The Persephone, aka The John Henry, the vessel that sailed into living rooms across Canada and around the world for more than 19 years, needs a new home – and a major restoration.
In response, Councillor David Croal is spearheading a special committee to establish funding and logistics for the relocation, restoration and housing of the Persephone, as well as her rival Relic’s jet boat. To join the committee, please contact Councillor Croal at dcroal@gibsons.ca.
The aim is to have the restoration and relocation project completed in 2022, which would coincide with the 50th anniversary of The Beachcombers debut on CBC-TV.
BC Ferries to Help Fund Restoration!
On December 8, 2020, we announced that BC Ferries has generously committed to funding the restoration of the Persephone. Said President and CEO of BC Ferries, Mark Collins “BC Ferries is proud to make a donation to this project, as revitalizing the Persephone will have a lasting and positive impact for many years to come.”
Read the related Press Release in full here.
Watch a quick video about the restoration project here.
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 nearby resting spot of the Persephone. Thousands every year gather around, 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.
Persephone/The Beachcombers In the News
2020-12-08: Coast Reporter – BC Ferries to help fund Persephone restoration
2020-09-26: Canadian History EHX podcast – The Beachcombers
2020-08-09: Coast Reporter – Search for new home for Persephone continues
2020-08-02: CBC News – Beachcomber star reflects on iconic Canadian series on 30th anniversary of last episode
2020-07-30: CBC Radio – The Early Edition with Stephen Quinn: The Beachcombers and its influence
2020-02-18: Coast Reporter – Members sought for Beachcombers boat committee
Click below to hear the (highly nostalgic) Beachcombers theme music:
