History
Anmore got its name from a local homesteader, F.J. Lancaster, who combined the names of his wife (Annie) and his daughter (Leonore) to make "Annore." This evolved into the village's current name.
Anmore officially became a Village on December 7, 1987. Municipal elections were held shortly after, producing the first council with Hal Weinberg as Mayor and Harry Anderson, Jim Jones, Leo Stroh, and Gary Tremblay as Councillors. Anmore's municipal affairs were initially administered out of a trailer situated at the corner of Sunnyside and East Roads. In 1988, the Village was able to rescue the former dwelling of "Ma" and George Murray from the wrecking ball. With the assistance of the provincial government, the Village was able to purchase the land while the owners, the Smurthwaites, donated the structure to the Village.
The heritage home has provided a splendid municipal hall for the Village while sparing the cost of planning and building a new structure. The building houses a museum that serves as a focus for the Murray's legacy and Anmore's heritage.
Location
Anmore is a small community in the Greater Vancouver Regional District, north of the city of Port Moody and along the shores of the Indian Arm. With a population of roughly 1,800, it is one of three politically independent villages in the greater Vancouver area - the others being its neighbour Belcarra, and Lions Bay.
From Port Moody, Anmore can be accessed via both East Road and Sunnyside Road. A shuttle bus also runs through the village from Port Moody Station.
Places to See
- Buntzen Lake
Buntzen Lake is a popular lake in the Vancouver area, north of Coquitlam and Port Moody. It offers boating, a beach, picnicking, fishing, and hiking. Of the three circular trails, Diez Vistas is the longest (15 kilometres) and most strenuous, but commands the best view of the lake and Vancouver. It takes about 5 hours. The other two trails are the Buntzen Lake Trail (easiest) and Lake View Trail. The trails all begin at the southeast corner of the parking lot.
- Belcarra Park
Oceanfront beaches, mudflats, and a unique floating walkway around Sasamat Lake give the park an unusual variety. The wharf is ideal for crabbing, fishing, and scuba diving.
- CPR Station
This restored 1907 railway station in Port Moody is the focal point of the annual Golden Spike Festival. Rocky Point Park, also in Port Moody, features a boat launch ramp, pier, outdoor pool, playgrounds, walking trails, and paved paths for biking and rollerblading.
- Maillardville
Coquitlam's French quarter, the oldest francophone settlement in the Lower Mainland. Place des Arts offers painting, weaving and pottery, and residents stage an annual Festival du Bois.
- PoCo Trail
In Port Coquitlam, the trail takes you along the Coquitlam and Pitt Rivers past waterfowl nesting grounds, logbooms, and mills.
Things to Do
- Hiking
Whether you are planning a short stroll through a coastal lowland rainforest or a more adventurous hike into the surrounding mountains, the Buntzen Lake area offers a hiking trail to suit you. There are numerous trail loops to follow, depending on your time and fitness level. Plan to be back at the parking lot 45 minutes before the recreation area closes.
- Canoeing
Gently drift through Buntzen Lake while enjoying the beautiful scenery. Canoe rentals are available at the Anmore Store located on Sunnyside Road.
- Picnic with the Family
Bring the family out for a relaxing picnic at Buntzen Lake. Picnic tables, shelters, and grass play areas are available.
Events
- Golden Spike Days
Synonymous with the City of Port Moody, Golden Spike Days combines great food, fun entertainment and an amazing atmosphere during the Canada Day long weekend. One of the Tri-City area's most popular events, Golden Spike Days offers a little something for everyone.
- Festival of the Arts
For ten days, Festival of the Arts creative performances and exhibits are combined with unique workshops and hands-on activities that expose Port Moody residents to a colourful roster of local and Canadian artists.
Contact Information
Village of Anmore
2697 Sunnyside Road
Anmore, BC V3H5G9
Telephone: (604) 469-9877
Fax: (604) 469-0537
E-Mail: village.hall@anmore.com
Website: www.anmore.com
