp on verso of photograph reads: "ON-THE-SPOT PHOTOGRAPHERS / NEW WESTMINSTER B.C."

Research

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Digney Family fonds

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Application of BC Electric Railway to Construct a Spur Line from the Central Park Right-of-way to the Simpson-Sears Development

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Acquisition of Right-of-way for the Simpsons-Sears Storm Drain

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Opening of Simpson-Sears

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Ribbon cutting ceremony for Simpson-Sears

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Ribbon cutting ceremony for Simpson-Sears

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Digney film 2 - Family in Burnaby, Construction of Simpsons-Sears building and wedding

Digney film 2 - Construction of Simpsons-Sears

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Digney film 2 - Construction of Simpsons-Sears building

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Simpsons-Sears executive

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General manager of Simpsons-Sears Burnaby greeting Simpsons-Sears executive

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