A New Westminster Album: Glimpses of the City as It Was

Ann Turner is the financial and budget manager of the University of
British Columbia Library.

New Westminster is the oldest city in Western Canada and takes pride in
its heritage as the first capital of the colony of British Columbia.
Throughout its nearly 150 years, photographers have recorded its growth
and significant events. Many were professionals with businesses based in
New Westminster, and the city is extremely fortunate to have substantial
collections of their high-quality images preserved in its public
library, museum, and archives. These collections, as well as those of
private individuals, were the primary resource for this album. The
photographs are supported by extensive historical caption notes
identifying the subjects and their significance in the city’s
development. They are organized into chapters by subject, with narrative
essays binding them together. Topics include the city’s early years,
businesses, buildings, sports, celebrations, and the war effort.

A great deal of careful research has gone into the preparation of this
album, selecting, identifying, and reproducing the images for all to
enjoy. The histories of both the city and the province are richer for
its contribution.