Persephone Restoration - Town of Gibsons

A Beloved Icon

Fans of the TV series The Beachcombers will fondly remember the iconic Persephone, also known as the John Henry, a working tug that captured the hearts of viewers as it sailed through the waters of Howe Sound. From 2007 until 2021, the Persephone was on display at the Five Corners intersection in Gibsons Landing, drawing visitors from around the globe who wanted to see the legendary boat up close and capture a piece of television history.

The Persephone holds a special place in the hearts of many, both locally and around the world. The boat is a cherished symbol of Gibsons’ maritime heritage and was considered a character in her own right.

In Need of Restoration and a New Home

The passage of time and weather have taken their toll on the Persephone. Now failing structurally, the vessel needs significant restoration. In 2021, the Persephone was moved from Five Corners to the Town of Gibsons’ Public Works Yard where it is awaiting restoration and a new home to be built to ensure the restored vessel is protected for generations to come.

‘Save the Persephone’ Fundraising Campaign

Returning the boat to her former glory will require major restoration work, as well as the construction of a dedicated weather-protected shelter where the boat will remain on public display for our community and visitors to enjoy.

With an estimated project cost of $775,000, the Town of Gibsons is actively applying for grants and seeking corporate sponsorships in addition to the public fundraising campaign.

On December 8, 2020, we announced that BC Ferries has generously committed $25,000 to the project. Read the related Press Release in full here.

Go to the Save the Persephone Fundraising page

Watch a quick video about the restoration project here.

A new location for the Persephone has been determined

Once the boat has been restored and the site is prepared, the Persephone will be moved to the Northeast corner of Holland Lands (see below).

Donate Now!

History of the Persephone

The wood and steel star of the TV series “The Beachcombers” and her skippers Nick Adonidas and Jessie Jim, rivaled Relic in his jet boat as they roamed the waters of Howe Sound. Thirty years after the end of filming, people still flock to Gibsons, BC to visit Molly’s Reach and the former resting spot of the Persephone. Thousands every year gathered around, to have their pictures taken and reminisce on Sunday evenings past, and favourite episodes fondly remembered.

The Beachcombers often pulled in more viewers than “Hockey Night in Canada” – a huge record for this unique series. The show was also one of the first of its kind to feature First Nations performers, an aspect of this series that will be highlighted at the Persephone’s new home.

July 30, 2020, marked the 30th anniversary of the filming of the final episode of The Beachcombers.

To listen to a Canadian History EHX podcast on the history and impact of The Beachcombers, please click here.

Read the Canadian Encyclopedia entry on The Beachcombers here.