- Cottages to Community, by Francis Mansbridge.
THE story behind the District of West Vancouver is a fascinating tale of a community's evolution.
From an undeveloped section of shoreline it grew into the home for some of the most expensive real estate in the entire country.
The lack of industrial development allowed West Vancouver to grow in its own way; unfettered by the need for a business base, it became a place for people to live and not work. Originally, access was extremely limited, with boat and horseback being the preferred travel methods. Later on, a few limited logging operations resulted in the start of some additional roads. The restricted access didn't deter some and gradually homesteads appeared.
Author Francis Mansbridge, along with photo editor John Muir, have done an excellent job at telling the story of this unique community, but not without help. The West Vancouver Historical Society, led by past president Jim Carter, worked tirelessly on this project; their dedication has been rewarded by a job well done.
Starting with Ambleside - the eastern edge of the municipality - the various smaller communities are all individually recognized. Through an outstanding collection of archival photographs and historical anecdotes, we get a sense of each area's flavour. The examination moves steadily westward all the way to the end of the road at Horseshoe Bay.
Along with the beautifully reproduced photographs are a collection of paintings from some of West Vancouver's most prestigious artists, such as Gordon Smith, Fred Varley and B.C. Binning.
Mansbridge gives recognition to the First Nations with the opening chapter looking at their history. There is even an excellent addition at the end of the book that provides the source of many of the well-known place names in West Vancouver.
This book is a perfect gift for anyone who lives in and loves this unique community.
tpeters@nsnews.com
