Vancouver, British Columbia, is a city rich with history and heritage, and nowhere is this more evident than at the Old Hastings Mill Museum, Vancouver’s oldest building, originally constructed in 1865. Perched above the scenic English Bay at the corner of Alma Street and Point Grey Road, this historic wooden building tells the story of the city’s early days, offering a fascinating glimpse into the lives of its pioneers.
Originally built on Burrard Inlet by British Captain Edward Stamp for the BC and Vancouver Island Spar, Lumber and Sawmill Company, the structure served as both a general store and a community gathering place. For over 60 years, it was a lifeline for the Hastings Mill settlement, providing supplies and a warm haven for loggers, sailors, and residents alike. As Vancouver grew and evolved, the store became a symbol of resilience, surviving the Great Fire of 1886 and serving various roles, from post office to library. Eventually, it was saved from demolition in 1929 by the Native Daughters of B.C., who had it transported by barge to its current location. The building was officially reopened as a museum in 1931 and has since been cherished as a repository of artifacts, memories, and stories.
Today, the Old Hastings Mill Museum stands as a testament to Vancouver’s past. Operated by the Native Daughters of British Columbia, Post No.1, this museum offers visitors a unique blend of local pioneer history, First Nations artifacts, and community stories. Its collections showcase everything from pioneer clothing to vintage photographs and even a piano that arrived from England in 1894. It’s a beloved gathering space that continues to preserve Vancouver’s pioneer legacy with the support of organizations such as the BC Historical Federation, BC Museums Association, Canadian Museums Association, Heritage BC, and the Vancouver Council of Women.
The museum’s dedication to community engagement remains strong, inviting local groups and individuals to host events and workshops that honor traditions and foster learning. On October 19, 2024, we at Wild Bluebell Homestead had the pleasure of hosting a Beginner’s Sourdough Bread Workshop at the museum. With Lou guiding the session, attendees enjoyed a step-by-step experience learning the art and science of sourdough, from activating a sourdough starter (levain bio in French) to baking a beautiful loaf. Participants left with newfound skills and the assurance that Lou would continue supporting them post-workshop. Whether through Instagram or WhatsApp, Lou provides follow-up guidance, ensuring attendees have the confidence and know-how to continue their sourdough journey at home.
This successful workshop not only added to the museum’s diverse event lineup but also highlighted the museum as a cherished community space for hands-on learning and cultural exchange. For those in British Columbia looking to deepen their connection to homesteading or pioneer skills, Wild Bluebell Homestead is available to bring workshops to local communities across the province.
A special thanks to the Old Hastings Mill Museum for hosting such a memorable event! We invite you, our readers, to explore this historic gem and consider it for future workshops, gatherings, or educational experiences. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a hands-on learner, or a community organizer, the Old Hastings Mill Museum offers an inviting space to connect with Vancouver’s storied past. Reach out to us at Wild Bluebell Homestead if you’d like us to bring a workshop to your community, and be sure to visit the Old Hastings Mill Museum to immerse yourself in the heritage and traditions that make British Columbia so unique.
Quick Facts About the Old Hastings Mill Museum
- Location: 1575 Alma Street, Vancouver, BC, situated at Point Grey Road near English Bay.
- Significance: Vancouver’s oldest surviving building, originally constructed in 1865 by Captain Edward Stamp as a general store for the BC and Vancouver Island Spar, Lumber and Sawmill Company.
- Historic Role: Served as the heart of the Hastings Mill settlement for over 60 years, operating as a store, post office, library, and gathering place, particularly for loggers, sailors, and pioneers.
- The Great Fire of 1886: One of the only buildings to survive Vancouver’s devastating fire, temporarily used as a hospital and morgue.
- Saved from Demolition: In 1929, the Native Daughters of BC moved the building by barge to Point Grey, preserving it as a museum.
- Opened as a Museum: Reopened in 1931, dedicated as the Museum of B.C. Historical Relics in Memory of the Pioneers.
- Collections: Features pioneer artifacts, historical photographs, First Nations art, and unique items like the Hastings Mill bell and a piano brought from England in 1894.
- Community Engagement: Available for local events and workshops; past hosts include Wild Bluebell Homestead for a sourdough bread-making workshop.
- Supporting Organizations: Operates with the support of the BC Historical Federation, BC Museums Association, Canadian Museums Association, Heritage BC, and Vancouver Council of Women.
- Hours and Admission: Open Saturdays and Sundays, 1-4 pm; “pay what you can” donation basis, with a suggested $10 donation.
- Accessibility: Wheelchair and scooter accessible on the main floor only; service dogs permitted. Note: No public washrooms on site.
Sourdough Bread Workshop Photos
