Major Features at Britannia

The Boardwalk

The boardwalk was rebuilt in 1995. The original boardwalk served as a main street for the Steveston waterfront. Workers, cyclists, school and supply carts shared the narrow walk built on lilies above the marsh. During the winter months, the boardwalk was often awash from high tides. The board walk was extended to the east side of the Britannia site in late 2006. It will be opened to the public once the site enhancement program has been completed.

The Japanese Duplex

Constructed in the 1890s, this building was once part of a complex of 16 buildings used by Japanese workers at the Phoenix Cannery.

The Britannia Cannery

This traditional L-shaped cannery was built in 1889 and converted to a shipyard in 1917-18.

Murakami House

The house was built in 1885 on piles over the marsh. The Murakami family lived here from 1929 until 1942. The restored home opened in 1998 as the official Murakami Visitor Center with the assistance of the Murakami family.

Britannia Shipyard

In July 1889, Britannia's first salmon pack was loaded into the 200 foot tea clipper Titania. This was the first direct shipment of salmon to the UK. This direct shipment proved that Steveston was a port capable of handling large vessels.

Richmond Boat Builders

Saeji Kishi and his employees constructed this building on piles above the marsh in 1932. The boat works was designed to accommodate up to four 30 foot fishing boats at one time. Gilnet fishing boats, 24 feet and 26 feet in length, with drums and Easthope engines, were the main product of the shop.

The Environment

The marsh, Steveston Harbour activities, Shady Island, Fraser River traffic, Westham Island and the Gulf Islands are visible from this spot. The marsh is an important fish habitat. It is a protected area for migratory birds and our family of swans.