Town of Ladysmith

Ladysmith, BC

Neighbourhood

Ladysmith is located on beautiful Vancouver Island, British Columbia. It is an oceanside town with a great deal of character and has a rich history. Ladysmith is 112 years old, and the population of Ladysmith is around 7,500 people.

Ladysmith is known for its historic downtown First Ave. It is a lovely street, with many little shops and has an old town feel to it. There are many historic landmarks throughout the street, as well as some of the friendliest people you will ever meet. The one thing that Ladysmith is known for is "Light up." This is when they light up First Ave with thousands of light bulbs throughout all of December and into early January. There are crowds that come from all over BC and Washington, USA to see the special day when the lights are turned on. The last Thursday in November to be precise. Up to 50,000 people have been recorded in the past!

The town was founded in 1900, created in the vision of coal baron James Dunsmuir. He had a large involvement with the building of the E&N railroad, and also served as lieutenant-governor for a short period of time.

John Coburn is another important figure in Ladysmith's past. He had a large role in the railway and was the first Conductor of the E&N railway. He later became the first mayor of Ladysmith and served two terms.

Ladysmith was originally a "bedroom town" built for the coal miners who worked in the nearby Extension mines. A large portion of the town was actually brought in from the Nanaimo area by railway! Most of the buildings on First Ave are still standing strong and were built around 100 years ago!

The Town of Ladysmith is a gorgeous place that provides residents and visitors with many different events and activities all year long. From ocean kayaking (Paddlefest) and hiking the Holland Creek Trail, to eating the best cinnamon buns on the Island, to water parks and parks for kids, there is really something for everyone here.