Port Harvey facts for kids
Port Harvey is a small, important bay located on the south side of the Cracroft Islands. These islands are found in the Johnstone Strait area, which is part of the beautiful Central Coast region of British Columbia, Canada. This port forms a small inlet just south of the shallow waters that connect West Cracroft and East Cracroft Islands.
A port is a place where ships can safely dock. It's often used for loading and unloading goods or for people to get on and off boats. Port Harvey is a natural harbour, meaning its shape protects ships from strong winds and waves.
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Location and Geography
Port Harvey is nestled among the many islands of the Johnstone Strait. This strait is a narrow passage of water between Vancouver Island and the mainland of British Columbia. The area is known for its stunning natural beauty, including dense forests and rugged coastlines. The waters around Port Harvey are also home to diverse marine life.
Keecekiltum Indian Reserve No. 2
On the eastern shore of Port Harvey, you will find Keecekiltum Indian Reserve No. 2. This reserve covers about 11.7 hectares (which is about 29 acres). An Indian Reserve is land set aside for the use and benefit of First Nations people in Canada.
This specific reserve is governed by the Tlowitsis Nation. The Tlowitsis are one of the many groups that make up the Kwakwaka'wakw peoples. The Kwakwaka'wakw are Indigenous people who have lived in the coastal areas of British Columbia for thousands of years. They have a rich culture and history tied to the land and sea.
How Port Harvey Got Its Name
Port Harvey was named by Captain George Henry Richards. He was a British naval officer and hydrographer. A hydrographer is someone who surveys and maps bodies of water. Captain Richards explored and mapped many parts of the British Columbia coast in the mid-1800s.
He named the port after Captain Harvey of the ship HMS Havannah. The HMS Havannah was a Royal Navy ship. Naming places after important people or ships was a common practice during the time of exploration. This helped to record the history of the expeditions.
Images for kids
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Timber awaiting shipment in Port Harvey
