Old Hastings Mill Store Museum

At 1575 Alma Street, near the water in Vancouver’s Point Grey area, the Old Hastings Mill Store Museum occupies the city’s oldest surviving building. Built in 1865, the wooden store was moved from the Hastings Mill site to its present location in 1930. Inside, look for objects from Vancouver’s early days, including typewriters, cameras, sewing machines and cannons; a second-floor collection displays historical clothing when volunteers are available. The museum also holds events, and nearby Hastings Mill Park and Jericho Park make it easy to extend your visit outdoors.

A store from Vancouver’s early days

The wooden building was constructed in 1865 for the Hastings Mill settlement, which grew around the sawmill near what is now Gastown. The store stood at the foot of Dunlevy Street and served the community connected to the mill. It is the oldest surviving building in Vancouver.

The building lived through the Great Vancouver Fire of June 13, 1886. In 1930, it was moved from the Hastings Mill site to Alma Street, near Point Grey Road. Its present-day setting is close to the water and Hastings Mill Park.

Objects and clothing on display

The museum’s exhibits bring together objects from Vancouver’s past, including typewriters, cameras, sewing machines and cannons. First Nations artifacts and stories are also part of the collection. Look for early photographs and other items connected to the region’s logging and industrial history.

Historical clothing is displayed upstairs, including pieces from Ivan Sayers’ collection. Access to the second floor depends on volunteer availability, so the clothing display may not be open during every visit. The museum is run by volunteers, and events such as workshops and movie nights are held there; check the museum’s website or social media for current details.