Nanaimo History

Harbourside Motel is considered the milestone of Nanaimo. This motel was formerly known as the Westward Ho Motel, which was founded by the Mayor of Nanaimo, "Pirate" Frank J. Ney. Ney was a resident of Nanaimo from 1946 until his death in 1992. He was Mayor of Nanaimo from 1968-1984, and 1987-1990. Ney promoted the economic development of Vancouver Island, and established the famous bathtub race as an annual event since 1968.