Compelling first-person historical narratives, including Indigenous language translations, and outstanding research mark this engaging, chronological account of the significant and complex history of Prince Rupert. The modern colonization perspective reveals overlooked aspects of the region’s rich Indigenous heritage and results of settler colonization. Traditionally known as Kaien Island, the epicentre of Pacific Northwest coastal trade, some archaeological records date back to 6000 BC and show early signs of the prosperous Ts'msyen First Nation. Explorers’ diaries revealed Ts'msyen were exceptional traders until settler colonization destroyed their trading livelihood virtually overnight.

Spanning the ethno-cultural history, including leaders, from the 1800s to current day, Mirau includes archival news excerpts, posters, and historical narratives revealing the triumphs and harsh treatment of racialized Chinese and Japanese labourers; versus white-washed local paper accounts. Our provincial government’s racist attitudes towards non-whites persisted until recently, with legal reparation of land to the Ts'msyen, and nurturing a more multi-cultural community. Mirau, a community-centered, accomplished “Ruperite,” is the CEO of the Gitmaxmak’ay Nisga’a Society.

Cautions / Content Warnings: Archaeological evidence of extreme intra-indigenous violence. Harsh treatment of local Indigenous Peoples. Offensive (historically accurate) terms for Asian labourers.
Other End Matter: Acknowledgements, extensive end notes
Images: B&W photographs, B&W illustrations
Bibliography: Yes
Index: Yes

Evaluator: Denise N., High School Librarian, BC Books for Schools

Blair Mirau is a born-and-raised Rupertite and former Prince Rupert city councillor. Since 2016, he has served as the chief executive officer of the Gitmaxmak’ay Nisga’a Society, which has been recognized with the BC Indigenous Community-Owned Business of the Year Award. In 2018, Mirau was named one of BC’s Top 30 Under 30 by BC Business magazine. He holds a master’s in Interdisciplinary Studies and a graduate certificate in Sustainable Community Development from Royal Roads University, as well an undergraduate degree in International Development from the University of Winnipeg. He is most proud to be the father to Rowan Mirau, husband to Chelesy Ellis, and son of Brad and Janet Mirau.

Blair Mirau's profile page

"Blair Mirau eloquently paints the story of Prince Rupert from a pre-colonial era to our current day history. This book is a detailed, no stone left unturned love letter to the culture and peoples of Kaien Island. A must read for anyone with a deep interest in this region."

—Lee Brain, former Mayor of Prince Rupert (2014–22)

“In his debut book, Blair Mirau skillfully weaves a narrative that spans generations, offering a profound exploration of the city's past and a hopeful vision for its future. A captivating blend of history and metaphor, this book is a testament to the enduring spirit of Prince Rupert, making it an essential read for locals and visitors alike.

—Ceilidh Marlow, executive director, Tourism Prince Rupert

“No city in Canada can match the adventuresome, topsy-turvy, boom-bust history of Prince Rupert. And it’s all here in Blair Mirau’s thorough account of the City of Rainbows, from its rich Indigenous roots to the latest of its many bounce-backs from financial peril. Read it and be amazed. There’s no city like it.”

—Rod Mickleburgh, longtime journalist and prize-winning author of On the Line: A History of the British Columbia Labour Movement"