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Steveston – City Within A City
Photo: Don Montgomery
When I am asked where I live, I like to reply that I live on an island. That usually brings looks of
envy and wonder from the person asking the question. Then I mention that I don’t need to
catch a ferry to commute to Vancouver. That remark raises eyebrows. That’s when I say I live in
a little town called Steveston on Lulu Island, now known as Richmond.
I’ve lived in Richmond for over 33 years with 23 of these years in Steveston. What attracted me
to Steveston is what attracts many people to Steveston – we have the charm of a village, the
friendliness of a small town, and the amenities of a big city. Steveston residents sometimes
claim a different identity from those who live in Richmond even though there isn’t a great
divide that separates the two areas apart from each other.
Steveston significant history dates back to the 1800’s. A distinct neighbourhood that began as
a fishing village has now blossomed into a city within a city.
Some of that history still remains today in the form of physical landmarks such as the Gulf of
Georgia Cannery National Historic Site, Britannia Heritage Shipyard, London Heritage Farm,
and a number of heritage buildings.
One of best things about Steveston is the number of shops and restaurants. They all have their
own unique character and flavour. Eating fish and chips in front of a fishing dock or watching
the boats travel across the water while enjoying a coffee is certainly a refreshing experience
for people young and old alike. We’re just steps away from being able to go for a walk, jog, or
bike ride along the scenic waterfront dyke trail. You can fly a kite at Garry Point Park or try
your luck fishing on one of the piers. We have all of these natural attributes, yet we’re just
minutes away from an international airport and downtown Richmond.
I remember when I first visited Steveston over thirty years ago. I felt like I had taken a step back
into time. You could buy fresh seafood from the fishing boats and fresh produce at the farm
markets. What struck me the most was the quiet calm of the area and how everyone seemed
to be more relaxed in their daily routine. It was a contrast to living in central Richmond. I knew
that one day I would live in Steveston and that day eventually happened.
Although Steveston has changed quite a bit over the past few years, it still has managed to
keep its small town charm and atmosphere. These are endearing qualities that I hope will
remain for a long time.
Steveston is where the Fraser River and the Pacific Ocean meet. It’s also the place where people
from all over the world meet.
Cynthia A. Chen
Steveston Resident
www.cynthiachen.ca
www.steveston.ca
5 VILL251110