Honouring the past.
Ready for new memories.
Built in 1873, this house has been a family home, a post office and a gathering place for the community.
As we open its doors once more, we're honouring everything it has held, and getting ready to make new memories at the water's edge.
c. 1873
Built on the Waterfront
Welsh-born John "Navvy Jack" Thomas has the house built from old growth fir and cedar. It becomes the first permanent settler home west of the Capilano River.
Late 1800s
A Family Home
Navvy Jack and his wife Sla-wiya, granddaughter of Chief Kiepilano, raise their four children here.
1897
End of an Era
Navvy Jack passes away, and the Thomas family's time in the house comes to a close.
1905
Lawson Finds the House
The land is sold by Navvy Jack's mortgage holder. That November, John Lawson rows across from Vancouver and discovers the house abandoned.
1907
The Lawsons Arrive
On Easter Sunday, Lawson brings his family across the harbour by boat and moves in. He names the area Hollyburn, combining the holly trees he planted with "burn," the Scottish word for creek.
1908
Church and Celebrations
The first church services in what becomes West Vancouver are held in the Lawson dining room, with 33 people attending. Two weddings of Lawson relatives also take place at the house that year.
1909
The First Ferry
West Vancouver's first ferry service begins, run by a company Lawson sets up, carrying passengers across the harbour in a small gasoline boat.
1910
The First Post Office
On September 1, Lawson is appointed the first postmaster for West Vancouver. The post office is a small room, about ten feet square, at the southeast corner of the house.
1920
Lawson Leaves
Lawson, who served as West Vancouver's reeve in 1913 and 1914, loses the property to foreclosure in September and leaves the house. He steps down as postmaster later that month.
Early 1920s
The House Moves
Under new ownership, the house is moved back from the railway tracks to its present site, most likely in late 1922 or early 1923.
1971
The Williams Family
Lloyd and Bette Williams buy the house and care for it for nearly 50 years.
1990
District Ownership
The District of West Vancouver purchases the house, with the Williams family staying on as life tenants.
2017
Over 140 Years Occupied
The house empties after being continuously lived in since 1873, the longest in the Lower Mainland.
2020s
Saved by the Community
Once slated for demolition, the house is spared thanks to a citizens' campaign and the support of Squamish Nation descendants.
2026
Heritage Protected
West Vancouver council gives the house official heritage designation, and a full restoration brings it back to life.
Today
Navvy House Opens
A new chapter begins as the house opens its doors once more on the waterfront.
Sources
Based on research and documents from the West Vancouver Archives and Paul Hundal.