Photo Credit: Radomes by Ren L’Ecuyer

Now a worn-out logging camp and sadly deceased Canadian Forces Station, this rainy, isolated Northern Vancouver Island location is remembered by countless former residents as a “special place” with its own identity and distinctive “mystique”. Many thought of it as “Happy Holberg” while others regarded it as the “armpit of British Columbia.” Regardless of anyone’s perspective, Holberg is truly unforgettable.

Above are a few of Holberg’s most memorable images.

happyholberg_border225x250For those of us who had the experience of living in Holberg, BC during the late sixties and early seventies, there are plenty of memories.  Some are good, some bad, and many long forgotten–but for people who experienced Holberg like I did, it’s profound that there are any memories at all!

In 2006, I had the opportunity to return to Holberg for the first time in over 35 years.  I was amazed at how little the place has changed.  It was easy to find the major landmarks (like Elephant Crossing, the Log Dump, the bunkhouses, etc.)  But,sadly, the people I knew had long gone. There were only a couple of names in the phonebook that I recognized and none of my old friends were around any more.  It was impossible to find people like Frank and Judy Szy, Mike Thurston, Joan Tidbury, Dave Tidbury, Denis Gagnon, or any of my other schoolmates.  Nor could I find any trace of folks like Percy Wong, Art Jones, Fred Mantic, Neil Arthurs, Harold Yasinski, Harry Hemingway, Rick Selzer, Gabe the gas station operator, Bob Fells, French Mike, Roy Juthans, Jim Gibbons, George Anderson, Merle Humphrey, or any of the others I knew in the 70’s.

Ah well… probably just as well because, when I left, most of these people only regarded me as a rather strange young man with an accordion, drum kit, and a bad case of acne. Regardless of that unremarkable past, being able to come back to Holberg after nearly 35 years of absence was long overdue.

welcometoholberg_172x230Before leaving for this trip, I got the bright idea of videotaping the journey with old “top 40 hits” from the 70’s playing in the background.  There’s a clip of it over there on the right.  Be forewarned, however–this is not a puny little 10 minute YouTube flick.  A place like Holberg deserves to be remembered with something considerably more substantial, so this “epic” is about 45 minutes long and it takes you on a tour of the road to Holberg, the logging camp and the unfortunately “deceased” Canadian Forces Base.

Unfortunately, by the time I got to CFS Holberg, the battery packs for my Sony Camcorder were both completely drained.  Fortunately, I was able to snap a few still images and some “better than nothin” video with my Palm PDA.

The main video starts with a quick look at Kelsey Bay and Sayward, then picks up from Port McNeill during another of the many raging rain storms that frequently hit the North Island. The reason for this is because, prior to 1979, there was no Highway 19.

Before Highway 19… If you aren’t from the same ancient era as me (late 60’s / early 70’s), here’s a quick background:  Before Highway 19 was finished, people who lived in Holberg had to commute on an old, beaten-up ferry (the North Island Princess) with uncomfortable seats, terrible food, and slow, unreliable horsepower.  A trip from Kelsey Bay to Beaver Cove could take anywhere from 4 to 8 hours to complete (depending on wind conditions) and then weHolberg types had yet another 3 to 4 hours to drive, much of it on an old pothole riddled logging road.  Unbelievably, that rusty old catamaran tub, built in 1958, is still in service! (see the video on right and thumbnail below)

A view of the North Island Princess’s luxurious interior

YouTube video by “coastalnavigator” (0:23)

From the May 13, 1976, edition of the North Island Gazette, here’s a little reminder of why so many of us felt so disadvantaged until 1979, when Highway 19 finally opened:

Summary

Although there’s some whining and complaining about rain and washouts in the video,  I’d have to say that I’m glad I went back.  It’s nice to know that there are some things in this world that do not change much and that carry on despite the human changes that may take place all around them.  It’s also good to know that a pimply faced teenager who had difficulty dealing with the challenges of isolation, etc., can actually become a legitimate contributor to society.  That’s thanks, in large part to some great teachers and a few good friends.  

CFHG2r

This was the location of my first real radio station gig back in the early 70’s!

I must say that it was a huge mistake for the Conservative government to cut the funding for CFS Holberg back in the late 80’s.  For that part of the island, the station was like a breath of fresh air whenever loggers, hikers, or even high school students needed something different to do–something other than drinking and seeking chemical mood enhancements.  I still remember good times working at the radio station in the Rec Centre – good ol’ CFHG (1490 on your dial), as shown on left –  plus shopping at CANEX, working on the CE crew, going bowling, playing drums at the Sergeants’ Mess and Junior Ranks Club, catching a flick at the station theatre, and chatting with the friendly commissionaires at the gate.  While deeply saddened that the station is now gone, I am most thankful for having had the opportunity to get to know some of those interesting servicemen (and women) who lived and helped protect North America there.  They were a great bunch of patriotic and forward thinking Canadians (for the most part) and, from what I could now see at the neighbouring logging camp in 2006, the area is seriously missing them.

Will I ever go back again?  With CFS Holberg now forever gone, the answer has to be NO.  It was that thriving station–and the people serving there–who gave the region a sense of optimism and hope, who gave it life.  They are all gone now. So I, too, am forever gone from that place.  

While I truly am glad on one hand that I took this trip back to Holberg, I also have some “other hand” regrets: when I was a kid, I assumed that CFS Holberg was a permanent fixture in the world and that it would always exist.  It was such a vibrant and vital nerve centre in such an isolated and lonely void, that it was impossible to regard it as otherwise.  So, when I now think about CFS Holberg being forever gone, my “inner child” feels cheated, betrayed, and just wants to somehow bring it back. It’s like there’s a piece of me that has gone missing. And it was stolen under the watch and discredited rightwing conservative policies of the Brian Mulroney government–perhaps the most short-sighted and corrupt government this country has ever endured. (UPDATE, 11-04-15: As we now know, the other conservative government–the one controlled by Stephen Harper–turned out to be even worse than Mulroney’s mess.)

With all that being said, I just want to say one last THANK YOU to all the fantastic loggers at Rayonier who taught me how to work, the Canadian Forces personnel who gave me reason to hope, friends like Frank and Mike who helped make the best of things, and some very special NISS teachers who were great role models during a challenging and exciting time.  

UPDATE (November 4, 2015)

While converting Holberg.ca into a more modern WordPress platform, I discovered that the old Pinetreeline site had all but disappeared. It was being archived on the Internet Archive Wayback Machine, but it appears that many of the images are disappearing somehow. Therefore, I am updating this site with 253 images that I had downloaded from the original site back in 2009. (Some were used to make the CFS Holberg blues video, but they all flash by so quickly (with no readable information) that I thought, because WordPress technology now makes it easy, I should share them here, complete with captions from the original Pinetreeline.org site webmaster, Ren L’Ecuyer. Unfortunately, the dates that most of these were taken are unknown, but I thought some folks might enjoy seeing them anyway.

UPDATE (January 8, 2016)

Not sure how, but I recently stumbled upon another archive of the old Pinetreeline.org site.

  • To see the entire site from it’s homepage, click here.  
  • To see only the Holberg part of the site, click here.

UPDATE (May, 2019)

While converting Holberg.ca into a more modern WordPress platform, I discovered some awesome YouTube videos, most of which I hadn’t seen before. Right now, the are in this slider that no longer works properly and makes the videos very tiny. (Sorry about that.) In the near future (sometime this year), I’ll try to find a better slider that allows you to see the videos full size.

  • logging-a-frame-holberg1
  • logging-a-frame-holberg2a
  • holbergforestoperations1
  • scarletibis1
  • loggingphotosholberg1967r
  • treefallingholberg2a
  • videotourholberg1
  • offroadlogtruck1
  • trip2holberg5r

Woo-hoo! We’re famous!

A NOTE ABOUT COMMENTS

Due to an increasing volume of spam, it is now necessary to screen comments. Sorry about that. I do check for new comments regularly, but it sometimes takes a few days before they get posted. Sorry about that, but the trolls, spammers, and bots have made this necessary.

163 Comments

  1. Arlene and Harry Hemingway

    Love revisiting Holberg. We too, lived in your house on the corner of 2nd street in the early 80’s. Loved that house and did some rehab to it.

    Reply
    • Gary

      Hey I think I remember you, Harry! Didn’t you run a front-end loader or some other kind of heavy equipment on the road crew? If I remember you right, you had a very impressive beard at the time.

      Reply
      • Harry and Arlene Hemingway

        Yes Harry ran the 980 and 988 and went as asst. Road Foreman for awhile but preferred the logging. Ended up operating a hochuck until his career ended in 2005. He shaved off his beard in the in the late 70’s, I believe. I will ask him if he remembers you. We raised both our boys in Holberg and I left in 1990 when the base closed down and Harry commuted to the Comox Valley. I went back when a position opened in the engineering office and Harry and I left in 2008 to retire in the Comox Valley. We are both loving retirement. Arlene Hemingway

        Reply
        • Bob Boudreau

          Hello Arlene, Hope this e-mail finds you and Harry well. I too, have fond memories of Holberg and often reflect on the great people I met there. My name is Bob Boudreau and I am back in Richmond, B.C. Harry should remember as it is our old neighborhood that we grew up in. It has been a few years since I returned to Holberg for a visit and will probably venture that way in the future. I often wonder what happened to all those people and where their travels took them. Take care.

          Reply
        • mike broxham

          if I remember correctly While a road supervisor Harry Hemmingway had a log squash the top of his pickup truck on the passenger’s side . Was traveling back to base with my run buddy George Miller when we pasted your truck .YUP that was a bit close eh .

          Reply
          • Betty Bradford

            Hi Betty Bradford. Was married to David Bradford. Lived next door to Keith and George Miller. 1974 to 1975. David worked in the woods. Diane and Mike Mintz (not sure abt spelling) were good friends. Joinef a ladies group and got involvef in the community then and Made more friends. Until now, i never really dwelled on those days. Dale Barry and Elizabeth Barry and family hailed from Plaster Rock NB. Dalef was killed in an accident. Havent seen Elizabet sine 1980 in PR NB. Perhaps I could conmect with someone who can share something about the people or place. This is my email address

          • Bill Irvine

            Thanks for this great, historical report. I’m on my phone now so won’t say too much now. My dad built many of the Holberg buildings ca 1958 but I have not been there. Our RCAF friends– husband & wife — were stationed there when the base was active. I’ll have take notes now while listening to their stories LOL.
            Thanks again
            Bill

        • Susan Ssun

          Not sure if this is the same Harry we knew in the 1960’s? We lived in Holberg between 1960 – 1965. Our family name was Bilous (Peter Bilous) was my step-father. I have so many fond memories of those early years in Holberg. I’ve never forgotten the families who lived there during that time – and “Harry” was one of my step father’s friends, and I’ll truly never forget him. When my baby brother was born in 1964, I begged my parents to name him Harry after this amazing man we knew.

          Reply
          • Susan Ssun

            It may be Harry Hicks I’m remembering?

          • Joe Malden

            Do you remember the Malden’s. we lived there late 59,60, maybe early 61. Not exactly sure when we left. I was grade 1 and absolutely loved that place. I can still picture it. Wondering if there is any access to the old base and living quarters. I’d love to go back and visit.

          • Roach

            I still run into yo ole Art Jones. Find him fishing at the Goodspeed river from time to time. Still lives in Holberg far as I know

        • Wes Neilly

          I just read that a good friend, Curt
          Usherwood died
          In 2021. Sorry I
          did not keep in
          touch with him
          and his wife Cec
          I see he had the
          Base Defence Force
          which I taught.

          Reply
    • leanne sjodin

      I am grand daughter to Anne and Barney Magnus. My grandfather lived and worked at building the housing in the logging camp and township of Holberg. I used to play at Mrs. Chambers. My grandpa created the Elephant Crossing sign. I am looking for people who may have known them.

      Reply
      • Tracey

        I knew them my mom was friends with your grandmother they lived down the street from us. I some how remember a small dog poodle I think.
        Mrs Magnus made my sister and I crotched pants suits. I Loved holberg

        Reply
    • Simon Klaudt

      For those of you who were in Holberg between 1971 and 1977, I was a radio DJ ( DJ? really ? ), at CFHG 1490, who usually did the Afternoon Hour ( 1700-1800 ) weekdays, and also a pop music hour in the evening hours ( 2000 to 2200) probably on Tuesday or Wednesday. Because i was the record librarian ( after Bev Hamilton left ) at the station, I usually introduced all the latest music received as 45 rpm or 33 rpm long playing records. Wendell Marshall handed his show ( Afternoon Hour ) to me before leaving for his next posting.
      I only have one recorded show, of which I have a copy ( cassette tape ), for the Evening Pop Music Hours.

      Reply
      • Sharon

        Do you remember the MONDAY MONDAY show ? Gail Lancaster ran it?

        Reply
        • Dave

          Hi my name is Dave Miolla does anybody remember my dad joe

          Reply
          • Anonymous

            I remember you Dad I believe he was a faller cutting down the trees and think he was the one who made me a burl clock I still have it
            Nora

          • Nora

            I remember joe really nice guy I believe he was a faller he cut down trees

          • Bruce McCulloch

            I remember your dad Joe as a contractor running a tower around 1986-88 era.
            He always had the saying “Push ‘‘em up”
            I worked as a 2nd loader and then moved into the office doing Timekeeping and
            production
            I was there 1986-2003

        • Gale Golan

          Does anyone remember Roy and Eileen Darling? My brother Bob and I lived there with them in the early 1960s. My grandparents did for awhile as well. Abel and Lydia Jarvis. Does anyone remember them?

          Reply
          • Susan Ssun

            I remember your family – especially you Gale! We lived only a few houses away, and I believe we went to kindergarten together. We actually have family films taken in Holberg between 1961- 1965, and I believe you are in some of the shots, as well as many other local children and parents. I wonder if you recall the name of the older couple who lived in the little chalet style cabin at the top of the hill overlooking the harbour? In those days their’s was the only house up there, and we had to climb steep wooden stairs to get up to the top. I have such fond memories of them – yet cannot recall their names. Our family name was Bilous, and we children were; Debbie, Jerry, Susan, Patti and baby Andrew. I also remember the Jarvis name (your grandparents).

      • Wes Neilly

        Wes here, 71 – 74, I
        Played two spots
        Golden Oldies ( 50s, 60’s..) And Country.
        Posted to Borden DJ
        at Huron Club.

        Reply
  2. joan barton (tidbury)

    loved my time in holberg great place to be brought up in lots of great memories thank you living in the wilderness no modern day items lived in the bushes before moving to base

    Reply
    • Gary

      Hi Joan! I remember you! We used to ride the Holberg Limousine every week to and from the NISS dormitory. It’s great to see you here!

      Reply
      • Anonymous

        yes remember those days a niss

        Reply
      • Art Cardinal (Ret) Lieutenant

        Hello Gary, My name is Art Cardinal. I was stationed in Holberg from 1964 to 1968. Great times. What is your last name? My wife and I are planning a trip to Holberg next summer but was wondering if the base still has buildings on it or is it just bare land? Did you work CFHG? I truly enjoyed seeing all these great old pictures and videos.

        Reply
        • Sam Knowles

          Hi Art My name is Sam Knowles and i remember you as a pretty awesome boogie woogie piano player. There was a little room off the gym with a piano, if I remember correctly. I was a teenager then and left in 63 for high school but worked in CE as casual labour for a couple of summers after, then worked at Rayonier. My dad was a civilian in Supply section and my mom was CO’s secretary. I think you were a corporal then, so congrats on the promotions. My partner and I were there last summer and managed to drive up to above the rec centre. It is totally overgrown in alders but you can walk the roads. If you hadn’t lived there you’d never know where anything was.

          Reply
          • John Hindson

            Hello Sam

    • Stu Montgomery

      Joan, I was in Holberg in the mid 60’s and your name is familiar to me. Was your dad in the RCAF?
      Stu

      Reply
    • Cindy Wingert (Morgan)

      I cherish the memories I have of growing up in Holberg; it truly was an incredible childhood.
      Love these photos; I used to be on pinetree.org all the time – very happy to come across this site.

      Mum and Dad (Hilda and Bud Morgan) sadly, have passed on now so I always scour any Holberg site I can find in the hopes of finding photos or mention of them.

      Reply
      • Ray Hoilund

        Hi Cindy, I to spent a few years in Holberg and I often wonder what came of your brother. Last time I saw him was in North Bay in the mid 70’s.

        Ray

        Reply
        • Cindy Wingert

          Hi Raymond – you were good friends with my brother Michael – do I remember this correctly? And your mum and mine were also good friends I believe…yes we were posted to North Bay from Holberg – quite the culture shock – I didn’t like it at all…this was in 1972 (I was 11)…dad was posted to Gypsumville Manitoba from North Bay in 1977…I was going into grade 11 and obviously had adjusted to North Bay by then…my brother Michael bought the house in North Bay (we didn’t live on the base there; mum and dad bought a house:638 McIntyre Street East) and my sister Connie stayed there with Michael when mum and dad left for gypsumville with me…I did lose track of my brother for several years but found him a few years back…he was in Toronto then…unfortunately we don’t keep in touch very well…Connie is in Victoria

          Reply
          • Gaston Rodrigue

            I was in Holberg in 1972 and working at the Power Plant. I am trying to find peoples that were there during this period.Doyou have any idea if a list would may be available.My Name is Gaston and I was also playing organ and guitar at the Church with 3 lovely young girls that were singning.So if you see this post ,and have infos on my request !

        • Debra Holland

          Hi Ray, my brother Rick Holland and I (Debbie Holland) went to school with you back in the day. If I remember correctly, your mom ran the library on the base. I was just perusing real estate in the area and stumbled upon your comment. We are all living in Grimsby, Ontario now. Hope you are doing well and that life is treating you well.

          Deb

          Reply
        • Pam

          Hi Ray, I remember you, your Mom Gert and dad Paul.also sister Jeanie ( I believe).who moved to Manitoba. We lived in a duplex a few up from you, I worked at The Bay. We left Holberg in 1969. Just found this site, hope you get this message. Pam Wicentowich.

          Reply
      • Julie Mosco

        Morgan…sounds familiar…My dad Fred was there at least three years…I personally remember those good old days!!

        Reply
      • Julie

        HI Cindy
        I remember the NAME MORGAN…those were the good old days! I would have to say I do remember going to school in the two room school house n then across from the church. The times we all had growing up in the forces will never be forgotten!

        Reply
      • Roger Bouchard

        Hi Cindy
        My mother who is still very much with us tells me often of knowing your mom and dad in 1wing France. She and your mom Hilda would take your brother Michael and I for walks around the area. I guess we were the same age but being so young I don’t remember anything of this. It would be nice to tell mom what became of them since they lost track of each other as so often happens. Take care, Roger Bouchard Gabriola BC

        Reply
    • Wendy (Mercer) Goodwin

      MERCER FAMILY …. Wendy here!! (Powell River, BC)
      5 brothers: John, Jim, Jerry, Tom, Bob.
      parents : Jack and Jeannie

      PS…have been in touch with David

      Reply
      • Pierre Margetts

        Our families were friends back in 1961-1963ish……. Peter and Joy Margetts…. I went to school with your brother Jerry…. We were also in Kamloops 1964-1967ish… I remember you from there… Pierre

        Reply
    • Anonymous

      Hello Joan, Darrell Kean here. I was in Holberg 1963-1968 and then went to Germany. Now in South Surrey.

      Reply
      • Dale Dirks Rec Spec

        Wally Bachinski transport, Rip Riopelle Rec Spec, Chub Lenz Rec Spec, Merril Humphries medic, the Time Capsule buried god only knows where, Col Dixon, station commander, the many floor hockey games, winter carnival, the bear i was asked to shoot by mil police, ball games, when we brought TV to the station in time for the first russia NHL hockey games, the two water towers we placed hot and cold on them. 100 hours swim we won every year. The frozen water pipes in the PMQ, buying furniture when the armed forces got out of supplying them, the Nimpkish fishing trips, crabs, and so much more

        Reply
        • Wes Neilly

          Dale, howdy.
          I was there when
          Wally and those
          you listed were there. Holberg to
          Borden, to
          Vancouver Det. To
          CFS Kamloops to
          Retire in Kelowna.

          Reply
    • James Bowlby

      Hi Joan, I taught you at San Josef Elementary. I remember you acting in a play we did. I lived in the Officers’ Quarters and remember your mother we called the salad queen.

      I live in Salmon Arm. I just had a visit from Wendy Kotilla.

      Reply
  3. Stu MONTGOMERY

    Trying to locate Debbie Small

    trying to locate an old friend from RCAF Stn Holberg. Her father was a cook there in the mid 60’s. Lost contact after transfer. Debbie was in her late teens and I was 21 at the time. We formed a friendship which derailed after my transfer to Senneterre, PQ in 1968. Would love to reconnect!

    Reply
  4. Brian Gibbons

    You mentioned no sign of Jim Gibbons. My parents left Holberg in mid 80’s. My dad has since passed away but was responsible for starting several businesses in the camp including Trails End Motel, Holberg Limousine Service, Fuel delivery and Gibbons Trucking

    Reply
    • Gary

      I remember you Dad very well! He was really nice to all of us and kept us safe on those long, difficult drives between Rayonier and the NISS Dormitory. My friends and I all had the highest respect for him!

      Reply
    • Joe Barker

      During my post to CFS Holberg I used to the Holberg Limo for Jim Gibbson during my days off from the base. I enjoyed the break very much. Also worked with Bud Morgan for several years.

      Reply
      • Cindy Wingert (Morgan)

        so nice to hear from someone who worked with my dad Bud Morgan…he was such a wonderful dad…

        Reply
      • Ron Kirlew

        Hey Joe, How are you and Marg. We hope that you are both OK. Its been a long time. Lost touch with most people (including you) but we still talk about all our friends in Holberg back in the 60,s and 70’s. A few years ago we visited a bunch of old pals in Beaverlodge – Dick Price (now moved to Grand Prairie), Brian Pilon ( still there), Ken Mcgregor now in Sask. Bob Miles now in Alberta. Joyce and I are doing well here in Brentwood Bay BC and send you out best wishes.

        Reply
        • Leilani

          Just reaching out to see if anyone remember’s my father from the RCAF base in 1962 Ron O’bonsawin (OB)?

          Reply
        • Bruce

          Hey Ron Kirlew. Do you remember Pam Beliveau from CFB Moose Jaw?

          Reply
    • Tracey Iverson

      Did you have a sister Vicki. She was my friend I lived on 4 ave
      Vickie and I were in the same grade. The limo service was on 3 right 9n the corner I believe Isaacics lived across the street

      Reply
  5. Rebecca

    My dad was there in the early 60.I was born in Holberg in 1962.left while i was a few months old. Dad was a radar man while stationed there

    Reply
    • Wendy Goodwin

      Rebecca…my youngest brother BOB MERCER was born
      in Holberg in 1962! My father Sgt. Jack Mercer was a Radar
      Technician. we were there 1960-65 aprx.

      Reply
      • Doug Attenborough, Sgt

        Wendy, Jack and his family lived across the street from us in Holberg.
        They were a great family and I,Doug, travelled with him off the base.
        We have wondered how he and his wife Jean were. Would love to
        get caught up on your family news, and our email is
        dattenborough@rogers.com.

        Reply
      • Robin Strachan

        I was born in Holberg in 1963. Have never been back. Going to visit there in about 12 days. My Father was a pilot there for a very short time. It was one of his last transfers (came from North Bay) before he left the airforce.

        Reply
    • Elizabeth Michaud

      I was born on the base in April 62. We also left when I was two months old. Neat site. My Dad worked in the power plant.

      Reply
  6. Dave tidbury

    Holberg is a special place, It was my home from 1959 to 1971 so I literally grew up there. Many great memories and like Gary, when they closed the base, it leaves a small hole in the heart. Kind of feels like your childhood has been taken, but then I realized,also like Gary, it is the friends that have been taken, because you can’t grow old with everyone. Made many friends during that time but only still friends with one (Jim McDowell) from that time. All others seem to have disappeared, just like the base itself. My brother John and I went there last summer and walked the “road” from where the rec centre was, past where the ball diamond was to the end where the road circled around. There is still a wide open spot there. Kind of wired standing there, looking at the spot where Dee Murray lived on one side and later Mickey Smith on the other. I think the Bohoziks (Nimpkish skipper) lived in between). Memories are all that are left of a great place

    Reply
    • Wendy (Mercer) Foodwin

      hey there….. still have email address? carch up :). Wendy

      Reply
    • Cindy Wingert

      I wish I’d been able to visit Holberg before it was taken away…i’ve been living in Campbell River for the past 30 years so it wouldn’t have been much of a trip but I have seven kids so it just wasn’t possible…now I have seven grandchildren as well!

      Reply
    • Gary

      Hey Dave,

      Although I never got much opportunity to really get to know you back in the day, I always had a gut feeling that you had your act together in a very cool and smart way…

      Turns out that I was right!

      Reply
    • Andre

      Hi Gaston.I have also spent one year in Holberg .Found it very tough because i had just got transferd from St.John P.Que after 3 months in English scool.You mentioned potato Kelly wich was also ther3 in 1961 and had it rough during the German war.Was he still eating only potato and garlic in 1974 ?During my stay Wo 2 Pool was in charge of the plant.When l arrive l was the first AC 2 on the base.Sargent Samson was also there.Andre B from Quebec

      Reply
    • Gordon Hamm

      I worked for the CE section when I got of school in 64. I reminder the Didburys, Potato Kelly, Light Bulb Charley, Lincoln, Feddy Addernack, Bill Dinter, George Anderson and Maxie.
      It was self contained with all the building heated by the steam plant. Mr Wenger (Elizabeth Wenger’s father) from Tsolum was one of the steam engineers. Nice indoor swimming pool, gymnasium and bowling alley.
      It would have made a good minimum security prison.

      Reply
  7. Graham Ackeral

    I am sitting here remembering the most favorite station in my childhood life. My dad was Corporal Dennis Ackeral and we were there in 1970-74 I saw a picture of the PMQ’s and in the bottom left corner is the one we lived in. There is a black spot there that might be my dad’s boat. It never saw water other than to capture inside and the water never leaked out. We hiked up to San Josef bay before the road was pushed thru. Remember having to trek thru the woods because dad screwed up on the high tide time. We also trekked up the Cape Scott trail and only got to the Search and Rescue cabin but it was a wonderful time. Dad wanted to do the West Coast Trail before it was refurbished.

    If anyone reads this, I ask for your help. I am searching for a childhood friend, her dad was Sgt Denis and she had a younger sister named Monique, also a younger brother. my email addy is g_ackeral@hotmail.com.

    Reply
    • Graham Ackeral

      Forgot to mention that her name is Michelle.

      Reply
    • Gaston Rodrigue

      Hi my name is Gaston and I was in Holberg back in 1972.Working at the Power Plant with Sergent Robertson.I also played Guitar and organ at the Chappell with 3 lovely young girls.The priest at that time was Fred Berrard.If you have à list of the people that were there on 72 let me know if possible.Some people I remember :
      Yves Laganière,
      Mitch Yatchuk,
      Barry Norrum,
      Georges Robertson , Potato Kelly,
      Denis Vachon,
      John Bisson

      Nice reading all these notes

      Reply
      • Yves Laganiere

        Allo gaston, je me souvien très bien de toi et ta guitar. Nous avons passé beaucoup de temps a t entendre jouer de ta gaitarau club des caporeaux et a chanter les vielles tune de Beattle et Elvis Presley et beaucoup d autre. Tu nous a vraiement aider a passer le temp. Tu étais vraiment un entertainer. J aimais beaucoup ta musique. j
        J ai revue quelques un des personnes qui étaient transférer a Holberg avec nous. John Tessier etait un de ceux la. Est.ce que tu te souviens de Mike Gignac. J aussi revue George Robertson and his wife Sheila je suis revenue au Québec l année derniere après avoir vecue dans l ouest canadien pour 48 ans. Je demeure maintenant a Laval. Je suis tombé sur ce site par hazard. Jespère que tu receveras ce message.

        Reply
      • Larry Warde

        I spent from Jan 71 to June 72 in the Power Plant running those Vivians… good memories from there. Got promoted to Cpl in Greenwood then Alert and out…

        Reply
  8. Roger Rourke

    Hi, I lived my first 5 years in Holberg 66-72. My Dad was Ted Rourke and he worked for Ranier. I had two older brothers Ted and Brad and we lived in a green duplex. Our neighbors in the duplex was the Checks (sp?) I think. My folks taught Sunday school in our downstairs. I don’t remember much but recall a bear climbed a tree across the road from our place and some dude came by and blasted it with what I thought at the time was a cannon. I went back there in the mid 90s and discovered a young mom with 3 young boys in the same house.

    Reply
    • Anonymous

      Hello Roger. My name is Connie. (Czech) Dewitt. My parents were your next door neighbours. I have a older sister Belinda, older brother Dean ,myself and youngest brother Wayne . My father who started tv and than cable vision in Holberg has since passed away. My mom is living in Surrey with the help of my younger brother why used to always call you mom who who.. Ask your mom if she remembers. My mom would love to catch up if possible. We seemed to live in Holberg forever great times great place great people. Miss those simple times!!

      Reply
      • Al

        Hi Connie, a very long time ago indeed Al Lawrence

        Reply
    • Tracey

      I remember your family. Your brother Ted was my age and I went to Sunday school in your basement. Your mom was real nice she’d give prizes out at Sunday school. Ted and I were in same class for grades 3 to 6.
      I lived on 4 ave last house on the last street. The bike track was across from your house all is kids rode our bikes by two huge stumps with bike roads made out of gravel. The swings were down the hill from your house as well. I think the lady school bus driver ( maybe your mom) lived by you as well
      I loved growing up there a kid couldn’t ask for a better childhood

      Reply
  9. Tom Cheverie

    Was in holberg when it just opened in 1954. Left there in 56 for Metz. We swam in tent town, had no rec hall or any of that stuff. There was no road anywhere.
    except from Hardy to coal Harbour tho ..

    Reply
    • Lisa

      My father and mother were both at Holberg back in 55-56, I believe; Larry (Lawrence) Klix, and Sheila (Bone) Klix). I have no idea how many people would have been stationed there during that time, but maybe you knew them? They had two boys, one in 56, one in 58, and me in 1966, much later.

      Reply
      • Tracey Budge

        I was born in CFS Holberg. Wish I could have seen it

        Reply
  10. Tom Cheverie

    Is me again, I am in the picture you have flashing by at warp speed. In fact I am standing on the stump. Ken Murphy took this shot in 55. Ray Papineau is sitting on a stump just to my right. Think Tom Mac Kay crawled up that hill with us. I submitted a lot of photos to Ray along with Logie. Tom Cheverie Pictou Nova Scotia

    Reply
  11. Joyce Murray

    Lived on RCAF Base 1957-1959 and 1965 -1968 – good memories of a carefree childhood – have not been back – wonder where all the people I grew up with are. Enjoyed this web site.

    Reply
  12. Hammond

    hi holberg could be seniors greatest cottage town.i would like start Norwegian Lutheran fraternal seniors free breakfast and tea Harry Harold Hammond port hardy 2509498899

    Reply
  13. Hammond

    Seeking house or apartment to rent in Holberg Harold Hammond Ex Military Police Reserve .Major T. Oldfield Military Police might have visited Holberg in 1950’s (My great Grandfather).I do run Military Police Seniors TV and Cottage Thank You

    Reply
  14. Wayne Whittemore

    I went to work for Rayonier which later bacame Western Forest Products as a Apprentice H.D. Mechanic and served the first 3 years of my 4 year apprenticeship in Holberg in the late 70`s. I worked for Grant Anderson and foreman Mike with other mechanics, Ken Just, Shakey, Carl and Ken Bodken who I believe is still in Holberg.
    It was good times, lots of characters, hard work, good money and many outdoor adventures in San Josef Bay, Cape Scott and fishing the rivers. The milder climate and outdoor recreation attract me now once again from the long winters of Northern B.C.

    Reply
    • Ed Mattingly

      I knew Ken Bodkin years ago when he first started working in Holberg. He said the camp was a tough life where fighting was common, but he was a tough SOB and held his own. He came out one year and announced he was buying property there to homestead and took his lovely partner Karla with him. She worked in the pub but eventually left and came back south, lost track of her years ago. I met Ken through the Marples family in Abbotsford, and both of the daughters recently passed away, which made me think of him. He had a great story about being lost or injured in the bush up there and his dog led him home and saved his life. If Ken is still there, hope his dream of homesteading has worked out.

      Reply
  15. Jo-Anne (Porayko) Wilson

    My dad, F/L Dan Porayko, was posted to Holberg in 1957 from Vancouver. Imagine my 11 year old horror at realizing there was no tv, no shopping, no restaurants and school was a PMQ! However, it was an incredible and magical two years. We swam in icy mountain streams, hiked endlessly through the rainforest, watched bears and cougars play in the front yard ( unfortunately there were issues of safety involved and I remember a female hunter from the States was brought in to solve the problem). We bowled, swam, played baseball and basketball, were Guides and Scouts and had regular kid parties on Fridays. I still have contact with my best Holberg friend, Les, who lives in White Rock. Funny, our two teachers for grade 7 and 8 were both from Toronto! I don’t think they had any idea of what they were getting into—one day our entire class got up and ran outside to watch the Golden Hawks do a fly-by. How many kids had the chance to spend such a wonderful part of their lives experiencing life on a base in the B.C. wilderness! No wonder so many Holbergites treasure those memories. My parents returned to Holberg for the official closing of the base and as sad as it was, they also spent happy hours reminiscing with former service friends about the “good old days”. Looking back, they sure were!

    Reply
    • Bruce Harfield

      Hello Jo_Anne, My sister Sherry…who lives in Toronto…and I were just talking about Holberg today. I had a conversation with along time friend here in Ottawa who mentioned she was born in Holberg in 1956. Small world. I am still in touch with Lance MacGregor who lives in Langley, B.C. and I am often in White Rock so wouldn’t it be funny if I ran into Leslie (Smith). Sherry and I often say how we also treasure our memories of Holberg as well. My dad was Stan Harfield and we lived at the bottom of the crescent of officer PMQs, just a few doors away from you.

      Reply
  16. Lamont Hurd

    I was apart of the Closure team from 19 Wing Comox (CFB Comox)… had a great time each and every time I would visit Holberg. Wonder if the shoe tree is still up on the old logging road.. haha
    Great place, lots of great memories.. (like going to the dump on a Friday night to watch the bears and drink beer haha)

    Reply
  17. Vicki

    Nice video with real pretty scenery. The song battle of New Orleans caught me by surprise lol I like it.

    Reply
    • Gary

      Thanks! Actually, that particular song was one of Mike’s favourites. He was notorious for playing his wonderful bubble-gum music every week on the Holberg Limousine between CFS Holberg and Port McNeill.

      Reply
  18. Anonymous

    Neil Arthurs passed away Nov 2016

    Reply
    • Gary

      I’m very sorry to learn of Neil’s passing. He showed me a lot of kindness and respect when I was in my late teens. It was because of Neil that I had the opportunity to play drums (and sometimes accordion) in his band and travel all over the North Island for some incredible gigs. Neil also reached out to me long after the gigs discontinued and wrote a beautiful letter to me that was full of encouragement and kindness. (I hadn’t realized before then that he had such exquisite handwriting!) It’s been more than 40 years since I last saw Neil, but I never forgot him – and never will.

      If there is truly a heaven, I am sure that Mr. Neil Arthurs is making a lot of folks happy with his warm music and gracious presence there, as he did here on this tired old earth. My condolences go out to his friends and family who no doubt miss him very much.

      Reply
  19. Joann Burke (Rambo)

    My step-dad, Jim Rambo, was a logger in the camp in Holberg….Winter Harbour before that. We lived there from 1963 to 1967. Such awesome memories from both places! I share stories all the time w my grandchildren.

    Reply
  20. Ted Knowler

    I was stationed at RCAF Stn. Holberg from fall of 64 to spring of 66. So many people that are fondly remembered, I worked with a Mrs. Tidbury in the mess hall. It was a great posting and a wonderfully close knit community. Bud Brass was crewman on the Nimkish 2. My name is Ted Knowler

    Reply
  21. Leah Taylor (Dallamore)

    Thanks for putting this all together. It was weird going back to my home town and finding nothing but trees and salal. Thank you for the photos so at least we all have those memories and images to return to.

    Reply
    • Tracey Iverson

      I remember you Leah your mom ran a cool store in the basement. Bought many a posters and insense there lol. I lived up on 4 the and my childhood boyfriend was Larry Walker I believe he was your also . I loved Holberg . Tracey Iverson

      Reply
  22. cindy smith

    hi my name is cindy smith need worthington.
    my dad was stationed there in 68 to 70. he was in charge of the construction engineering section.
    we lived in the officers circle across the road from Mike thurston.
    I loved living there I was in grade 4 and 5.
    Mike thurston planted a monkey tree in his front yard and always wondered how it did.
    Mike joined the military and we saw him at cfb trenton were we moved to after holberg.

    Reply
  23. Terry Searl

    I worked for A. H. Winter and son in the late 60’s in Holburg and we put the water and sewer system in the town site and up the hill just after the houses were barged in from Pt Alice. Later we serviced the trailer park and new bunkhouse area down near the shop. I was there when the cook was shot and killed and remember it being a shocking event even for a remote logging camp. I remember the air force base very fondly. I saw the movie Dr. Shivago in the base movie theatre and it cost 50cents to get in . I drank more than just a few beers in the Sergeant’s Mess and played floor hockey and basketball against the military teams. I swam quite a few laps in the swimming pool trying to get rid of a hangover. While working for A.H. Winter and Son we serviced Sointula, Jeune landing, Port Alice and Pt McNiell. I quit Winters in February/ March of 1970 to go hitchhiking all around the UK and Europe…..I’ve never been back to Holberg but after returning from Europe and getting married I worked in Nimpkish, Woss, and Vernon camps I retired from Woss in 2007…….I really did enjoy the wee movie that was produced and it brought back many memories of a bygone era….I must say I lived and worked in the very best of times, in the best part of the best province in the best country in the world…..thanx for the memories

    Reply
    • Wanda Laughlin

      Are you the famous Terry who worked with George and John in Sointula!!!! Who spent a lot of time in Mitchell Bay

      Reply
    • Anonymous

      Hi Terry Searl My Dad transferred from Port McNeil to Holberg in 1956 as Head Mechanic and Our family lived in camp until leaving for the Big City so My brother and Myself could further Our formal education. From Our days in Port McNeil and Holberg a GOOD friend of Our family was Larry Calainie. Larry got Married when He lived in Port McNeil. Larry was transferred with the opportunity to take His new wife with Him to Holberg and live in camp housing. Shortly after moving to Holberg Larry discovered that when His Wife went to the Big City for vacation so did the camp cook, Larry had a friend look them up in the City and confirmed they were doing the naughty together in town. When the cook came back to camp after a weekend of debauchery with Larry’s wife ………….. well You were there for the rest of the story. Larry got a very short prison sentence and i picked Him up at the gates when He was released and helped get Him setup in new digs.

      Reply
      • Brian Tomlinson

        OOPS Didn’t enter My name with My story about My friend and the camp cook.

        Reply
      • John Hindson

        I REMEMBER THAT. Cannot recall the name of the cook though.

        Reply
  24. Michel Drouin

    Just discovered this. I was a classmate of Gary’s and school acquaintance with many of you Holberg types.

    Roy Juthans and I even spent a couple hours in RCMP custody near Courtenay one time. Cops couldn’t figure out why a hippie and a guy who looked like Fonzie were hitchhiking together.

    I caught the NISS bus to Holberg for Easter break from McNeill in 1970 and hiked to Cape Scott solo.

    My dad worked on the boom and I spent a weekend with him staying in the bunkhouse in camp when I was in grade 10, borrowed his rifle and hunted for deer on the logging road behind camp while he was at work. Emptied a magazine of cartridges at a deer and missed with every shot.

    We used to spend a lot of time in the autumn on the other side of Kains Lake, which is the first lake on your right as you drive from Port Hardy.

    I was back a couple years ago on an elk hunting trip. The domestic site is all grown over now. I had never see seen it in its glory days though I went through the logging camp on the way to Cape Scott numerous times between 1970 and 1975.

    Reply
    • Gary

      Hey Michel! Thanks for the awesome post! Sorry I didn’t notice until now. Been kinda busy with my move back to Canada. Hope this finds you happy and well!

      Reply
  25. de Vroomen

    Hi all,

    So nice to read all this, quite enjoyed it. I am Dutch and have never been there but I hope I will visit Holberg soon. Can someone here help me out on accomodation (hotel/b&b/hostel/motel/cabin) for two adults. Arriving 29th of May, 2 nights? Anywhere in or near Holberg or Winter harbour. We do not have an RV this time just a car and no camping gear. Anything will do. From NL and the government site of Canada I can not find anything.

    Thanks so much!
    Marjet de Vroomen

    Reply
  26. Jason Bosdet

    Is there anything left to see?

    My father was stationed there back in the 60’s i believe, and he is staying in Victoria now. I would like to do a road trip with him one of these days and head up island. Where would be a good place to stay the night? Port Hardy seems to be the closest, but i have not really been past courtney/comox. Any other recommendations?

    Reply
  27. Joe Malden

    I started school in Holberg. I believe that would have been 1960. I can still picture the place very clearly in my mind even though I only lived there for a little more than a year. It was my most favourite place to live. I’d love to go back, but I understand the base and apartments are not accessible.

    Reply
  28. Danny Fries

    I was born in Holberg in November of 1963, My father Rudy Fries, worked in the power plant as I recall but was transferred to Saskatoon shortly after my birth. I have very little recollection of the place but have seen some old photos of my dad and myself feeding the bears (which I a told was a past time of some of the residents.) If anybody has any recollection of my family it would be nice to hear as I have very little information on my early years.

    Reply
  29. Mike Field

    Hi
    I lived half way between the logging camp and the base ,between 61 and 65 my Father Ron Obonsawin was a radar tech for the air force until he drown in the bad flood there in 62.My mom remarried a year later to my adoptive dad Bob Field who worked there for the forces. So many memories of walking the road to go to the Saturday movies at the rec center or swimming at the pool and then hitting the coffee shop for treats

    Reply
    • Eliane Caron Menzie

      Mike Field – We lived in your house from October 1959 to approximately September 1960 when the new apartments were ready on the base. My husband, Doug Menzie, was a driver/mechanic and drove the bus from the base to the Radar Tower up the mountain.

      He was transferred from Sea Island (Vancouver) to Holberg in March 1959 and my daughter and I joined him there in the Fall of October 1959 in Mr. Field’s house. We left Holberg for a posting in Uplands (Ottawa) in March 1961.

      He passed away in 2003 and I am now living in Quebec City.

      Reply
  30. Earl palmer

    Nov 11 2017
    RCAF. Radar tech. Based in Holberg 1959
    So many great memories of my time in Holberg

    -Just getting there was a trek. Fly into Port hardy, Hole and Clark bus to Coal Harbour, nimpkish boat ride to Holberg
    -enjoyed hiking to san Josef bay, and dealing with semi-wild cows left on Ronning farm.
    -playing softball games in the seemingly never ending drizzling rain
    -basketball games against local players ( we never won any of them)
    -enjoying great base dances when nurses from Vancouver were in attendance.
    -boat trips to Port Alice for sports competitions ( we didn’t win much there either)
    -lots of nature stuff, bears in the dump, bears on the base, a mother fox and her kits more or less living at the upper guard house. ( the food was good there)

    What a place to spend 14months. Always busy, at work and at play. The time flew.

    Reply
  31. Karyn Smith (Myers)

    We lived in Holberg from late 1964 to 1967. My dad was in finance at the station. I have the best childhood memories of Holberg, (fishing in the Good Speed River, the Bridge on the River Dry, walking the pipeline for miles, the Wishing Tree (always wishing we didn’t run into a bear), “our ” names for many of our adventures, spying on the loggers at the Rec Centre on Saturday nights. Even now in my 60’s go back to my memories of Holberg (my special place)!

    Reply
    • Karyn Smith (Myers)

      More memories: We lived across the street in the PMQ’s from the Webb’s (Clive was their son), McCormick’s (Jeanette), Child’s were down the street, the Smith’s (Nancy was their daughter). We moved so many times in the RCAF I honestly can’t remember too many names. Matinees were .25 & that was my weekly allowance at the time, swimming, bowling & I must of read every book in the library (I never missed having TV at all!) ….we had shortwave radio so could occasionally get outside news, we rescued a trumpeter swan that hit the power line at the school & broke its wing, the fire hall fed & looked after it until my Dad (Don), brother Gregg & I took the swan by food barge…etc etc to Stanley Park Zoo. We knew whenever we got chocolate milk it meant the milk that had arrived that day on the barge was always sour. Does anyone remember the old shipwreck? (might have been San Josef bay area). Over the years I have wanted to go back to Holberg to visit & even mentioned several times to my dad that we should make a trip down that road again but sadly he passed in 2000.

      Reply
      • Anonymous

        hi ..ì remember all of that ! my name is iris deruchie ..my father was Don deruchie …he was the civilian Forman ..I lived there from 1964 till 1970 ..many memories

        Reply
        • Dave Tidbury

          Hi Iris. Remember you and Andy and worked with your dad at CE

          Reply
          • Al Christie

            I remember the name Tidbout. Was the only Holberg person at the new NISS, where I taught and helped build the new building. Someone mentioned Fred Mantic. He moved to McNeill when I was there. We played basketball in Holberg and I coached a ladies softball team and they played in Holberg and enjoyed the Sargeants’ Mess afterwards. They departed the Mess through a window which was closer to the crummy for the return to Port McNeill.

        • Lance wood

          Hi iris went to school with you and andy on base and port hardy

          Reply
  32. Anonymous

    Does anyone remember the Chambers? Mrs. Chambers lived in HOlberg….she was a god send to me.

    Reply
    • Ray Hoilund

      Hi, Mr. And Mrs. Chambers lived down the road from the radar base right near elephant crossing. They were a wonderful couple and she was a great story teller. I spent many an hours visiting them with my mother.

      Reply
      • Mike Field

        hi my name in mike and the chambers bought our old house from us when we left holberg I spent plenty of days fishing as a kid in the creek behind our house

        Reply
    • Anonymous

      yes…. I was so young I would nap on their polar bear rug while my parents visited them my father was stationed at the base and worked in the powerplant from 73-76. The nicest couple ever!

      Reply
  33. Marina Leullier

    I was stationed in Sea Island 1957 I was LAW airwomen and had the opportunity to visit Holberg with a few other airwomen to go to Holberg for the Halloween Dance, they flew us there on one of our service aircraft, what a wonderful experience, never realizing that I would end up living there on the base when my husband Jacques (JimJ Leullier was transferred there from 1963 to 1965. We lived in the smallest apartment building , and I set up the library in the basement of the rec centre. We had a wonderful time, would love to hear of others, My name is Marina ( Kershaw) Leullier.

    Reply
  34. bev thomas

    we were there in around 75-76 Lived in the apartments and then moved to the housing in a nurses quarters. The Wagon Wheel; started Beavers; taught sunday school. Best years of my life. Wesley Thomas – my husband, now deceased, was crew on the Nimpkish.

    Reply
  35. Simon Klaudt

    For those of you who were in Holberg between 1971 and 1977, I was a radio DJ ( DJ? really ? ), at CFHG 1490, who usually did the Afternoon Hour ( 1700-1800 ) weekdays, and also a pop music hour in the evening hours ( 2000 to 2200) probably on Tuesday or Wednesday. Because i was the record librarian ( after Bev Hamilton left ) at the station, I usually introduced all the latest music received as 45 rpm or 33 rpm long playing records. Wendell Marshall handed his show ( Afternoon Hour ) to me before leaving for his next posting.

    I only have one recorded show, of which I have a copy ( cassette tape ), for the Evening Pop Music Hours.

    Reply
    • Ian McLaughlin

      Hi
      My mom was also a DJ at that time. Her name was Betty McLaughlin.

      Reply
    • Cathy Rigby (Rowe)

      Hi, my dad Ernie Rowe and his friend Jim Fisher did I bit on the radio , we were there from 74 to 78

      Reply
  36. ron

    Ron.. Holberg 1958 Enjoyed the pics. I snaped a few of them.. The Ops 2 ball team crest 1958 I just gave to the air force museum in Comox.

    Reply
    • Julie

      The memories!! Grade 1-3/4…I see both schools I went to. The stories being back a lot…lining up for movies, swimming n more! I remember the riding of tricycles with several in the Dr West? carport…tripped n fell, broke my front teeth n then the dentist Dr Brothers?Dad/Fred n Mom/Joan…My youngest brother was born there…7 little angels.
      Mom n Dad have both passed away, 2018 n 2021.

      Reply
  37. Douglas Berg

    Can anybody tell me how many children were born on the base in Holberg

    Reply
  38. Bruce

    My Dad was stationed there in the early 70’s and I was born there in 73′. I don’t remember it, but would love to revist one day.

    Reply
  39. Ian McLaughlin

    Hi:
    I’m an air force brat who lived in Holberg from 1973-1978. I stumbled across your site and am glad I did. The pics bring back some memories for sure. I still live in BC and keep saying I’m going to go back for a visit, but haven’t got around to it yet; hopefully someday soon!

    Reply
  40. Shawn Smith

    Hi my name is Shawn Smith we lived in Holberg from 1968 to 1970. My dad was Vernon Smith and worked in communications. I have very fond memories of living in Holberg. I find it amazing that a place so isolated has brought so many people such great memories and wanting to still reach out to others that lived there.

    Reply
  41. rocky lundy

    Love this site – brings back lots of memories. I worked in the office when it was under the name Rayonier and Fritz Haugland was the camp manager along with his dog sam. Our Daughter was born at the airbase Jan 1969. Then there was the commissary run by Dick Burke. First boat ride thru the narrows was with Gabe Katona. Yup, lots of memories. Old Steve Mashabroda (sp) living behind the cook house with all his cats!

    Reply
    • Gary

      I’m glad you love the site. I loved putting it together! I arrived in Holberg shortly after you and I definitely remember Gabe Katona. Karl Yzerman (spelled wrong, I’m sure.) and Fred Mantic were two managers I remember. And I will never forget Zoltan Borsos, another one of the management team, was always entertaining, too. I was just a kid and he always made me laugh.

      You are right: Totally unforgettable times were in Holberg!

      Reply
      • Kaela Neufeld

        For the record you spelled Karl Yzerman just fine, he’s my grandfather (and still alive and kicking in Parksville).

        Reply
        • Gary

          Wow! Thank you so much, Kaela, for letting me know! And I’m so thrilled to hear that Karl is alive and kicking in Parksville! He probably won’t remember me (Gary), but he will definitely remember my father, John, who was his bullbucker. Sadly, my father passed away a year or two ago, but Karl wouldn’t be surprised to know that he was full of drive and energy right up until the end.

          Reply
        • John Hindson

          I REMEMBER THAT. Cannot recall the name of the cook though.
          Carl was great to work for, so was Al Clark.

          Reply
  42. Joe Malden

    Can anybody tell me if the base/living quarters/ apartments/school is accessible at all? I’d love to go back for a visit and just remember.

    Reply
    • Gary

      The last time I was there was 2006, as you may have seen somewhere on this site. At that time, I was able to find where the old guard house was back in the early 70s. I didn’t have much time, so I didn’t venture out on foot or drive to far on any of the overgrown roads. Sorry I cannot be more helpful than that. Hopefully, someone else will see your comment and give you a more up to date reply.

      Reply
  43. richard dares

    i am looking for some info about a resident of Holberg BC circa 1977…I have some burlwood tables that were made there in 1977,made by a gentleman named Art Thompson…the 2 endtables and 1 coffee table were all signed and dated on the underside…Im looking to see what i can find out about Mr .Thompson……whether he was a local artist there,or if he just made the 1 set of tables…i am in Halifax,Nova Scotia right now,so Im not sure how they made it clear across the country,but if anyone from the area can direct me somewhere that i may be able to find out more info on the gentleman,id really appreciate it…thank you.. richarddares13@gmail.com

    Reply
  44. David Lyons

    Very cool! I lived in Holberg as a very young child in the mid 70’s. I loved it there despite the constant rain. I remember some kids making bigfoot tracks in the dirt and I believed bigfoot was real!

    Reply
  45. John Hindson

    Hello Gary, very interesting to browse the comments regarding Holberg, I lived and worked there from 1970 to 1974 when I left to work for Weldwood at Thompson Sound. I enjoyed many hours fishing the the various rivers.

    Reply
  46. Susan Ssun

    Our family lived in Holberg Logging Camp between 1960 and 1965. Some family names I recall are; Chilton, Praxel, Brown, Hedberg, Little, Hicks & Darling. Our family name was Bilous. My younger brother was born at the hospital at the base, and the rest of us children stayed with various family friends while our mother was in the hospital. I stayed with an older couple who lived on top of the small hill (or mountain) right at the head of the harbour. Their house (or cabin) was modest and had a small sleeping loft. They had a direct view of the harbour and I believe they were the only house there at the time. I’ve been to Holberg twice over the past 5 years and the original cabin is gone, the long wooden staircase that led up to the cabin is also gone, and replaced by a driveway. The forest that once surrounded the house and property has been cleared and I believe there are trailors up there now? I am wondering if anyone knows the name of the couple I am talking about? At the time they may have been in their mid to late 50’s? I never forgot my stay with them and it truly was one of the most magical experiences of my childhood. I have many fond memories of them and would greatly appreciate any information or photos anyone may have of them, the property or house. Thank you!

    Reply
  47. Terry Wardrobe

    Hi Terry Wardrobe. Live there from Around 1970 to 1973 74!!!

    Reply
    • Gary

      Hi Terry, Thank you for your comment! Sorry for not getting it posted here earlier. I’ve been busy and not checking my emails regularly.

      Reply
  48. Brenda Nelson (nee Yeatman)

    Thank you so much for creating this site.
    What a great trip down memory lane.
    My Dad, David “Joe” Yeatman, was a radar technician and we were posted twice in the mid 70’s and also the late 70’s early 80’s.
    Such a fantastic place to grow up in. Like you said it stays with you and you feel cheated that the station no longer exists. Wouldn’t trade that experience for the world.
    Working at the radio station through school playing our own records, the 10 mile swim competition in the rec center pool, having french fries and gravy in the snack bar and watching movies for just 25cents.
    Such great times walking to Rayonier and spending time with friends there, right Brian Gibbons! you were working at the shop for your parents). The hotel was just finished when we were transferred out.

    Reply
  49. Paul Dunlop

    Hi. Interesting site. About 2 years ago I purchased a 1955 Citroen 11BL(Traction Avant). On the windshield are two decals, one for CFS Holberg and the other CFB Toronto.
    Just wondering if anyone remembers this car or if the vehicle was even there.
    Thank you

    Reply
  50. Dr.Bob Meek

    I lived in Holberg, the logging camp on floats, from June 1952 to June 1953. I was 9 years old. They were building the Radar station and we called it Marwell, because it was being put together by Marwell construction. My father ran the general store (commissary) on the float camp. the RCAF would fly in in Cansos every now and then to inspect the construction. There is a good article about what Holberg was like at the time in a newspaper supplement called the Star Weekly (based in Toronto I think ). We went to a one room school with 7 grades and a 19 year old teacher named Miss Crawley. They closed the ‘float camp’ part of the logging operation in the summer of 1953. It was an Alaska Pine and Cellulose operation.

    Reply
    • Stephanie Beaulieu

      What a neat site! I just happened to stumble upon this because I have a friend living in the BC area. I always tell them if they get the opportunity they have to visit Holberg. It got me reminiscing about my time there so I googled Holberg to see what I’d find for pictures. I lived there from mid to late 80’s as my dad was stationed there. We left just before the closing of the base. I remember spending lots of time at the Canex, bowling alley and enjoying countless hours playing outside or camping in the area. Although I was young and have only vague memories now, it is a place I’ve never forgotten. Im thankful I had the opportunity to live there even for a brief moment in time. Thank you for capturing this so the history and stories live on about the hidden gem- Holberg. Family name is Flood.

      Reply
  51. Louise

    Hi, I’m looking to reach out to a Douglas Haynes(Haines) who worked in Holberg in 1977. Any links gratefully appreciated.

    Reply
  52. E. M.

    Thanks for still having this website up. My husband’s grandparents lived in Holberg before his father was born, while his grandfather worked on building the original radar instillation. It would have been sometime before 1958, I’d have to ask to get the exact dates. They lived in a cabin on the San Josef trail, and there are stories about Mr. Lincoln and Mr. Cordy. It was a very, very small, isolated place when they were up there, before any air force personnel were stationed up there. What a wild place for a pair of newlyweds to move to back in the 1950s! They were both immigrants from Scandinavia. Someday we hope to travel up there to see where they lived for those early years of their marriage.

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  53. Ray

    The happy face on the rock between the radar site and the GATR was painted by Ray Desmeules and Dave Willows (both RadTec) around 74-75.
    We had good times back then.

    Reply
  54. Heidi Barrio

    My Dad, Joe Barrio was stationed in Holberg in 65/66/67. I was born on the base. We left when I was 6 months old and I’ve never been back to my birthplace. I’m hoping to make the trip next year! This site and the photos let me have a look back at what my Dad and Mom saw while there.

    Reply
    • Julie

      That would be the same time my DAD n the family were there. My youngest brother was born there. I only caught up with the past, as my DAD passed away this year. All of this brings back great memories of my DAD. All these people keeping in touch…keep it up! We all need this!

      Reply
  55. Heidi Barrio

    I’m wondering how many people were born on the base in Holberg? I was in June of ‘66.

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  56. Wes Neilly

    Wes Neilly Sept 2021
    Ex MSE 1971 – 1974
    CFHG Radio, Golden
    Oldies & Western Hits.
    Weapons Range Officer,
    etc.
    Emailed with Curt Usherwood a few years
    Back. Pat Redfern lives
    Up here in the Sunny
    Okanagan, too.
    Holberg was many memories for all who
    served there. Trail guided
    A Nai from Elephant Crossing a few years back. 77 on the 17th so
    good times fading fast.
    Cheers, Wes Cowboy
    Neilly. Kelowna,BC.

    Reply
  57. Justin B.

    Hi Dave T. I worked with you at EC in the late 90’s-early 2000’s (EMS).
    I was drawn to this web site because I used to live in Port Hardy and traveled all around the Island. Been to Holberg many times. I recall you mentioned you used to live in Holberg. Hope you’re doing well….wherever you are. I’m still out east ):

    Kudos to the creator and administrator of this sites. Really special. Better than social media.

    Reply
  58. Julie

    Morgan…sounds familiar…My dad Fred was there at least three years…I personally remember those good old days!! I remember being moved from the apartments to a pmq…Holdings were out neighbours n McDonald’s just a hip skip n jump from us

    Reply
    • Julie

      Goldings not HOLDINGS…I must have had my fingers doing the walking

      Reply
  59. Reg Young

    Hi, I am trying to contact Jed Christman does anyone know of a cell# for him or an address?

    Reply
  60. Steve Gallagher

    Our family where in Holberg in the mid 70’s.
    My father Darrell “Doc” Gallagher was stationed there in 1975. I remember the happy face shack and the big marshmallow domes up on the hills.
    My name is Steven Gallagher Doc’s oldest son and have enjoyed going down memory lane with all the posts about CFS Holberg.
    I live in Chilliwack now and might be taking a road trip in the summer to Holberg…

    Reply
  61. Tom Chartrand

    Hi all of you with connections to Holberg…
    I lived and worked there from 1980-86 or so and new pretty much everyone on the road crew… as well as many others in the community… I was one of the drillers…and my wife Char had many roles in the community . We raised our kids there during those years and they still remember and talk about going to the dump on the weekends to see the bears. They were very formidable and formative years for me and i still return there in my dreams. Thanks everyone for keeping the place alive with your memories .

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  62. Al David Jones

    Anyone remember Jake Devries, Air Force Police (AFP), stationed at CFS Holberg in the late ’60s or early ’70s. Knew Jake in Val D’Dor PQ and Germany.

    Al Jones, former AFP

    Reply
  63. Troy Stooke

    Does anyone remember my parents? Dan and Lil Huber. Dan was stationed RCAF there in 1958/9 doing radar control I believe. Mom was finally ‘allowed’ to bring me and join Dan as it wasn’t considered a family posting, but an ‘isolation’ posting. likely winter of 58/59. They were about 22 years old at the time and stayed there maybe only 6 -12 months. I was about 6 months old and, apparently, I got an ear infection, and the penicillin I got for it gave me a rash. Mom said the community members were freaked out that perhaps she had brought (me) with measles into the community. Which she hadn’t. I don’t know much about those early days from my parents who have now died. Dad spoke glowingly of Cape Scott. Mom was not so enthralled with the community, pretty alone with her first baby, wintertime weather, and feeling ostracized.
    I’d love to visit, just to learn about the place I lived as an infant. Not sure if the road is drivable with a truck towing a 24-foot RV? Would I leave it in Port Hardy? Port McNeil? Or? thanks for doing this site. all the best to each of you.

    Reply

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