Vancouver, one of Canada’s most vibrant and cosmopolitan cities, is renowned worldwide for its stunning natural beauty and dynamic urban culture. Yet, before it became the bustling metropolis we know today, Vancouver was known by a very different name, reflecting its early history and the indigenous roots of the region.
Understanding what the first name of Vancouver was reveals a fascinating story of indigenous presence, colonial exploration, and the evolution of place names in Canada. This journey through time highlights how the city’s identity has been shaped by both its original inhabitants and the waves of settlers who came later.
The city’s initial name tells us much about the cultural and geographical significance of the area long before it adopted the name Vancouver. It invites us to explore the layers of history that are often hidden behind the modern city’s skyline and to appreciate the rich tapestry of stories that contribute to its unique character.
This exploration also underscores the importance of names and naming in preserving heritage and recognizing the contributions of those who lived on these lands long before the city’s official establishment.
The Indigenous Roots of Vancouver’s First Name
Before Vancouver bore its current name, the land was home to Indigenous peoples whose languages and place names deeply connected them to the environment. The original names given to the area reflect this intimate relationship and offer insight into the cultural and spiritual significance of the region.
The Coast Salish peoples, including the Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh Nations, have inhabited the Vancouver area for thousands of years. Their languages provided the earliest known names for the land and waterways that make up present-day Vancouver.
One of the most prominent original names associated with the area is “xʷməθkʷəy̓əm”, the Musqueam name for the land around the Fraser River delta. This name is rich in meaning and reflects the close ties between the people and their environment.
Significance of Indigenous Place Names
- Connection to Nature: Indigenous names often describe natural features, such as rivers, mountains, and forests.
- Cultural Identity: Names carry stories, histories, and spiritual meanings important to the communities.
- Language Preservation: These names are key to maintaining and revitalizing Indigenous languages.
“Place names are not just labels but living stories that connect us to the land and its ancestors.” – Indigenous Linguist
European Exploration and Early Naming
When European explorers arrived in the late 18th century, they encountered the Indigenous names but often recorded their own versions or assigned new names to the land. This period marked the beginning of a shift in the identity of the area, influenced by colonial ambitions and mapping practices.
In 1792, British Captain George Vancouver sailed into what is now Burrard Inlet, laying the groundwork for future settlement. While the local Indigenous names remained in use among the native peoples, European maps and documents started to reflect the explorers’ naming choices.
Early European maps referred to the area with names linked to geographical features or after notable figures from Europe, setting the stage for the eventual adoption of “Vancouver” as the city’s name.
Early European Names
- Burrard’s Inlet: Named after Sir Harry Burrard-Neale, a British naval officer.
- New Georgia: A brief colonial name considered for the area.
- Granville: The name of the settlement that later became Vancouver.
The Settlement of Granville: Vancouver’s Original European Name
Before Vancouver was officially called Vancouver, the settlement in the area was known as Granville. This name was used during the mid-19th century, especially around the time of the arrival of the Canadian Pacific Railway.
Granville was originally a small logging and sawmill settlement located at the mouth of the Fraser River. It served as a key point for resource extraction and transportation, attracting settlers and workers who laid the foundation for what would become a major urban center.
The name Granville derived from Granville Townsite, named in honor of Granville Leveson-Gower, 2nd Earl Granville, a British statesman. This name was commonly used until the late 19th century when the decision was made to rename the city to reflect its broader ambitions and connections.
Granville’s Development
- Logging Industry: The sawmill operations were central to the settlement’s economy.
- Transportation Hub: Granville’s location made it a natural point for shipping and railroads.
- Community Growth: Early infrastructure and housing emerged in this period.
“Granville was more than a name; it was the seed from which the modern city of Vancouver grew.” – Local historian
The Transition from Granville to Vancouver
As the settlement expanded, its leaders sought a name that would better represent the city’s identity and future prospects. The name Vancouver was chosen in 1886, honoring Captain George Vancouver, who had explored and mapped the region decades earlier.
This renaming coincided with the city’s incorporation and a shift toward becoming a major economic and cultural hub in British Columbia. The change marked a new chapter while still paying homage to the explorers who played a role in opening the region to settlement.
The choice of “Vancouver” reflected the city’s growing importance in trade, transportation, and industry, and helped establish its brand on the national and global stage.
Reasons for the Name Change
- Recognition of Exploration: Celebrated Captain George Vancouver’s contributions.
- City Incorporation: Marked the official founding of Vancouver as a municipality.
- Marketing and Identity: Aimed to create a recognizable and prestigious name.
Comparison of Early Names: Indigenous vs. European
The first names of Vancouver reflect two distinct cultural perspectives: Indigenous and European. Each name carries different meanings and values, illustrating the complex history of the region.
| Name | Origin | Meaning/Significance | Time Period |
| xʷməθkʷəy̓əm | Musqueam Nation (Indigenous) | Land of the Musqueam people, connected to river and nature | Pre-contact to present |
| Granville | British Colonial | Named after a British official, reflecting colonial influence | Mid-1800s to 1886 |
| Vancouver | British Colonial | Named for Captain George Vancouver, British explorer | 1886 to present |
The Importance of Names in Cultural Identity
Names are more than simple labels; they are powerful symbols of heritage, identity, and history. The evolution of Vancouver’s name from Indigenous terms to colonial names and finally its current form reflects broader themes of cultural interaction and change.
Recognizing the original Indigenous names alongside the European names helps us appreciate the depth of history and the ongoing efforts toward reconciliation and cultural respect.
In recent years, there has been a growing movement to revive and honor Indigenous place names, acknowledging their importance in telling the true stories of the land and its people.
Efforts to Restore Indigenous Names
- Educational Initiatives: Schools teaching Indigenous languages and place names.
- Public Signage: Bilingual signs featuring Indigenous names alongside English ones.
- Government Policies: Support for Indigenous naming in official records.
“Restoring Indigenous names is a step toward healing and recognizing the true history of this land.” – Cultural advocate
Vancouver Today: A City Embracing Its Diverse Heritage
Modern Vancouver is a vibrant city that embraces both its Indigenous roots and its colonial past. The city’s diverse population and commitment to cultural inclusivity are reflected in its recognition of original place names and support for Indigenous communities.
Vancouver’s story is one of transformation and resilience, where the layers of history converge to create a unique urban identity. The city’s first name, once spoken in Indigenous languages, continues to resonate in the names of neighborhoods, rivers, and cultural institutions.
Understanding Vancouver’s original name enriches our appreciation of the city and encourages us to engage with its history in a more meaningful way. If you’re interested in learning about names and their origins, exploring topics like how to pick a new name or how unique is my name?
might offer some fascinating insights.
Preserving History Through Names: What We Can Learn
The story of Vancouver’s first name teaches us the importance of names in preserving history and respecting cultural heritage. Names carry the power to connect us with the past, shape our present identity, and influence how future generations understand their roots.
By acknowledging the original names given by Indigenous peoples, we honor their enduring presence and contributions. At the same time, understanding the later European names provides context for the city’s development and transformation.
This dual perspective invites ongoing reflection about identity, history, and respect for diverse cultures. It reminds us that names are living legacies, deserving of recognition and care.
| Aspect | Indigenous Name | European Name |
| Cultural Significance | Deep spiritual and environmental connection | Recognition of explorers and officials |
| Usage | Used by Indigenous communities | Used in official documents and maps |
| Legacy | Language preservation and heritage | City identity and branding |
For those curious about the nuances of names and their meanings, resources like Is Dylan a Unisex Name? Meaning, Origin, and Popularity provide excellent explorations of how names evolve and influence identity across cultures.
Ultimately, the first name of Vancouver serves as a reminder of the layered and dynamic history that shapes every place. It encourages us to look beyond the surface and appreciate the stories embedded in the names that surround us.
