A sign of more normalcy? Perhaps.
Coquitlam Heritage is hoping to get people out of the house and into their own community as it gears up to expand its walking tours next month.
Throughout July, in-person tours are making a return for the public to explore and dive deep into the history of Maillardville.
Last year, if residents wanted to endure the experience during the COVID-19 pandemic, they had to call the society in advance to book, enjoy the sites on their own time or download a walking tour brochure.
For summer 2021, pre-scheduled dates are in place, but in order to meet current public health orders, Coquitlam Heritage says interested participants must register ahead of time as spots will be limited to implement social distancing protocols.
Additionally, the society is offering multiple sets of tours per day — spanning 45 minutes to an hour in length — in multiple languages:
- English
- French
- Mandarin
The tour itself is said to be a celebration of Maillardville and the stories and architecture that shaped the neighbourhood.
Built by French-Canadian pioneers in the early 1900s, settlers were drawn by the promise of steady work at the nearby Fraser Mills sawmill, one of the main attractions along the walking tour.
The riverfront mill is long gone, now as are many of the small homes were built by the lumber company to house migrant workers and their families. The handful that remain stand resolutely against the march of redevelopment.
To register for the free tours, you're encouraged to visit and register on Coquitlam Heritage's website.
The society says some uphill walking will be required.
Dates and times are as follows:
Saturday, July 3
- 11 a.m. (Mandarin)
- 2 p.m. (English)
Sunday, July 11
- 11 a.m. (English)
- 2 p.m. (Mandarin)
Saturday, July 31
- 11 a.m. (English)
- 2 p.m. (French)
