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History in Merritt BC

Historical Nicola Valley Heritage Buildings, Museum & Archives

History in Merritt goes back a long way in time like many British Columbia small towns. However, in Merritt our past is very well documented in our buildings, ranching, cowboy culture and First Nation traditions.

History in Merritt BC Canada

Nicola Valley Museum Archives

To experience our history and culture there is no better place than to visit our local Nicola Valley Museum & Archives. The historical venue has many exhibits and articfacts featuring our past in Merritt and the Nicola Valley. 

Historical Buildings

Grab a map and take to the streets of Merritt and tour the Nicola Valley and visit some of our historical and heritage sites and buildings. Some of the most notable heritage buildings would have to include the iconic Coldwater Hotel in Downtown Merritt and Murray Church in Quilchena.

First Nation Cultural Events

Throughout the Nicola Valley there are five First Nation bands – Coldwater Indian Band, Lower Nicola Indian Band, Nooaitch Indian Band, Shackan Indian Band and Upper Nicola Indian Band. Time your visit and there is a Pow Wow and there are always exhibits in the museum and on display at our art galleries.

History in Merritt BC

Historical Nicola Valley Heritage Buildings, Museum & Archives

History in Merritt goes back a long way in time like many British Columbia small towns. However, in Merritt our past is very well documented in our buildings, ranching, cowboy culture and First Nation traditions.

History in Merritt BC Canada

Nicola Valley Museum Archives

To experience our history and culture there is no better place than to visit our local Nicola Valley Museum & Archives. The historical venue has many exhibits and articfacts featuring our past in Merritt and the Nicola Valley. 

Photo Credit: Nicola Valley Museum & Archives

Historical Buildings

Grab a map and take to the streets of Merritt and tour the Nicola Valley and visit some of our historical and heritage sites and buildings. Some of the most notable heritage buildings would have to include the iconic Coldwater Hotel in Downtown Merritt and Murray Church in Quilchena. 

First Nation Cultural Events

Throughout the Nicola Valley there are five First Nation bands –  Coldwater Indian Band, Lower Nicola Indian Band, Nooaitch Indian Band, Shackan Indian Band and Upper Nicola Indian Band. Time your visit and there is a Pow Wow and there are always exhibits in the museum and on display at our art galleries. 

More about the History of Merritt, British Columbia, Canada!

Merritt First Nation History

The Nicola Valley and Nicola Valley river were named after Hwistesmexteqen, who at the time was a powerful Chief and son of a Syilx (Okanagan) Chief named Pelkamulox. Prior to the pioneers setting up ranches in the valley, the Nicola Valley was and is within the traditional territories asserted by both the Nlakapamux and Syilx Nations. Traditionally, the Nlakapamux and Syilx economies were based on hunting, fishing and gathering in the region.

Merritt Pioneer History

In the 1880s three ranches, owned by William Voght, Jesus Garcia, and the John Charters, settled in the Nicola Valley amongst the First Nation bands. At the time the ranches, located at the confluence of the Coldwater and Nicola River, were referred to as the Forks, and later Forksdale. In 1906 the name was changed to Merritt in recognition of William Hamilton Merritt III, who worked in mining and with the railroad.

History in Merritt BC Canada

Top Historical Attractions in Merritt, British Columbia, Canada.

Experience Merritt History

Hiking in Merritt BC Canada covers all types of terrain, difficulties and physical abilities.

Nicola Valley Hiking Adventures and Trails
Hiking in Merritt BC Canada provides an opportunity to explore our hundreds of lakes, rivers, meadows, rolling hills and mountains. Hiking the backcountry of Merritt BC Canada entertains visitors with wildlife sightings, birding opportunities, wilderness camping and so many more adventures.

Easy Hiking in Merritt BC Canada
Hiking trails located in Merritt and throughout the Nicola Valley vary in terrain, difficulty and environments. There are easy day hikes suitable for all fitness levels. Many of these Merritt hiking trails are easy going with little elevation gain and low difficulty levels. There are plenty of opportunities for day hikes along rivers, lakes and with sightseeing viewpoints.

Difficult Hiking in Merritt
For the avid hiker there are long-haul hiking trails which some deemed very difficult as they may or may not include navigating switchbacks, loose rocks, cliffs and vertical elevation gains. With proper planning one can backpack long into the backcountry and stay at one of our wilderness campsites on one of the backcountry lakes.

Plan Your Hiking Adventure in the Nicola Valley
Plan for the unexpected when exploring hiking adventures throughout the Nicola Valley. Always make the necessary preparations for any hiking adventure in the backcountry.

More Hiking Tips for a Safe Adventure

Merritt BC Hiking Tips

Some of the hiking tips to consider when hiking in Merritt BC Canada are (1) always pack adequate water and snack foods; (2) share your trip plan with someone in case of emergency; (3) wear good hiking boots (4) prepare for the weather and (5) beware of wildlife.

Hiking in Merritt BC Canada

Nicola Valley hiking trails and hiking adventures

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