Charles Gowen

Charles Gowen, Esq. As the Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of British Columbia in 1879, Charles Gowen presided over the laying of the cornerstone at the site of the new I.O.O.F. Hall on Douglas Street. The success of Charles Gowen as a Lodge official was mirrored by his success as a businessman and municipal leader. Gowen founded the Phoenix Brewing Company in 1868, which survived him after his death in 1892; the New Year paper for 1893 remarked that Phoenix beer was invading the market at the peril of imported liquor. In addition to distilling a profitable business, Gowen was noted for his contribution as alderman for Yates street ward and his position as President of the volunteer fire department.

About the Ceremony
About the Cornerstone
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