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History Center to open in Point Roberts

The Point Roberts Historical Society has set Saturday, Aug. 31 to open the Point Roberts History Center, a space which enables local residents and visitors to learn the history of a unique community.
point roberts history center
Point Roberts History Center will be opened on Aug. 31. The area has a rich history of fishing.

The Point Roberts Historical Society has set Saturday, Aug. 31 to open the Point Roberts History Center, a space which enables local residents and visitors to learn the history of a unique community.  

“The Point Roberts History Center is the realization of a long dream to have a space where the historical society can showcase its collection of historical artifacts, documents, photos and multimedia assets for the community,” said society president Jessica McVey.

 

 

Point Roberts is famous for being an exclave, requiring travel through Canada to reach it from the U.S. mainland. It has been home to a rich history of fishing, smuggling, piracy and squatting.  Its cavernous taverns, public parks, sandy beaches and narrow lanes of cottages have been used for recreation by generations of locals and Canadians who grew up spending summers at Point Roberts.

“The history of Point Roberts is unlike any other in the region,” said Mark Swenson, author of Point Roberts Backstory, a recent book about the history of the exclave. “Having a history center will enable us to share the amazing stories which make our community so unique and worth visiting.”

A grand opening celebration will be held at the Point Roberts Community Center (1437 Gulf Rd.) at 10 a.m. An open house follows from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Refreshments will be served.

Founded in 1982, the Point Roberts Historical Society seeks to preserve and promote Point Roberts’ rich history. The society meets monthly, hosts historical events and publishes a newsletter.