On December 31, 2024, a fire tore through Telegraph Cove, a historic village on northern Vancouver Island, destroying key landmarks and disrupting the regional economy. Despite having just 20 year-round residents, Telegraph Cove is a powerhouse of sustainable tourism, drawing 120,000 visitors annually. The village’s boardwalk, heritage buildings, and Whale Interpretive Centre made it a cornerstone of the North Island’s economy, generating an estimated $18 million in tourist spending. The benefits extend far beyond Telegraph Cove, with nearby communities like Port McNeill, Alert Bay, and Sointula relying on this influx of visitors to support local businesses, tour operators, and artisans.
The destruction of the Whale Interpretive Centre—a hub for marine education and conservation—has been especially devastating. Known for its collection of marine mammal skeletons, including rare and unique specimens, the centre attracted 25,000 visitors a year. Its loss not only impacts tourism but also the broader mission of marine stewardship, which brought global recognition to the village. Jim and Mary Borrowman, the centre’s founders, are spearheading efforts to raise $1 million to rebuild the facility, emphasizing its importance to education, conservation, and the regional economy.
Port McNeill Town Councillor Shelley Downey highlighted the widespread economic impact, saying “For our area, we’re not just losing the first time visitors, we get a lot of repeat visitors to the area and that impacts not just the Cove but Port Hardy, Port McNeill, Alert Bay, Sointula, there’s a spin off for everybody so the economic impact will be significant.” Without the village’s draw, surrounding areas face significant financial strain.
Amid the shock, the community has united to rebuild and preserve Telegraph Cove’s vital role in the region’s economy. A fundraiser has been set up to help the village rebuild. Owners Gordie and Marilyn Graham, whose life’s work was tied to the resort, have committed to restoring the village in time for the next tourist season. “We’re going to do our best to restore everything back to normal,” said Graham, reflecting the determination shared by many to see Telegraph Cove thrive once again.
The fire’s aftermath underscores the economic significance of this tiny village, whose influence extends across northern Vancouver Island. Telegraph Cove’s story is one of collective effort, where its recovery will safeguard not only its unique heritage but also the livelihoods of countless people who depend on its success.
To learn more, check out this story on The Skeena.
