In 1886, the first city council of the burgeoning port city of Vancouver
petitioned the Federal Government for the lease of an undeveloped 1000 acre peninsula
from Burrard Inlet to English Bay. Prior to that time, the area went through a succession
of uses, including Government occupation against possible US invasion and logging.
In 1889, Lord Stanley of Preston, the 6th Governor General of Canada, officially dedicated
the park as a public space "To the use and enjoyment of people of all colours, creeds
and customs for all time." Since that time, the park has been leased for $1.00 a year
from the Federal Government of Canada and is run by the Vancouver Board of Parks and
Recreation.
In 1929, the popularity of the park motivated the Vancouver Board of Parks and Recreation
to create amenities to accompany the increasing usage of the area. In 1930, this building
was erected, known as the Sports Pavilion, and was opened as a club house for use by
the local golfers and tennis players. From 1949 to 1974 it was known as the Third Beach
Tea Room and from 1974 to 1990 as the Beach House. Since 1990, it has been known as The
Fish House in Stanley Park.
Whether motivated by foresight or serendipity, the request of our cities' founding Fathers
ultimately resulted in the creation and preservation of one of the worlds' most beautiful
green spaces and, North America's third largest urban park.
For 18 years The Fish House in Stanley Park has endeavored to provide the atmosphere,
product and service worthy of this beautiful and historically significant park, and we
hope you will enjoy your evening with us.
