Historic Townsite

Welcome to the Historic Townsite in Powell River, British Columbia, Canada which was once designated a National Historic area in Oct.1995 by the Federal Government.

Powell River is an exceptional example in Canadian modern period planning that utilized the garden city concept. An english planning principle was designed to bring beauty to the harsh landscapes.

The town was originally owned and constructed by the Powell River Lumber Company in 1910, which became the 1st largest newsprint manufacture in Western Canada. The town was constructed to provide homes for the workers and their families in order to encourage people to relocate to the isolated wilderness.

Historic Townsite is filled with beautiful heritage buildings such as "The Patricia Theatre" the oldest running movie theatre in Western Canada and Dwight Hall built in 1927, where most events were held and to present time.

St. Josephs Catholic Church built in 1913 which has been turned into a private home and St Luke's Hospital was completed in 1913 (now known as the Kenmar Building), these are just some of the few gems still existing.

Enjoy a heritage walk through the Historic Townsite and take a step back in time.

Visit the Townsite Heritage Society at www.powellrivertownsite.com and discover more history on Powell River or phone 604-483-3091.