Finn Slough ~ Richmond, B.C.
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GMC Pickup vs. Wild Blackberries
This old truck is slowly being overtaken by rust and wild blackberries. The frendly owner with whom we spoke, claimed it was his contribution to this artsy community.
This boat looked like it had seen better days. I doubt it is seaworthy, and there is no indication it is used for fishing.
These commercial fishing boats will be fully afloat within a few hours of low tide when this photo was taken
Where do old boats gow when they die? Judging by the condition of this boat, I think this Gill Netter is no longer used for commercial fishing.
We couldn't see how the occupants accessed these small houses. I'm certain that is exactly what they want.
I didn't get to speak to the owners of this cabin, but judging by the evidence, my guess is they are French Canadians happy to be living in British Columbia. (see the flags) The bicycle mounted to the roof is a nice touch. Out of frame, there is a shed filled with split Cedar, cut to length, ready for a wood stove that likely is the only source of heat during cold Canadian winters. (The smell from the Cedar was intoxicating.)
Friendly People - wanting some privacy.
The residents of Finn Slough are typical friendly Canadians. But they do put up with a constant stream of would-be artists and photographers some of whom forget this is private property and in the pursuit of "art" become somewhat intrusive. Honour their privacy, please. If you see a resident, ask permission before intruding on their tranquility.
Finn Slough is a tiny Fraser River fishing community located in Richmond, British Columbia, Canada. The community has approximately 30 residents who live in wooden houses, both floating and built on stilts, along the marshy river bank. This portion of the Fraser River is tidal. (The photos in this gallery were taken at low tide.) The Gill Net fishing boat in this photo was constructed in 1937 of cedar planks over an oak frame. It is still in use today as a fishing boat. The two cabins are joined together by a covered walkway to form one large accommodation. The owner of these cabins is one of Canada's better known singer/songwriters. It is said she retires here invoking fresh inspiration for new songs. (I have protected her identity.) Many of the buildings were built between the late 19th century and 1950s and many have decayed severely, while some have been carefully restored. Finn Slough was founded by Finnish settlers who came to Richmond in the 1880s. Most of these residents made a good living from fishing and became local landowners. The community peaked in size by the Second World War and once the 1950s and industrialization arrived, the population of Finn Slough began to shrink. Today, there are approximately 30 residents left in this eclectic shantytown.