The Yale Historic Site Story
Establishing A Provincial Site
For generations, the Yale Historic Site has stood as a testament to a defining chapter in British Columbia’s history. Acquired by the Province of British Columbia in the 1980s, this collection of historic buildings and artifacts preserves the story of a town that witnessed the Fraser River Gold Rush, a short-lived war, cultural exchanges, and the evolution of a growing nation.
Forager Foundation: Site Manager
The Yale Historic Site is managed by Forager Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to preserving and promoting natural and cultural heritage through the management and co-management of at-risk heritage sites. With a focus on innovation, the foundation ensures that history remains accessible and engaging for visitors while safeguarding its legacy for future generations.
Anderson Guerrero
Finance & Operations Manager
Anderson Guerrero brings extensive financial and operations expertise from multinational companies. Originally from Colombia, he is a trained accountant with a passion for heritage. As a newcomer to Canada, Anderson is dedicated to modernizing and enhancing Yale’s historic and cultural experiences for all visitors.
Site Governance
Forager Foundation operates through an on-site team and its volunteer board of directors. With the Yale Historic Site, Forager Foundation operates under provincial government approval, overseeing its management and programs. In alignment with reconciliation and community engagement, we work closely with local First Nations and descendants of the Chinese and settler communities. This collaborative approach ensures the site reflects diverse perspectives and honours its rich, multi-faceted history.
Board of Directors
Bryce Mathew Watts
Erika Brown
Jordan Hanna
Lesley Wimmer
Our Mission & Vision
Mission:
The Yale Historic Site is dedicated to preserving, interpreting, and expanding the narrative of Yale’s rich history by bringing forward the diverse voices and experiences that shaped the region. We are committed to sharing the stories of Indigenous communities and non-European settlers who have often been left out of the Gold Rush narrative. Through interactive exhibits, immersive storytelling, and sustainable heritage practices, we strive to create an engaging and educational space where all visitors can connect with the past in meaningful ways.
Vision:
Our vision is to transform the Yale Historic Site into a dynamic, inclusive, and sustainable cultural destination. We aspire to modernize the site with interactive experiences that make history accessible and engaging for all. By prioritizing environmental sustainability, with the goal of becoming carbon neutral, and fostering deeper connections with historically underrepresented communities, we will ensure Yale’s history is preserved, celebrated, and relevant for generations to come.
Collaborations
At the Yale Historic Site, we are honoured to collaborate with key partners who enrich our programs and ensure diverse perspectives are represented:
Yale First Nation: Partnering to integrate Indigenous heritage and cultural practices into the site’s narrative, enhancing our understanding of the region’s first peoples.
Spuzzum First Nation: Working together to highlight the historical and ongoing contributions of the Spuzzum community, fostering greater cultural awareness and connection.
Boston Bar First Nation: Collaborating to share and celebrate the rich traditions and history of the Boston Bar community, deepening the historical context of the site.
Chawathil First Nation: Engaging with the Chawathil people to incorporate their stories and heritage, ensuring their historical significance is recognized and honoured.
Descendants Of The On Lee Family: Partnering to preserve and present the Chinese community’s contributions to Yale’s history, reflecting their role in the Gold Rush era and beyond.
These collaborations help us provide a more inclusive and comprehensive representation of Yale’s diverse history.
