The iconic red-and-black Persephone boat, featured in the long-running Canadian television series The Beachcombers, has been fully restored by the community of Gibsons, British Columbia.

Originally named the John Henry and owned by the father of local resident John Smith, the vessel was painted black during a trip to Vancouver and became a central element of the show, which aired from 1972 for nearly two decades.Filmed in Gibsons, The Beachcombers is one of Canada's longest-running series and gained international acclaim.The boat suffered significant damage from exposure to the West Coast elements after filming ended.Thanks to a community effort, including a $25,000 contribution from B.C.Ferries and nearly $13,000 raised through donations, the Persephone has been brought back to its former glory.

Project manager Andrew Wood led the restoration, which involved replacing the rotten steel hull, rebuilding the deck and cabin, and reinstalling original elements like the muffler, smokestack, and log-pulling apparatus.A small model of the boat helped guide the accurate restoration.The vessel is now on public display at the corner of Gibsons Way and School Road.Mayor Silas White highlighted the continued tourism draw of Beachcombers-related sites, while actor Jackson Davies, who played RCMP Const.John Constable, noted the show's cultural impact, particularly for Indigenous representation.The restoration is seen as a labour of love for the community.An official unveiling is scheduled for May 30, coinciding with the 100th anniversary of Molly’s Reach restaurant from the series.Plans are underway to raise funds for a protective roof over the boat.