10 Oldest Buildings in Vancouver

By Vancity Buzz

Vancouver as a city is fairly young—but that doesn’t mean we don’t have some character in our older buildings! Check out these relics and give them a visit if you can.

• 1905 – National Harbours Board Building

  By Vancity Buzz

  Smack dab in the middle of the docks when it was 1st built, now this building is surrounded by industry at the Port. Originally a Mission to the Seafarers, it’s now a home to dormers. 50 Dunlevy Ave.

• 1905 – St. Paul’s Anglican Church

  By Vancity Buzz

  Located in Vancouver’s West End, this Gothic Revival church has a large labyrinth laid in stone on the floor for walking meditation. 1130 Jervis St.

• 1905 – Model School

  By Vancity Buzz

  Now part of the City Square Shopping Centre near Cambie St., this building was originally used for teacher training. 555 West 12th Ave.

• 1901 – Gabriola

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  Built for the founder of BC Sugar Refining Co., this building currently sits vacant after being both apartments and a restaurant. Also, it’s said to be haunted! 1523 Davie St.

• 1901 – 472 Schoolhouse

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  This Pioneer Cottage style school was the 2nd to open in the area originally called the Municipality of Point Grey. It’s now being protected in a very kind neighbour’s backyard. 906 West 19th Ave.

• 1899 – Christ Church Cathedral

  By Vancity Buzz

  Vancouver’s Christ Church Cathedral is in the middle of downtown’s hustle and bustle. Stop by for a self-guided tour of their beautiful stained glass windows. 690 Burrard St.

• 1899 – Beatty St. Drill Hall

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  Home of the BC Regiment, the most senior military unit in BC, this drill hall has walls measuring 3.5ft thick! Construction was completed in 1901. 620 Beatty St.

• 1899 – Holy Rosary Cathedral

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  Seat of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Vancouver, this cathedral is in the French Gothic Style, and has even been visited by Pope John Paul II. 646 Richards St.

• 1890 – BC Sugar Refinery

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  Built when Vancouver was only 4 years old, this building is still a fully functioning refinery and is commonly featured in film shoots. 123 Rogers St.

• 1865 – Hastings Mill Store

  By Vancity Buzz

  Moved from its original location by barge, the oldest building in Vancouver is now a museum featuring Native American, pioneer, and immigrant artifacts. 1575 Alma Rd.