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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809 27 ALEXANDER Street in Vancouver: Downtown VE Condo for sale in "The Alexander" (Vancouver East) : MLS®# R2428467
$3,688,000Residential Attached- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- R2428467
- Bedrooms:
- 2
- Bathrooms:
- 2
- Floor Area:
- 2,336 sq. ft.
RARELY AVAILABLE HERITAGE CONVERSION PENTHOUSE WITH ROOFTOP PATIO! Two units have been combined to create one of the largest fully renovated Gastown water view homes. With over 2,300 square feet of living space plus a 530 square foot PRIVATE rooftop patio, this Penthouse unit has ample space for living and large entertainment gatherings. The spacious open concept plan includes a large chef's kitchen with oversized island, Air Conditioning, over 1,000 bottle temperature-controlled wine display room, and two large ensuited bedrooms. A grand spiral staircase accesses your very own wet bar and an outdoor patio that includes a BBQ Station, Fire Pit, and stunning views of the waterfront shoreline and north shore mountains. NOT TO BE MISSED! More detailsListed by Angell, Hasman & Associates Realty Ltd.
- Aedis Realty
- 604-688-8669
- 604-657-1111
- Contact by Email
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301 7433 CAMBIE Street in Vancouver: South Cambie Condo for sale in "Cambie Gardens" (Vancouver West) : MLS®# R2408835
$1,889,000Residential Attached- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- R2408835
- Bedrooms:
- 3
- Bathrooms:
- 2
- Floor Area:
- 1,385 sq. ft.
This SE facing 1385 SF 3 bedroom + flex corner home is located at Cambie Gardens, Onni Group's masterplanned community on Vancouver's westside. Lavishly finished w/ engineered HW flooring & carpet in bedrooms, heating & cooling system, automated lighting & sleek roller shades. A gourmet kitchen includes natural stone countertops, oversize waterfall island & premium Sub Zero + Wolf appliance package. Spa-inspired bathrooms boast marble countertops, Nuheat flooring & oversized mirrors w/ LED lighting. Master bedroom offers a walk-in-closet & 5-piece ensuite w/ double sinks, walk-in shower & soaker tub. Owners enjoy exclusive access to over 35,000 SF of amenities including indoor pool, spa & fitness centre. Parking included. More detailsListed by Onni Realty Inc - Aedis Realty
- 604-688-8669
- 604-657-1111
- Contact by Email
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1001 150 E CORDOVA Street in Vancouver: Downtown VE Condo for sale in "INGASTOWN" (Vancouver East) : MLS®# R2421749
$1,199,900Residential Attached- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- R2421749
- Bedrooms:
- 2
- Bathrooms:
- 2
- Floor Area:
- 841 sq. ft.
Bachelor DREAM PAD! Own a TRUE PENTHOUSE with panoramic views of the North Shore mountains, Burrard Inlet and amazing cityscape. Complete with your very own PRIVATE 688 Sqft ROOFTOP DECK with an 8 person HOT TUB. Words simply cannot do this home justice. You'll immediately be impressed by this air-conditioned residence with gorgeous polished concrete floors, top of the line kitchen appliances, lovely master suite with custom shower and heated flooring, garage space for 2 vehicles and 3 storage lockers. Another one of the many beautiful features this home offers is the floating illuminated, architectural concrete staircase leading to your rooftop Oasis. Live in the heart of Gastown, with the city's best restaurants, bars and shopping at your doorstep. This home is a absolute MUST SEE! More detailsListed by Sutton Group-West Coast Realty - Aedis Realty
- 604-688-8669
- 604-657-1111
- Contact by Email
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47 E CORDOVA Street in Vancouver: Downtown VE Condo for sale in "Koret Lofts" (Vancouver East) : MLS®# R2407192
$1,199,000Residential Attached- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- R2407192
- Bedrooms:
- 1
- Bathrooms:
- 2
- Floor Area:
- 1,181 sq. ft.
Secure courtyard entrance, 16ft ceilings, live/work zoning, and 1181sf of exposed concrete & fir beams - no expense was spared in this magazine-worthy remodel in the 1906 heritage loft conversion building that allows short-term rentals. Entertain around the large square island with tons of custom storage, cook on the 5-burner gas stove, fit house-sized furniture to make this home your home - easily one of the coolest and most unique spaces in Vancouver. The space contrasts grey quartz counters against white & walnut cabinetry; grey hardwood to black s/s appliances & lighting. Convenient powder room on main floor and fully-renovated bathroom (with enormous shower) on loft. One parking stall and surrounded by the city’s coolest restaurants, steps to skytrain & CBD. More detailsListed by Oakwyn Realty Downtown Ltd. - Aedis Realty
- 604-688-8669
- 604-657-1111
- Contact by Email
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3104 438 SEYMOUR Street in Vancouver: Downtown VW Condo for sale in "CONFERENCE PLAZA" (Vancouver West) : MLS®# R2402370
$935,000Residential Attached- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- R2402370
- Bedrooms:
- 2
- Bathrooms:
- 2
- Floor Area:
- 771 sq. ft.
RARE CHANCE PENTHOUSE OPEN BALCONY LUXURY 278SQ.FT North Facing with harbour water view & North Shore Mountains. Corner unit with two side windows. Unobstructed views. Walk to Skytrain terminal, shopping centres, downtown offices, restaurants & recreations. Indoor pool, gym, recreation room, lobby security. Don't miss luxury urban lifestyles opportunity! More detailsListed by Amex Broadway West Realty - Aedis Realty
- 604-688-8669
- 604-657-1111
- Contact by Email
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505 128 W CORDOVA Street in Vancouver: Downtown VW Condo for sale in "Woodwards" (Vancouver West) : MLS®# R2426527
$899,000Residential Attached- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- R2426527
- Bedrooms:
- 2
- Bathrooms:
- 2
- Floor Area:
- 981 sq. ft.
Woodwards, Gastown's landmark building. Enjoy Atrium views from this bright 2 bedroom South corner unit with Juliette balcony. Be proud to call this home, with engineered wood floors, polished concrete ceilings, s/s appliances. Amenities are unsurpassed: Club W features an indoor/outdoor lounging oasis, library, media room, hot tub, gym, and much more. Maintenance fee includes baseboard heat, high speed internet, 24 hour concierge. Open House Saturday 2-4pm More detailsListed by Behroyan & Associates Real Estate Services - Aedis Realty
- 604-688-8669
- 604-657-1111
- Contact by Email
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402 55 E CORDOVA Street in Vancouver: Downtown VE Condo for sale in "KORET LOFTS" (Vancouver East) : MLS®# R2404051
$878,000Residential Attached- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- R2404051
- Bedrooms:
- 1
- Bathrooms:
- 1
- Floor Area:
- 876 sq. ft.
Koret Lofts, Fabulous 876 sqft. with 10' 6" ceiling height! Fully renovated AND FURNISHED North facing heritage loft. Includes SONOS surround sound system. Great views of the North Shore Mountains. Commercial Live/Work zoning, huge garden courtyard area with BBQ and lounge area. Pets allowed 2 dogs or cats or 1 of each no exotics. Rentals allowed, minimum of 1 year unfurnished and 7 days furnished. Well run building with full time manager/caretaker. Bonus 1 parking stall included, best location. Great central Gastown location close to the downtown business district, shopping, entertainment and restaurants. Very low maintenance fees $286.40/month. OPEN HOUSE SUNDAY OCT 27TH, 1-2PM More detailsListed by Sutton Group - 1st West Realty - Aedis Realty
- 604-688-8669
- 604-657-1111
- Contact by Email
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4108 128 W CORDOVA Street in Vancouver: Downtown VW Condo for sale (Vancouver West) : MLS®# R2423778
$853,500Residential Attached- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- R2423778
- Bedrooms:
- 1
- Bathrooms:
- 1
- Floor Area:
- 745 sq. ft.
Penthouse at award winning Iconic Woodwards building! This beautiful one bedroom plus den features 9'11 polished ceilings. Den has closet, used as 2nd Bedroom. Spectacular views of City & Water. Floor to ceiling windows & Juliette balcony. Custom upgrades include wide plank engineered oak flooring, wood vanity in the bathroom with Duravit sink and Black waterfall quartz counter top. The den has glass doors and a closet, currently being used as a second bedroom. Open kithcen with S/S appls, glass backsplash, gas stove, and in suite laundry... A MUST SEE! Convenient access to Club W amenities which include a well-equipped gym, indoor games room, lounge, Outdoor BBQ, hot tub, patio with breath taking views, 24 hour concierge. This suite comes with 1 underground parking (LCP - not leased) More detailsListed by Team 3000 Realty Ltd. - Aedis Realty
- 604-688-8669
- 604-657-1111
- Contact by Email
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205 55 E CORDOVA Street in Vancouver: Downtown VE Condo for sale (Vancouver East) : MLS®# R2420011
$799,800Residential Attached- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- R2420011
- Bedrooms:
- 1
- Bathrooms:
- 1
- Floor Area:
- 973 sq. ft.
Welcome to the Koret Lofts in beautiful Gastown Vancouver. If you are looking for a truly unique loft in Downtown Vancouver, then look no further. Originally built in 1906, completely restored & updated for residential living in 2006. Live or work in this 973 sqft open concept style floor plan, boasting 10'5 ceilings, polished concrete floors, exposed brick walls/wooden beams and an abundance of storage. Enjoy cooking and entertaining in a high-end kitchen, including stainless steel appliances, counter tops and shelving. If you're not up for entertaining, simply go across the street to enjoy some of Vancouver's most desired cafes, restaurants and shops. Book your private showing today! More detailsListed by Aisa Real Estate Services - Aedis Realty
- 604-688-8669
- 604-657-1111
- Contact by Email
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3508 128 W CORDOVA Street in Vancouver: Downtown VW Condo for sale in "WOODWARDS (W43)" (Vancouver West) : MLS®# R2379567
$782,250Residential Attached- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- R2379567
- Bedrooms:
- 1
- Bathrooms:
- 1
- Floor Area:
- 745 sq. ft.
View! View! View! The only available one bedroom apartment in the Woodwards building, both living and bedroom has unobstructed view of the city. The property is tenanted right now, need 24 hours showing notice, monthly rent is $2300. Call today for your private showing! More detailsListed by Royal Pacific Realty Corp. - Aedis Realty
- 604-688-8669
- 604-657-1111
- Contact by Email
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