Historical Characteristics of Roberts Creek... Sound Familiar?

The area now known as Roberts Creek was the traditional territories of the First Nations of the Shishalh and Squamish. The name of the creek was “Hwah-sam” which means “big fat salmon.” Settlers arrived in 1889.

Gardeners

Thomas Roberts, the settler whose name the Creek now bears, built his first home in 1892. It was a well-made cedar shake cabin east of the mouth of the Creek Here he planted a garden and orchard. Roberts had been the head gardener of an estate in England. Today, Roberts Creek has the One Straw Society promoting a growing community of organic gardeners.

Self-Sufficiency

The Federal Government built the original pier (1912) but only completed it to high water mark. Beyond that was Provincial jurisdiction. However, the Provincial government refused to build the ramp onto the pier. This was too much for the settlers, and they build it themselves. Today, Roberts Creek is host to the first rural housing cooperative! We are also the only community in BC with its own Official Community Plan Commission.

Work to Survive

People made their living trapping, fishing, logging, gardening, working “away,” doing carpentry, sewing, farming; working in shake mills, the post office or store. Now the Creek is filled with home based businesses from graphic designers and writers to carpenters and auto shops.

Artists

Harry Roberts, son of Thomas, was an artist, not only with pencil and paintbrush, but also in the design of his houses and boats. Today, Roberts Creek has an array of exciting artists and artisans.

Musicians

The Roberts creek String Orchestra was formed in the late 1940’s. Enthusiasm was boundless and newcomers were carefully scrutinized to see if they showed any musical talent. Today, Roberts Creek still has a strong orchestra, and a plethora of home-grown musicians. It also attracts incredible talent from around the world.

Summer Visitors

The Union Steamship began daily commutes from Vancouver (1912-1920). Summer visitors flocked to the Creek. Many built summer cottages. Today, although we have many tourists, most of our community is permanently settled. They embrace the unique sense of community and the rural lifestyle.

The Roberts Creek School

The Roberts Creek School has been an important part of our community since 1952. Local community members raised funds and built the community-use rooms, office and gymnasium. Officially becoming a community school in 1997, as well as being the local elementary school, it also provides a much needed venue to welcome all community. We are also fortunate to have the vibrant Sun Haven Waldorf School, presently housed at Camp Douglas, and a strong home schooling group.

The Community Hall

In 1931 there was a growing feeling that there should be a building for young people to gather to play games and have dances. The land was donated, and money was raised by the community for materials. Admission to the opening dance was 25 cents for gentleman, and ladies brought the refreshments. Today, the old hall still serves its community with dances, celebrations and events.
Information for Remembering Roberts Creek History 1889-1955. Published by Roberts Creek Historical Society, 1979.

 The RCCA offers many services to the Roberts Creek Community. Click below to learn more:

Events Calendar  -  Rent the Hall  -  Library  -  Business Directory  -  Home