Ainslie Helmcken was the grandson of Dr. John Helmcken. His father was Dr. Jim Helmcken. Ainslie had many fond recollections of visits with his grandfather. It is these memories that helped contribute to much of the understanding of Helmcken family life that we have today. Ainslie served with the Royal Flying Corps in WWI, but never went overseas. Upon his return, he completed a law degree, and was designated the family lawyer by his grandfather, John.

Ainslie went on to hold a variety of positions in his life. He operated a Fish Reduction Plant on Pender Island with his brother in law; worked as a Timber Broker; worked with the BC Power Commission monitoring dam construction; operated a duty free store in Sidney; and was also a partner in the Beacon Hotel in Sidney. In 1965, Ainslie became the city archivist.

In addition to his professional commitments, Ainslie was well recognised for his contribution to Victoria civic life. He was the charter president of the Victoria Kinsmen. In 1976 he was awarded the Victoria Chamber of Commerce Citizen of the year, and in 1985 received the Award of Merit from the American Association for State and Local History