Let’s head back to the 1965 pages of the Delta Optimist and check out the grand opening of the first camera and hobby shop in Tsawwassen.
According to the article in May of that year, co-owners Ed Kirkland and Mrs. Cec Dwight were celebrating the opening of the Tsawwassen Camera and Hobby Centre at the Tsawwassen Shopping Centre.
In addition to an ample selection of hobby supplies, games and small toys, the shop would feature camera sales and repairs as well as film processing.
Kirkland would continue to also operate Ed’s Cameras and Hobby Shop in Ladner.
His parents, Mr. and Mrs. John Kirkland, were one of the first families to settle in the Ladner area, having arrived before construction of dikes when the area was primarily marshland.
Ed’s interest in photography progressed from hobby stage to professional as his proficiency with the camera improved.
The article also noted he was fond of young people and spent much time with them.
A longtime school bus driver, for several years he conducted model and hobby classes during the winter months.
“He expressed the hope that under the auspices of the new shop, classes may be formed to offer instruction in various crafts and hobbies for adults as well as children,” the article stated.
