The 125th birthday is approaching and people are planning all kinds of commemorative events. I’ve been asked to be on a radio program to talk about a person I think has made a major contribution to shaping the city.
I have some ideas of my own but would love to hear yours while I’m making my own choice. Remember, no time limit, doesn’t have to be a person still living — anyone back to the dawn of time would be good.
This question opens a fascinating debate about Vancouver’s identity and evolution. The city’s 125th anniversary celebration in 2011 provided perfect timing to reflect on transformative figures who created modern Vancouver’s distinctive character.
Several compelling candidates emerge from different eras. “Gassy Jack” Deighton founded the original Gastown settlement in 1867, establishing Vancouver’s first commercial hub. The Canadian Pacific Railway executives, particularly William Van Horne, literally put Vancouver on the map by choosing it as the transcontinental railway’s western terminus, ensuring the city’s future prosperity.
From the modern era, planning director Ray Spaxman stands out as arguably the most influential figure in shaping contemporary Vancouver. His visionary leadership from the 1970s through 1990s created the urban design principles that define “Vancouverism” – the distinctive blend of high-density towers, public spaces, and livable neighborhoods. Spaxman’s work on False Creek South, downtown planning guidelines, and waterfront development established the framework for Vancouver’s international reputation as a model of urban livability.
Architect Arthur Erickson also deserves consideration for iconic buildings that define Vancouver’s architectural identity. His modernist designs, from Simon Fraser University to the Museum of Anthropology, created landmarks that shaped how the world perceives Vancouver.
The choice ultimately depends on whether you prioritize foundational figures who established Vancouver’s existence, or visionaries who crafted its contemporary character and global reputation.
