New Westminster's Historic Symbols

New Westminster's Historic Symbols

After a whirlwind month celebrating our son's passion for FIFA—and Spain's incredible World Cup victory—we finally had time to dive back into what we love most: creating handcrafted pieces that honour the landmarks and stories of New Westminster.

This summer, we've been busy bringing some of our city's most iconic symbols to life through 3D printing and design. Each piece tells a story about the neighbourhoods and infrastructure that make New Westminster special, and we're thrilled to share what we've been working on.

The WOW Westminster Container Ship

One of our most exciting additions is a keychain inspired by the WOW Westminster, a container ship that has become synonymous with our city's maritime heritage. New Westminster's connection to the water runs deep—the city was founded as a port town on the Fraser River, and the WOW Westminster represents the modern continuation of that legacy. This sleek, detailed keychain captures the essence of the vessel that locals see regularly along the river, making it a perfect everyday reminder of our waterfront roots.

Neighbourhood Street Sign Magnets

We've also created a collection of magnets featuring some of New Westminster's most beloved neighbourhoods, each designed with authentic street sign styling. The collection includes:

  • Sapperton — one of the city's oldest and most charming residential areas
  • Glenbrooke North — known for its tree-lined streets and community spirit
  • Queen's Park — home to the iconic Queen's Park and vibrant local culture
  • Brow of the Hill — offering stunning views and historic character
  • Moody Park — a neighbourhood rich in history and green space

These magnets are perfect for anyone who calls New Westminster home or wants to celebrate the city's distinct neighbourhoods. They're ideal for fridges, lockers, or anywhere you want to display your local pride.

The Crosstown Greenway Keychain

For those of us who commute through the city daily, we've created a special keychain inspired by the Crosstown Greenway—the bike lane that connects communities and makes active transportation accessible to everyone. This piece celebrates the infrastructure that keeps our city moving sustainably and reminds us of the importance of green spaces and cycling routes in urban life.

A Brief History of New Westminster

New Westminster holds a unique place in Canadian history. Founded in 1858 by Queen Victoria herself, it was chosen as the capital of the newly created Crown Colony of British Columbia. The city's name reflects its royal designation, and it quickly became a vital hub for trade, transportation, and settlement in the Pacific Northwest.

Throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, New Westminster thrived as a port city. The Fraser River became its lifeblood, supporting logging, fishing, and shipping industries that shaped the region's economy. The city's waterfront remains central to its identity, with the river continuing to play an important role in commerce and recreation.

Today, New Westminster blends its rich heritage with modern urban development. Historic neighbourhoods like Sapperton and Queen's Park stand alongside contemporary infrastructure like the Crosstown Greenway, creating a community that honours its past while building toward the future. The city's commitment to preserving its landmarks and celebrating its history makes it a special place to live, work, and create.

Each piece we design is our way of saying thank you to this city and its people. Whether it's a keychain, magnet, or wall decor, we hope our creations help you celebrate the places and symbols that make New Westminster home.