Above the fairly modern piece of regional infrastructure that is the soon to be replaced George Massey Tunnel - is a less known history of a quiet pioneer John Sullivan Deas, a land owner, a tool seller, and industry trailblazer on the Fraser River.
A once burgeoning salmon cannery is now a system of trails and subtle nods to an unlikely story of a mixed race descendent of enslaved Africans brought to America and their white captors. Tinsmith John Sullivan Deas made the choice between a lesser of two absolute evils and came to BC in search of peace and some basic dignity. For as much as the time and constraints on him would allow, he found some manner of it with successful ventures in tin smithing and manufacturing.
This little spot sits above a seismically questionable tunnel built over 7 decades ago which links delta and richmond. Did you know this was here?
I'ts relatively accessible, a lovely stroll with excellent sights, and is an interesting piece of local history in the times of industry trailblazing and gold rush within the backdrop of brutal colonialism and oppression of anyone not white and descended of British invaders.
Thanks for watching #VLORT- The Very Long Ongoing Road Trip. Living mainly from a tiny 1991 Toyota Warrior RV, I show you cool places to visit and recreate. i also like to explore lesser known histories and find ways to enjoy these spaces!
Tell me in the comments any of your favourite local history or if these visits provide proof of being Vegan Everywhere!
