Discover Art Museums and Heritage Sites in Port Edward
Port Edward, a small but historically rich community near Prince Rupert, is home to significant heritage sites that showcase the region’s deep-rooted Indigenous culture and industrial history. Located along the scenic Skeena River, this coastal town offers visitors a chance to explore the past through well-preserved sites and engaging exhibits.
The North Pacific Cannery National Historic Site is the crown jewel of Port Edward’s heritage attractions. Established in 1889, it is the oldest intact salmon cannery on the West Coast of North America. Visitors can tour the preserved cannery buildings, learn about the lives of workers—including Indigenous, Japanese, Chinese, and European laborers—and gain insight into the rise of British Columbia’s fishing industry. With interactive exhibits, guided tours, and stunning waterfront views, this national historic site provides a captivating glimpse into the region’s economic and cultural history.
For those interested in Indigenous heritage, Port Edward is located within the traditional territories of the Tsimshian Nation. A visit to the nearby Museum of Northern British Columbia in Prince Rupert offers an extraordinary collection of Tsimshian artifacts, including totem poles, masks, and ceremonial regalia. The museum’s exhibits highlight the artistic and spiritual traditions of the Indigenous communities that have called this region home for thousands of years.
Whether you’re fascinated by the fishing industry’s legacy or the deep cultural traditions of the Tsimshian people, Port Edward is a hidden gem for heritage and history enthusiasts exploring British Columbia’s northern coast.
