Tofino, BC

1998 - A Visit to Tofino – David Hayer

The last time that I visited Tofino, I made the expected visit to Radar Hill which was the location of the Operations site that had once been located in Tofino. I failed to visit the Tofino airport - which was also the location of the domestic site, back in the 1957-1959 time period. While 52 AC&W Squadron was only operational for a short span of three years, the existence of this radar station in the post war years contributed a great deal to the Tofino area as well as the local economy.

I was determined that the next trip I made to Tofino would include a visit to the Tofino airport. After all, what might one find after close to 40 years since 52 AC&W Squadron shut off the power to its radar equipment, and closed its doors?

That "next trip" took place in October 1998, when accompanied by a friend and co-worker (David Hayer) we treked out to Tofino "one more time". The weather was cloudy, low ceilings, marginal rain. At least that part of the trip was no different in 1998 than one could have expected back in 1958. David made the mistake of bringing his camera, and with this in mind, he automatically became the chief photo taker. The following photos share what we found on this gloomy and cloudy day. Did I mention that it was raining?

As can be expected, we have absolutely nothing to go by - from the perspective of trying to identify the various buildings which remain. Perhaps you can assist a little. If you happen to recognize anything in these photos, please take note of the photo number, and send me an email message with the appropriate description. Your assistance will be greatly appreciated.