Chuck Davis’ lasting legacy recognized at library

By

VANCOUVER (NEWS1130) – It’s one last gift to the city he loved so much.  The Chuck Davis History of Metropolitan Vancouver is being launched tonight at the Vancouver Public Library.

The nearly 600-page book is a career capstone for the man often described as the keeper of Vancouver’s historical flame.

Local journalist Allen Garr was asked to step in and help complete the project when Davis revealed he had terminal lung cancer.  The 75-year-old died of the disease in November 2010.

“He did the first 250 years of the history and it took 40 of us to do the last 20 years,” says Garr.  “This is going to survive you, me and a whole lot of people that are around.  This is really a great effort.”

He admits Davis was never rich, but had what he calls incredible social capital around town and figures this book has more photos than any book ever published about the region. 

Part of his job was contacting the City of Vancouver archives, the Vancouver Public Library and Pacific Press.

“It didn’t matter who I phoned, they just said yes.  It was like the community coming together.  Everyone, just, oh my God, it’s like your favourite uncle is going to be leaving soon and you haven’t done enough for him,” said Garr.

Garr will be joined by broadcaster Red Robinson, musician Dal Richards, publisher Howard White, Councillor Heather Deal, and Tourism Vancouver CEO Rick Antonson for the public launch.

Tonight’s event starts at 7 p.m. 

Top Stories

Top Stories

Most Watched Today