The Point Atkinson
lighthouse has long been a
focal point for mariners,
tourists, and local
communities. The lighthouse
at Point Atkinson was built
in 1875 to protect
Vancouver's growing
international shipping trade.
While the first keepers
| struggled with adapting to
the isolated location and
stayed only a few years,
later keepers stayed for many
decades. The isolation was
eased by the increasing
proximity of the city of
Vancouver and its suburbs.
Keepers and their families
had challenging but
| interesting lives. Keepers
often struggled with low
wages and the constant
demands of the job. Wives and
children helped out the
keeper, while keeping up with
housework, cooking, and
attending school. During
World War II, Point Atkinson
was used as a base from which
| to protect the Port of
Vancouver. Point Atkinson
lighthouse and its
surrounding park remain
important to the residents of
West Vancouver, tourists and
mariners.
Special thanks to all the
individuals who contributed
to the exhibit: Larry and
|