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Gastown Steam Clock

VancouverAttractionlandmark
Gastown Steam Clock
Photo: photo source

A compact 1977 clock uses steam and electric mechanisms to animate Water Street, turning a practical neighborhood project into Vancouver’s best-known street landmark.

Guide's tip. Listen once, then look past the clock. Its whistles are memorable, but the brick street, loading work and changing neighborhood explain why it belongs here.

On a walking tour. Stop 2 of 9 on the walking tour Vancouver, harbour to the museum, every stop on a map in walking order.

about 20 min for a visit

The story

The Gastown Steam Clock was installed in 1977 during a period when Water Street and its surrounding district were being renewed. Clockmaker Raymond Saunders designed the street clock around a steam mechanism, though electric components also help it keep time and perform reliably.

Its whistles and moving parts make it easy to mistake novelty for age. The clock is younger than many surrounding brick buildings, yet it became part of Gastown’s identity because it gathers people at a precise point in the street.

Listen for one performance, then widen your view. Notice shopfronts, upper windows, paving and delivery work around the crowd. The clock stands outdoors and has no admission or posted closing time. Keep sidewalks and business entrances open while you look.

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