Smithers history

History of the Founding of Smithers

Smithers was founded in 1913. The town's appearance on the map of Canada is directly linked to the construction of the Grand Trunk Pacific Railway. The settlement was created as a regional headquarters and a vital transport hub, receiving its name in honour of Sir Alfred Smithers, the chairman of the railway company's board of directors.

Key Development Factors

• Railway Logistics: The location was chosen strategically: the railway required a divisional point to service trains on the long stretch between Prince George and the Pacific port of Prince Rupert.
• Geography: The town is situated in the fertile Bulkley River valley at the foot of Hudson Bay Mountain. The territory initially selected for development was marshy, so the first stage of the town's establishment involved large-scale land drainage.

Early Cultural and Economic Features

In the first decades, the economy of Smithers depended entirely on the railway, which attracted workers and engineers. Soon, agriculture, forestry, and mining in the surrounding mountains were added to the transport sector. In 1921, Smithers received official village status, securing its role as the commercial and administrative centre of the valley.

Timeline of Smithers' Development

The history of Smithers is a journey from a railway station to a cosy town with an alpine character. Below are the key milestones of its development.

• 1913: Foundation of the settlement as a key divisional point of the Grand Trunk Pacific Railway.
• 1914: Arrival of the first passenger train, opening regular connections between the valley and the Pacific coast.
• 1919: Holding of the first Bulkley Valley Fall Fair, which became the region's main annual tradition.
• 1921: Smithers officially receives Village status and forms its first municipal council.
• 1942: Construction of an airfield, initially for military purposes, which later transformed into a regional civil airport.
• 1967: In the year of Canada's Centennial celebrations, Smithers officially receives Town status.
• 1973: Unveiling of the "Alpenhorn Man" statue, which became one of the city's symbols.
• 1979: The town council approves a unified "Alpine style" for the architecture of central streets, creating a unique tourism brand.
• 1980s: A period of active development of ski resort infrastructure on Hudson Bay Mountain.
• 2013: The town celebrates its centennial on a grand scale, highlighting its historical connection to the railway and the culture of early settlers.
• 2010s: Smithers strengthens its reputation as one of the leading centres for mountain biking and eco-tourism in British Columbia.

Key Stages of Smithers' Transformation

The development of Smithers is the story of a technical station transforming into a distinctive tourism and economic centre in British Columbia. Here are the main milestones that defined the modern look and lifestyle of the town:

• Launch of the Railway (1913–1914):
  Significance: The construction of the Grand Trunk Pacific Railway line was the town-forming factor. Smithers was initially designed as a major transport hub, which ensured an influx of engineers and workers, as well as laying the foundation for the first wave of economic growth.
• Establishment as an Agrarian Centre (1919):
  Significance: The establishment of the first agricultural fair (Fall Fair) cemented Smithers' status as the trading hub of the Bulkley Valley. This event united the region's farmers and contributed to the development of the local produce market, which remains an important part of the economy and culture to this day.
• Construction of the Airport (1942):
  Significance: The appearance of a runway (initially for military needs) radically improved logistics. Its transformation into a civil airport opened the region to business and tourism, making Smithers the main air gateway to the province's northwest.
• Receiving Town Status (1967):
  Significance: The official conferral of Town status during Canada's Centennial year symbolised the transition from a small settlement to a fully-fledged municipality with developed infrastructure, schools, and medical facilities.
• Adoption of the "Alpine Code" (1979):
  Significance: A key urban planning decision. The town council passed a bylaw requiring commercial buildings in the town centre to be designed in an Alpine style (red brick roofs, wooden balconies). This created the unique "Little Switzerland" tourism brand, which attracts thousands of travellers annually.
• Development of the Ski Cluster (1980s – Present):
  Significance: The modernisation of the resort on Hudson Bay Mountain turned the town into a winter sports hub. This diversified the economy, reducing dependence on the forestry industry and resource extraction in favour of the service and active leisure sectors.

Urban Development: From Depot to "Little Switzerland"

The urban structure of Smithers was initially dictated by purely utilitarian goals. The town was designed in 1913 by railway engineers as a classic "station settlement" with a clear rectangular street grid oriented relative to the railway tracks. However, in the late 20th century, the town made a bold decision to change its visual code, transforming from a typical industrial centre into a tourism brand.

Architectural Styles and Eras

In the architecture of Smithers, two main directions can be distinguished, reflecting different stages of its history: the settlement period and the period of tourism transformation.

• Railway Functionalism and "Arts & Crafts" (1910–1940s)
  The early development of the town is characterised by simplicity and reliability. Buildings were constructed from local timber, taking the harsh climate into account. A striking example is the station building, combining utility with elements of the "Arts and Crafts" movement (wide roof eaves, use of natural materials), typical for Grand Trunk Pacific Railway stations of that time.
• Alpine Stylisation (from 1979 to present)
  This is the dominant style of the modern town centre. In 1979, a municipal design code was adopted, prescribing that commercial buildings in the centre be designed in an "Alpine style". This is not historical heritage, but a postmodern approach to territorial branding.
  Characteristic features:
  • Steep pitched roofs (often red in colour).
  • Wooden balconies with carved balusters.
  • Exposed wooden beams on facades (imitation of half-timbering).
  • An abundance of flower boxes on windows.

Iconic Buildings and Districts

The appearance of Smithers is formed by several key objects that serve as visual anchors for the town:

• Central Park Building (former courthouse): One of the oldest buildings (built in 1925), representing an example of official architecture from the early period. Today, it is harmoniously integrated into the Alpine ensemble of the central square.
• Historic Railway Station (Smithers Station): Built in 1919, this object is a monument of federal significance. It has preserved the original appearance of the steam engine era and serves as a reminder of the town's transport roots.
• Main Street: The town's main street represents a cohesive architectural ensemble. Thanks to strict building regulations, even modern banks and shops here are stylised as chalets, creating the atmosphere of a European mountain resort at the foot of the Canadian mountains.

Prominent Figures of Smithers

Despite its modest size, Smithers has become the birthplace or home to many talented individuals who have achieved success in sports, the arts, and public activities. Here is a list of key figures connected to the history and modern life of the town.

• Sir Alfred Waldron Smithers
  Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Grand Trunk Pacific Railway
  Although he was a British financier and never lived in the town permanently, his role is fundamental. It was in his honour that the new settlement was named in 1913. Sir Alfred personally selected the site for the town at the foot of Hudson Bay Mountain, seeing immense potential in this valley.
• The Watson Brothers: Joe & Jimmy Watson
  Professional ice hockey players, NHL legends
  Natives of Smithers who became world hockey stars in the 1970s. Both brothers played for the Philadelphia Flyers and won the Stanley Cup twice (in 1974 and 1975). They remain some of the most famous athletes of the region, inspiring local youth.
• Alex Cuba
  Musician, singer, songwriter
  A world-renowned Cuban-Canadian artist who chose Smithers as his home. Alex Cuba is a winner of prestigious Grammy and Juno awards. His creativity and residence in the town have significantly enriched the cultural life of Smithers, drawing attention to the local music scene.
• Dan Hamhuis
  Ice hockey player, Olympic Champion
  One of the town's most titled athletes. A defenceman who spent a long career in the NHL (including with the Vancouver Canucks and Nashville Predators). As part of Team Canada, he won a gold medal at the 2014 Olympics in Sochi. He actively participates in the life of his hometown and charitable projects.
• Gina Holden
  Film and television actress
  Born in Smithers, she achieved success in the entertainment industry. Known for her roles in popular series ("Supernatural", "Flash Gordon") and films ("Saw 3D", "Final Destination 3"). She represents the town in the sphere of cinema.
• Antje von Seydlitz
  Athlete (Rowing)
  A native of Smithers who represented Canada on the international stage. A silver medallist at the World Championships and a participant in the Olympic Games. She demonstrates the diversity of sporting talents developing in the Bulkley Valley region.