Joe Fortes was Vancouver’s first official lifeguard.

 

He was born on February 9th, 1863, in Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago.

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At the age of 17 he left Trinidad for England where he lived in Liverpool for 5 years.

 

He learned how to swim at St. George’s Baths.

 

He arrived in Vancouver on September 30th, 1885 and was a bartender, swimming instructor, and lifeguard.

 

Around 1897, the city of Vancouver placed Joe on its payroll in recognition of his services as a lifeguard and instructor.

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