New Westminster – The New Westminster Museum and Archives (NWMA) has opened the second of three temporary exhibitions commemorating the City’s 150th anniversary this year.

Over the past four years, the NWMA has undergone a complete and thorough inventory of the City’s collection of historical treasures. The process has brought to light several rare objects and images which date from New Westminster’s colonial years. In addition to these items, an 1856 Royal Engineers’ Lancaster rifle has been borrowed from the Canadian War Museum in Ottawa for the exhibit.

Another highlight is an unpublished 1859 photograph of Sapperton, the location of the Royal Engineer’s camp who arrived in New Westminster 150 years ago to begin surveying the new city. It is the only known photo showing the Royal Marines’ Camp adjacent to the Royal Engineers’ Camp.

“This is the first time that these items have been displayed together to tell the fascinating story of New Westminster’s earliest days,” said Colin Stevens, NWMA Manager.

The Birth of the Royal City” exhibit explores the first decade of New Westminster’s life as the first city in Canada west of the Great Lakes and as the seat of government for the Colony of British Columbia.

“On display are rare items relating to the early residents of New Westminster, the Gold Rush, the Royal Engineers, early commerce and government in British Columbia and Queen Victoria herself,” said Stevens. “Everyone is welcome to take this opportunity to learn more about the earliest recorded history of the Royal City.”

The New Westminster Museum and Archives galleries are open to the public Wednesday through Sunday 12-5 PM. Admission is by donation.

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Contact:
Rob McCullough, Curator
New Westminster Museum and Archives
604-515-3842 (Wed-Sun, 9am - 5pm)

The New Westminster Museum and Archives are operated by the City of New Westminster and are financially assisted by the Government of British Columbia through the British Columbia Arts Council.