Description
This is the fascinating story of a house that reflects the history of the North Shore: First
Nations, the lumber industry, the Capilano Japanese community, the incorporation of the
District of West Vancouver, the railway, the development of a farm and equestrian centre,
the effects of The Great Depression, and finally the evolution into an apartment estate.
The log house that grew into a mansion is the centre of the story. Built by Japanese
carpenters, the most distinctive feature is log construction combined with a curved orientalstyle
roof and huge overhanging eaves, and includes an unusual carved stone fireplace of
Aboriginal and Japanese Ainu folk-art themes. This house is one of the oldest buildings in
West Vancouver and is largely original.
In the 1920s the log house was enlarged, other buildings were constructed and the estate
was named Spuraway by its second owner. The estate was a family home, a farm, an
equestrian centre, and served as a community centre as the owners welcomed friends,
neighbours, and community organizations to enjoy the facilities. Four families owned and
lived in the log house, left their enhancements, and brought it to life during its time as a
private residence.
ISBN 978-1-77084-291-5
