Opened in the summer of 1939 when the Ballard locks were still a peace time lure for both locals and tourists, the Haida Curio Shop was eventually closed by the doldrums and restrictions of the Second World War. Following the war, the Ballard rarity was opened again by new owners and not for dealing curious but chips and fish. The original structure survives although somewhat shrouded in the bric-a-brac of utility poles, glossy paint and the Totem House’s oversized plastic sign. Now the shop is again in the news, since it’s fish-&-chips provider retired. The landmark was, of course, threatened, but the most recent news – if I am reading it right – is that it will be saved by a new provider with an old meat: hamburger. (The “then” photo is used courtesy of Sara Houston)