New Westminster, from its site selection by the Royal Engineers in 1859, has had as a strong physical feature, a riverside location with a large efficient harbour.
In 1913, the federal creation of ports across the country formalized the "port" of New Westminster.
From the New Westminster Harbour Commission, the Fraser River Harbour Commission, the Fraser River Port Authority, and now as part of Port Metro Vancouver, the formal port is 100 years old this year.
The opening ceremony in 1913 was impressive and included steam machinery operating on the waterfront to kick off the development of a whole array of new docks and facilities.
The mayor of the day carried out the formalities, then led all concerned to a celebratory luncheon at a Columbia Street restaurant.
Many worldwide influences have affected the development at the port, including the Panama Canal, larger and more powerful ships, more efficient methods of loading and unloading vessels, commodities and types of cargo carried, aggressive marketing of B.C. products to the world, and the importing of more goods from a global market.
The port envisioned by the Royal Engineers is certainly evident in our maritime history.
It is fascinating to read about shipping firsts through the harbour and to link these events to places in British Columbia and elsewhere.
There were special occasions to mark the export of apples and eggs in ships that could stay cool.
There were events to highlight large individual wood pieces or extensive shipments of lumber products.
There was the arrival of the "container" shipping system and of ships that could load and unload themselves and car carriers where the vehicles drive on and off.
The port at New Westminster has an interesting history filled with innovation and technological evolution and it has taken place, for the most part, right in front of us on the Fraser River and along the river's shoreline.
This month you will have a number of opportunities to learn more of the story of this valuable asset and city feature.
At the end of the month, on Sept. 27 and 28, will be RiverFest: Inspired by the Fraser.
Among the many events will be harbour cruises on which you will hear lots about the port and its history.
On Sunday, Sept. 15 we will have a walking tour of the waterfront to mark the port's 100 year anniversary. This tour will be filled with stories, lots of heritage features to point out and great fun - it starts at 1:30 p.m. Starting at 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 18, the New Westminster Historical Society will hold a program at the Fraser River Discovery Centre and will, through words and pictures, present a collection of port anecdotes, firsts, unique events, and much more.
Watch for further announcements.
There will be lots of port history to see and hear throughout September 2013.
Archie and Dale Miller are with A Sense of History Research Services. Find them on Twitter, @Senseofhistory, or on Facebook - search for A Sense of History Research Services.
