Posted on January 10, 2011
Island Profile: Ladysmith
There are some communities on Vancouver Island that, despite growth and development, seem to remain untouched after countless decades. Charming architecture, tiny shops and well-treaded sidewalks are all characteristics of the town of Ladysmith.
Photo: John Samuel
Marking the half-way point between Nanaimo and Duncan, this self-proclaimed “Heritage by the Sea” town keeps watch over Thetis Island as it’s supported by the Island’s spinal mountain range. With a population of less than 10,000, it’s easy to see how Ladysmith maintains the quaint nature it has become known for.
Source: Google Maps
Photo: Active Steve on Flickr
Photo: Read Me on Flickr
Industry has never much been centralized on Ladysmith. Originally known as Oyster Harbour, the town was founded in the very late 1800s by James Dunsmuir. Requiring an area in which to house the families who ran and worked in his adjacent coal mines, Dunsmuir began settling the area and an abundance of homes sprung up within Ladysmith.
Photo: Beana Cheese on Flickr
Photo: Make It Old on Flickr
The town grew rapidly being that it was a through-point between major coal ports on the Island and was easily accessible by rail. In fact, by 1911, the population of Ladysmith had already swollen to about 3,300. While much of the influx of residents came from Britain, there were also sizable communities of those of Belgian, Chinese, Croatian, and Finnish decent. [source]
Photo: 1st View
Photo: Jordan Oram on Flickr
Photo: dallam on Flickr
Ladysmith continues to thrive in the 21st century, relying partially on the Island’s timber resources and predominantly on tourism. The town is also actively working with the Chemainus First Nation and the Hul’qumi’num Treaty Group (a coalition of six First Nations tribes) to preserve the First Nations history of the area.
Photo: Len not Lenny on Flickr
Photo: Tracy O on Flickr
Photo: Len not Lenny on Flickr
They say good things come in small packages and the same could not be more true of Ladysmith. In fact, they’ve even developed a Top 10 list of must-see attractions to do in the area. With its proximity to the ocean, the Island’s wine country, hiking trails, golfing and designated cultural spots, it’s easy to lose yourself in the 49th parallel. Ladysmith is made even easier to see with their free trolley bus service – schedules and information can be found online.
Photo: Len not Lenny on Flickr
Photo: indistinct on Flickr
Photo: Kurt V. on Flickr
Make a point of stopping at Transfer Beach, featuring breathtaking views and family-friendly amenities. This diverse community with its proud heritage is most definitely an essential part of Vancouver Island’s history. Whether you’re there for an hour, a day or a week, it’s well worth your time.
Photo: Tracy O on Flickr
Photo: PaleyFarm on Flickr
Located just 26 kilometres south of Nanaimo, Ladysmith can be found on Highway 1. For more information on the region, you can visit the Ladysmith Chamber of Commerce online or stop by the Visitor Information Centre at 411 B 1st Avenue [map]. Tourism Ladysmith is also a good jumping-off point to plan your adventure.
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The Festival of Lights is also a must see during the holidays. Over 200,000 light up the streets!
Thanks for this gorgeous post. We’re moving to Vancouver Island this year and are in the process of narrowing down the many options of where to live. Ladysmith is a bit of heaven on earth.
For many reasons, Ladysmith is one of my favourite places in all of BC.