Indigenous peoples have inhabited British Columbia, as described in their oral traditions. There are claims by the English to have explored the region in the 16th century, but it was the Majorcan-born Spanish navigator Juan José Pérez Hernández who did the first documented travel in 1774.
In 1778, English explorer James Cook reached Nootka Sound and set foot on British Columbian soil. There were several gold finds in British Columbia in the 1850s. The British colonial office responded to this situation by establishing British Columbia’s mainland as a crown colony in 1858, naming it the Colony of British Columbia. In 1871, British Columbia became the sixth province of the Dominion of Canada.
The British Columbia Day Act was first introduced to the Legislative Assembly in 1974. The aim of the Bill was to create a statutory holiday on the first Monday in August to recognize the pioneers in the province, and the act gained royal assent in 1996.
Whitfield Chase came to the area after tiring of the gold rush frenzy.
Historian Joyce Dunn has documented the area’s history in her book, A Town Called Chase.
Dunn’s family still farms on VLA Road, and the outdoor theatre at Chase Memorial Park has been named in her honor. Her book is available at the Chase Chamber Info Office, with proceeds to the Chase and District Museum fund.
One thing that surely attracted all who came to British Columbia, no matter which generation, is the abundance of natural scenery. This is a legacy worthy of the highest gratitude, and stewardship.
Enjoy your long weekend celebrating British Columbia heritage, however you are able; stay safe and make the best of the summer heat.