Seven years after acquiring a last-of-its kind Japanese Canadian fishing boat, the Slocan Valley Historical Society (SVHS) is excited to share that construction of the vessel’s shelter is underway.
“After many unexpected delays, we have finally broken ground on the next step in this project,” says Joyce Johnson, president of the SVHS. “The Merriwake has been restored to the condition she was in when she was confiscated during WWII. We are excited to display the boat and share her history, as well as tell part of the internment story.”
Built in 1929 by Matsumoto Boatworks, the 31-foot gillnetter was impounded by the Canadian government during WWII. After being acquired by the SVHS, Eric Chevalier of the Copper Nail Boat Shop began restoring the vessel.
The boat will be displayed at the corner of Main Street and Fitz Avenue in the Village of Slocan. The interpretive centre will be accessible and free to all.
The original design for the shelter came from internationally renowned architect Gene Kinoshita, whose family was interned in Slocan during WWII. Nelson Rocha of Studio 9 Architecture + Planning Ltd produced the current plans and will oversee the build. Rossland engineer Alison MacLeod of MacLeod Nine Consultants Ltd. is responsible for structural engineering.
Nakusp firm Madden Timber Construction was awarded the contract to construct the building.
Construction is anticipated to wrap up this fall.
“This project has been a labour of love for our small society and the many generous donors who have supported us,” says Johnson.
The SVHS will host an opening ceremony to celebrate this significant historical project once finished.
The SVHS gratefully acknowledges the generous support from its sponsors including Kokanee Law, Recreation Sites and Trails BC, Regional District of Central Kootenay Province of BC’s Community Economic Recovery Infrastructure Program (CERIP), Slocan Valley Rail Trail Society and the Village of Slocan.
