Unveiling the Eerie Legends: Ghost Town Stories Of BC

There's a mysterious allure surrounding abandoned places. Whether it's the thrill of exploring forgotten corners or the chilling tales passed down through generations, ghost towns have always fascinated people. British Columbia, a province with a rich history, is home to several haunting ghost towns that hold countless stories waiting to be unravelled. In this article, we delve into the forgotten past of BC's ghost towns, from the desolate streets to the eerie legends that echo through these abandoned settlements.

1. Barkerville: Preserving the Golden Era

In the heart of the Cariboo Mountains, Barkerville stands as a testament to British Columbia's gold rush days. Once a bustling town, it was left deserted after the gold rush ended. Walking through the streets of Barkerville today, it's easy to imagine the trappings of a vibrant gold mining community. The echoes of fortune-seekers can still be heard drifting through the wind. Barkerville has been meticulously preserved, allowing visitors to travel back in time and experience the remnants of a bygone era.

The historic saloons, merchant shops, and gold rush era buildings offer a glimpse into the struggles and triumphs of the pioneers who braved the rugged wilderness in search of riches. Visitors can explore the Chinese Quarter, learning about the lives of the Chinese immigrants who flocked to Barkerville in search of gold. The town comes alive with interactive displays, live performances, and reenactments, ensuring that the spirit of Barkerville never fades away.

Ghost Town Stories of BC: Tales of Hope, Heroism and Tragedy (Amazing Stories)

by Johnnie Bachusky (Kindle Edition)

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1529 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	146 pages

FREE

2. Sandon: The Silver Town etched in Time

Hidden high in the Selkirk Mountains, Sandon was once a thriving silver mining town. Despite the isolation, it became a prosperous community during the late 1800s. With over 5,000 residents at its peak, Sandon boasted amenities like electric streetlights, schools, and even an opera house. However, the town's glory was short-lived. The end of World War I led to a decline in silver prices and the subsequent closure of the mines. Within a few years, Sandon transformed into a ghost town.

Decades later, visitors can witness the remnants of Sandon's grandeur. The remnants of the once opulent buildings, such as the iconic Reco Building which housed the famous Silversmith Hotel, now stand as silent witnesses of a prosperous past. Walking through the eerie streets, one can't help but imagine the echoes of laughter, music, and the whispers of bygone stories from Sandon's vibrant days. The Sandon Museum provides historical context, showcasing the artifacts and stories that continue to captivate visitors.

3. Phoenix: A Resilient Town Reborn from Ashes

Located in the Similkameen Valley, Phoenix was once known as the largest city between San Francisco and St. Paul. Established during the gold rush, the town survived numerous fires and was rebuilt each time. However, the devastating fire of 1911 completely razed Phoenix to the ground. Despite the challenges, the town was rebuilt and the resilient spirit of its inhabitants prevailed.

Walking through Phoenix today, the rebuilt town stands as a testament to the indomitable human spirit. The rich historical significance of Phoenix is evident in the preserved buildings, including the historic Sacred Heart Church, the Yale Hotel, and the Okanagan Falls Hotel. The once-bustling streets now offer a glimpse into the past, reminding visitors of the challenges faced by the early settlers. As you explore Phoenix's cobblestone streets, let the whispers of triumph and resilience guide your way.

4. Anyox: Abandoned in Industrial Ruins

Tucked away on the shores of Observatory Inlet in the Coast Mountains, Anyox was once a thriving copper mining town. Built to support the Granby Consolidated Mining, Smelting and Power Company, Anyox boasted amenities ahead of its time, including running water, electricity, and even a golf course. However, the town's fortune took a turn with the closure of the mine in 1935, and it was eventually abandoned.

Today, Anyox remains a haunting reminder of the industrial dreams that once thrived there. The skeletal remains of the town's structures, such as the towering smokestacks and the skeletal outlines of the Granby Hall, offer a surreal experience as you walk through the remnants of this lost town. Nature has gracefully intertwined with the abandoned buildings, creating a wonderland of decay and beauty.

5. Kitsault: A Modern Ghost Town Frozen in Time

Kitsault, situated in the North Coast Mountains, is a unique addition to BC's ghost town collection. Unlike the other towns on this list, Kitsault was abandoned in the 1980s, making it a relatively modern ghost town. Originally built to house mine workers and their families, Kitsault boasted modern amenities, including a shopping center, a hospital, and an indoor hockey rink. However, the closure of the molybdenum mine due to low metal prices caused Kitsault's swift abandonment.

Today, curious visitors can explore the eerily preserved town, as if it were frozen in time. The perfectly manicured lawns, the vacant homes, and the intact infrastructure present a captivating sight. Kitsault's unique story showcases the fragility of boomtowns tied to a single industry, and reminds us of the transient nature of human settlements. Amidst the quietness, one can almost hear whispers of the bustling community that once called this place home.

Uncovering BC's Haunting Past

British Columbia's ghost towns have a way of capturing our imagination and sparking curiosity about the lives of those who once inhabited them. The haunting beauty of these forgotten places serves as a reminder of the transient nature of human endeavors, and the resilience of those who forged a life amidst rugged landscapes.

So, if you're ever seeking an adventure filled with history, mystery, and a touch of the supernatural, embark on a journey to BC's ghost towns. Uncover the stories hidden within their crumbling walls, and let their echoes guide you through an exploration of our province's fascinating past.

Ghost Town Stories of BC: Tales of Hope, Heroism and Tragedy (Amazing Stories)

by Johnnie Bachusky (Kindle Edition)

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1529 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	146 pages

FREE

Many of BC's old mining towns are now abandoned ruins, disappearing into the wilderness. These once-thriving towns and the pioneers who built them are remembered in 10 fascinating stories of hard work and heroism. A mine rescue worker sadly recounts a tale of death underground at Coal Creek. Three eccentric old bachelors become the final residents of Phoenix. Legends of Spanish treasure near a Vancouver Island gold-rush town persist to this day. Experience BC's colourful past in these entertaining stories from the province's vanished communities.