Beaver (1888)

The SS Beaver was a storied vessel on the Pacific Coast, and is symbolic of the Hudson’s Bay Company’s influence on the province’s history and early economy. As the first steamship on the coast and one which participated in many historic events, including the founding of Fort Victoria (later Victoria) in 1843.

In 1874 the Hudson’s Bay Company sold the Beaver to Victoria businessmen. On July 26, 1888 the SS Beaver left Vancouver for Thurlow Island, but while attempting to avoid an eddy near First Narrows accidentally went aground at Prospect Point. The crew waded ashore, and the wreck was abandoned.

The SS Beaver lies in 5 to 8 meters of water, just west of the Lion’s Gate Bridge off of Prospect Point. The site is a scattered debris field of wreckage, mainly consisting of hull pieces, deck fittings, pipes, bricks and knees. There is also a small assemblage closer to shore, likely from a paddlewheel known to be in that location in the 1890s. The wreck has been heavily salvaged by souvenir hunters.

Note: British Columbia’s Heritage Conservation Act automatically protects all heritage wrecks, including the remains of all wrecked vessels and aircraft once two or more years have passed since the date of loss. It is illegal to damage, alter or remove a heritage object from a heritage wreck except under a permit issued by the Archaeology Branch.