As nurses, artists, teachers, and changemakers, the women of Bowen Island have undoubtedly always been up to extraordinary things. From homemade documentaries to photographs and interviews, we’re honoured to hold this history in our archives. Now, we’re honoured to share it with you, in this online exhibit.
While people like Captain Cates and George Cowan may have received more widespread fame in their day, Bowen has a proud history of extraordinarily hardworking women. As historians, we can continue that pride by telling their stories here, where you can read and share them! Here you’ll find the stories of Rosa Helenius and Norma Dallas, who once ran the post office and docks. There are also accounts of Ellen Dorman and Muriel Neilson, who were instrumental in the health and education of Bowen. From marathon swimmer Frances Cannon, to Ladies Auxiliary president Annie Laurie Wood, we have tried to show the wide range of professions that women have had on Bowen over the years.
The Archives strives to record the lives and stories of Bowen residents and associated visitors. We collect biographical stories, photographs, obituaries, oral histories, and all sorts of other documents. We encourage you to come tell us your story, or the story of an extraordinary Bowen woman you know. You can reach us here!