The Richmond community can now watch the restoration of heritage wooden fishing boats first-hand in Steveston.
The new heritage boat restoration program at Britannia Shipyards National Historic Site gives visitors a chance to watch what boat restoration looks like in action inside the 1930s Richmond Boat Builders building.
This year's project features the Crystal S, a locally built wooden gillnetter that once worked on the Fraser River.
There will also be interactive displays and demonstrations highlighting the legacy and craftsmanship of wooden boat building.
People can learn about Steveston's rich boat-building heritage and the history of the Richmond Boat Builders, originally operated by the Kishi family — one of many Japanese-Canadian boat-building families who shaped the maritime industry of Steveston.
“This interactive program brings our maritime heritage to life in a meaningful and dynamic way,” said Mayor Malcolm Brodie.
“We’re excited to offer visitors the rare opportunity to see the restoration process up close, while learning about the vital role these boats played in Richmond’s fishing industry.”
During Doors Open Richmond on Saturday, June 7, Britannia Shipyard's skilled shipwright will be giving an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the operating boat works and updates on the Crystal S restoration project.
Britannia Shipyards National Historic Site is a rare collection of historic buildings and is open daily during the summer season from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is free.
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