Gastown in Peace and War
Where Vancouver Began
Gastown, a National Historic Site of Canada, is the area northeast of Downtown Vancouver, British Columbia, within Hastings, Main, and Richards Streets and the Burrard Inlet waterfront. Vancouver’s first downtown core, where it all began and where the roots remain visible in cobblestone streets and antique streetlights, all of which look like a slice of history between the high-rises of Downtown and the waterfront train yard. Gastown’s name comes from legendary “Gassy” Jack Deighton, a steamboat captain who in 1867 opened the first saloon.
Early Gastown prospered as the site of a sawmill, a seaport, and, not least, an after-hours resort for loggers, fishermen, and the crews of sailing ships. In 1886, the town incorporated as the City of Vancouver but lost all but two of its buildings in the Great Vancouver Fire of that same year. The rebuilt area thrived again as an important ferry and steamship docking and staging area with Hastings and Main as the town centre.
Preserving the Visible 19th Century
After the Great Depression of the 1930s, Gastown fell into decay, decline, and disrepair as a skid row area of cheap beer parlours and flophouses. In the 1960s, citizen concern over preservation of Gastown’s distinctive architecture, which, as in nearby Chinatown and Strathcona, was to be torn down to clear space for a freeway into Downtown, drove a campaign that in 1971 persuaded the provincial government to declare the area an historical site to protect its heritage buildings.
Perhaps Gastown’s most famous landmark is the steam-powered clock at Cambie and Water streets. Built to cover a steam grate of Vancouver’s distributed steam-heating system, the clock prevents street people from sleeping on the grate in cold weather. The low-pressure downtown-wide steam heating network from a plant adjacent to the Georgia Viaduct powers a miniature steam engine in the clock’s base.
Entertainment and Hospitality
Gastown endured decades of neglect as the derelict part of town. Recent revitalization has turned skid row into a stylish destination of unusual enterprises in entertainment, gastronomy, and hospitality. On Alexander Street near Main in the northeastern corner of Gastown, the Alibi Room has “50 taps of local & imported craft beer,” some exclusive to the pub, for beer lovers. On Water Street, there are great meal deals at Pourhouse. On Blood Alley Square, a banner of an upside-down salt shaker beckons passersby to the Salt Tasting Room, a small, friendly tavern where patrons can “assemble a Tasting Plate from our chalkboard’s selection of 10 cheeses, 10 meats, and 10 condiments. The selections change constantly, making it almost impossible to have the same Salt experience twice.”
Visitor Parking
For visitors to Vancouver, parking is no easier and probably more difficult in the busy nightlife of Gastown than in any other part of Downtown Vancouver. Fortunately, the presence one block west of Richards and Water streets of the SkyTrain Waterfront Station and the terminal of the Seabus to North Vancouver makes Gastown access much easier than by car.
Gastown RiotGastown entertainment and hospitality were in unusually short supply on 7 August 1971, when hundreds converged on Maple Tree Square at Alexander, Powell, and Water streets to protest drug law raids. By 10:00 AM, the crowd numbered almost 2,000. After reports of broken windows, the police decided to clear the crowd. After the crowd ignored a warning to disperse, police officers on horseback and in riot gear took action in a battle with people throwing rocks and bottles. An investigation found that the crowd had not degenerated into a mob and that individual officers had used “unnecessary, unwarranted, and excessive force.” Investigator recommendations were to ban demonstrators from taking over public streets, to train police officers specifically for crowd control, to use horses for crowd control on sidewalks only, and to eliminate the use of plainclothes officers for crowd control. |
Information Links:http://vancouver.ca/green-vancouver/hastings.aspx http://vancouver.ca/home-property-development/dtes-local-area-plan.aspx
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New Gastown Live MLS Listings
Gastown, Vancouver, BC
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57-63 E CORDOVA Street in Vancouver: Downtown VE Condo for sale in "KORET LOFTS" (Vancouver East) : MLS®# R2561601
57-63 E CORDOVA Street Vancouver V6A 1K3 
$3,498,000Residential Attached- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- R2561601
- Bathrooms:
- 2
- Floor Area:
- 3,047 sq. ft.
Exceptional Street-Front exposure at Koret Lofts in this flexible Live/Work space in the heart of historic Gastown! Unique layout offers 2 individually strata titled units on two levels. This One of a kind, large 3,047 sf. main and mezzanine level offers many creative options. Live-in, Rent, Occupy as your office, Invest...Beautiful Heritage conversion units mixing sleek modern design with restored original brick, sandblasted wooden beams and interior designer finishes. Unit is backing onto a gorgeous, tranquil courtyard. 1 secure parking stall included. Please call for a private viewing. More detailsListed by Rennie & Associates Realty Ltd.
- Aedis Realty
- 604-688-8669
- 604-657-1111
- Contact by Email
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273 COLUMBIA Street in Vancouver: Downtown VE Condo for sale (Vancouver East) : MLS®# R2570496
273 COLUMBIA Street Vancouver V6A 2R5
$1,488,800Residential Attached- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- R2570496
- Bedrooms:
- 1
- Bathrooms:
- 2
- Floor Area:
- 1,587 sq. ft.
Expansive ground floor LIVE/WORK space of nearly 1,600 SQFT at Koret Lofts. In the Gastown Historic District, this HA-2 zoned unit allows a multitude of home and/or business uses. This unit showcases 15'9 ceilings, designer lighting, 3 tilt-in windows, integrated sound and an abundance of custom cabinetry. Heritage wood beams and custom concrete floors make this an inviting home, retail, office, or gallery space. Top-of-the-line commercial-grade kitchen with an extra-large island and GE stainless steel appliances. The loft up highlights an elegant master suite with extensive custom built-ins & storage. One secured parking spot. Excellent, well-maintained building features a stunning, two-grill courtyard patio; secure bike room; pets and rentals OK. More detailsListed by RE/MAX Crest Realty - Aedis Realty
- 604-688-8669
- 604-657-1111
- Contact by Email
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2710 128 W CORDOVA Street in Vancouver: Downtown VW Condo for sale in "WOODWARDS W43" (Vancouver West) : MLS®# R2560162
2710 128 W CORDOVA Street Vancouver V6B 0E6
$1,425,000Residential Attached- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- R2560162
- Bedrooms:
- 2
- Bathrooms:
- 2
- Floor Area:
- 1,158 sq. ft.
Woodwards W43.This highly sought-after unit faces towards the water,mountain and city skyline.The unimpeded views are simply breathtaking and can be best enjoyed through the floor-to-ceiling windows or from the ultra spacious and sun-drenched terrace.Features include over-height exposed concrete ceilings with recessed lighting throughout,2 large bedrooms including a bright & airy master with a spa-like ensuite.Enjoy the sleek euro kitchen equipped with large island and plenty of storage.Bask in an abundance of natural light throughout the day with north-west-south exposure--one of the true luxuries of this corner end unit.W43 features world-class amenities including a rooftop gym,lounge & hot tub,fulltime concierge and a proactive strata management company.2 secure parking come provided. More detailsListed by Rennie & Associates Realty Ltd. - Aedis Realty
- 604-688-8669
- 604-657-1111
- Contact by Email
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2310 128 W CORDOVA Street in Vancouver: Downtown VW Condo for sale in "WOODWARD W43" (Vancouver West) : MLS®# R2567403
2310 128 W CORDOVA Street Vancouver V6B 0E6
$1,399,900Residential Attached- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- R2567403
- Bedrooms:
- 2
- Bathrooms:
- 2
- Floor Area:
- 1,155 sq. ft.
Woodwards District by award winning luxury developer Westbank. Enjoy multi-million dollar amazing coal harbour views from this well priced, spacious & stylish unit at Woodwards W43 - Sweeping north shore mountains,Coal harbour ocean and vivid downtown city views. This unit comes with 2 bdrms, open den, 2 baths + balcony with 270 degrees sweeping view. Unit features with hardwood flooring, sleek kitchen design and trendy back splash glass tiles, stainless steel appliances & stone countertops. Top floor amenities on 43rd floor with Gym, indoor/outdoor lounge areas, hot tub, media room, gardens and library. Maintenance fee includes your hot water baseboard heating. More detailsListed by Rennie & Associates Realty Ltd. - Aedis Realty
- 604-688-8669
- 604-657-1111
- Contact by Email
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312 36 WATER Street in Vancouver: Downtown VW Condo for sale in "TERMINUS" (Vancouver West) : MLS®# R2554804
312 36 WATER Street Vancouver V6B 0B7
$1,298,000Residential Attached- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- R2554804
- Bedrooms:
- 2
- Bathrooms:
- 2
- Floor Area:
- 1,255 sq. ft.
Loft living at its absolute finest in the sought-after Terminus building. Located in the heart of Gastown, Terminus was newly constructed in 2008 whilst restoring the original heritage facade. Thoughtful design and architecture produced by the award-winning firm Acton Ostry. This rarely available 2 level, 2 bedroom + flex, open concept loft flows seamlessly incorporating European design, concrete steps, 16 ft ceilings, and gorgeous retained bay windows to create an impressive & unique space. Featuring multiple built in storage units, linear kitchen design with Bosch and Miele appliances, stainless steel countertops, and a geothermal heating and cooling system. Enjoy the building’s rooftop patio offering city and water views. 1 secure parking and 1 large storage locker included. More detailsListed by Rennie & Associates Realty Ltd. - Aedis Realty
- 604-688-8669
- 604-657-1111
- Contact by Email
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601 28 POWELL Street in Vancouver: Downtown VE Condo for sale in "POWELL LANE" (Vancouver East) : MLS®# R2569070
601 28 POWELL Street Vancouver V6A 1E7
$1,285,000Residential Attached- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- R2569070
- Bedrooms:
- 1
- Bathrooms:
- 2
- Floor Area:
- 1,365 sq. ft.
Vancouver was born in Gastown making this location the heart of the city. A Spectacular double height Penthouse Loft . Wrapped in gallery windows and 17' ceilings this home is flooded with character and light. Your own PRIVATE roof top deck is the perfect place to relax or share with friends while taking in the panoramic city, MTNS, water views. Featuring 1 bed/2 bath, updated kitchen, gas fireplace, oak floors, ensuite laundry, office/flex space and views from every room. Live at the heart of this designated National Historic Site and enjoy the independent spirit that Gastown offers from food, arts and culture, fashion, nightlife and its live/work lifestyle at your doorstep. Freshly painted, comes with 1 parking stall, 1 storage locker and ready for you to move in tomorrow. More detailsListed by Dexter Realty - Aedis Realty
- 604-688-8669
- 604-657-1111
- Contact by Email
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2806 128 W CORDOVA Street in Vancouver: Downtown VW Condo for sale in "Woodwards" (Vancouver West) : MLS®# R2563386
2806 128 W CORDOVA Street Vancouver V6B 0E6
$1,260,000Residential Attached- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- R2563386
- Bedrooms:
- 2
- Bathrooms:
- 2
- Floor Area:
- 1,143 sq. ft.
The Woodward Building, one of the iconic building in Downtown Vancouver. This large 1,143sqft, 2bd, 2bath corner unit with a large patio that you can enjoy the marvellous views of the city skyline and False Creek. Modern gourmet design kitchen with brand new countertops made of natural stone with waterfall edging, S/S appliances and oversized island. Gorgeous master ensuite has modern fixtures and separate soaker tub & shower. 2-level indoor Clubhouse and 5000SF rooftop lounge space with hot tub with 360’ of view of the Northshore mountain and harbour. Nester's Market, Londondrugs, the famous revolver café and the trendiest restaurant within a few minutes walk of the front door. 24hrs concierge service and 1 secured underground parking (LCP). More detailsListed by Oakwyn Realty Downtown Ltd. - Aedis Realty
- 604-688-8669
- 604-657-1111
- Contact by Email
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207 55 E CORDOVA Street in Vancouver: Downtown VE Condo for sale in "Koret Lofts" (Vancouver East) : MLS®# R2564773
207 55 E CORDOVA Street Vancouver V6A 0A5
$1,198,000Residential Attached- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- R2564773
- Bedrooms:
- 1
- Bathrooms:
- 2
- Floor Area:
- 1,372 sq. ft.
Representing an entirely unique quality of life is this exemplary residence at Koret Lofts in Gastown. Beautiful exposed brick, wood beams and an understated yet distinctive kitchen renovation. Upon entering the loft is a great foyer with room for a work space. Rounding the corner you're taken aback by the expansive living room which has been perfectly furnished. Upgraded lighting, a custom wardrobe in the bedroom and 5 large heritage windows add to a very desirable look and feel. This is a sexy loft. Koret has a great common courtyard with seating area, garden and BBQs. It also has a Commercial live/ work designation. We can provide a full list of upgrades upon request and please note, the furniture can be included if you love this style as much as we do. Gastown is home to some of Vancouver’s finest restaurants, pubs, clothing stores, furniture stores & coffee shops. Pets and rentals are allowed. 1 secure underground parking stall. More detailsListed by Engel & Volkers Vancouver - Aedis Realty
- 604-688-8669
- 604-657-1111
- Contact by Email
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303 55 E CORDOVA Street in Vancouver: Downtown VE Condo for sale in "Koret Lofts" (Vancouver East) : MLS®# R2536365
303 55 E CORDOVA Street Vancouver V6A 0A5
$1,188,000Residential Attached- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- R2536365
- Bedrooms:
- 2
- Bathrooms:
- 2
- Floor Area:
- 1,227 sq. ft.
Expansive NYC style loft in Gastown's coveted Koret Lofts. Recently renovated, this hip open concept space boasts gleaming concrete floors, large entertainment size living room w adjacent dining and kitchen, plus a flex area perfect for office, all adorned w exposed brick + old growth beams & mountain views! The pro chef’s kitchen is perfectly appointed w modern wht cabinetry, ss appliances, lrg gas range, wine fridge, stainless island. The master bedroom is hidden behind a beautiful custom built barn door, complete with lots of storage and large beautifully renovated spa-inspired ensuite bath w exposed bathtub + subway tiled shower. The building provides a great outdoor patio/seating/BBQ area for the owners' enjoyment. 2 pets ok. 1 u/g parking. More detailsListed by Engel & Volkers Vancouver - Aedis Realty
- 604-688-8669
- 604-657-1111
- Contact by Email
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503 141 WATER Street in Vancouver: Downtown VW Condo for sale in "The Malkin" (Vancouver West) : MLS®# R2570576
503 141 WATER Street Vancouver V6B 1A7
$1,088,000Residential Attached- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- R2570576
- Bedrooms:
- 1
- Bathrooms:
- 1
- Floor Area:
- 980 sq. ft.
Stunning loft in the historic 'Malkin' building. This unique home has a perfect combination of modern mixed with a true New York style brick loft. Bright SW corner unit offering plenty of natural light & a Juliette balcony with a glimpse of ocean view, over height recessed ceilings with crown mouldings & huge windows overlooking gorgeous, treed Water St. Recent renovations incl. a sleek kitchen fit with custom millwork and high end Wolf appliances including a gas range & a custom marble bathroom exuding ultimate luxury. This building is a piece of Vancouver's vital heritage converted in 1996 and is one of the oldest heritage buildings in the city! A private setting w/ excellent security, tall iron gates and a cobblestone courtyard. 1 secure parking & storage. Truly a trophy property. More detailsListed by Angell, Hasman & Associates Realty Ltd. - Aedis Realty
- 604-688-8669
- 604-657-1111
- Contact by Email
