It’s interesting being old enough and wrinkled enough to be able to remember times in history from the 1960’s onwards. For many, it was the halcyon days if you had the land or money or the connections that kept you singing. Of course, as we all know now, this kind of bliss did not extend to everyone. If you’re the kind of person who likes to dig into history to see what it was all about all those years ago, warts and all. We’d like to say that humanity has taken giant steps for equality for one and all, but that’s not the case and may end up being a pipe dream.
We’re based in Vancouver, Canada, but have not been here for a long time. But, as your editor and others of my age look back, we still need to recognise – even more than we do now – the damage that was done.
Before and during the 1950s, the differences between Indigenous peoples (First Nations, Métis, and Inuit) and white Canadians in Canada were not merely cultural; they were deeply rooted in systemic discrimination, unequal legal status, vast economic disparities, and forced assimilation policies. These differences were largely a result of colonialism and the implementation of paternalistic laws like the Indian Act. The Indian Act (1876 onward.) Defined “Indian” Status: The Act unilaterally determined who was considered an “Indian” under the law, often leading to the forced “enfranchisement” (loss of status) of individuals, particularly women who married non-Indigenous men. Loss of status meant losing rights to live on reserves and access band resources. What is driving this post is that there are still reminders, and perhaps it’s something to think about.
As a prime example, take Wigwam Inn. Kind of cute for its time, but is also indicative. This Vancouver stalwart The Wigwam Inn, is a beautiful old hotel at the northern end of Indian Arm with a long, notorious history privately owned by the Royal Vancouver Yacht Club. The Wigwam Inn is a historic and stunning hotel situated at the northern end of Indian Arm, boasting a fascinating past. To cut a long story short, the inclusion of the world Royal really sums it up.
Wigwam Inn is located at the head of Burrard Inlet’s Indian Arm, 18 nm from RVYC Coal Harbour Station and 24 nm NE from RVYC Jericho. The Inn, which has a rich heritage dating back to the early 1900s, provides lounging areas for adults, a junior activity area, kayaks (and kayak launchers on the dock), BBQs, washrooms, and hot shower facilities. The grounds have attractive gardens and hiking trails. And the Royal connection?
The crucial royal connection came very early in the club’s history. In 1906, just three years after its founding, the Vancouver Yacht Club made an application for a Royal Charter. This application was successful, and the club was granted the privilege to add the prefix “Royal” to its name. The official announcement of the Royal Warrant arrived in 1906. To end this long soliloquy, in this day and age, almost anyone can be a part of a Royal adventure. These days, Vancouver is filled to the brim with people from anywhere, and they have cash.
One fine Canadian habit is to recognise the First Nations who went before: The Royal Vancouver Yacht Club is situated on unceded, traditional and ancestral territories of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish) and səl̓ilw̓ətaʔɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) peoples.
When you visit Canada, choose Air transat. Great prices, flights, holidays and Airbus jets. To book. Click here
The Vancouver Yacht Club. There are lots of fab places to stay. To book, click here.