Fishermen’s Tales

Rick ‘the Hippie’ James’ Photo Collection at Sointula Museum

Explore Sointula’s 1970s maritime charm

Sointula Museum is delighted to share an exciting addition to our collection – 17 captivating photographs generously donated by Rick “the Hippie” James. These images offer a unique perspective on life in Sointula during the 1970s and 80s, particularly focusing on Rick’s time spent fishing in the area.

We extend our gratitude to Rick “the Hippie” James for this invaluable donation, which preserves the rich history of Sointula’s fishing community. The full collection is currently on exhibit at the Sointula Museum. We are pleased to share five of these photographs for online viewing (see below). Each image tells a story, capturing the essence of a bygone era when Sointula’s maritime community thrived.

I was most content to remain doing so since I much enjoyed sitting out at the end of the net, what with it being so quiet and peaceful. This was back when the skiff was still driven by oars and not by outboard engines.

Rick James

Maritime Camaraderie and Adventure

Rick arrived in Sointula in 1974, settling into a pioneer log cabin overlooking the tidal flats of Rough Bay. His journey into the local fishing scene began when he secured a position as a skiffman on seiners.

One of his first jobs was starting with the “Millionaires” before later joining the crew of the “Cape Ross” under the guidance of Lawry Stauffer, Rick. His adventures continued with the “Chief Tapeet” and the “Johnstone Straits,” working alongside friendly faces like Robert Belveal. Rick’s time on the water came to a close around 1985 or 1986, marking the end of a chapter filled with camaraderie and maritime adventure.

Rick James is a writer, maritime historian, and photographer. He can reached through his website rickjamesauthor.ca.

Photo: Sointula seiners anchored out on the spot, circa 1970s-80s. Photograph by Rick James. Sointula Museum Collection.

Photo: Gerald’s screw up on the Mermaid, on the North Shore (mainland side of Malcolm Island), circa 1970-80s. Photograph taken by Rick James.

Photo: Net mending at the breakwater. Summer 1985. Photograph by Rick James. Sointula Museum Collection.

Photo: Lorrie Belveal mending nets, circa 1970s-80s in Sointula. Photograph by Rick James. Sointula Museum Collection.

Photo: Tony Anderson getting it running, circa 1970s-80s in Sointula. Photograph by Rick James. Sointula Museum Collection.

Photo: Rick James in a skiff, 1970s. Sointula Museum Collection.

plan your visit

Every journey to Sointula begins and ends with a boat trip – it’s part of the adventure!