Did you know this arch has traveled through time and across Vancouver? This is the Jubilee Grove Arch. It stands here as a testament to Burnaby’s history and ties to the English monarchy.
Let’s step back to the early 20th century. The Vancouver Club needed a grand entrance. Architect C.O. Wickenden designed their building in 1893-94 with a beautiful arch. It stood proudly on West Hastings Street.
Fast forward to 1930. The Vancouver Club building faced demolition. But the arch was too beautiful to destroy. It was salvaged and stored. The Municipality of Burnaby saw an opportunity. They purchased the arch.
Now, picture the 1930s. The Great Depression gripped the world. Burnaby celebrated the Jubilee of King George V’s coronation in 1935. A work relief program allowed local residents to pay taxes by working. Much of the construction was carried out by them. The Jubilee Grove was chosen to mark the occasion.
In 1937, another royal event occurred. King George VI and Queen Elizabeth were coronated. An oak tree from Windsor’s Royal Forest was ceremonially planted here. This underscored Burnaby’s connection to the monarchy.
Finally, in 1939, the arch found its new home. It was reconstructed as the focal point of Jubilee Grove. Italian-born stone mason Rizieri Stefanini did the work. He owned Burnaby Monumental Works. The Jubilee Grove Arch was unveiled during May Day ceremonies.
The arch was erected just before the Royal Visit of 1939. This was the first time reigning British monarchs had visited Canada.
The Jubilee Grove Arch isn’t just a pretty structure. It symbolizes the close tie between Vancouver and Burnaby. It represents the joint evolution of these neighboring cities.
Look closely at the arch. It is made of Haddington Island sandstone. Notice the decorative twisted-rope motif outlining the arch. See the supporting rusticated sidewalls with planting urns. The original bronze dedication plaque remains. A Royal Oak tree and plaque still stand nearby.
The Jubilee Grove Arch sits at the corner of Kingsway and Patterson Avenue. It provides a visual anchor to the park. It marks an entry point to Central Park.
The Jubilee Grove Arch has character-defining elements. It is a remnant of a past building. It is also a new and individual structure. It has an axial diagonal placement and prominent corner location. This marks one of the entries to Central Park. Its visibility and accessibility make it a public monument.
The re-use of the arch symbolizes the close tie between Vancouver and Burnaby.
So, as you stand before the Jubilee Grove Arch, remember its journey. It is a story of architectural salvage, royal celebrations, and community spirit.