The Challenger Relief Map Foundation is a Canadian nonprofit organization dedicated to the preservation, restoration, and public display of the Challenger Relief Map of British Columbia, a monumental topographic map showcasing the province’s geography.

History and Background

The Challenger Relief Map was constructed between 1947 and 1954 by George Challenger and his family. This raised-relief map measures 80 by 76 feet, covering over 6,000 square feet—the size of two tennis courts. It is composed of nearly one million pieces of hand-jigged, layered, and hand-painted 1/4-inch Douglas Fir plywood pieces. The map portrays the detailed topography of British Columbia, including mountains, lakes, rivers, and valleys, serving as both an educational and cultural heritage piece.

Initially displayed at the British Columbia Pavilion at the Pacific National Exhibition (PNE) in Vancouver, the map was housed there until the pavilion's deconstruction in 1997, after which it was stored in a climate-controlled airplane hangar courtesy of Air Canada. The map is regarded as one of British Columbia’s most iconic heritage artifacts, with significant potential to educate current and future generations about the province’s natural landscape[1][2][5].

Mission and Activities

The Challenger Relief Map Foundation operates to safeguard this significant heritage artifact by coordinating efforts to restore and permanently rehouse the map. In collaboration with the Challenger family, the PNE, First Nations representatives, local government, business community, and other stakeholders, the foundation is organizing expert teams for restoration and modernizing the display with digital technology enhancements.

Currently, plans are underway to reinstall the map in the historic Livestock Building at Hastings Park, which will serve as its permanent home. The foundation also engages in fundraising campaigns to support restoration costs and the upkeep of the installation, appealing to public and private donors for assistance[1][2][5].

Organizational Structure

The Foundation is registered under the British Columbia Societies Act and governed by a board of directors primarily composed of members of the Challenger family:

• Donald William Challenger – President
• Jacki Marie Challenger – Vice President
• Joanne Christine Challenger – Secretary
• Robert James Challenger – Treasurer

The board works closely with a broader advisory group that includes representatives from the PNE, First Nations, community advocates, local government, and the media, reflecting a collective commitment to preserving the map and its cultural significance[2].

Cultural and Educational Significance

The Challenger Relief Map is celebrated as a provincial treasure demonstrating British Columbia’s diverse geography with exceptional detail and craftsmanship. It has been featured in various public exhibitions, including a special partnership exhibit with the BC Sports Hall of Fame and temporary displays at venues such as the Vancouver Convention Centre.

The foundation’s vision is to transform the map into a dynamic educational tool that integrates modern technology while preserving the artistry and heritage values embodied by the original wooden relief. This initiative aims to enhance public engagement, foster appreciation of provincial geography, and honor the legacy of George Challenger’s work[1][3][5].

The Challenger Relief Map Foundation continues to uphold the legacy of an extraordinary artistic and topographical achievement, ensuring that this unique cultural asset remains accessible and inspiring for future generations of British Columbians.