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IN THE BEGINNINGIn the mid 1800s Ladysmith was founded to provide living space for the miners and their families who worked at the Extension coal mines about 20 miles to the north of Ladysmith. Many buildings (commercial and residential) were moved to this site via rail and by oxen; some have been refurbished and still stand today. The coal boom lasted three decades. In her peak days, Ladysmith boasted over 15 hotels, many businesses and even a house of ill repute. Coal was everything to the town until a series of blows occurred. Thirty-two miners were killed in a mine explosion in 1909 and in 1912, Ladysmith miners launched a strike against Dunsmuir that lasted until World War I. In 1931 the seam at Extension dried up and the mine was closed. Economically this staggered Ladysmith and for five years the town’s population spiralled downward. REBIRTHA gale blew down thousands of trees behind Ladysmith in 1931. These were eventually sold to Comox Logging & Railway Company. Comox soon opened up operations in Ladysmith to harvest the timber. Within two years the company payroll numbered 300 people and Ladysmith was reborn. Timber indeed became king! By the late 70’s trouble was on the horizon again. A recession slowed construction and the BC/USA lumber trade situation worsened. In 1985, Crown Zellerbach closed its Ladysmith operation and with it went the town’s second industry-based existence. A NEW RENAISSANCEIn the mid 1980s Ladysmith took several steps to revitalize the community. With the protection and restoration of its downtown heritage buildings, the town’s early San Francisco look has been preserved. Waterfront developments, marinas and retail sectors all add to its vibrant livability. Ladysmith has blossomed into a lively seaside community that is attracting new residents from all walks of life who are drawn by the healthy lifestyle, scenery and recreational opportunities it has to offer. Today services include five financial institutions, a hospital, library, galleries, museum, RCMP detachment, restaurants, cafés and public houses. Ladysmith lights up the last Thursday in November to January 1, becoming the Christmas Light-up Capital of Vancouver Island. IT’S TIME TO PLAYLadysmith makes the most of its seaside location. All it takes is a visit to Transfer Beach Park. Enjoy the spectacular harbour view from the amphitheatre that can hold 1000 people. Comb the sculpted sandstone shoreline for marine life, have a picnic, paddle a kayak or go for a swim. Hike the 5.8km Holland Creek Trail. Hunt for treasure in the local Antique Shops. Stroll historic downtown Ladysmith, marvel at her heritage buildings and sample the fare at streetside cafes. Visit the docks at Ladysmith’s three marinas to buy fresh seafood and gather some local knowledge about when and where to fish for salmon. Sample the local fresh and tasty oysters. Awesome scuba diving, fly fishing, kayaking and hiking locations are all close by. Tour local wineries and bring home something special. From Nanaimo to Duncan golf courses abound, and best of all… you can play golf year round! In the winter enjoy a day of skiing at Mount Washington Alpine Resort, just 2 hours away. For more detailed information on what to do in and around Ladysmith
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