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History
In 1859, New Westminster was selected as the first capital of the new Colony of British Columbia by Queen Victoria, who named the city after part of London. From this naming by the Queen, the City gained its official nickname, "The Royal City". A year later it became the first City in British Columbia to have an elected municipal government. It became a major outfitting point for prospectors coming to the Cariboo gold rush, as all travel to the goldfield ports of Yale and Port Douglas was by steamboat or canoe up the Fraser River.
In 1866, the colonies of British Columbia and Vancouver Island were united as "British Columbia". However, the capital of the Colony of Vancouver Island, Victoria, located on the southern tip of Vancouver Island, was made the capital of the newly amalgamated Colony of British Columbia.
In September 1898, the Great Fire destroyed the downtown area of New Westminster, sparing just two buildings - the Queen Hotel and the Burr Block. The citizenry had little choice but to accept the enormous challenge of rebuilding the city, which was accomplished by 1910. Even today, the downtown shopping district along Columbia Street is still known as The Golden Mile.
Not long ago, it used to be easy to distinguish Vancouver from its neighbours. Bridges spanned Burrard Inlet and the Fraser River to connect with communities to the north and south, while buffer zones of undeveloped land defined where the Big Smoke left off and all else to the east began. By the 1970s, such distinctions had blurred to the point where one hardly noticed a transition from one city to the next, particularly between Vancouver, Burnaby, New Westminster, and Port Moody.
Location
New Westminster is located on the Burrard Peninsula, on the north bank of the Fraser River. The city is 19 kilometres (12 miles) southeast of the Vancouver city proper, adjacent to Burnaby and Coquitlam, and across the Fraser River from Surrey. A small portion of New Westminster called Queensborough is located on the eastern tip of Lulu Island, adjacent to Richmond.
Places to See
- Irving House Historic Centre
In April 1865, the British Columbian newspaper described the new home built by Captain William Irving as "The handsomest, the best and most home-like house of which British Columbia can yet boast". Today you can revisit the splendour and grace of those pioneer days. Appreciate the glow of original wallpaper in the parlours. Imagine getting dressed before a coal heater in the bedroom. Envision cooking a meal using the gleaming wood stove in the kitchen. Be sure to visit during December, when the house is transformed for a Victorian Christmas.
- Fraser River Discovery Centre
The Fraser River is recognized as one of the great rivers of the world, and has played an important role in the development of not only New Westminster, but also British Columbia. The Fraser River Discovery Centre is a world-class interpretive centre, focusing on the economic, environmental, cultural and historical importance of the Fraser River.
- Queen's Park
New Westminster's flagship park (constructed in 1886) is a 75 acre haven for outdoor enthusiasts and families. Enjoy the many trails, flowers, sporting opportunities, petting farm, playgrounds, and wedding facilities that await you at First Street and Third Avenue.
- Friendship Gardens
Located next to City Hall, this beautiful community park offers the visitor a waterfall and pond, a majestic totem pole, walking paths, and benches to relax and enjoy the many trees and flowers. Friendship Gardens is the perfect setting for relaxing walks or photographs. Designed by Mr. Gordon Sales, the late Parks Director, the Gardens were built in 1963 as a tribute to New Westminster's Sister City of Moriguchi, Japan. The creation is a blend of the basic Japanese garden and the city's own informal garden tastes.
- Westminster Quay Public Market
A favourite place for both locals and visitors to shop and browse, the Westminster Quay Public Market is just a block from the New Westminster SkyTrain Station. Set on the edge of the Fraser River, the market features numerous vendors selling everything from fresh seafood and veggies, one-of-a-kind jewellery, books, arts and crafts, clothing, and novelty items. Take in the aromas of freshly baked pies, imported cheese, or fresh strawberries. Enjoy lunch from the food fair while sitting at an outdoor table, or stroll along the Quay's boardwalk. Known as The Festival Market, Westminster Quay also features special events, themes and celebrations throughout the year.
- Downtown New Westminster - Columbia Street
Downtown New Westminster is in the heart of the Lower Mainland, easily accessible by car or at one of two SkyTrain stations - New Westminster and Columbia. A mix of unique character buildings both old and new, Downtown features tree-lined streets that light up at night, with old-fashioned street lamps casting a warm glow. Stroll the flower-laden esplanade overlooking the Fraser River, or explore the beautiful architecture of heritage buildings. The New Downtown features sidewalk cafes, gourmet coffee bars, and shopping from art boutiques, gift stores and hobby shops to the funkiest fashions and a niche of bridal shops.
- Massey Theatre
Massey Theatre opened in 1949 as British Columbia's largest theatre. Since then its lights have shone on Broadway touring companies and international stars of dance and music. Today, Massey Theatre proudly hosts professional orchestras like the Vancouver Symphony, stars like singing sensation Jewel, and stunning productions like Hello Dolly, South Pacific, 42nd Street, and The King and I. The theatre has been home to community groups, competitions, festivals, student performances and performers of culturally diverse communities.
Things to Do
- Shopping
New Westminster features several distinct shopping districts, each with its own charm. From waterfront experiences at the Westminster Quay to Vintage Row, you'll be sure to find that special item while in New Westminster.
- Walking Tours
British Columbia's first Royal City, New Westminster is a small community with charm to spare. Walking tours are an ideal way to experience this amazing city at your own pace. Choose from two historic walking tours: take the Esplanade Walking Tour to view the best of the Fraser River, or travel through Upper New Westminster. There are also other areas of the city that offer interesting walking. Sapperton features two historic churches and Fraser Cemetery, with spectacular views of the city. Queensborough offers a more rural setting, where you can stroll along the dyke at rivers edge, past fish boats, docks, and boat houses. The Brow of the Hill residential neighbourhood is another popular spot to wander the streets admiring the many heritage homes. Walking tour brochures are available from the New Westminster Museum. Call 604.527.4640 for more information.
- Golf
If golf is your passion, then New Westminster is the place to stay. With almost 30 golf courses within an hour of New Westminster, you could play a different course every day for a month!
- Cycling
The 7-11 Trail is an easy 40 kilometre (25 mile) cycling path that follows the Sky Train route from New Westminster to Clark Drive in Vancouver.
Events
- Heritage Week
February - Western Canada's Oldest City celebrates Heritage Week in a big way. Look for special events, children's hands-on heritage programs, walking tours, and a Museum Fair at the Royal City Centre. Contact the Irving House Historic Centre at 604.527.4640.
- Hyack Antique Car Easter Parade
This nostalgic look at almost 200 vintage cars of yesteryear is sponsored by the Totem A&T Car Club, and is the largest Easter Car Parade in the Pacific Northwest. Every Easter Sunday, enjoy the entertainment at the Quay, then watch as the cars wind their way through the city streets to Queens Park. There you can have an afternoon of family fun with an Easter Surprise Hunt, children's rides, face painting, and more, all put on by the New Westminster Parks and Recreation Department. And, of course, the Easter Bunny himself will be in attendance - you may even have your photo taken with him! For more information, contact the Hyack Festival Association at 604.522.6894 or Parks and Recreation at 604.777.5121.
- Urban Farmers Fall Fair
September - It's a little bit of country, in the middle of the city! Put on your overalls and your straw hat and get ready to kick back for an old time country fair. Compare your picks with the judges' as local gardeners proudly compete for the biggest tomato, the most colourful vegetables, and the tastiest preserves. Buy some fresh-cut flowers, or fruit and vegetables direct from the growers. And don't miss the entertainment stage, where there are performances all day long. Be sure to stay for the pie auction at days end - your chance to bid on the prize winners. Contact the Queensborough Community Centre at 604.525.7388.
Contact Information
Tourism New Westminster
Visitor Info Centre
Telephone: 604.526.1905
E-mail: tourism@tourismnewwestminster.com
Website: www.tourismnewwestminster.org
City of New Westminster
511 Royal Avenue
New Westminster, BC V3L 1H9
General Telephone: 604-521-3711
General Fax: 604-521-3895
General E-mail: Postmaster@newwestcity.ca
Website: www.newwestcity.ca
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