Historic Preservation: Prince Rupert

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Historic Cannery Conservation Project Receives Funding From Prince Rupert Port Authority

The Prince Rupert Port Authority (PRPA) is contributing C$200,000 from its Community Investment Fund to the Port Edward Historical Society for a 20,000-square foot restoration of the Working Dock at North Pacific Cannery, the oldest intact salmon cannery on the West Coast of North America. The project is the final piece of an intensive five-year restoration effort with a budget of $2.3 million dedicated to preserving North Pacific Cannery’s 29 heritage buildings and structures.

The port authority fund provides "financial support for projects or initiatives in the Prince Rupert area that enhance quality of life or contributes to a lasting legacy."

Ken Veldman, the port authority’s director of public affairs, made the announcement at the opening ceremonies of the Cannery’s 125th anniversary celebration on June 21.

"This restoration project preserves an important heritage site for future generations, creates local jobs and skills training opportunities, boosts tourism through an improved visitor experience, and increases the capacity for North Pacific Cannery to host large community functions and special events," Mr. Veldman said. "For all these reasons, PRPA is proud to partner with the many other businesses and community groups contributing to this legacy."

"As a Parks Canada-designated National Historic Site, North Pacific Cannery commemorates the role of the fishing industry in the economic and cultural development of not only northwestern BC, but of Canada," said Port Authority President Don Krusel. "It is a reflection of the wide-ranging benefits of today’s port activity, which extend from our region to across the nation."

North Pacific Cannery – the oldest intact salmon cannery on the North America Coast is being restored with a helping hand from the Prince Rupert Port Authority.
Photo/Port Edward Historical Society