Where Vancouver June 2018 | Page 19

Gastown Steam Clock raymond Saunders water Street at caMbIe one of the city’s most-photographed attractions, Gastown’s famed steam clock (page 71) charms visitors with its steam-and-whistle display. it was created by Canadian clockmaker Raymond Saunders, and is one of the first of its kind ever built. Designed to match the historic surroundings, the clock’s antiquated appearance belies its youth—it was only in 1977 when it was first revealed to a (polyester- clad) crowd of onlookers. And there’s another trick up its sleeve: electric motors help keep the time, though steam still powers the chimes. But it’s more than bells and whistles. The clock marks a powerful turning point in the neighbourhood’s history and subsequent revival. PhoTo ©SSuNi/iSToCk.Com June 2018 where.ca 19