Name: Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Historic Site
Address: Canada

The Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Historic Site, located at 12138 Fourth Avenue, Richmond (Steveston), British Columbia, is a restored 1894 salmon cannery. Operated by the non-profit Gulf of Georgia Cannery Society on behalf of Parks Canada, it commemorates Canada’s West Coast fishing industry through interactive exhibits, guided tours, films, demonstrations, and school programs. The site sits on unceded Musqueam and Hən̓q̓əmin̓əm̓ territory and is open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM (except statutory closures Oct–Jan).

Historical Significance & Site Features
Licensed as a National Historic Site in 1976, it was once BC's largest salmon cannery—nicknamed the “Monster Cannery” for canning 2.5 million cans in 1897. The wooden complex built on Fraser River pilings illustrates the evolution of fish processing: from salmon canning (1894–1930) to herring reduction (WWII–1960s). The Society took over daily operations in 2000, under agreement with Parks Canada which retains structural stewardship.

Museum Experience & Exhibits
Visitors can self-tour or join guided interpretation covering canning line, reduction plant, interactive "fish wall" models, 25-minute film, machinery demos, and educational programs for all ages. Permanent and rotating exhibits—like "Fish Tales" and “The Water We Call Home”—highlight Indigenous, Japanese and Chinese Canadian contributions.

Accessibility & Visitor Info

Admission: Adults CAD 13.25, seniors CAD 11.25, youth (≤17) free; free general admission June 20–September 2, 2025.
Open daily 10 AM–5 PM; group booking required for 10+ people.
Fully wheelchair‑accessible; building remains cold, uneven floors, parking onsite and in Steveston village.

Governance & Community
The Cannery Society (incorporated 1986) oversees visitor services, programming, fundraising, events, retail, and education under a co‑operative agreement with Parks Canada. Parks Canada funds major capital repairs ($10M+ since 2010) and maintains the built heritage. Indigenous groups and cultural stakeholders (Musqueam, Japanese/Chinese Canadian communities) contribute to planning and interpretation.

Assessment
The site offers a richly immersive exploration of BC’s fishing legacy in a historic, industrial setting. Its interactive elements, deep community ties, and inclusive storytelling are strengths. Operational challenges include the cool, unheated structure and aging permanent exhibits. Future opportunities include exhibit renewal, climate adaptation strategies, and expanded digital outreach combined with enhanced First Nations co‑development.