Joe arrived in Vancouver in circa 1885/1886; he was about 20 years old. He initially worked as a bartender but spent many hours at English Bay – taking it upon himself to be THE informal swimming teacher and lifeguard. In 1910 the City of Vancouver recognized Joe as an official lifeguard, employed and paid by the City.
*1986: To celebrate Vancouver’s centennial; Vancouver Historical Society formally declares Joe as “Vancouver Citizen of the Century” Joe’s story
Commemorative stamp was issued in 2013.
