Fort Langley National Historic Site
The Hudson's Bay Company established their trade operation here on the Fraser River as a transshipment location for European made goods blankets, metalware, rope, clothing, etc. destined for interior posts and natural resources furs, salmon, cranberries, butter, salt meat to external markets. On November 19, 1858, in the Big House of the fort, Governor James Douglas, with Judge Matthew Bailie Begbie and other dignitaries of the British crown, read the proclamation from Queen Victoria that established the Colony of British Columbia. Today, Fort Langley National Historic Site of Canada helps to tell the story of local fur trade and agricultural pursuits, as well as the colonization story and the ongoing history of the area. In the one original and half-dozen reproduction buildings, there are films, exhibits, and some hands-on demonstrations of blacksmithing and gold-panning. During the summer, there are daily campfires at 7pm with marshmallows and stories. You can take day-long blacksmithing or canoeing adventures. Special events include Canada Day, horse- and ox- and wagons rides, and a historic reenactment dinner.
