The original arch was erected in 1912 by the BC Lumberman and Shinglemen's Society to honour the Duke of Connaught, son of Queen Victoria to mark his visit to Vancouver.

The Duke's procession passed through the arch in Vancouver's downtown core.  Following his visit, the arch was moved to this site.  Due to decay, the wooden arch was replaced in 1952 by the cedar archway in place today to honour BC's Lumber industry.