3537 W 30th Ave

3537 West 30th Avenue, also known as the Haigler House, is a unique Craftsman home featuring a large amount of natural cut granite that makes up the foundation, posts and siding as well as the property fence. This home now stands out on this block as the only existing pre-1950 home.

Permits for the property were originally obtained in 1920 by Y. F. Haigler, with designs and building by George. F. Haigler, a broker at 138 Water Street. In 1925 the house was built for $5,000. Mary Heigler, George’s wife, lived here until 1939. Following that, residents included Clarence G. Campbell, a physician, and his wife, Marion.

This home was close to demolition in the early 1990s as a developer who purchased the property proposed subdividing the 100-foot wide lot into two new homes. Vancouver City Council elected to save the house as part of the development permit. The Haigler House was moved to the side of the lot to allow for an additional infill house. The original stone fence was retained and some of the stone from Haigler House that was removed when narrowing the house’s footprint was used in the new neighbouring house.

Located just east of Dunbar Street in the Dunbar-Southlands neighbourhood, this area has seen significant change over the last several years with numerous pre-1940 homes being demolished. Indigenous people have inhabited the Dunbar-Southlands area since as early as 400 B.C. where the area’s proximity to the mouth of the Fraser River allowed easy access to fishing and hunting. Today, the Musqueam Reserve is located at the south end of the area bordering the water. Some residential development started in the early 20th century but this area grew in popularity in the 1920’s as streetcar routes on Dunbar and 41st Avenue were developed. Today, Dunbar Street continues to be the hub of this family-friendly community with boutique shops and restaurants.

Source

Heritage Vancouver Building Permits Database, VPL British Columbia City Directories 1860-1955, VanMap,