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Gastown Steam Clock Down for Repairs

by Rebecca Bollwitt

Earlier this week, one of the most photographed and visited landmarks in Vancouver was removed for repairs. The Gastown Steam Clock, piping out melodies on the corner of Cambie and Water streets since 1977, has been taken to the fabrication shop at Manitoba Yards for the next 8 weeks.

According to the City of Vancouver, “The mechanical moving parts of the Steam Clock’s device for loading the metal balls have worn over the last 37 years and can no longer be reliably maintained. Mechanical failures have been a common occurrence in the past year, and the proposed repairs to the ball loading device will restore reliability to the Steam Clock while maintaining its historical integrity.”

Gastown Steam Clock
Photo credit: Patrick Lundgren on Flickr

With cruise ship season winding down, it was a good times for crews to work on the Gastown Steam Clock. Its steam vent-powered whistle will return in time for the busy Christmas season.

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