1938:

At precisely 6:31 am, a mysterious explosion shakes the Metro Vancouver area. The shock lasts less than one minute, rattling windows, shaking buildings, and awakening residents across the city. However, there is no damage, and the seismograph at Gonzales Observatory in Victoria registers absolutely nothing. Despite massive public curiosity, and a number of interesting theories, including an earthquake, “an explosion at Deep Cove”, an oil tanker exploding in the harbour, and a nearby safecracker at work, no cause is ever found.

Image: Alexandra Park Bandstand, circa 1920s. Image Courtesy of Vancouver Archives.