Back to the Future Project

In 2014, a local photographer and high-end print specialist in Kamloops, BC, Bill McQuarrie, envisioned a project that would bring the past and present together in a powerful visual way. His concept was to recreate photographs taken 100 years ago by standing in the exact same location and capturing what exists there today. It showed how how certain landmarks remain central to the identity of the community despite the passage of time.

He spent time in the Kamloops Museum and Archives, carefully selecting historical images that represented the city’s early days. These photographs became the foundation for what he called Kamloops: Back to the Future.

Bill invited 19 local photographers to take part, assigning each of us a specific location. The goal was to match the original image as closely as possible in perspective, composition and placement while revealing the passage of time. Locations ranged from old hotels and churches to general stores and schools, each one offering a glimpse into Kamloops’ evolving story. 

I was honored to be one of the photographers and my assignment was Kamloops Fire Rescue Station No. 1 on Summit Drive. When I visited the station, it was exciting to see the historic photographs already displayed on the walls. Among them was the image I had been given - a group portrait of 12 firefighters from the past.

I arranged a meeting with the fire chief to explain the project and my vision of photographing a modern group of firefighters in the same location. The members were intrigued and happy to participate. 

Standing there with the photograph in hand, I aligned the scene with the firefighters, While the building, equipment and uniforms had changed, the sense of purpose and community remained constant.

The project culminated in a public exhibition at the Kamloops Art Gallery, where historical and contemporary images were displayed side by side, inviting viewers to reflect on change, memory and the layered history of Kamloops.

For me, this assignment was more than a technical exercise. It was a reminder that photography has the unique ability to preserve, connect and tell stories across generations.