Fort Steele Town
The Excitement of an 1890s Boom Town
Fort
Steele was originally known as "Galbraith's Ferry" during the
Kootenay Gold Rush of 1864. It was renamed in 1888 to honour the
achievements of Superintendent Samuel Steele of the North West
Mounted Police, who peacefully settled tensions between white
settlers and the Ktunaxa people. Spurred on by rich mineral
discoveries in the area during the 1890's, Fort Steele thrived as
the commercial, social and administrative centre of the region. But
in 1898, when the BC Southern Railway bypassed the town in favour of
nearby Cranbrook, Fort Steele quickly declined, becoming almost a
ghost town.
Today, you'll enjoy dramatic re-enactments of the town's history,
as costumed townsfolk present and debate the issues of the day while
going about their business. And what a town! Over 60 original or
accurately reconstructed buildings show off the upbeat spirit of the
1890's and make it easier for you to imagine you've traveled back
in time. The southern Canadian Rockies provide a majestic backdrop,
horses graze in the fields and the Kootenay River swings past the
town-site. Forget about cars and highways awhile, as you stroll the
boardwalks, explore all the buildings, and take a horse-drawn ride
along the streets of history!
Want More Information?
Fort Steele Heritage Town is managed by the Friends of Fort Steele
Society. For more information:
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