Late in 2022, BRVCA embarked on an important project honoring the rich history of the Bridge River Valley and its people. This Cemetery Mapping Project aimed to address both the needs of the community – past, present, and future – as well as the needs of Bridge River Valley Community
Association in their operation of the Cemetery. The goals of the project were to improve the accuracy, utility, and accessibility of the cemetery map in order to assist the BRV community to preserve its history as well as to support family and friends to pay their respects to loved ones.

Following a tedious process of reviewing and updating all information pertaining to the operation of the cemetery including policies, procedures, forms, reservation files, and interment files, BRVCA began updating the digital map that was initially developed in 2014. This map had been plotted using GPS coordinates and was the most accurate, although out-of-date, map of the cemetery and, therefore, served as the starting point for this mapping project.

In the fall of 2022, BRVCA purchased the mapping software that would allow us to update the original digital map. With some guidance from SLRD Regional Director, Sal Demare, staff learned basic mapping
techniques, and the map was complete and ready for next steps near the end of 2022. The updated map was then used as the launching point for this project. We shared the map with the technical team at Peak Geospatial, who helped us to create a project plan and successful funding proposal to SLRD (who provided partial funding for the project).

The project began in February 2023 and completed in May 2023 – on time and on budget. Here is what we accomplished:

• Unique Identifiers for all Individuals: We created a numbering system to identify and locate each plot and interment site in the cemetery – allowing for family plots with multiple sets of remains.
• For example, A23-1 refers to the unique individual found in section A, plot number 23, and interment site 1. This numbering system is the basis for the entire system, which matches
• individuals to their personal information and their location in the cemetery.
• Private versus Public Information: We audited each cemetery file to ensure that the information we have is accurate and up-to-date as well as to safeguard against sharing information that is considered private. To do this, we created a database that could identify and link sharable
• information to the public map while blocking private information from being shared publicly.
• Searchable Web Map that is to scale and geographically accurate: With help from Michelle Nortje, who took new aerial imagery of the cemetery using a drone, the mapping experts at Peak Geospatial were able to adjust the alignment of each plot to ensure it matched with the
• plot borders visible on the web map. This ensures that the search function that allows web map users to enter a name, date, or place of birth or death leads to accurate results whether the user is searching online from afar or (eventually) in person at the cemetery.
• Plot and Headstone Photos: We reviewed and updated (as necessary) photos of each plot and headstone in the cemetery and created a photo database using the same unique plot and interment site naming conventions that would allow us to match the photos to the web map plots and the personal information for each individual.
• Memorial Plaques: We took photos and logged names of individuals honoured on the FRIENDS of the BRV memorial monument and the Cenotaph and added them to the map to ensure those names and photos could be accessed via the web map as well.
• Instruction Tool: To facilitate use of the web map, Peak Geospatial also provided a basic instruction manual to help users navigate the web map and utilize its various features.

Here are the links to the Cemetery Web Map and the User Guide.

We are excited to launch this web map and eager to build upon it in the future. In addition to ongoing updates and information management requirements, next steps will likely be to identify and plot
remaining available space in the cemetery as well as to create a site map and directory that is available at the cemetery site in Gold Bridge. This site map will allow visitors to search names and find the exact plot location so that they can navigate the cemetery grounds more easily.

If you would like to support the ongoing work related to preserving and operating this heritage Cemetary, make a donation here. Choose cemetary from drop down menu.

Re: Cemetery Mapping Project Update Jan 2023

Significant Accomplishments:

1. Cemetery Map

• Sal passed along the file for the map he developed a few years ago using free mapping software (project stalled due to time constraints when he became Regional Director for SLRD). This map included cemetery plots which were measured and placed using GPS coordinates. This was a dramatic improvement from the hand-drawn map that was presenting administrative challenges because it was not reflective of the irregularities in plot sizes and placement.
• BRVCA signed up for a free one-month trial of the mapping software (DraftSight) and then purchased a one-year license to allow us to view and update the map. Sal provided basic training on the software so that office staff could update the map to include names and dates (where available) for each plot.
• We also added reservations to the map, although these plots have not been inserted with specific GPS coordinates as the previous plots were entered. These plots will be entered more accurately in the map in the spring when the snow melts and individual plot borders are again visible.
• Using this software, we have also created layers in the map so that we can display different types of information for different purposes. The base layer shows the cemetery divided into six sections (A-F) and includes the outline of each plot. A second layer includes plot numbers, which are defined by section (e.g. A5, C15). A third layer includes information that is available to the public about the cemetery’s ‘occupants’ including the names and dates identified on memorial markers. The final layer includes additional information (for administrative use only) such as the names associated with reserved plots and the names and other information associated with plots that do not have memorial markers with names or dates.

2. Cemetery Database and Files

• We have been working to update and expand the cemetery database that was built a few years ago to store basic information about each occupant. This will serve as a directory for administrative purposes as well as for information requested by the public. We are currently working on defining what is public information and what is private based on a review of relevant legislation (Vital Statistics Act; Cemetery, Interment, and Funeral Services Act; and Personal Information Protection Act), and we have identified each entry by plot number so that we can easily cross-reference between the directory and the map.
• We conducted an audit of all reservation files and found a number of older reservations that were not accounted for in the database and/or in the map. This led to some reservation conflicts, where the same plot had been reserved by more than one individual. To address this, we developed a tentative reservation map using the new (more accurate) map – plotting each reservation as near as possible to their original reservation. We reached out to contacts for each reservation file to explain the issue we had identified and review the proposed plot location for their reservation on the new map. This was time-consuming work, but we have now confirmed the new reservation plots for each reservation where we identified a conflict. Note: BRVCA’s updated policy and procedures now address this scenario. Having this clearly defined process was very helpful. We expect that further conflicts of this nature will be rare to non-existent now that we have one digital mapping file and database.

Going Forward:

1. Cemetery Map

• We reached out to the Village of Ashcroft to ask about their impressive online mapping program, which includes an interactive map of the cemetery. Their CFO built the program and said that it would require some significant technical knowledge and (although it is open source) it is not intended to operate solely as a cemetery mapping program, so it would not likely work for us.
• We have also met with Peak Geospatial to explain our project and where we want to go in terms of a public and searchable map that can also be used and modified for the purpose of cemetery administration. They will be providing us with a basic scope of work and quote that includes front-end work as well as maintenance so that we can determine what resources we have to support next steps and what resources we may need to proceed with this project. We expect to have this quote around the middle of January.

2. Public Information Sharing

• With Ashcroft’s CFO, we also discussed privacy given the extent of information they have available for each cemetery plot. Based on this and other information we have gathered on privacy, we are tentatively planning to make basic information on all occupants deceased for 20+ years public (and will draft a policy update to reflect that). We will also build procedures and a consent section into the new Interment Plan so that (going forward) families can opt in or out of information sharing. Depending on time (and the availability of up-to-date contact information) we may try to reach out to the remaining occupants’ families to obtain consent to share the basic information of their loved ones.

Restoration Project Update January 2, 2023

This update provides some basic information on an unauthorized occupant in the building.

On August 22 we hired a temporary/casual laborer for the project as an employee.
In early September the construction manager asked us, the owner, if this person could stay in the back apartment of this building. This was considered an informal arrangement while this individual was working a 3 week on, 1 week off shift. The construction manager did not advise us that the apartment water and bathroom had been previously demolished.

The construction manager ended up resigning this position in September. Efforts were made to keep the temporary laborer working but it was very difficult without a construction manager. Additionally, it was unknown if we would hire a general contractor that would then hire his own people or if we would carry on with the same route as previously. As a result the decision was made to lay off the temporary worker on October 25 and ask them to vacate the property.

This individual refused to vacate the property. On legal advice that this could be considered a tenancy, we issued a “One Month Notice to Leave on Termination” which was for November 30. The individual still refused to leave on November 30.

In attempting to conduct a legal inspection on December 9, BRVCA representatives were met by an aggressive dog tied up inside the apartment as well as another person occupying to ensure the lawful inspection could not be carried out. RCMP ended up talking to this person and the dogs were secured and the inspection occurred. That inspection documented some very very concerning biohazards and unhealthy situation.

The BRVCA applied to the Residential Tenancy Branch for an expedited emergency hearing based on the biohazards inside and outside (human/animal). On December 19 the adjudicator granted the BRVCA a legal order of possession for Dec. 31 . Faced with a forced eviction by a court appointed bailiff, this individual finally left.

This unauthorized occupant did not pay rent, did not pay for electricity or heat, did not pay for internet. The occupant did not regularly use the one operating washroom in the building and created biohazard in the apartment. The 4 dogs, which were kept inside except for brief periods on a lead outside, also caused biohazard concerns outside due to the small area they had to defecate and urinate. At one point, the individual was using a washer and dryer in an unsafe manner (washer draining into a bathtub and dryer not connected to a vent).

In addition to the very challenging occupancy concerns, other non-occupancy issues were ongoing. Here are a few of the issues we ran into, we have left out quite a number due to privacy of other people.

• Theft (on camera) of building plans
• Tampering with security camera system and theft of system parts in a locked room
• Threats and intimidation of volunteers and contractors including verbal, written, online and use of the dogs as guard dogs

If you are in possession of the stolen building plans or pictures of same please contact us to arrange their return.
Attempts were made by the RCMP to manage this activity while the illegal occupancy played itself out. Reports were also made to the SPCA regarding the animal’s living situation.

The Bridge River Valley Community Association and its Board ended up suffering significant financial impacts as well as the emotional turmoil this creates. A monetary order request to the Residential Tenancy Branch will be submitted once all the bills are in.

For the community, please note this property and building are private property and a construction zone. We request for your safety you stay off the property unless you are working there. The property has been protected by security cameras since we purchased the building, and this will continue. Once the Museum has moved in there will be public hours published for the Museum and the laundry room.

Thank you goes to volunteers, Pat Dahle, Debbie Demare and Michelle Nortje, the BRVCA executive, for the incredible amount of time and effort they put in to bringing this situation to an end. We are beyond happy to be able to move forward and complete this project, get the Museum moved in and get the community using the rest of the building.

Building Permit Issued
A building permit has now been issued for the conservation work at the Bralorne Pioneer Mines Office Building.
The proposed scope of work will ensure the stabilization of the building and meet all life and safety requirements set by BC Building Code applicable to a structure listed on a local Heritage Register.
Some of this work includes improving the drainage around the building, meeting seismic requirements, upgrading the mechanical and electrical systems, improving wheelchair accessibility into the building, upgrade of the watermain, the installation of a sprinkler system, interior and exterior restoration of finishes and windows.
The building, if this conservation work were not to occur, would continue to deteriorate. The result of this conservation work will be to have a structurally safe, up to code building with life-safety issues addressed. This will ensure this heritage building is safe and habitable for years to come.
Conservation Plan: https://bit.ly/3xrjncO

Local Laborers and Contractors
The hope of the BRVCA is to employ as many local laborers and sub-contractors as possible. Thanks to those that have responded so far. As the date to begin physical work on the building approaches, we know we will need laborers, carpenters, drywallers, painters, as well as various other sub trades. If you are interested and to be put on a list for information on opportunities, please email us at bridgerivervalley@gmail.com

FAQ
What will be the uses of the building once the conservation work is completed?
The Bralorne Pioneer Mines Office Building will house the Bralorne Pioneer Museum once the conservation work is completed. The Museum will use approximately 40-50% of the building including exhibit space, storage space and an office.
The building will have a renovated caretaker suite and a renovated studio suite, a small office, an accessible washroom, an upgrade of the public laundry facility. There will be flexible spaces that can be used for community meetings, gatherings, co-working, and the display local art, as well as a small theater room and improvements to the back yard.
Architect Drawing: https://bit.ly/3OdwPae

Why did the Museum need to move?
The Museum’s first home in 1972 was in the Bralorne Pioneer Office Building after the Whiting’s purchased it. In the 1980s the Museum moved to the Bralorne High School’s Industrial Engineering Building, built in the 1950s, located to the east of the baseball field. Unfortunately, this building had neither heating, plumbing, nor insulation, and over the years suffered both a failing roof and foundation. While it served well enough for many years as the Museum’s home, the unstable climate in the building led to the artifacts deteriorating. With the interest of preserving the Museum’s collections the Museum leased and moved to the Post Office building in 2014 while a search was done to secure a permanent home for the Museum.
The BRVCA purchased the Bralorne Pioneer Mines Office building in 2017 with the two-fold goals to move the Bralorne Pioneer Museum into the space for its permanent home and to ensure that the building would stand and be usable for generations to come.

Housing in the Bralorne Pioneer Mines Office Building.
When the building was purchased in 2017 the decision was made to continue with the tenants who were in the building at the time. Arrangements were made with one tenant to do caretaking duties for reduced rent. All tenants were paying market level rents and the Residential Tenancy Branch rules were followed with regard to raising rents (very minimal).
As tenants chose to move from the building and given the understanding of the scale and scope of upcoming conservation work needed, those rental units were not reoccupied.
The two remaining tenants were provided their four month notice on March 31. One tenant has successfully found housing and we are actively advertising the need of housing for the other tenant. The tenant in need is single with a pet, a long-time resident of the Valley, and has a history of being a good tenant. The individual is currently in a studio type apartment, and we hope that the community will turn up housing that meets the tenant’s needs.
Once the conservation work is complete there will be two housing units in the building, a two-bedroom apartment and a studio type apartment. One of these two units will act as a caretaker suite for the building.

Will the Museum contribute to tourism in Bralorne?
The mission of the Museum is “to engage and educate the public through the promotion and conservation of the unique culture and heritage of the Bridge River and South Chilcotin Region.”
Through the 50 years the Museum has been in the community, it has received a steady number of visitors to the Museum. Those visiting are a mix of property owners, their guests, past residents of the area and various people who already in the area and happen upon the Museum.
A visitor survey conducted in 2021 indicated that majority of visitors come to the area primarily for outdoor recreation. Survey results indicated that none of the visitors indicated they were coming to the Bridge River Valley to specifically visit the Museum, however some mentioned a general interest in the area’s history.

Will the Museum being in the Bralorne Pioneer Mines Office Building mean there will be bus tours?
Through the years, an independent bus tour company has visited the Bridge River Valley. The guests are mostly seniors. They stay at Tyax Lodge, usually for two days or so and do a guided interpretive tour of the Valley which includes a stop at the Museum. The tour usually stops somewhere for lunch as well.
The Museum over the last number of years has seen 1 or 2 of these type of tours (none during 2020)

Is there a coffee shop planned in the Museum section?
As many will recall, there was a small coffee shop on one side of the lobby for a short while.
The plan for that space once the Museum has moved in is an “entrance greeting area” along with the Museum shop. The Museum currently sells books and other items of local interest as well as coffee, soft drinks and at times various snacks. It has been discussed that a partnership may be struck with a local provider for any food items, however there will not be any cooking facilities in this area.

What has been the community consultation and communication process for this project?
Prior to purchasing the Bralorne Pioneer Mines Office Building in 2017 a feasibility study was completed. The feasibility study found heritage value in the building and recommended, based on study and consultation in the area, a mixed use of the building which included, in part, the Bralorne Pioneer Museum.
Starting in 2017, once the purchase was completed, the Bridge River Valley Community Association has provided regular public updates on the progress of the conservation of the building and the adaptive-reuse.
Updates have been posted on our website, on Facebook, in the Mountain Telegraph, and in other media depending on the content.
Other forms of consultation and communication that have occurred included:
Walk throughs of various groups of people to both understand the condition of the building and provide input into the configuration of uses
Several special meetings of a broad cross section of stakeholders as key decisions needed to be made
Two public meetings were held to discuss a key decision point as well as one with regard to the Heritage Status of the building.
All forms of consultation and communication involved a broad group of stakeholders include the BRVCA Board of Directors, the Heritage Committee, legacy and former residents, community members from Bralorne and other locations in the Valley and elected local government officials, professionals such as architects (2), engineers, plumbing and electrical specialists, construction expertise (2).
All that have worked on this project are very appreciative of the help and the constructive input and feedback from those who have participated. This input and support has informed the evolution of what was needed to be done to preserve the building and determine the configuration of the building uses.

Questions or concerns are welcome and can be emailed to bridgerivervalley@gmail.com.

The Valley Wide Training Committee is looking for a chair. If you love to see training for the entire Valley that helps us with serious issues such as wildfire, first aid, food etc. this is a straightforward role. It isn’t a huge time consuming role as it is well defined and has been worked through for a number of years.

The BRVCA Valley Wide Training Committee organizes and facilitates learning and development to increase knowledge, skills, and abilities to improve the level of safety and education required throughout our remote location.

If you are interested please contact the office at bridgerivervalley@gmail.com and they will put you in touch with committee members who can provide more detail.

BRVCA General Committee Chair Role

• In collaboration with committee members and staff determine meeting times and places
• In collaboration with committee members and staff develop agenda based on previous minutes and items coming up, work with staff to put it together and have it sent out ahead of meeting
• Ensure minutes are completed and distributed by whoever is doing them, review to ensure they are ok, have them or send out to committee for check
• Chair the meetings or ensure someone is there to chair
• Be a point person and advisor on communication etc., someone who staff/vollies go to for support etc.
• Ensure Terms of Reference for the committee are followed
• Come to BRVCA/BPM Board Meetings when requested or needed by circumstances

Specific Valley Training Committee Chair’s Role/Responsibilities

• If new to the Committee, familiarize yourself with the program.
• Sal DeMare a previous Chair can help with this.
• The Committee meets 3 times or more a year and can be done virtually.
• At first meeting in January or early February:
• Training Committee requires a Treasurer but can be the Chair.
• Review the Training Matrix Data sheets to see which courses will require recertification and how many participants may require recertification.
• Review previous Survey Monkey results and comments on courses not listed.
• Decide with the Committee which courses they would like to see on the Survey Monkey.
• BRVCA Staff will put out the Survey Monkey on Social Media.
• At the second meeting in late February or early March:
• Review the outcomes of the Survey Monkey and decide which courses are going to be put on.
• Decide which days the courses will be put on.
• Staff will reach out to the Training Providers for availability and quotes.
• In between second and third meeting:
• Confirm and review trainer availability and quotes.
• Build a draft Training Plan with courses dates and costs.
• Review Committee Bank Balance and what funding will be required to put on the courses.
• At the third meeting in April:
• Review the Draft Training Plan and confirm with the Committee that the plan is achievable and approve it.
• Staff will build Cognito Registration Forms and put out on Social Media.
• Staff will book Trainers and confirm rental of facilities if required.
• Work with the BRVCA Grant Writer for funding requests.
• Other tasks:
• Review the New Director Orientation Check List with any new Committee members.
• Chair, Staff or other volunteer can do opening statements at any of the training sessions and at course ends.
• Staff will take care of all paperwork for contracting etc.
• Staff will help Trainers with accommodations etc and anything else they may need.
• Staff will prepare Sign in Sheets and any other documentation required.
• Staff will update the Training Matrix.
• Staff will take care of the invoices.
• Review Committee Transaction Reports and Budget with Treasurer and build the upcoming years Budget.
• Prepare Meeting agendas and minutes.
• Help with promoting the Training Program on Social Media.

Memorandum of Understanding signed to work together in spirit of collaboration and partnership

The Bridge River Valley Community Association (BRVCA) together with Tsal’alh Development Corporation, Bralorne Gold Mines, Cobalt One Energy Corp, Endurance Gold and the Squamish-Lillooet Regional District jointly signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to work together in the spirit of collaboration and partnership.

The signatories to the MOU have made a commitment to each other to:

*  Listen and seek to understand, always showing mutual respect;

*  Build trust through integrity, honesty and transparency in all communications;

*  Engage, where possible, in full and early communication of events or initiatives that have the potential to affect shared or individual objectives; and

*  Display long-term commitment to support and maintain the intent of this MOU.

Pat Dahle, President of the BRVCA comments, “This MOU is an important symbol of our commitment to work together with our Indigenous neighbours and industry partners on unceded St’at’imc territory.  In a community as small as ours, the only way we can create sustainability is through these relationships and partnerships. We are especially pleased to be working closely with Tsal’alh Development Corporation to explore affordable housing opportunities for our senior residents and those most vulnerable and hope to soon have support from BC Housing to undertake more detailed planning.”

Sal DeMare, Director, SLRD Electoral Area A shared, “I was pleased to sign this MOU on behalf of the SLRD. It’s been great to see some of the mining sector interests operating in the region come together with Tsal’alh Development Corporation, the BRVCA and the SLRD to create what I think is a valuable framework to guide us as we work to improve communication and build stronger relationships. We look forward to continued collaboration with the other parties to this MOU, and to welcoming other businesses, community organizations and St’át’imc communities to join us, for the benefit of everyone who lives, works, plays and has ties to this spectacular place.” 

While each organization that signed the MOU has its own mandate and objectives, all parties have confirmed that they share the following objectives:

*  Enhancing relations and pursuing collaborative economic development opportunities with the St’át’imc Nation and communities; and,

*  Creating a resilient and prosperous local economy that attracts a sustainable permanent population of people having employable skills and a desire to contribute to community life.

Rod Louie, CEO of Tsal’alh Development Corporation noted, “This commitment to work together and build mutually beneficial working relationships is important.  As individuals, businesses and government bodies, we have more in common than is often acknowledged. All non-Indigenous signatories to this MOU have worked hard to become aware and to be respectful of the unceded territories of St’at’imc, and other indigenous peoples. “

The signatories intend to collaborate on a number of important initiatives as time and resources permit, including:

*  Building and strengthening relationships with St’át’imc communities;

*  Growing the permanent resident base in the region including families with school aged children;

*  Preserving and protecting cultural and heritage assets;

*  Increasing the supply of long-term housing for purchase and rental

*  Improving road access to the area; and

*  Building and maintaining support for a successful mining industry.

Michael McPhie, Vice President, Sustainability and External Affairs with Talisker Resources commented, “It is an honour for the Talisker and Bralorne Gold Mines team to be a part of this.  We recognize this as unceded territory and that we are guests here.  Our overarching goal is to contribute positively to the well being of the people and communities who call the Bridge River Valley home and being a signatory to this MOU is a symbol of our commitment to that.”  

Charles Daley, Mining Industry consultant for Endurance Gold and Cobalt Energy One states, “The mining industry wishes to operate respectfully and sustainably in the unceded St’at’imc traditional territory. There are many other parties that also depend upon the resources of the Upper Bridge River Valley and contribute to its social, cultural and economic health and vitality – we encourage others to become signatories to the MOU and join us in this journey.”

The MOU text can be viewed here:  https://bit.ly/3kRApd5

Community organizations, individuals and businesses interested in learning more about the MOU, including how to get involved, can contact the Bridge River Valley Community Association at bridgerivervalley@gmail.com or by telephone at (250) 238-2534.   

Wow, my calendar tells me that today is the first day of September and cooler mornings and tacky dirt are certainly making it feel like fall time. Regardless if you are thinking about squeezing as much fall riding in as possible, or are dreaming of snow I’d like you to consider putting one more event into your fall calendars.

We are hosting IMBA Canada trail expert Jay Darby to run a trail development workshop in Gold Bridge/ Bralorne September 24-26. Jay has worked with communities across BC to develop, expand and build world class trails. If you’d like to learn more about Jay, you can read about him here: https://www.wanderingpathconsulting.ca/

Here are three reasons that you should consider attending this workshop:

1. It’s free! Sal Demare from the SLRD has worked to arrange funding to offer this community training at no cost to participants. I should note that the funding has to go through one more approval on September 8th, but we do not expect any issues with this step. 
2. Sunshine Mountain is now a designated Rec Site. This is great news, for many reasons but does come with some additional regulations around trail construction. Any trails on Sunshine will need to meet IMBA or Whistler Trail Standards moving forward. This workshop is focused on developing awesome trail within these standards.
3. We will actually be working on trail. Over 50% of the course will be in the field, working on Alphagetti. So if you like to get dirty and work to make trails more fun, this is the course for you!

The planned dates are Friday evening September 24 and full day September 25, 26. However, this is still subject to funding approval. So please consider this a save the date for now. Everyone is welcome Friday evening for a community hall style presentation. Saturday morning will also be in class and all are welcome. Saturday afternoon and all day Sunday will be in the field and class size limits will apply.

I will also note that while the focus of this course is developing bike trails, the principles discussed are transferable to all trail types. 

We will have copies of the IMBA trail manuals on hand, in the short term I have attached the Whistler trail standards document. 

If you have any questions please let me know. If you are considering attending please respond to this message so I can start a list. There are some capacity limits for the field based parts of the course.

Thank you and I hope you get to ride your bike this week. 

Blake Rowsell, BRA Co-ordinator

Talisker Resources Ltd. has agreed to transfer ownership of the Bralorne Gold Mines maps that date back to the very early stages of exploration in the area and in addition sponsor the work of cataloguing all the maps developed by Bralorne Gold Mines.
Bralorne Gold Mines understands the historic value of these maps and their importance within the community. “We are very excited to work with you on this project! Bralorne Gold Mines is also happy to hear you have received the $2000 donation that is to be put towards this endeavor.” Says Kaitlin James,

Bralorne Gold Mines will transfer the ownership of the map collection to the Bralorne Pioneer Museum, pending the completion of map cataloguing by their geological team. Bralorne Gold Mines will also complete digital copying prior to all maps being transferred. In addition, Bralorne Gold Mines is committed to supplying the Bralorne Pioneer Museum with a digital copy of all maps in the collection that are being transferred.

In the interim, The Bralorne Pioneer Museum will develop a plan to determine how to catalogue, conserve, archive and store the maps. The permanent exhibit and storage of these maps will be part of the restoration of the Bralorne Pioneer Mines Office building.

The Bralorne Pioneer Museum will use the initial $2,000 donation from Talisker Resources and lever it to access other funding that will permit the cataloguing and conservation, estimated to provide employment for at least one summer.

“This is a real historic and valuable project for the Bridge River Valley and the Province of British Columbia,” says Sue Girling, Vice Chair, Heritage Committee. “Bralorne Gold Mines was a provincial and national economic driver for decades. These maps hold significant heritage value for future generations to understand how the richest gold deposits in North America were developed and mined right in this area.”

The Heritage Committee and the Bralorne Pioneer Museum would like to thank Talisker Resources Ltd for recognizing the importance of this valuable heritage asset and supporting the work that needs to be done to conserve this irreplaceable collection.