Living Legacy of Louisa Silva and Jane Degnen
Joined Hands
Living Legacy of Louisa Silva and Jane Degnen
Baskets and weaving, the marriage of utility and beauty, are a visible legacy of Louisa Silva and Jane Degnen. Gabriola names such as Silva Bay, Degnen Bay and Degnen Road pay tribute to these early settlers. The Silva family donated land for a school, and for the Log Church, still in use today. The Robert Degnen farmhouse remains a symbol of the family’s significance. Many of the original pioneers, including Louisa Silva and Jane Degnen, lie buried in the cemetery. As well, their children and grandchildren, through oral and written reminiscences, create a living history of these two indomitable women. Gabriolans today pride themselves on a strong sense of independence, exemplified by the early settlers and especially by Louisa Silva and Jane Degnen, who joined hands with European men to make history.