BC Heritage Sites Survey – The Langham in Kaslo

BC Heritage Sites • December 5, 2024

During World War II, Kaslo became home to approximately 1,100 Canadians of Japanese descent. Approximately 80 people lived in the Langham building. In 1988 the Village of Kaslo became the first municipality in Canada to formally apologize to the Japanese Canadians who were interned in their community during the war.

The Japanese Canadian Museum at the Langham was formally opened in 1993, keeping alive the stories of the Japanese Canadians, as well as other initiatives that educate and celebrate the varied history of the area.

The Japanese Canadian Museum is a self-guided archival display that is open year-round to the public. The display includes artifacts, photographs, and story-boards. The sleeping quarters of the six members of the Konno family has been recreated on the third floor.

The Langham Restoration and Museum modernization project is a comprehensive initiative aimed at preserving and enhancing the historical significance of The Langham, a cherished heritage site. The project encompasses interior renovations, much-needed building updates, and a refresh of the museum exhibits including modernization and content expansion.

A survey has been created to assist The Langham in updating the exhibits with community input. Your input will help shape the future of The Langham’s Japanese Canadian Museum and ensure it continues to be meaningful and enriching for all visitors. This survey should take no longer than 15 minutes to complete.

L–R: Russell Precious, Langham Cultural Society Board President; Carolyn Nakagawa; Charissa Hoppenbrouwers, Executive Director; Paul VanDeurson, Contractor; Chris Temple, Heritage Construction Advisor
Sleeping quarters of the six members of the Konno family.

Japanese Canadian Legacies are initiatives that honour our elders past and present. We are grateful to be doing this work on the ancestral lands of the Coast Salish peoples.