The Foundation makes grants for cultural, educational and charitable purposes within the Province of British Columbia.
The Honourable Eric Werge Hamber 1879 – 1960
During the course of his life, Eric Werge Hamber excelled as a scholar, athlete, banker, lumberman, industrialist, university chancellor, and philanthropist.
After obtaining an honours degree in classics at St. John’s — Ravenscourt School in Winnipeg, Mr. Hamber began his career with a Canadian bank, ultimately moving to British Columbia to establish the bank’s first branch in Vancouver. Following his marriage in 1912 to Aldyen Irene Hendry, his interests and energies were directed to the forestry and commercial holdings of the Hendry family who were British Columbia pioneers.
Mr. Hamber maintained throughout his lifetime a keen sense of social obligation and responsibility. He continued his interests in athletic accomplishments, and took active roles in organizations concerned with the well-being, education, culture and needs of the community. He was Honorary Colonel of the Seaforth Highlanders of Canada and of the Fifth BC Coast Brigade. He was Lieutenant-Governor of the Province of British Columbia from 1937 to 1941; a Freeman of the City of Vancouver; and served as Chancellor of the University of British Columbia from 1944 to 1951. In 1942 Premier Pattullo designated an area in eastern BC as Hamber Park to commemorate Mr. Hamber’s service as Lieutenant Governor.
