The Capilano flume was a popular attraction in the early 1900s. Not only did the public walk on its catwalk, but local daredevils would hitch rides on the moving shingle bolts.
Like the one in this postcard, there were several flumes around North Vancouver in the early 1900s. Flumes were long wooden chutes filled with running water. Loggers used them like conveyor belts, to float cedar shingle bolts from the hills above to the mills below.
Today, you can recreate the flume experience at many amusement parks around North America, including PNE Playland, on a log flume ride. Locally, however, you will have to wait, as Playland’s flume ride is currently undergoing maintenance.
Visit the MONOVA website for more information about the history of the North Shore and to plan your visit to MONOVA: Museum of North Vancouver, now open at 115 West Esplanade in The Shipyards.
Currently, MONOVA: Archives of North Vancouver ,at 3203 Institute Road in Lynn Valley, is open by appointment only. Contact: [email protected]
Navigate culture on the North Shore by using the North Shore Culture Compass.
