Bowen’s diverse cultural tapestry is woven by the stories of those who have helped to carefully shape it over the years. Whether it is memories of farming the land, selling milk bottles on the way to school, standing up in front of development bulldozers, or creating a public park, they have all molded Bowen into a unique place. There is a story behind everything and everyone.
Copies of two beautiful biographies have recently blessed the Bowen Island Museum and Archives. Journey to Annie’s Landing: Stories from the Life of Joan Violet Billington Tennant delicately weaves Joan’s family-oriented tales to craft a complete memoir beginning with her roots and ending with her loving family today. A lifetime of memories and experiences are collected, providing a glimpse into the Happy Isle steamship days, experiences of living in Davies Orchard and residing alongside the busy resort. Days spent skating on the lagoon, playing at the Union Steamship’s annual tennis tournament, and sneaking through the doors of the dance pavilion to dance the night away make up Joan’s beautiful story.
Leaving a lasting legacy on Bowen, Maggie Cumming’s love for the island and its nature are captured in the Bowen Island Community Foundation’s publishing of Maggie’s Story. Old photographs and unforgettable anecdotes weave together Maggie’s remarkable life. Her influential dedication to a number of organizations on the island has had a lasting impact. Quarry Park, the perimeter trail around the golf course, and the municipal Headwaters Park were all spearheaded by her tireless efforts. These beautiful parks that have become a part of the island’s identity were at one point a trial to lay down, but one that Maggie never gave up on.
The Museum & Archives is thankful for the donations of these two biographies to the collections. We are grateful to be able to preserve and share their stories with family, friends, and the community for years to come.
