The announcement that the new civic building in New Westminster was to be named the "Anvil Centre" triggered many comments. We think that it is an interesting symbolic choice linking to the early town and its industries, as well as to the aspects of solidity and strength.
Historically, a blacksmith was an extremely important person whose skills related to many parts of life and the anvil was an ever-present tool. From weapons to household items to horseshoes and hundreds of other things, the blacksmith and the anvil were there.
In New Westminster, blacksmiths were involved with livery stables, steamboats, canneries, the Royal Engineers' camp and more. A wonderful example of the blacksmith's shop being a focal point of a town is the old smithy in southern Scotland's Gretna Green, which to this day, is a special place for couples to marry while standing near the anvil.
In our town, we have noted comments about the early fire brigade, their horse teams and the fact that there was often a person skilled in blacksmithing connected to the group, not only to tend to the horses' needs, but also to create or repair the firefighting tools such as pry bars, wedges and hammers.
In a number of instances in New Westminster, people removing an old garage or digging in a back yard have come across piles of old horseshoes and nails. After some research, they have discovered that a former owner was a blacksmith.
In New Westminster any reference to an anvil will almost immediately bring comments and connections about the Ancient and Honourable Hyack Anvil Battery which fires regal and vice-regal salutes focusing especially on Victoria Day in May.
Since the city's announcement of the name of its new building, there have been many comments about the battery and its history and while the battery appreciates the recognition, the building name is for an "anvil," not the Anvil Battery. The battery is working to complete a lengthy search for information related to its history in order to clarify some aspects of its history and to correct some lingering pieces of misinformation.
Many comments continue to be made about the start of the battery: a lack of cannons, the first Victoria Day, the name, and much more. The upcoming history will clarify all these misconceptions.
The history of the Hyack Anvil Battery is a great one, but for now, we are happy that the new civic building will carry the solid name of "anvil."
