Biography - Opening Day at Kitsilano Pool- Circa 1931                                    < Back to Gallery 

Named after a Chief of the Squamish Nation Khahtsahlanough, Kitsilano has the distinction of being the 2nd most recognized neighbourhood in Canada.  One of the areas first non native settlers was Sam Greer, an Irishman who had been an unsuccessful gold prospector in the Cariboo.  In 1882, Sam claimed to have bought 160 acres, bounded by Trafalger St., First Avenue and the beach.  He moved his wife and daughter to a small cabin at the present site of Kits Pool.
His land claims were never recognized by the C.P.R, in 1889 they began proceedings to prove his claim was worthless and the railway had legal title.  The C.P.R was given authority to evict Sam and sent in the Sheriff.  Sam grazed the Sheriff with buckshot and was convicted of common assault in 1891.
Greer Street commemorates this colourful early citizen.