The iconic Centennial Totem Pole located in front of the Maritime Museum in Vancouver’s Hadden Park will undergo conservation beginning this month.

Carved in 1958, the public art display will be removed after an assessment determined the base was decaying and could be at risk in exceptionally high winds.

The City of Vancouver will be able to assess its condition and develop a comprehensive conservation approach. Restoration work will be done in partnership with Mungo Martin's Kwakwaka'wakw descendants, many of whom are renowned carvers in their own right. 

The City has informed the Musqueam, Squamish and Tsleil-Waututh Nations on whose unceded territory the pole is currently located of this work, and will work with them throughout the restoration process.

It is expected to take four to six weeks to test the wood, conduct a full excavation, and remove it for transportation.

The Centennial Pole is one of two identical poles commissioned by British Columbia to commemorate B.C.’s colonial history. Its sister pole was presented to Queen Elizabeth and is located in Windsor Great Park, Berkshire, England.

It isn’t the first time that this totem pole has undergone restoration work. In 2008, the pole’s hat was removed due to deterioration, and a support system was installed in 2014 for public safety and stability.