Narrow Results By
Format
- Architectural Drawing 196
- Cartographic Material 5
- Council - Committee Report 1442
- Council - Manager's Report 3428
- Council - Mayor/Councillor/Staff Report 166
- Council - Public Hearing Minutes 116
- Council - Regular Council Minutes 320
- Graphic Material 13
- Moving Images 4
- Photograph 1824
- Sound Recording 149
- Technical Drawing 1
Mayor's Office subseries
https://search.heritageburnaby.ca/link/archivedescription97460
- Repository
- City of Burnaby Archives
- Date
- 1828 (date of original)-2001
- Collection/Fonds
- Burnaby Historical Society fonds
- Description Level
- Subseries
- Physical Description
- Textual records and photographs
- Scope and Content
- Subseries consists of records and photographs created and collected by the City of Burnaby Mayor's Office and desposited into the Burnaby Historical Society's community archive. The records include research files on Robert Burnaby and the city of Loughborough, UK; administrative papers and reports…
- Repository
- City of Burnaby Archives
- Date
- 1828 (date of original)-2001
- Collection/Fonds
- Burnaby Historical Society fonds
- Subseries
- Mayor's Office subseries
- Physical Description
- Textual records and photographs
- Description Level
- Subseries
- Accession Number
- BHS1986-34
- BHS1988-03
- BHS1989-02
- BHS1991-11
- BHS1994-08
- BHS2001-13
- BHS2002-14
- BHS2003-03
- BHS2007-04
- Scope and Content
- Subseries consists of records and photographs created and collected by the City of Burnaby Mayor's Office and desposited into the Burnaby Historical Society's community archive. The records include research files on Robert Burnaby and the city of Loughborough, UK; administrative papers and reports; and photographs of Burnaby Councils and Municipal Hall among other subjects.
- Media Type
- Textual Record
- Photograph
- Creator
- Mayor's Office
- Notes
- Title based on creator of subseries
- PC185, PC185, PC252, MSS042, MSS113
Mayor's Office fonds
https://search.heritageburnaby.ca/link/archivedescription88
- Repository
- City of Burnaby Archives
- Date
- 1828 (date of original) -2015
- Collection/Fonds
- Mayor's Office fonds
- Description Level
- Fonds
- Physical Description
- 1 m of textual records and photographic material
- Scope and Content
- Fonds consists of those records created by the office of the Mayor during the administrations of Robert W. Prittie (1969-1973), Thomas W. Constable (1973-1979), David M. Mercier (1979-1981), William A. Lewarne (1981-1987), William J. Copeland (1987-1996), John Douglas Drummond (1996-2002) and Derek…
- Repository
- City of Burnaby Archives
- Date
- 1828 (date of original) -2015
- Collection/Fonds
- Mayor's Office fonds
- Physical Description
- 1 m of textual records and photographic material
- Description Level
- Fonds
- Access Restriction
- Subject to FOIPPA
- Reproduction Restriction
- Reproductions subject to FOIPPA
- Scope and Content
- Fonds consists of those records created by the office of the Mayor during the administrations of Robert W. Prittie (1969-1973), Thomas W. Constable (1973-1979), David M. Mercier (1979-1981), William A. Lewarne (1981-1987), William J. Copeland (1987-1996), John Douglas Drummond (1996-2002) and Derek Corrigan (2002-2018).
- History
- On September 22, 1892, the Corporation of the District of Burnaby was established by letters patent. An integral component of this incorporation was the creation of the office of the Reeve (later called Mayor). The Reeve was to serve as the Head and Chief Executive Officer of Burnaby and was to lead the City Council in the governing of the Corporation. Burnaby’s first Reeve and Council were elected by acclamation on October 15, 1892, with formal elections held by ballot three months later. From 1893 until 1977 the Reeve and Council were elected for one-year terms, but the practice of annual elections was abandoned in favour of two-year terms in 1977. The current practice of holding elections every three years was begun in 1987. Elections of Reeve and Council were suspended altogether in 1933. However, as a financial crisis in the Corporation resulted in the Province intervening and assuming control of the local government. For ten years, Commissioners were appointed by the Provincial Government to manage the affairs of the Municipality, but by January 1943, the situation had been remedied and local elections were once again held. From 1892 until 1968, the Chief Executive Officer in Burnaby was known as “Reeve,” but this nomenclature changed with revisions to the Local Government Act in the latter part of the twentieth century. In 1968, the Province altered the Act and abolished the practice of assigning different titles to the members of Council based on Municipal Classification and introduced "Mayor" and "Alderman" as terms applicable in all Municipalities not just those of a certain size or with a certain number of citizens. From that point on, the CEO of Burnaby has been referred to as the Mayor of the City. Despite these changes in election procedures, naming protocols, and the disruption caused by the financial crisis in the 1930s and 1940s, the roles and responsibilities of the Mayor have remained relatively stable throughout the years. As Head and Chief Executive Officer of the City, the Mayor is responsible for ensuring that the principles of law and good government are enforced in Burnaby. This includes the task of overseeing the conduct of officers and employees and directing the management of municipal business and affairs as well as chairing the meetings of Council and appointing Council Committee members. The Mayor is also charged with the duty of representing the City at public functions, in meetings with visiting dignitaries, and in participating in local community and fundraising events. Initially, the Municipal Clerk assisted the Mayor in his work by handling most correspondence and clerical tasks of the office. Today, however, the Mayor’s office retains its own administrative staff who are responsible for facilitating all schedules and arrangements for the Mayor along with coordinating their internal and external contacts and events. The following individuals have served as Reeve or Mayor of Burnaby: Charles R. Shaw 1892 Nicolai C. Shou 1893-1903 Charles F. Sprott 1904-1905 Peter Byrne 1906-1910 J. W. Weart 1911-1912 D. C. McGregor 1913 Hugh M. Fraser 1914-1918 T. Sanderson 1919-1920 Alexander K. McLean 1921-1926; 1928-1929 Charles C. Bell 1927 W. L. Burdick 1929 W. A. Pritchard 1930-1932 William Tate Wilson 1943-1944 George A. Morrison 1945-1949 William R. Beamish 1950-1953 Charles W. MacSorely 1954-1957 Alan H. Emmott 1958-1968 Robert W. Prittie 1969-1973 Thomas W. Constable 1973-1979 David M. Mercier 1979-1981 William A. Lewarne 1981-1987 William J. Copeland 1987-1996 Douglas P. Drummond 1996-2002 Derek Corrigan 2002-2018 Mike Hurley 2018-present The following individuals have served as provincially appointed Commissioners for the Corporation of the District of Burnaby: John Bennett 1932-1933 John Mahony 1933-1934 Hugh M. Fraser 1934-1940* R. S. Gilchrist 1941* B. C. Bracewell 1942* *Richard Bolton was Acting Commissioner for most of 1940-1942. He refused to be a full-fledged Commissioner.
- Media Type
- Textual Record
- Photograph
- Creator
- City of Burnaby
- Notes
- Title based on contents of fonds.
Mayor's Office General and Administration series
https://search.heritageburnaby.ca/link/archivedescription158
- Repository
- City of Burnaby Archives
- Date
- 1828 (date of original) -2002
- Collection/Fonds
- Mayor's Office fonds
- Description Level
- Series
- Scope and Content
- Series consists of records created in the administration of the Mayor’s Office. This includes: reports, file lists, address books, subject files, correspondence, memoranda, photographs and ephemera. The Office of the Mayor is managed by an administrative staff who maintain the Mayor’s schedule, l…
- Repository
- City of Burnaby Archives
- Date
- 1828 (date of original) -2002
- Collection/Fonds
- Mayor's Office fonds
- Description Level
- Series
- Scope and Content
- Series consists of records created in the administration of the Mayor’s Office. This includes: reports, file lists, address books, subject files, correspondence, memoranda, photographs and ephemera. The Office of the Mayor is managed by an administrative staff who maintain the Mayor’s schedule, liaise with other City officials, and assist the Mayor fulfill his duties and responsibilities to the citizens of Burnaby. As a by-product of these activities, the Mayor’s Office maintains files related to general administrative tasks like record-keeping as well as collecting subject files and records of general interest to the Mayor and Council. These records were used as reference material and have been maintained for their informational value.
- Media Type
- Textual Record
Robert Burnaby papers
https://search.heritageburnaby.ca/link/archivedescription58337
- Repository
- City of Burnaby Archives
- Date
- 1828 (date of original) -[199-?]
- Collection/Fonds
- Burnaby Historical Society fonds
- Description Level
- File
- Physical Description
- 1 file of textual records
- Scope and Content
- File consists of papers pertaining to Robert Burnaby including photocopied maps, articles and pages from books.
- Repository
- City of Burnaby Archives
- Date
- 1828 (date of original) -[199-?]
- Collection/Fonds
- Burnaby Historical Society fonds
- Subseries
- Mayor's Office subseries
- Physical Description
- 1 file of textual records
- Description Level
- File
- Record No.
- 40097
- Accession Number
- BHS1991-11
- Scope and Content
- File consists of papers pertaining to Robert Burnaby including photocopied maps, articles and pages from books.
- Media Type
- Textual Record
- Notes
- Title based on contents of file
- Storage Location - in last box on shelf
Hill family and Vidal family fonds
https://search.heritageburnaby.ca/link/archivedescription82116
- Repository
- City of Burnaby Archives
- Date
- [1850-1983]
- Collection/Fonds
- Hill family and Vidal family fonds
- Description Level
- Fonds
- Physical Description
- 255 photographs : b&w and sepia and 9.5 cm of textual records : ill. (some col.)
- Scope and Content
- Fonds consists of photographs and textual records from the Vidal and Hill family. Textual records include handwritten family trees, typed and handwritten biographical information of the Jones, Wright, Hyde, Vidal, and Hill families, copies of photographic prints, published works by J. H. Vidal and …
- Repository
- City of Burnaby Archives
- Date
- [1850-1983]
- Collection/Fonds
- Hill family and Vidal family fonds
- Physical Description
- 255 photographs : b&w and sepia and 9.5 cm of textual records : ill. (some col.)
- Description Level
- Fonds
- Access Restriction
- No restrictions
- Accession Number
- 2013-03
- Scope and Content
- Fonds consists of photographs and textual records from the Vidal and Hill family. Textual records include handwritten family trees, typed and handwritten biographical information of the Jones, Wright, Hyde, Vidal, and Hill families, copies of photographic prints, published works by J. H. Vidal and William Cowper, newspaper clippings, and a New Testament.
- History
- Minard Gerald “Gerry” Hill was born in Burnaby on July 31, 1893, to Marian (nee Berkeley) and Bernard Richard Hill. Marian was born in London, England. Bernard Hill, born in Bengal, India, in 1858 to Sir Richard Hill and Jane Ann (nee Rollinson) where his father worked for the East Indian Railway, was one of the early inhabitants of Burnaby. Despite their years of training as engineers, Bernard, along with his brother, Louis Claude Hill, became strawberry farmers and owned all the land between Burnaby Lake and Deer Lake where Deer Creek runs, and halfway around Deer Lake. Bernard built his family home at Douglas Road near Deer Lake in 1892. After the decline in the strawberry industry, Bernard worked as a surveyor for the municipality. Bernard also served as a Burnaby trustee and as councilor of Burnaby in 1904, 1905, 1906, and 1909. Bernard and Marian had four children: A. Claude (born in England around 1885, married Marion “Mamie”), Frank L., Winnifred “Winnie” L., and Gerry. Gerry attended Miss Harriet Woodward’s kindergarten class, and went on to Edmonds School with Miss Ellen Lister as his teacher. He later went to Central High School in New Westminster, often on horseback. Gerry served in World War I, signing his recruitment papers on November 9, 1914. When he returned home, he worked felling trees, then as an apprentice surveyor and finally as a carpenter. His father, Bernard, died in Burnaby on March 27, 1939, at the age of 80. Bernard's brother, Louis, was one of the first members elected to the Burnaby council and served in 1892, 1893, 1894, and again from 1909-1910. Louis, born in 1860, married Annie Sarah Kendrick (born in 1896) and they moved to the Burnaby Lake area in the early 1890s. Together they had one child, Katherine “Kitty” Maude, born in 1898. The first Hill family home, “Brookfield,” was sold around 1907 and the family moved to their new home, “Broadview,” which was also built in the vicinity of Deer Lake. Kitty, their only child, married William “Bob” John Peers in 1925 and they went on to have three children: Robert C.K., Barbara (later Barbara Jeffrey), and Anne (later Anne Latham). Charlotte Elizabeth Vidal was born in 1897 in the United States to Louisa Sophia (nee Jones) and Herbert P. Vidal. Louisa Vidal (1871-1943) was a descendent of Jones of Exeter of England and the House of Llanio Cardigan of Wales. Herbert Vidal (1868-1934)’s father was Alexander Vidal (1819-1906). Alexander Vidal, born in Brocknell, England, immigrated to Upper Canada in 1835 and later served as a senator of Canada from 1873 to 1906. He married Catherine Louisa Wright, the daughter of Capt. William Elliot Wright. Both of Charlotte’s parents, Louisa and Herbert, were born in Ontario. Charlotte Vidal was sister to Dorothy Kate and Alexander E. E. Vidal. Gerry Hill (aged 27) and Charlotte E. Vidal (aged 23) married on September 28, 1920, in Vancouver. Gerry built a house for him and his wife about a thousand feet from his parents’ home. He also bought property at Yellow Point on Vancouver Island around this time. By the early 1930s, Gerry had moved to Yellow Point permanently and begun building the Yellow Point Lodge. Gerry and Charlotte bore three children: David, Lesley C. (born in 1929), and Gerald. Gerry was later remarried to Elizabeth (nee Holen) and had one child: Richard Grant McEwan Hill, born in Ladysmith. Lesley married M. Clarke and had two boys: Roy and Graham. She later married B. Durban and had four boys: Patrick, Michael, Gary, and Grant. Charlotte died on February 11, 1984, at the age of 87. Gerry died on January 30, 1988, in Ladysmith at the age of 93.
- Media Type
- Photograph
- Textual Record
- Creator
- Hill Family
- Vidal family
- Notes
- Title based on contents of fonds
- Photo catalogue 550, MSS176
Hill family and Vidal family papers series
https://search.heritageburnaby.ca/link/archivedescription82702
- Repository
- City of Burnaby Archives
- Date
- [1850-1983]
- Collection/Fonds
- Hill family and Vidal family fonds
- Description Level
- Series
- Physical Description
- 9.5 cm of textual records
- Scope and Content
- Series consists of five files: (1). Jones family textual records; (2). Wright family textual records; (3). Hyde family textual records; (4) Vidal family textual records; and (5). Hill family textual records.
- Repository
- City of Burnaby Archives
- Date
- [1850-1983]
- Collection/Fonds
- Hill family and Vidal family fonds
- Physical Description
- 9.5 cm of textual records
- Description Level
- Series
- Access Restriction
- No restrictions
- Reproduction Restriction
- May be restricted by third party rights
- Accession Number
- 2013-03
- Scope and Content
- Series consists of five files: (1). Jones family textual records; (2). Wright family textual records; (3). Hyde family textual records; (4) Vidal family textual records; and (5). Hill family textual records.
- Media Type
- Textual Record
- Notes
- Title based on contents of series
Hill family textual records
https://search.heritageburnaby.ca/link/archivedescription82727
- Repository
- City of Burnaby Archives
- Date
- [1850-1980]
- Collection/Fonds
- Hill family and Vidal family fonds
- Description Level
- File
- Physical Description
- 7 cm of textual records : ill.
- Scope and Content
- File consists of a typed family tree with handwritten notes, postcards written by Minard Hill to Kitty Hill during WWI, a photocophy of a marriage certificate of Minard Hill and Charlotte Vidal with an amendment stating that the marriage dissolved on November 24, 1950, newspaper clippings (original…
- Repository
- City of Burnaby Archives
- Date
- [1850-1980]
- Collection/Fonds
- Hill family and Vidal family fonds
- Physical Description
- 7 cm of textual records : ill.
- Description Level
- File
- Record No.
- MSS176-005
- Access Restriction
- No restrictions
- Reproduction Restriction
- May be restricted by third party rights
- Accession Number
- 2013-03
- Scope and Content
- File consists of a typed family tree with handwritten notes, postcards written by Minard Hill to Kitty Hill during WWI, a photocophy of a marriage certificate of Minard Hill and Charlotte Vidal with an amendment stating that the marriage dissolved on November 24, 1950, newspaper clippings (original and photocopies) from 1943 and 1980s, a souvenir from Alaska and an empty envelope of developing paper. Also included are textual records regarding a Yellow Point reunion, the Boydell and Thomas families and a handwritten copy of Richard Hill's medallion. There is also a New Testament and written inside in blue pen it reads: "Richard Hill with his sister Annie's affectionate love / ... July 15 / 63" and in black pen it reads: "Bernard Richard Hill from his dear Papa / 1866". Also included is a book of "The Poetical Works of William Cowper" with a note in black pen that reads: "A token of affectioin for Stuart James from his ... Charlotte ... / December 1850".
- Media Type
- Textual Record
- Notes
- Title based on contents of file
Robert Burnaby letters
https://search.heritageburnaby.ca/link/archivedescription100546
- Repository
- City of Burnaby Archives
- Date
- 1858-1863
- Collection/Fonds
- Robert Burnaby fonds
- Description Level
- File
- Physical Description
- 48 p. of textual records.
- Scope and Content
- File consists of manuscript letters written by Robert Burnaby during his work and explorations in British Columbia. These letters were published in 2002 as the book "Land of Promise: Robert Burnaby's Letters from Colonial British Columbia 1858-1863."
- Repository
- City of Burnaby Archives
- Date
- 1858-1863
- Collection/Fonds
- Robert Burnaby fonds
- Physical Description
- 48 p. of textual records.
- Description Level
- File
- Record No.
- 66668
- Access Restriction
- No restrictions
- Reproduction Restriction
- No restrictions
- Accession Number
- 2009-06
- Scope and Content
- File consists of manuscript letters written by Robert Burnaby during his work and explorations in British Columbia. These letters were published in 2002 as the book "Land of Promise: Robert Burnaby's Letters from Colonial British Columbia 1858-1863."
- Media Type
- Textual Record
Burnaby family fonds
https://search.heritageburnaby.ca/link/archivedescription58458
- Repository
- City of Burnaby Archives
- Date
- 1858-1863
- Collection/Fonds
- Robert Burnaby fonds
- Description Level
- Fonds
- Physical Description
- 5 cm. of textual records.
- Scope and Content
- Fonds consists of letters written by Robert Burnaby related to both his work and explorations in British Columbia as well as personal matters relating to his family. Some of these letters were published in the 2002 book, "Land of Promise: Robert Burnaby's Letters from Colonial British Columbia 1858…
- Repository
- City of Burnaby Archives
- Date
- 1858-1863
- Collection/Fonds
- Robert Burnaby fonds
- Physical Description
- 5 cm. of textual records.
- Description Level
- Fonds
- Access Restriction
- No restrictions
- Reproduction Restriction
- No known restrictions
- Accession Number
- 2009-06 2017-55
- Scope and Content
- Fonds consists of letters written by Robert Burnaby related to both his work and explorations in British Columbia as well as personal matters relating to his family. Some of these letters were published in the 2002 book, "Land of Promise: Robert Burnaby's Letters from Colonial British Columbia 1858-1863."
- History
- Robert Burnaby was a commission merchant and legislator, born on November 30, 1828, at Woodthorpe, Leicestershire, England, as the fourth son of the Reverend Thomas Burnaby and Sarah Meares. Robert Burnaby came to British Columbia at the end of 1858 as an experienced civil servant from Her Majesty’s Customs Office in London, and with a personal introduction to Governor James Douglas from Sir Edward Bulwer-Lytton. Burnaby’s first year on the Pacific coast was a busy one: he spent a short time as private secretary to Richard Clement Moody, commander of the Royal Engineers at New Westminster; he explored for coal with Walter Moberly at Burrard Inlet; and he made a short visit to San Francisco. During this year, he also founded the firm of Henderson and Burnaby, commission merchants, in partnership with Edward Henderson, an old school friend from Christ’s Hospital and a man of means, who managed the London office. This type of business was precarious since the distance from sources of supply and risks in transportation encouraged overtrading and excessive speculation. The death of Henderson in 1865 and the general economic depression in Vancouver Island and British Columbia brought the firm to an end – a failure caused in part apparently by unwise investment in real estate. Burnaby then embarked upon a real estate and insurance business of his own. The exigencies of a mercantile career seem to have overwhelmed this man who, by upbringing and training, was more suited to a position in government service. Robert Burnaby was intensely interested in the welfare of Vancouver Island and British Columbia, and did all in his power to promote stable economic conditions. Before the end of his second year in Victoria, he was elected to the Legislative Assembly of Vancouver Island for the districts of Esquimalt and Metchosin, and he served his constituents well for five years. He was one of the founders of the Victoria Chamber of Commerce. During an 1866 visit to London on private business, he attended a meeting of prominent Victoria merchants and officials who strongly favoured the union of the two colonies and other measures for developing and improving their economic prospects. This group carried its resolutions to the secretary of state for the colonies. Burnaby was an active freemason and helped found the First Victoria Lodge in 1860. Among his recreational pursuits was a love of drama, and in 1863, he served as president of Victoria’s Amateur Dramatic Association. Burnaby numbered among his intimate friends Colonel Moody, Arthur Thomas Bushby, Henry Pering Pellew Crease, Judge Matthew Baillie Begbie, Edward Graham Alston, and Thomas Elwyn. In 1869, severe ill health caused Burnaby’s retirement and, five years later, his return to England. Friends arranged for him to travel in the Hudson’s Bay Company bark Lady Lampson; they later presented her captain, James Gaudin, with a generous purse in gratitude for the attention he had paid the ailing Burnaby during the voyage. Early in 1878, news reached Victoria that this “prominent and much respected merchant” had died. An honest, conscientious man of spirit, a clear-headed thinker, a “power” in his masonic lodge, a lucid speaker, full of fun, and clever, Burnaby has been fittingly commemorated in a number of place names in British Columbia including a lake, a strait, an island, a municipality, two mountain ranges, and finally Burnaby Mountain, the seat of Simon Fraser University. Burnaby died a bachelor on January 10, 1878, at Woodthorpe. - This information has been adapted from the Dictionary of Canadian Biography.
- Media Type
- Textual Record
- Creator
- Burnaby, Robert
- Notes
- Title based on creator of fonds.
Robert Burnaby letters
https://search.heritageburnaby.ca/link/archivedescription100545
- Repository
- City of Burnaby Archives
- Date
- 1859-1861
- Collection/Fonds
- Robert Burnaby fonds
- Description Level
- File
- Physical Description
- 8 p. of textual records.
- Scope and Content
- File consists of handwritten letters from Robert Burnaby to his sister Harriet Dickson. These letters were copied and published in the book "Land of Promise" by Pixie McGeachie and Anne McLeod.
- Repository
- City of Burnaby Archives
- Date
- 1859-1861
- Collection/Fonds
- Robert Burnaby fonds
- Physical Description
- 8 p. of textual records.
- Description Level
- File
- Record No.
- 66667
- Access Restriction
- No restrictions
- Reproduction Restriction
- No restrictions
- Accession Number
- 2017-55
- Scope and Content
- File consists of handwritten letters from Robert Burnaby to his sister Harriet Dickson. These letters were copied and published in the book "Land of Promise" by Pixie McGeachie and Anne McLeod.
- Media Type
- Textual Record
- Creator
- Burnaby, Robert
William Randolph Beamish fonds
https://search.heritageburnaby.ca/link/archivedescription100653
- Repository
- City of Burnaby Archives
- Date
- 1861-2009
- Collection/Fonds
- William Randolph Beamish fonds
- Description Level
- Fonds
- Physical Description
- 3.5 cm. of textual records; 17 small b&w prints; 10 med. prints; and 6 large b&w prints.
- Scope and Content
- Fonds consists of materials related to both Ran's personal life and his professional life as Reeve of Burnaby. Included in the materials are records related to his biological family as well as his adopted family, including records related to his reunion with his birth mother. Notable among his prof…
- Repository
- City of Burnaby Archives
- Date
- 1861-2009
- Collection/Fonds
- William Randolph Beamish fonds
- Physical Description
- 3.5 cm. of textual records; 17 small b&w prints; 10 med. prints; and 6 large b&w prints.
- Description Level
- Fonds
- Record No.
- 66671
- Access Restriction
- No restrictions
- Accession Number
- 2018-08 2023-03
- Scope and Content
- Fonds consists of materials related to both Ran's personal life and his professional life as Reeve of Burnaby. Included in the materials are records related to his biological family as well as his adopted family, including records related to his reunion with his birth mother. Notable among his professional records are photographs and newspaper clippings documenting his meeting with Queen Elizabeth II during an official visit prior to her coronation.
- History
- William Randolph "Ran" Beamish was born in Warren, Ontario, on November 11, 1908. He was the child of Gertrude Applegate (nee Pearce) and Randolph Applegate, but when he was put in an orphanage at birth, he was adopted by William Beamish and Agnes Crabbe and raised as their only son. Agnes Crabbe was the daughter of James Crabbe and Emily Widger; Emily Widger was the daughter of Henry Widger and Agnes Oldridge. When Agnes Oldridge passed away, Henry Widger remarried Jessie (maiden name unknown) and had Gertrude, who later went on to give birth to Ran, meaning he was eventually adopted and raised by his first cousins. Ran married Marjorie Davies and had two children, Joanne Beamish and Donna Beamish. Ran served as the Reeve of Burnaby from 1950 to 1953. He died on January 2, 1965, in New Westminster at the age of 56.
- Media Type
- Textual Record
William Randolph Beamish scrapbook
https://search.heritageburnaby.ca/link/archivedescription100654
- Repository
- City of Burnaby Archives
- Date
- 1861-2009
- Collection/Fonds
- William Randolph Beamish fonds
- Description Level
- Series
- Physical Description
- 3.5 cm. of textual records; 17 small b&w prints; 10 med. prints; and 6 large b&w prints.
- Scope and Content
- Series consists of records that were compiled into a binder as a scrapbook by Ilma Beamish Dunn, the adopted sister of William Randolph Beamish. Scope and content notes at the file- and item-level have been drawn from the thorough recordkeeping Dunn employed in creating the scrapbook.
- Repository
- City of Burnaby Archives
- Date
- 1861-2009
- Collection/Fonds
- William Randolph Beamish fonds
- Physical Description
- 3.5 cm. of textual records; 17 small b&w prints; 10 med. prints; and 6 large b&w prints.
- Description Level
- Series
- Record No.
- 66672
- Access Restriction
- No restrictions
- Accession Number
- 2023-03
- Scope and Content
- Series consists of records that were compiled into a binder as a scrapbook by Ilma Beamish Dunn, the adopted sister of William Randolph Beamish. Scope and content notes at the file- and item-level have been drawn from the thorough recordkeeping Dunn employed in creating the scrapbook.
- Media Type
- Textual Record
- Photograph
William John Beamish genealogical records
https://search.heritageburnaby.ca/link/archivedescription100656
- Repository
- City of Burnaby Archives
- Date
- 1861-1942
- Collection/Fonds
- William Randolph Beamish fonds
- Description Level
- File
- Physical Description
- 0.5 cm. of textual records and 1 large b&w print.
- Scope and Content
- File consists of family history records related to the Beamishes, William Randolph Beamish's adopted family, including a letter certifying the birth and baptism of William John Beamish on December 13, 1860, and June 9, 1861, respectively; a certificate for William John Beamish for the Probationers'…
- Repository
- City of Burnaby Archives
- Date
- 1861-1942
- Collection/Fonds
- William Randolph Beamish fonds
- Physical Description
- 0.5 cm. of textual records and 1 large b&w print.
- Description Level
- File
- Record No.
- 66674
- Access Restriction
- No restrictions
- Accession Number
- 2023-03
- Scope and Content
- File consists of family history records related to the Beamishes, William Randolph Beamish's adopted family, including a letter certifying the birth and baptism of William John Beamish on December 13, 1860, and June 9, 1861, respectively; a certificate for William John Beamish for the Probationers' Course of Study of the Methodist Church of Canada; sermon notes written by W.J. Beamish, as well as "his life as he wrote it”; a financial statement of Newington Circuit; his ordination picture; and obituaries for W.J. Beamish.
- History
- William John Beamish was born in Prescott, Ontario, on December 30, 1860. He was brought up and confirmed in the Anglican Church. While in his teens, he was attending a Methodist Church, became converted, and entered the same church as a candidate for the ministry. His probationary years were spent in the Northern Ontario lumber camps, ministering to the men on Lake Tallon Mission and Nipissing Junction. Mr. Beamish attended McGill College and after ordination at Smiths Falls, Ontario, on June 2, 1896, was appointed to Locksley circuit near Pembroke, then followed pastorates at Hammon, Mille Roches, Moulinette, Morewood, and Berwick. In 1905, while at Morewood, he married Miss Agnes Crabbe, a nurse from Ottawa, formerly Pembroke. Together, they served Wakefield, Quebec, Newington, and Easton's Corners, Ontario. Coming to British Columbia in 1911, they settled first at Kaslo, then Salmon Arm, Vancouver (Dundas), and Maple Ridge. In 1918, Mr. Beamish superannuated and bought a home in Burnaby where he resided until his death on July 26, 1942. During his period of superannuation, Mr. Beamish served for about seven years as minister of East Burnaby Methodist Church and until his death, was a valued member of this congregation, now known as East Burnaby United. He was ever a true friend of the minister and his presence in the congregation was an inspiration. While in good health, he gave his time freely to sick visitation and, in a word, "he went about doing good." Funeral services were conducted by Rev. W.R. Walkinshaw, with Rev. H.E. Horton representing Westminster Presbyterian assisting. Four retired ministers and two laymen acted as pall bearers. His reamins lie in Forest Lawn Memorial Park. He was survived by his wife; one son, Randolph; two daughters, Ethel (Mrs. Paul B. Derrick) and Ilma (Mrs. William Dunn). He was a good husband, a loving father, a dutiful son, and a faithful minister of the Gospel. -- This text was composed and written by Rev. R.W. Walkinshaw and later published in The Observer, the United Church magazine. It has been lightly edited here for grammar and punctuation.
- Media Type
- Textual Record
Legal document and certificate series
https://search.heritageburnaby.ca/link/archivedescription166
- Repository
- City of Burnaby Archives
- Date
- [1867-1961]
- Collection/Fonds
- Peers Family and Hill Family fonds
- Description Level
- Series
- Physical Description
- 2 cm textual records
- Scope and Content
- Series consists of legal documents including as wills, birth certificates and military papers pertaining to Claude Hill and Annie Sara (Kenrick) Hill. Documents also include a diary kept by Claude, a few pieces of correspondence, ledgers related to Claude's land transactions and certificates of ci…
- Repository
- City of Burnaby Archives
- Date
- [1867-1961]
- Collection/Fonds
- Peers Family and Hill Family fonds
- Physical Description
- 2 cm textual records
- Description Level
- Series
- Access Restriction
- No restrictions
- Reproduction Restriction
- May be restricted by third party rights
- Accession Number
- 2007-12
- Scope and Content
- Series consists of legal documents including as wills, birth certificates and military papers pertaining to Claude Hill and Annie Sara (Kenrick) Hill. Documents also include a diary kept by Claude, a few pieces of correspondence, ledgers related to Claude's land transactions and certificates of citizenship and identification. Also in the file is a sketch showing a “Birds Eye View of the Burnaby Lake Area circa 1910,” a book of Common Prayer Hymns, a Bible, a Post Card Album, address book, a Birthday Book and a cross-stitch sampler done by Annie Kenrick in 1877.
- Media Type
- Textual Record
Burnaby Historical Society fonds
https://search.heritageburnaby.ca/link/archivedescription97124
- Repository
- City of Burnaby Archives
- Date
- 1892-2018
- Collection/Fonds
- Burnaby Historical Society fonds
- Description Level
- Fonds
- Physical Description
- ca. 130 linear feet of textual records 30 linear feet of graphic and other material
- Scope and Content
- Fonds consists of the Burnaby Historical Society's administrative records and community archives collection.
- Repository
- City of Burnaby Archives
- Date
- 1892-2018
- Collection/Fonds
- Burnaby Historical Society fonds
- Physical Description
- ca. 130 linear feet of textual records 30 linear feet of graphic and other material
- Description Level
- Fonds
- Scope and Content
- Fonds consists of the Burnaby Historical Society's administrative records and community archives collection.
- History
- The Burnaby Historical Society was founded in 1957. The Historical Society developed a community archives by collecting, compiling and preserving various materials with historical value to the City of Burnaby. It gathered miscellaneous documents, photographs and other items while also soliciting and acquiring entire collections or groups of archival records. In 1991, the Historical Society was provided a permanent space to house their growing collection at the Burnaby Village Museum and they continued to collect and expand their holdings. After the creation of the City of Burnaby Archives in 2001, the Burnaby Historical Society and the City of Burnaby began discussing the possibility of uniting the two collections. In February 2007, an agreement was signed between the two institutions which resulted in the merger of the Society's Community Archives with the City Archives. All records and photographs that had been collected by the Historical Society were transferred into the custody of the City and were moved from the Burnaby Village Museum to the City Archives in the McGill Branch of the Burnaby Public Library. The Burnaby Historical Society disbanded in 2018.
- Media Type
- Textual Record
- Photograph
- Sound Recording
- Creator
- Burnaby Historical Society
- Notes
- Title based on contents of fonds
City Council and Office of the City Clerk fonds
https://search.heritageburnaby.ca/link/archivedescription29
- Repository
- City of Burnaby Archives
- Date
- 1892-2021
- Collection/Fonds
- City Council and Office of the City Clerk fonds
- Description Level
- Fonds
- Physical Description
- 130m of textual records and other material
- Scope and Content
- Fonds consists of records generated in the course of municipal business by City Council and the Office of the City Clerk.
- Repository
- City of Burnaby Archives
- Date
- 1892-2021
- Collection/Fonds
- City Council and Office of the City Clerk fonds
- Physical Description
- 130m of textual records and other material
- Description Level
- Fonds
- Access Restriction
- Subject to FOIPPA
- Scope and Content
- Fonds consists of records generated in the course of municipal business by City Council and the Office of the City Clerk.
- History
- The City of Burnaby covers an area of approximately 98 square kilometers between the cities of Vancouver to the west, and Coquitlam and New Westminster to the east, Burrard Inlet to the north, and the Fraser River to the south. The municipality derived its name from Robert Burnaby, a prominent businessman and advisor to Sir James Douglas, the first Governor of the Crown Colony of British Columbia. Burnaby’s early development was closely tied to the development of the City of New Westminster. New Westminster became British Columbia’s capital in 1859, the year after the British Government proclaimed the establishment of British Columbia. Shortly thereafter, the Royal Engineers began exploring Burnaby to establish military defenses and secure natural resources. This involved the construction of a road linking New Westminster to Burrard Inlet for military purposes, which is present-day North Road. At this time, individuals and families began settling in Burnaby and were largely involved in agricultural and logging activities. Burnaby developed slowly until 1887, when the Canadian Pacific Railway was extended into Vancouver from the Port Moody terminal, causing a dramatic increase in traffic between New Westminster and Vancouver. To meet the new transportation demands, a tramline was built in 1891 connecting the two urban centers along what is now Kingsway. The creation and location of the tramline induced property owners to begin subdividing and selling their lands as early as October 1891. The property taxes the roughly 200 residents paid at this time went directly to the provincial government in Victoria. No local services were provided in turn, which prompted the formation of a committee to petition the provincial government for a municipal charter. As a result, the Corporation of the District of Burnaby was incorporated by letters patent on September 22, 1892. Burnaby’s first Council was elected by acclamation on October 15, 1892 and consisted of Reeve Charles R. Shaw and councillors William Brenchley, Arthur De Windt Hazard, L. Claude Hill, William McDermott, and John Woolard.* The first formal Council election was conducted three months later. Nicolai Shou became the first elected reeve of Burnaby by ballot. Council met at various locations, including the tramline’s power house, private homes, and offices until the first municipal hall was built at Kingsway and Edmonds in 1899. Council is ultimately responsible for the government of the City of Burnaby. The Mayor (formally called “Reeve” prior to 1968) and Council are elected by the residents of Burnaby to represent them in decisions with respect to the provision of public services and facilities. Additionally, the Mayor represents the citizens of Burnaby at various public functions and events. Burnaby was without Council representation during most of the Great Depression and part of the Second World War. Council was disbanded on December 31, 1932 as a result of financial difficulties. The Provincial Government appointed a Commissioner to take over the duties of Reeve and Council beginning in 1933. This system of government was retained until January 1943, when Burnaby residents could once again elect their local government officials. The following individuals have served as Mayor (or Reeve) of Burnaby: Charles R. Shaw 1892 Nicolai C. Schou 1893-1903 Charles F. Sprott 1904-1905 Peter Byrne 1906-1910 John W. Weart 1911-1912 Duncan C. McGregor 1913 Hugh M. Fraser 1914-1918 Thomas Sanderson 1919-1920 Alexander K. McLean 1921-1926; 1928-1929 Charles C. Bell 1927 William L. Burdick 1929 William A. Pritchard 1930-1932 William Tate Wilson 1943-1944 George A. Morrison 1945-1949 William R. Beamish 1950-1953 Charles W. MacSorley 1954-1957 Alan H. Emmott 1958-1968 Robert W. Prittie 1969-1973 Thomas W. Constable 1973-1979 David M. Mercier 1979-1981 William A. Lewarne 1981-1987 William J. Copeland 1987-1996 Douglas P. Drummond 1996-2002 Derek R. Corrigan 2002-2018 Mike Hurley 2018-present The following individuals have served as provincially appointed Commissioners for the Corporation of the District of Burnaby: John Bennett 1933 John Mahony 1933-1934 Hugh M. Fraser 1934-1940* R.S. Gilchrist 1941-1942* B.C. Bracewell 1942* *Richard Bolton was Acting Commissioner for most of 1940-1942. He refused to be a full-fledged Commissioner. Closely associated with the functions of Council is the City Clerk. The Office of the City Clerk is responsible for the statutory duties of the municipal clerk including the preparation and preservation of all minutes books and records of Council business, custody of City bylaws, administrative support to Council and its Committees, preparation of Council and Committee agendas and the conduct of local government elections. The Clerk’s Office is the communications link between Council and other City Departments and the general public, and provides assistance and advice to citizens with respect to Council and Council Committee processes, reporting procedures and decisions. At the time of Burnaby’s incorporation in 1892, the municipal Clerk had the responsibility to attend all meetings of Council, keep all records of Council, prepare and alter voters’ lists, conduct Council elections, collect revenue, as well as having the responsibility to prepare balance sheets and audits. An advertisement in a local newspaper for the appointment of the Clerk dated February 1, 1905 states the “united offices of clerk, collector and assessor” receive a salary of $65.00 per month. Originally the treasurer, assessor and records manager for the corporation, the Clerk eventually became the municipal Council liaison. The primary functions of the City Clerk over time have been the keeping of minutes for the meetings of City Council and related bodies; keeping the records of the City of Burnaby as required by the Local Government Act (formally Municipal Act); keeping all records related to City Council decision making; carrying out correspondence on behalf of Council; assembling voters’ lists and carrying out elections; providing communication, information, and public relations services, including responsibility for civic ceremonies/events, and the municipal archives. The following individuals have served as City Clerk: Alexander Philip 1892–1894 Alfred Smither 1894–1899 F.J.H. Shirley 1899–1901 Arthur De Windt Haszard 1901–1902 Walter J. Walker 1902–1905 Benjamin George Walker 1905–1908 Charles Thomas Saunders 1908–1911 W.M. Griffiths 1911–1912 Arthur G. Moore 1912–1933 Charles Boyer Brown 1933–1959 John H. Shaw 1959–1973* James Hudson 1974–1984 Charles A. Turpin 1984–1995 Debbie R. Comis 1995–2011 Anne Skipsey (Acting) 2011-2012 Maryann Manuel (Acting) 2012-2014 Dennis Back 2014-2018 Kate O'Connell 2018-2020 Blanka Zeinabova 2020-2022 *Deputy City Clerk T. Ward took over many of the Clerk’s duties from 1972 to 1973 due to Shaw’s ill health during these years.
- Formats
- Microforms exist for some records. See series descriptions.
- Media Type
- Textual Record
- Creator
- City of Burnaby
- Notes
- Title based on creators of fonds
Bylaws series
https://search.heritageburnaby.ca/link/archivedescription136
- Repository
- City of Burnaby Archives
- Date
- 1892-2010
- Collection/Fonds
- City Council and Office of the City Clerk fonds
- Description Level
- Series
- Scope and Content
- Series consists of all bylaws passed, signed and sealed by the municipal Council of Burnaby, as well as drafts of bylaws that did not receive final adoption or a final reading. Bylaws pertain to all aspects of municipal government, including, but not limited to, public works, land and building reg…
- Repository
- City of Burnaby Archives
- Date
- 1892-2010
- Collection/Fonds
- City Council and Office of the City Clerk fonds
- Series
- Bylaws series
- Description Level
- Series
- Scope and Content
- Series consists of all bylaws passed, signed and sealed by the municipal Council of Burnaby, as well as drafts of bylaws that did not receive final adoption or a final reading. Bylaws pertain to all aspects of municipal government, including, but not limited to, public works, land and building regulation, taxation, finance, licensing, public health and safety, and recreation and culture. Series also includes files of correspondence and other documents related to the development of individual bylaws and municipal bylaw elections, as well as appendices to bylaws, including maps, plans, and engineering related comprehensive development drawings (CD plans). Included also are bylaw record books, which list all bylaws and related information, such as dates of reading and final adoption dates. Bylaws are numbered sequentially and are arranged according to bylaw number.
- Formats
- Microfiche copies are available in the Clerk’s Department vault for bylaws number 1 to 10584.
- Media Type
- Textual Record
Clerk's Department record series
https://search.heritageburnaby.ca/link/archivedescription137
- Repository
- City of Burnaby Archives
- Date
- 1892-2018
- Collection/Fonds
- City Council and Office of the City Clerk fonds
- Description Level
- Series
- Scope and Content
- Series consists of files relating to the various functions of the Office of the City Clerk, more commonly referred to as the Clerk’s Department or Clerk’s Office. In addition to records created, received, and set aside by the Clerk’s Department, this series also includes records and copies of reco…
- Repository
- City of Burnaby Archives
- Date
- 1892-2018
- Collection/Fonds
- City Council and Office of the City Clerk fonds
- Description Level
- Series
- File Class
- 1500 20 (add. 2020)
- 1650 10 (add. 2020)
- Scope and Content
- Series consists of files relating to the various functions of the Office of the City Clerk, more commonly referred to as the Clerk’s Department or Clerk’s Office. In addition to records created, received, and set aside by the Clerk’s Department, this series also includes records and copies of records created and received by other City departments which are the Clerk’s responsibility to keep. As a result, files reflect the changing record keeping responsibilities of the City Clerk over the years. For instance, the series includes the City’s early financial records, including Auditor’s reports, cash books, and records related to bond sales, mortgages, taxes, and tax sales, which were the Clerk’s responsibility to keep until a municipal accountant was appointed in 1912. Series also includes records relating to the Parcel Tax Roll Review Panel (previously Court of Revision) and administration of the Clerk’s Office.
- Formats
- Many files ca. 1940 to 1979 exist only on microfilm located in the Clerk’s Department vault.
- Media Type
- Textual Record
Council minutes and agendas series
https://search.heritageburnaby.ca/link/archivedescription140
- Repository
- City of Burnaby Archives
- Date
- 1892-2018
- Collection/Fonds
- City Council and Office of the City Clerk fonds
- Description Level
- Series
- Scope and Content
- Series consists of minutes and agendas of the meetings of Burnaby City Council. Minutes of open Council meetings reflect Council discussions and decisions regarding issues of municipal concern, including, but not limited to, public works, taxation, bylaw enforcement, land development, public healt…
- Repository
- City of Burnaby Archives
- Date
- 1892-2018
- Collection/Fonds
- City Council and Office of the City Clerk fonds
- Description Level
- Series
- File Class
- 2430 09 (add. 2020)
- Scope and Content
- Series consists of minutes and agendas of the meetings of Burnaby City Council. Minutes of open Council meetings reflect Council discussions and decisions regarding issues of municipal concern, including, but not limited to, public works, taxation, bylaw enforcement, land development, public health, and administrative decisions. Series includes minutes of “in camera,” or closed, Council meetings in which confidential issues are discussed. Some of the early minute books contain minutes of Court of Revision proceedings as well.
- Media Type
- Textual Record
- Notes
- Access to in camera minutes is restricted in accordance with Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act legislation. Contact the City Archives for details.
Mary Forsyth fonds
https://search.heritageburnaby.ca/link/archivedescription87823
- Repository
- City of Burnaby Archives
- Date
- [1893] (date of original) -2004
- Collection/Fonds
- Mary Forsyth fonds
- Description Level
- Fonds
- Physical Description
- Textual records, graphic material and cartographic material
- Scope and Content
- Records consist of material created and collected by Mary Forsyth. Records include correspondence, photographs, a map, presentation notes, and reviews along with research for historical and biographical essays pertaining to pioneering families, organizations, and the geographical area of South Burn…
- Repository
- City of Burnaby Archives
- Date
- [1893] (date of original) -2004
- Collection/Fonds
- Mary Forsyth fonds
- Physical Description
- Textual records, graphic material and cartographic material
- Description Level
- Fonds
- Reproduction Restriction
- May be restricted by third party rights
- Accession Number
- 2014-27
- Scope and Content
- Records consist of material created and collected by Mary Forsyth. Records include correspondence, photographs, a map, presentation notes, and reviews along with research for historical and biographical essays pertaining to pioneering families, organizations, and the geographical area of South Burnaby. One of her major research projects consists of "A Walking Environment for South Burnaby," which also became a proposal to The Corporation of the District of Burnaby. Historical information and photographs pertaining to South Burnaby pioneer families and organizations were compiled from interviews with the intention of publishing a book.
- History
- Mary Gertrude (Bolton) Forsyth was born at her parents' home in Burnaby on March 5, 1923, and was the daughter of Richard Bolton and Gertrude (nee Hern). Mary's father, Richard, immigrated to Canada from Sunderland, England, in 1911. He lived with his brother George in New Westminster prior to purchasing property in South Burnaby in 1916 and built a bungalow located at 859 Marine Drive. Richard Bolton was employed as the municipal treasurer for the Corporation of the District of Burnaby and, in 1919, he returned to Sunderland with three months leave of absence to marry Mary Gertrude Hern, daughter of Captain and Mrs. John Hern. Mary grew up with her parents and sister Nancy in the house that her father built on Marine Drive. She married Lloyd Forsyth in 1946 and they had two children, Diane and Robert. Mary and her husband raised their family in Burnaby and built a house at 855 Marine Drive, on the lot originally purchased by her father, and moved later to a house located at 6457 Marine Drive. In 1964, after her children were grown, Mary completed her teaching degree at Simon Fraser University and went on to teach kindergarten at Nelson Elementary School. While a teacher within the Burnaby School District, Mary was instrumental in adopting ballet as part of the school curriculum. Mary was an active member of the Burnaby Historical Society, participating and leading local events and seminars. She was inspired by the idea of the 'Housewives Holiday', originally initiated by the Vancouver "Y’ S". In February 1960, she was integral in forming a committee in South Burnaby, working alongside Ruth Turner, Faye Treagh, and Dorothy Turnbull. The "Housewives Holiday" committee (a branch of the Clinton-Glenwood Recreation Association) planned several events at Bonsor Hall for Burnaby housewives from October 6 to December 8, 1960. After her retirement from teaching, Mary returned to Simon Fraser University to do further studies and, in 1983, she wrote an essay for an Environmental Education course, titled "A Walking Environment for South Burnaby". The essay was conducted as a feasibility study to provide a walking environment in her community and included a formal essay, a media book, a map, and a slide presentation which was presented to a variety of local community groups. In 1984, Mary was the recipient of the North Fraser Harbour Commission Award to further her work on this project. In October 1986, her essay was adapted as a proposal to The Corporation of the District of Burnaby for a walking and cycling trail system for South Burnaby. Her proposal was taken into consideration by council and was later adopted by the Parks and Recreation Commission. Mary was very much interested in the history of South Burnaby and spent time between 1990 to 2004 conducting research through the Burnaby Historical Society, The City of Burnaby Archives, and several pioneering families who agreed to share their family records and be interviewed. Mary compiled her research into short historical and biographical essays by geographical area, family name, and organization. Mary (Bolton) Forsyth lived her whole life in South Burnaby and was an active and committed member of her community. She died on November 10, 2010.
- Media Type
- Textual Record
- Photograph
- Cartographic Material
- Creator
- Forsyth, Mary
- Notes
- Title based on contents of fonds
- Photo catalogue 572, MSS185