Bill Boultbee / Boultbee Realty sponsored the Vancouver City Council minutes for 1887.
The transcriptions were made by Margaret Sutherland, Chris Stephenson, and Darrin Pezer / Proactive Building Maintenance.
Click on any headline to see the full transcript of that meeting, and pictures of the original handwritten minutes.

Vancouver City Council 1887
Mayor: M. A. MacLean Aldermen: L. A. Hamilton (Ward 1) John M. Lefevre (Ward 1) Joseph Humphries (Ward 2) Joseph Manion (Ward 2) Richard H. Alexander (Ward 3) Robert Clark (Ward 3) Edwin Sanders (Ward 4) George H. Lock (Ward 4) David Oppenheimer (Ward 5) Isaac Oppenheimer (Ward 5) MADDEN, W. D., 2003, Elected Officials of Vancouver, [online], Internet Archive, https://archive.org/details/PAM200372/mode/2up, April 1, 2020
Vancouver Committees for 1887 formed – January 3 , 1887
Standing Committees for the year to be five members each with the Mayor as Ex Officio member of each. Newly-elected Alderman David Oppenheimer moves that the Finance Committee put together a plan “for a general loan to be floated for improvement purposes generally and for starting up new debentures issued under the local improvement Clauses of our Charter provided the general debentures of the City can be floated at 6% par value at most.” The motion is carried. This transcript was made in 2014 by Transcribimus volunteer Margaret Sutherland original handwritten minutes here City of Vancouver Archives Series 23-A Volume 1 pages 210-212 [Page 210] Vancouver Jan 3rd 1887 The First Meeting of the Council for the year 1887 was held in the Council Chambers on Monday Jan 3rd, 1887. His Worship Mayor MacLean, presiding Aldermen Alexander, Clark, Hamilton, Humphries, Lefevre, Lockerby, Mannion, David Oppenheimer, Isaac Oppenheimer and Sanders. After each Alderman had been duly sworn in by the Mayor to Council resolved itself into a Committee of the Whole with Alderman Hamilton in the Chair for the purpose of appointing Standing Committees for the ensuing year. Moved by Alderman Lefevre that Standing Committees for the year 1887 shall consist of five members each with the Mayor as Ex Officio member of each. Carried. Alderman Mannion moved that the Board of Works consist of Aldermen Hamilton, Humphries, I. Oppenheimer, Clark and Sanders. Carried. Alderman Lefevre moved that the Finance Committee consist of Aldermen D. Oppenheimer, Lefevre, Lockerby, Alexander and Mannion. Carried. Alderman Humphries moved that the Fire Water and Light Committee Consist of Aldermen Alexander, Mannion, [page 211] Hamilton, I Oppenheimer and Sanders. Carried. Alderman D. Oppenheimer moved that the Board of Health consist of Aldermen Lefevre, Clark, Humphries, Lockerby and D. Oppenheimer. Carried. The Committee then rose to report. Moved my Alderman Hamilton seconded by Alderman Lefevre that Standing Committees appointed in Committee of the Whole receive the Sanction of Council. Carried. Alderman Hamilton gave notice that he would at next council meeting introduce a By-Law for the appointment of Auditors for the City of Vancouver. Alderman D. Oppenheimer gave notice that at the next meeting of Council he would move that a By-Law regarding the poles for electric lighting purposes be altered by requiring that the wires and Cross Arms be at least 35 feet above the Level of the Street. Moved by Alderman D. Oppenheimer [page 212] seconded by Alderman Lefevre that the City Clerk be instructed to communicate with the agents of the two incorporated companies for supplying the City with water and ask them to lay their respective plans before this Council either by writing or personally on or before the meeting of this council to be held on Monday evening the 10th inst. Carried. Moved by Alderman Hamilton seconded by Alderman D. Oppenheimer that the names of those appearing first on the List of the Standing Committees appointed act as Chairmen of said Committees pro tem. Carried. Moved by Alderman D. Oppenheimer seconded by
Charles G. Johson and John Devine to audit Vancouver’s 1886 accounts – January 10, 1887
Use of City Hall for County Court granted to the Provincial Government free of charge. Two bidders present plans to supply water works to Vancouver: E. A. Wilmot of the Coquitlam Water Works Company and G. A. Keefer of the the Capilano Water Works Company. Chas. G. Johnson and John Devine appointed to audit the accounts of 1886, at a remuneration of $25 each This transcript was made in 2014 by Transcribimus volunteer Margaret Sutherland original handwritten minutes here City of Vancouver Archives Series 23-A Volume 1 pages 213-221 [page 213] Vancouver Jan 10th 1886 (sic) The Council met on Monday Jan 10th 1887 at 7.30. P.M. Present His Worship Mayor MacLean (presiding) Aldermen Alexander, Clark, Hamilton, Humphries, Lefevre, Lockerby, Mannion, D. Oppenheimer, I. Oppenheimer and Sanders. The minutes of last meeting were read and adopted. Communications From Thos. Birmingham re the ornamenting of the City with trees. Laid on the table. From the Sun Life Assurance Company asking for information regarding Street Bonds and the debt of the City. Referred to the Finance Committee. From Messrs. McIntosh and McTaggart acknowledging receipt of $6,900 debentures and showing that 5.00 was still due. Referred to the Finance Committee. Thos. C. Sorby drawing the attention of the City Council to the irregular shape of Cordova St and asking that it be remedied before being built upon. Filed. Auditors The following applications were received for the position of City Auditors:- Chas. G. Johnson, John Rankin, John Devine, M.M. Picken and F. Cotton. [page 214] Accounts J.H. Carlisle to Moving Safe $26.00 F.W.L. Edwin Ridd, work on Aldexander St. 3.00 By W. Walter Ashford, Milk 6.50 Health S.L. Lilley, Stationery 13.10 Finance A.J. Matheson, hauling Wood 2.00 Health & Finance Hasting Mill Co. repairing Engine 10.00 F.W.L. Robt. Couth, coal for City Hall 7.00 Finance Reports Fire Water and Light Committee A meeting of the Fire Water and Light Committee was held on Saturday Jan 10th 1886 at 2 P.M. The following recommendations are submitted to Council:- That from the Cursory glance given to the Charter by your Committee it does not appear that the Corporation has such power as would enable them to comply with the terms submitted by the Coquitlam Water Works Company namely for the quarantining of the interest on their debentures and it would be considered advisable that the Charter Committee should ascertain whether the Corporation have this power and if they have not that the Charter be amended in that direction. That this Council be Authorized to purchase Street Lamps and make the necessary arrangements for lighting the City - provided under By-Law No. 12. That the Fire Inspector be instructed to see that Clauses 6 and 16 of the Fire By-Law be carried into effect. sgd., Rich H. Alexander, Chairman Report adopted. I. Oppenheimer - Mannion [page 215] Finance Committee A Full Meeting of the Finance Committee was held on Monday Jan 5th 1887 at 7 P.M. The following report is submitted:- That all Certificates or Indentures now
Vancouver to set aside $2,400 for hospital, seeks property owner to donate site – January 17, 1887
Hospital will need $2,400 for the current year. Board of health recommends Council grant $2,000 toward new hospital building, and solicit provincial government to grant the same; also to solicit property owners to donate site for a building. City Council to ask the Attorney General of the Dominion of Canada to withdraw their notice to remove a wharf at the foot of Carrall Street. The City has the option to buy the wharf at any time for the cost of the materials, and feels it is “a public benefit and no hindrance to navigation.” This transcript was made in 2014 by Transcribimus volunteer Darrin Pezer, Proactive Building Maintenance original handwritten minutes here City of Vancouver Archives Series 23-A Volume 1 pages 222-228 Vancouver Jan 17th 1887 The Regular Meeting of the City Council was held on Monday January 17th 1887 at 7.30 P.M. All the Members being present. The Minutes of last meeting were read and adopted. Communications From John P. Lawson, City Engineer giving an estimate of the work completed by William Harkins on Powell Street. Moved by Alderman Lockerby seconded by Alderman David Oppenheimer that Wm. Harkins be paid 90 % of the amount of the estimate submitted by the City Engineer less the amount already received. Carried. From T.B. Mangan praying the Council to allow him to erect a slaughter house on District Lot 183. Referred to the Board of Health for consideration. From R.R. Giltner agreeing to erect wires and cross arms for electric light purposes thirty five feet high. From Jas. Cooper Keith re loan right of $1000. Filed Accounts J.A. Gillis $10.00 Finance Edward McKindry 5.00 Finance Garden & Hermon 5.00 Finance Dr. McGuigan 15.00 Health Reports Health The Board of Health met on Monday January 17th 1887 at 2.30 P.M. The following Report is submitted. In making up our estimates for the current year we consider that two thousand four hundred dollars will be required to meet ordinary expenses in connection with the hospital and we would ask the Council to place that amount to our credit. We have taken into consideration the necessity of having more hospital accommodation and would strongly advise the Council to grant two thousand dollars towards the erection of a new building and to ask the Provincial Government to contribute two thousand dollars more for the same purpose. It would be advisable to solicit property owners to donate to the City a suitable and convenient site for a hospital building. In order to preserve the public health we would recommend to Council that immediate steps be taken to have Columbia Avenue and that portion of land bordering on Main Street in the immediate vicinity of Hayden & Co.'s store thoroughly drained. We would also recommend that tenders be asked for the cutting of fire cords of wood for the City Hospital. We have examined the account of W. Ashford amounting to $6.50 for milk supplied to City Hospital for the month of December and recommend its payment. sgd
J.H. Carlisle appointed Vancouver’s License, Fire & Health Inspector – January 24, 1887
J. H. Carlisle appointed License, Fire, and Health Inspector at a salary of $75 a month. City Clerk to write the Hon. Provincial Secretary asking for a grant of $2,000 for the hospital and $1,000 for the Fire Department. This transcript was made in 2014 by Transcribimus volunteer Darrin Pezer/Proactive Building Maintenance original handwritten minutes here City of Vancouver Archives Series 23-A Volume 1 pages 229-235 Vancouver January 24th 1887 The Council met on Monday January 24th 1887 at 7.30. P.M. Present His Worship the Mayor and all of the Aldermen. The Minutes of last meeting were read and adopted. Communications From the City Auditors asking for instruction from Council as to the manner in which the statements referred to in clause seven of By-Law 25 was to be made out and also asking the Councils definition of the following clause. "And they shall make a special report of any expenditure made contrary to law". After considerable discussion they were authorized to bring in their statements in accordance with the provisions of the By-Law. From R.G. Tatlow praying the Council to extend the sidewalk from the end of Jackson Avenue to the School House. Extension already recommended by the Board of Works. From A.J. Marks praying the Council to amend Liquor By-Law so as to provide for the having of variety theatre. Laid over for one week. The following applications were read for the office of License, Fire and Health inspector. - Joseph Huntly, M.G. MacLean, Joseph Pyatt, G.G. Johnson, William Summer, E.P. Hamilton, Jas. Z. Hall, Wm. Turner, John Abrams, D.R. Reid, Edward Lunn, David Flynn, M. Picken, Jas. Moran, Jas. A. Coldwell, John A. Green, J.H. Carlisle, A. McDougall, Thos. Crawford, and Geo. Q. Chipman. Moved by Alderman Mannion seconded by Alderman Lockerby that the appointment be made by Ballot. Carried. On a Ballot being taken, J.H. Carlisle received six, Joseph Huntly two, G.G. Johnston one and M.G. MacLean one. J.H. Carlisle was then declared elected, his services to begin on the first of February. Petition from Thomas Hooper and others praying the Council to construct a two foot sidewalk from Dunsmuir Street to Pender Street along Cambie Street. Referred to the Board of Works. From John Boultbee acquainting the Council that forty dollars was still due Munro Miller on account of City Charter. Referred to Finance Committee. From John Boultbee asking the Council to fix a salary for the Police Magistrate. Referred to Finance Committee. Accounts Thomson Bros. Rubber Bands 2.50 Finance Express Company 5.00 F.W.L. A.W. Wright, Express 1.00 Finance Corbould and McColl 37.00 Finance Vancouver News 21.90 Finance Reports Finance Committee The Finance Committee met on Thursday January 20th 1887 at 2. P.M. The following accounts were examined and recommended to be paid: - Garden and Hermon 5.00 J.A. Gillis 10.00 Edward McKindry 5.00 J.H. Carlisle 26.00 sgd. D. Oppenheimer Chairman Report adopted. Board of Works A Meeting of the Board of Works was held on Monday January 24th 1887 at 2. P.M. Tenders were
Police Magistrate refuses to act, charges Stewart – January 31, 1887
From John M. Stewart; calling the attention of the Council to his inability to hold a Police Court for the trial of H.L. Edson “on account of the Police Magistrate refusing to act.” As Mr. Gallagher has declined to carry out his tender for the clearing of the Cemetery, the tender to go to the next lowest bidder. Dr. McGuigan’s account lists $5.00 to examine “Buchanan a Lunatic” and $10.00 for holding an inquest on A. Cordova.Continue Reading
Council meets to make changes to the City Charter – February 11, 1887
Special meeting to consider amendments to the City CharterContinue Reading
Hudson’s Bay Co. refused liquor license – February 14, 1887
Hudson’s Bay Co. applied for a wholesale liquor license in connection with groceries. Refused (vote went 8-2) on the grounds that the current by-law did not permit it. One James Pollay asked to use City Hall on Tuesday afternoon to hold an “anti-Chinese meeting” and his request was granted. T.T. Black appointed City Auditor. Dr. Beckinsale sent in an account for $5.00 for “examining a lunatic.”Continue Reading
Lawyer J. Boultbee appointed to take Charter changes to Victoria – February 17, 1887
A Special Meeting to authorize John Boultbee to go to Victoria to carry through the amendments to the City Charter.Continue Reading
Water Works proposals for Vancouver due in two weeks – February 21, 1887
Both water works companies required to submit their final proposals March 7, 1887. $40 granted to Royal Columbian Hospital in New Westminster for care of patients following 1886 fire. Establishment of a Jubilee to celebrate both Queen Victoria’s 50th anniversary as monarch, and the completion of the CPR terminus.Continue Reading
Correspondence from Yung Chung asking for “protection from mob” – February 28, 1887
Petition asking for protection from the mob was filed. Motion carried to “exempt from taxation for a period of twenty years, the yards, workshops, round houses of the Canadian Pacific Railway…on the North Side of False Creek”. Salary of City Engineer doubled from $50 per month to $100. Both roads to New Westminster are “almost impassable.”Continue Reading
Vancouver opposes provincial takeover of city police – March 1, 1887
Special Meeting to “represent” to the Lieutenant-Governor that it will not be necessary for the Province to take over police jurisdiction of Vancouver ..Twenty additional police to be hired at a salary of $2.25 per day.Continue Reading
Health By-law for Vancouver finalized – March 4, 1887
Special Meeting to finalize Health By-LawContinue Reading
Vancouver holds itself not responsible for mob damage – March 7, 1887
Mr. Boultbee brings the claim of Mr. Yung Chung for damage done by the mob; city solicitor T.T. Black’s opinion is that the City is not responsible. The auditor in future is to make an itemized statement in his monthly reports. No Committee reports to be printed until adopted by the Council. Aldermen Lockerby, D. Oppenheimer, Hamilton and Alexander to select 10 men as special constablesContinue Reading
Vancouver requests B.C. to appoint Commissioner of Inquiry on “alleged Chinese Riots” – March 14, 1887
City requests Province to “appoint a Commissioner with full power to call on, subpoena, and examine on oath any person or persons in relation to the facts of the alleged Chinese Riots or outrages said to have recently taken place in the City of Vancouver.” Bank of B.C. empowered to sell $164,000 worth of debentures on behalf of the Corporation (of Vancouver).Continue Reading
Council sits to review appeals on tax assessment – March 15, 1887
Assessments on several properties were reduced, because the amount of land owned was less than assessed, or the land was used for hospital purposes and exempt from taxation. One honest citizen, Jas. M. Fox, pointed out they did not assess one of his properties, and asked that his assessment be raised!Continue Reading
Coquitlam Water Works to supply Vancouver’s water – March 21, 1887
The proposal of the Coquitlam Water Works adopted at a vote of 6-4, following a failed amendment to refer both proposals to a qualified engineerAldermen Alexander, Couth, Lefevre and Mannion empowered to discharge some or all of the special constables hired following the “Chinese Riots.”Continue Reading
Vancouver wants False Creek portion east of Main Street – March 28, 1887
City Clerk to write to Canadian government to ask that "all of False Creek east of Westminster Avenue (now Main Street) be granted to the City. Aldermen Alexander, D. Oppenheimer, L.A. Hamilton and Lefevre to negotiate a contract with Coquitlam Water Works. Muir and Pratt awarded contract for improvement of Hastings St. and Jas. Clandenning for Gore Ave. Aldermen Hamilton, Lefevre and D. Oppenheimer to negotiate purchase of five blocks suitable for a city park.Continue Reading
Vancouver City Officials’ salaries will total $12,600 this year – April 4, 1887
Salaries for all City Officials expected to total $12,600 for 1887. Thos. Quann asked Council for “relief” (welfare benefits) for Neil Nicholson, and D. McLeod. Abrams & Co. submitted bills to the Board of Health; $35 for bedding and $14 for coffins. Dr. McGuigan's report on the death of Simon Heisburg to go to the City Solicitor to see if the City has any liability in the matter.Continue Reading
C.P.R needs more room for switches – April 11, 1887
H. Abbott of the CPR required a tract of land extending east as far as Carrall Street “to give sufficient length for switches” exempt from city taxation. City Engineer E.B. Mohun to survey and make a contour map of the City between Burrard Street and Campbell Avenue and north of False Creek at a cost of $150. The Fire, Water and Light committee recommended the purchase of Fire Truck Figure 501 no 2 at $1,150. A lamp lighter was hired at a salary of $35 per month.Continue Reading
San Francisco engineer Schussler asked to examine Vancouver’s Water Works – April 15, 1887
Special Meeting to review the draft agreement between the City and the Coquitlam Water Works Company and to consider two pamphlets; the “West Shore”,and “Hand Book”. The draft Water Works agreement went to the City Solicitor. Council also to contact Civil Engineer H. Schussler of San Francisco inviting him to furnish a report on “the nature and durability of the material proposed to be used, and whether the pipes are adequate to give the service specified.”Continue Reading
Vancouver forms a Board of Commissioners of Police – April 18, 1887
Chairmen of all Standing Committees plus Alderman Mannion appointed to form the Board of Commissioners of Police. The Board of Works recommended the $500 deposit of contractor William Harkins be declared forfeit, as he had not completed his contract on time. Council denied the recommendation, asking them to reconsider. City forms petition to Dominion Government to establish immigrant sheds and an Immigration Agent to cope with the expected influx upon completion of the western terminus of the CPR, as well as a quarantine facility.Continue Reading
Council goes over CPR agreement, sets date for referendum – April 21, 1887
Special Meeting to review proposed agreement with the CPR exempting certain of their lands from taxation. Date for taking the votes of the electors on this issue, and appointment of returning officers established. 100 copies of the agreement with the Coquitlam Water Works to be printed.Continue Reading
Vancouver civic scavengers appointed – April 25, 1887
James Crowley appointed Night Scavenger, and W. W. Ayer Day Scavenger. A.R. Coughtry allowed to open slaughter house, provided he complies with health by-laws. C. G. Johnson presented a petition signed by 350 citizens requesting a park for recreation grounds. City Clerk asked to send request to the Secretary of State to match the City’s $10,000 budget for a hospital, and join forces to build a combined General and Marine Hospital.Continue Reading
Clark’s Park offer rejected by Vancouver – May 2, 1887
E.J. Clark offered to donate seven acres to the City for a Park in consideration of Council improving certain streets; Council replied it “cannot accept Mr. Clark’s offer at present”. Petitions for improvement of Dunsmiur, Barnard, and Harris Streets referred to the City Engineer to examine and report on each. Alderman David Oppenheimer appointed as Board of Health representative to act with the Board of Works on the question of sewerage.Continue Reading
Vancouver sends $500 to the Nanaimo Relief Fund after mine explosion – May 9, 1887
Police Committee recommends the hiring of a Police Court Clerk to attend at police court, take down evidence, receive fines paid into Court, and keep account of prisoners committed. That the Coquitlam Water Works Company deposit with the City Treasurer the sum of four hundred dollars the same to be forfeited by the Company to the Corporation to meet the costs of obtaining Mr. Schussler's opinion and the expenses of submitting this By-Law to the people in the event of failure on their part to deposit the amount of Bond money as agreed upon”.Continue Reading
Well and drain to be put in at the foot of Carrall Street – May 16, 1887
A well and box drain to be installed at the foot of Carrall Street, near Sprott's Cannery.Police Commissioners have interviewed applicants, but delayed appointment of Police Officers for one week. Vancouver accepted the News-Advertiser's offer for printing for the next year.Continue Reading
Vancouver commemorates arrival of the first train – May 23, 1887
By-Law No 33 excepting from taxation for 30 years “certain lands belonging to the Canadian Pacific Railway Co.” was finalized and sent to the newspapers. Moved by Alderman D. Oppenheimer seconded by Alderman Humphries, “I have much pleasure in moving that we adjourn this evening in honor of this day the 23rd of May 1887 as the proudest that has ever been chronicled in the annals of the Province and our fair City by the completion of the C.P.R. to its western terminus…and by the arrival of the first train” Continue Reading
Board of Works promotes Granville Street horse racing – June 6, 1887
The Board of Works submits an Engineer’s report for the City to improve Granville Street for horse racing. C.P.R. lawyers suggest a “certain alteration in agreement” to the tax exempt status of their lands – approved by Council. Thomas Quann (proprietor of the Central Hotel at 56 Cordova Street) awarded $20 for keeping McLeod & Nicholson in his hotel while sick. Board of Health recommends that no such claim be awarded in future without prior agreement. A 5% discount to be offered on all taxes paid in prior to August 1. Continue Reading
Standard loaf of bread in Vancouver will be 1.5 pounds – June 15, 1887
room at City Hall to be fitted up for the use of Justice McCreight, and a City constable to be detailed to attend on Court days. City Solicitor to prepare a by-law that the weight of a loaf of bread be fixed at one and a half pounds. Board of Health recommends acceptance of the land donated by Mr. Miller to establish a city “dumping ground”. City Clerk to write to Minister of Marine & Fisheries asking permission to extend city sewage pipe to a point below low water mark.Continue Reading
Grant sues City of Vancouver for “wine drank by the police” – June 20, 1887
Claim from A.M. Grant for compensation for “wine drank by the police”. Order from J. H. Gray, Judge of Supreme Court ordering to pay (City Clerk) T. McGuigan ten dollars for “services connected with the Revision of the Voter’s List”. Alderman Alexander appointed Trustee for the “investment of the Sinking Funds of this City”Continue Reading
Vancouver’s sewers to have cast iron junctions – June 27, 1887
Board of Works accepted L. Law’s tender to furnish cast iron junctions for the sewers at 4 cents per pound. Cemetery to be enclosed by a rail fence with cedar posts to be sunk 2 ½ feet below ground, and a double gate. Requests for opening up of Ninth Street (now Broadway) and Quebec Street put off until later.Continue Reading
Contractors must complete work for City of Vancouver on time, or pay – July 4, 1887
City Clerk to advise all present and future contractors that if contracts with the City are not completed in the specified time, City Council will take them off the contractors’ hands, complete them, and bill the contractor for the cost. William Harkins’ tender for constructing sewers was accepted. Vote of thanks to Admiral Sir Michael Culene-Seymour and the officers of the Pacific Squadron for their presence and assistance in celebrating Her Majesty’s Jubilee on July 1st.Continue Reading
City of Vancouver needs a road from Fraser River to False Creek – July 11, 1887
City Clerk to write to the Provincial Government asking that a road be constructed “from the North Arm of the Fraser River in a direct line from Sea and Lulu Islands to False Creek”. City Solicitor T.T. Black advises Council to “resist” the claim of A.M. Grant for sherry seized by the police. Fire Water and Light Committee recommends that Council discontinue the offices of License, Health and Fire Inspectors.Continue Reading
Owen Hughes rewarded $25 for fire bravery – July 18, 1887
Mr. Owen Hughes, steward of the Hospital, granted $25 in compensation for loss of money and property during his efforts to save the hospital building during the May 31 fire. Mr. E.J. Clark of Toronto’s offer of a lot for a City Hospital was considered, but the Board of Health recommends no action be taken at present. City Clerk to write to the Provincial Secretary asking that the appropriations voted at the last meeting of the Legislature be placed to the credit of the City.Continue Reading
Baseball team may put up caretaker’s building in Stanley Park – July 25, 1887
Permission granted for the Base Ball Club to erect a small building for a Caretaker on the Park grounds. City treasurer to pay the freight on the hook and ladder truck and the half year’s interest on the $114,100 debenture. Finance Committee have considered the draft form of lease submitted by the Canadian Pacific Railway Co. re Block 48 but caution some provisions are too stringent to be adopted by the Council. Board of works has instructed the City Clerk to call for tenders for the improvement of Granville Street and the widening of the Westminster Road.Continue Reading
Fifty foot fire hose needed for Vancouver – August 1, 1887
Board of Works recommend that the Contract for Granville Street be awarded to McDonald and Cameron; Cambie Street to Wm. Harkins; Park Avenue and Johnston Street to Henry Bowers; Georgia Street to Wm. Harkins, Seventh Avenue to W.L. McDonald, Fire Hall to McDonald & Holden and painting to A.J. Marks. Permission granted Chairman of the Fire Water and Light Committee to purchase 50 feet of small hose for the fire engine.Continue Reading
Dupont Street well will be allowed until Council needs it filled in – August 8, 1887
Appointment laid off for one week. James Hartney allowed to sink a well on Dupont Street (now Pender Street) on the understanding that it must be filled in when Council requests it. Council unable to make a grant of money to the BC Rifle Association. Doctors Robertson, Beckinsale, and Langis all applied for the position of Medical Health Officer. The police men allowed each in turn ten days leave of absence.Continue Reading
Standard Oil wants to build a warehouse in Vancouver – August 16, 1887
W.P. Johnson, Manager of Standard Oil Company, asked permission to build a warehouse. Board of Works recommended a budget for improvements to a number of streets, totalling $15,734.00 Alderman D. Oppenheimer introduced a by-law to offer a bonus to anyone building a Foundry and Smelting Works within the City. The (absent) Mayor authorized to call a public meeting of the ratepayers of the City during the week to discuss the question of granting bonuses to manufacturers. Continue Reading
Imperial Oil also granted permission to build fuel warehouse in Vancouver – August 22, 1887
Letter received from A.R. Diplock asking that the City purchase his hand grenades (?!) Fred S. Clark, agent for the Imperial Oil Co asking permission to erect a ware house near Carl Avenue on Railway Street, granted permission on the same terms as the Standard Oil Company. Fire Water and Light Committee asked City Clerk to communicate with the Secretary of the Fire Brigade to cooperate on the best placement for city street lights. The question of the legality of passing a By-Law to grant a bonus to smelting works was referred to the City Solicitor.Continue Reading
Dunlevy Avenue being used as a “dumping ground,” says Tatlow – August 29, 1887
Draft agreement between the Electric Illuminating Light Co. and the City referred to City Solicitor. Complaint from R.G. Tatlow that the lane near Dunlevy Avenue was being used as a dumping ground for stumps etc. Payment of $2.00 approved to W.W. Ayer for a “dead horse”. Date set for holding an election on the question of the Bonus By-Law.Continue Reading
60 Vancouver street corners to have electric lights – September 5, 1887
Board of Works identified sixty street corners to have electric lights installed. By-law formed to raise $10,000 to build a road around Stanley Park. This transcript was made in 2014 by Transcribimus volunteer Darrin Pezer/Proactive Building Maintenance original handwritten minutes here City of Vancouver Archives Series 23-A Volume 2 pages 56-65 Vancouver Sept 5, 1887 The Council met on Monday September 5th 1887 at 7.30, p.m. Present His Worship, Mayor MacLean, Aldermen Alexander, Clark, Hamilton, Humphries, Lefevre, Lockerby, D. Oppenheimer, I. Oppenheimer and Sanders. The Minutes of last Meeting were read and adopted. Communications From D.B. Charleson, calling the attention of Council to the unfinished condition of Hamilton Street. Referred to the Board of Works. From Desautels and Fairon asking for Grade of Powell Street in front of their premises. Referred to Board of Works. From H. Abbott complaining of contractors burning in vicinity of C.P.R. Hotel. Alder. I. Oppenheimer - Humphries, that the City Engineer be instructed to see the contractors on Granville Street and order that they do no burning in the vicinity of the C.P.R. Hotel on said street until allowed under the provisions of the Fire By-Law. Carried. From John Beatty and others praying for the improvement of Abbott Street between Hastings and Pender Streets. Referred to the B. of Works. From Beckett & Co. praying Council to grant them the use of certain streets and sidewalks for the placing of building material thereon. Permission granted them under the terms of the Street By-Law. From W. Norman Bole acquainting Council that John McDougall had instructed him to commence an action against the City for $10,000 damages for obstructing him in the completion of his contract and asking the name of the City Solicitor. Humphries - Clark, that the City Clerk be instructed to give the name of our City Solicitor. Carried. From John H. Low, asking that a sidewalk be built on Dunsmuir Street. Referred to the Board of Works. From Alex McKelare, asking Council to grant him a Bonus for the erection of a foundry in the City. Referred to Finance Committee. From John Devine giving Auditors Report for July and asking for extra pay therefor. Referred to Finance Committee. From K. L. Powell, Lt. K. R. submitting a tracing of the First Narrows of Burrard Inlet with a proposed plan of buoyage. Moved by Alderman Alexander seconded by Alderman Sanders, that the City Solicitor be instructed to prepare a Memorial to be submitted to the Dominion Government asking that Buoys be placed on the North Shore of Burrard Inlet at the entrance to the First Narrows and also a proper Buoy on Spanish Bank. Carried. Accounts. F.W. Hart, Chimneys &c. $1.38 F.W.L. F.W. Hart, Chimneys &c 6.50 Finance F.W. Hart, Labor (sic) &c 35.45 Finance F.W. Hart, Blankets &c 26.95 Health R. Mathison, Voters Lists 38.00 Finance Queen Bros., Buggies 5.00 B. of Works Queen Bros., Buggies 13.00 B. of Works Hayes & McIntosh, Meat 17.14 Health Thos. Dunn & Co., Nails etc. 12.13
Vancouver Iron Works Company gains 10 year tax exemption – September 24, 1887
The Vancouver Iron Works Company was exempted from all municipal taxation for ten years. City accepted offer from Mr. J. J. Irwin to purchase 19 feet along Cambie Street and 33 feet along Cordova Street for $400.00. The city Chain Gang be utilized to do the work requested along Abbott Street. A cost of two dollars and fifty cents set for a cemetery plot large enough for a single burial, a whole plot costing twenty five dollars and a quarter plot eight dollars.Continue Reading
Vancouver Fire Department to build its own stable – October 3, 1887
The Fire Department to build or purchase a stable. Dr. Beckingsale paid $10.00 for conducting a post-mortem. Vancouver Gas company allowed to lay pipes under city streets, providing they do not interfere with sewers, and that the streets be left in as good repair as before. W.W. Ayers resigned as City Scavenger.Continue Reading
Vancouver Fire Brigade to get $500 grant – October 17, 1887
$500 to be given to the fire brigade for its work. Proposed agreement between the Vancouver City Iron Works Co. and the City was approved. City Solicitor gives his opinion that accounts in which "members of the corporation" [mayor or city councillors] are personally interested should not be paid.Continue Reading
Vancouver to buy lots for hospital, school recreation grounds – October 24, 1887
The special committee has selected a suitable site for the City Hospital. Council agrees to look into buying the lot from the CPR, as well as a lot beside the public school for recreation grounds. The City to indemnify Police Magistrate Black against fines and charges in the course of his duties as police magistrate.Continue Reading
Cemetery caretaker to live on grounds – November 7, 1887
A house to be built for the use of the caretaker and sexton of the public cemetery, and a salary of $40 per month be offered.City Council supports the establishment of a Government of Canada experimental farm in Coquitlam. The City to purchase Lots one to ten, Block 38 District Lot 541 from the CPR at $250.00 each in order to build a hospital. Hospital to be built on the plans drafted by A. E. McCartney. Continue Reading
Pawn brokers and second hand stores to be licensed at once – November 14, 1887
Pawn brokers and second hand stores to be licensed pro-rata until the end of the year. Lamp lighter hired at $1.50 per day until electric lights are installed. Requests for a bonus for a shoe factory, and a rebate for theatrical license fee were overturned. Insurance to be purchased on City Hall and the Fire Hall.Continue Reading
Vancouver street names to be posted at each corner – November 21, 1887
Board of Works recommends street signs with 4 inch letters painted on wood or tin with white letters on black background. W. L. MacDonald appointed as cemetery keeper; a three room house to be built for him and his family at the cemetery gates. Lamplighter J. Mahoney presents a bill for $9.00.Continue Reading
Canada’s Minister of Defense Sir A. Caron to visit Vancouver – November 24, 1887
A Special Meeting to organize the reception for Sir A. R. Caron, Minister of Militia & Defense (Government of Canada), and to hire enough taxicabs for the occasion.Continue Reading
Vancouver must stop boarding chain gang prisoners in private homes, say Police Commissioners – November 28, 1887
The Police Committee recommended the City immediately end the present system of boarding chain gang prisoners in private homes. Eleven pairs of blankets were purchased for the cells, and a stove for the jail corridor. Tenders were received for painting street signs; M. J. Milross was awarded the contract, at a price of 53 cents per sign on wood, but only 45 cents on tin.Continue Reading
Trounce Alley improvements must wait as Works budget for 1887 exhausted – December 5, 1887
Council unable to grant the petition of A.W. Sullivan and others for the improvement of Trounce Alley, as the Works budget was exhausted. Among other accounts to be paid are subscriptions to the Leadville (Colorado) Herald, the Denver Republican, and the Alta California (California’s first daily newspaper, published in San Francisco until 1891.)Continue Reading
Many City hospital contracts awarded, but plumbing & gas fitting must wait – December 12, 1887
City Clerk to find out from P. Fewster’s about the proposed capacity of the mill he intends to build. The Board of Works instructed the Chief of Police to have the Chain Gang improve a lane. E. Cook awarded contract for plastering and masonry of City Hospital, and the carpentry to James Stanford. Gas fitting and plumbing contracts not awarded as all tenders exceed available budget.Continue Reading
Contractor William Harkins’ employees cry foul at Council meeting – December 19, 1887
A number of complaints received about (street contractor) William Harkins’ granting of Power of Attorney to Dunn & Co. J. H Wert appreared before council on behalf of Harkins’ employees to report on the situation. Legal opinion requested from City Solicitor. A coal oil lamp to be placed at the corner of Hamilton and Dunsmuir streets, with the City supplying the oil and the residents in the vicinity to light the lamp. James Alexander appointed for 1888 to assist the Assistant Commissioner in the Assessment of the City.Continue Reading
Budget requested to build bridge across False Creek – December 27, 1887
James Hartney awarded contract to build Park Road. Alderman Alexander granted $50 “for the purpose of settling the claims of Indians on the line of the Park Road for bushes and fences destroyed.” City Engineer to estimate costs for building both a fixed bridge and a draw bridge across False Creek.Continue Reading
Outgoing Mayor M. A. MacLean granted seven hundred fifty dollars – December 30, 1887
Outgoing Mayor M. A. MacLean paid seven hundred fifty dollars, according to By-Law number 53. Fred Munro draws the attention of Council “to the employment of Chinese on the Gravel Contract.” The contractor will be called upon to explain. Continue Reading