West Vancouver Archives

1994-

In keeping with the Canadian archival tradition of "total archives," the Corporation of the District of West Vancouver's Archives holdings comprise corporate and community records. With the incorporation of the municipality in 1912, the creation and collection of corporate records began. From 1980, the West Vancouver Museum & Historical Society collected community archival material from residents, transferring these records to the District in 1994 with the opening of the West Vancouver Museum and Archives in the Gertrude Lawson House. The Archives continues to accept, preserve and make available both corporate and community records.

The West Vancouver Archives provides public access to corporate and community records through appraisal, acquisition, description, and preservation services, and provides the community with a sense of the value of its history through outreach programs, including our website, cooperative projects with other municipal departments and public programs including public hours.

The West Vancouver Archives is the official repository for public and private records of significant and enduring value that contribute to an understanding of the history and development of the District of West Vancouver. By preserving these records and ensuring meaningful access, the Archives documents the activities of Council, the Corporation, committees, community organizations, businesses, families and individuals, and promotes an awareness and appreciation of our heritage.

The West Vancouver Archives is a component of the District's records management program, reporting to the Legislative Services department of the District of West Vancouver.

The Archivist reports to the Municipal Clerk, who holds ultimate authority on the disposition of District records.