Deep Cove Heritage Society
Preserving the stories of Deep Cove and its surrounding neighbourhoods
Welcome
Deep Cove Heritage Society was established in 1985 by a dedicated group of volunteers, to create a home for memories and to record and retain the stories of the people who live in the neighbourhoods east of the Seymour River in the District of North Vancouver. Throughout the years of change and growth, a strong sense of place and identity remain for the people who call this area home. Our digital archives house a collection of over 3,500 photographs, dating back to the turn of the century. Maps, documents, and oral and written interviews are also kept within the Society’s office.
How we started
Janet Pavlik, a new resident to the area in 1970 wanted to learn about how the area had developed and quickly discovered no one had recorded the history. She began by talking to longtime residents and gathering their photos, recording interviews for community TV (Shaw) programming, called Early Days in Deep Cove. All the information gathered became the basis of the archives for the Deep Cove and Area Heritage Association, later renamed to Deep Cove Heritage Society.
In recent years, DCHS has been working closely with teachers at Seycove Secondary School to include student participation in projects of interest to everyone. Student interviews with area residents open up communications and learning opportunities.
Looking ahead
As we move forward, the Society continues to include digital documentation through our Hub photo archive and website. Major projects include updates to the Heritage website to allow inclusion of the student interviews, historical recordings, and presentations.
Surrounded by the natural beauty of the waters and the mountains, future plans include more outreach within our communities, learning and gathering the histories of all peoples who have made their homes here.
Volunteers are always needed. The work of the Society requires time and skills of many people. Whether an interest in history or a desire to learn about the stories of the Seymour area, everyone is welcome.
Neighbourhoods
On the traditional lands of the Səl̓ílwətaʔ/Selilwitulh (Tsleil-Waututh) Nation are our neighbourhoods. We acknowledge our privilege to live and work here in the East of the Seymour River area.
Archives
We have gathered together photographs, documents, and maps that tell the story of our neighbourhoods through the years.
Events
Deep Cove Heritage hosts workshops, boat trips, bus tours, walking talks and tours, and participates community days.
Get Involved
A grassroots community organization depends on volunteers. Our Society welcomes volunteers and are very grateful for their time and assistance to keep us up and running.