Beneath this Celtic cross slumbers a tale of maritime tragedy. This is the Chehalis Cross, a memorial to a disaster that unfolded just off Stanley Park. It stands as a solemn reminder of the eight lives lost when the tugboat Chehalis sank.
The Chehalis Cross is more than just a stone monument. It is a tribute to those who perished on July 21, 1906. The 59.3-foot wooden steamship Chehalis, owned by the Union S.S. Company of Vancouver, met its end that day. A collision with the Canadian Pacific Railway’s Princess Victoria caused the Chehalis to sink rapidly.
Imagine the scene. The Chehalis, chartered for a trip to British Columbia’s north coast, was carrying fifteen people. It had just departed from North Vancouver, the weather was fine, and it passed Brockton Point. Meanwhile, the 300-foot Princess Victoria, carrying 219 passengers, left Vancouver’s CPR dock.
The Princess Victoria, in a fateful moment, corrected its course for a small launch. This adjustment led to a catastrophic oversight. The larger ship ran over the Chehalis. The impact was devastating and the Chehalis sank swiftly.
The Brockton Point lighthouse keeper heroically rescued seven survivors. However, eight souls were lost to the sea that day. The official investigation placed the blame squarely on the Princess Victoria.
Take a closer look at the Chehalis Cross. You will see names etched into the stone. Percy James Chick. Wm Alfred Bertand Hutton. Mamie Louise Bryce. Charles Barnett Benwell. William Harrison Crawford. Morishima. Yama. Mah Hing. These are the names of those who never returned home.
The monument’s inscription speaks volumes. “In memory of eight persons who lost their lives on the Chehalis sunk by the Princess Victoria on July 21, 1906, at 2 P.M. opposite this spot.” Another inscription reveals, “This Monument was erected by their shipmates and friends.” It underscores the deep sense of loss felt by the community.
The Chehalis Cross stands west of Brockton Point. It is near the Brockton Point Lighthouse and the Totem Poles. It serves as a poignant reminder of a maritime tragedy. It also reminds us of the enduring power of remembrance.
Consider the lives cut short. Think of the families and friends left behind. The Chehalis Cross invites reflection on the unpredictable nature of life. It also highlights the importance of honoring those who have passed.
As you stand before the Chehalis Cross, remember the Chehalis disaster. Remember the names etched in stone. Let this memorial serve as a lasting tribute to those who lost their lives on that fateful day in 1906.