Chemainus

The early history of the Chemainus area is tied to its forests and related industries. he bay around which the town grew, was home to natural features which made it attractive to the forest industry. The first sawmill opened in 1862, was operated by a powerful stream and a potent waterfall. The late 1880s heralded the appearance of the railroad and the town slowly grew for the next thirty years. In the early 1920s the population was estimated at 600 with the inhabitants. Protected by the ocean and mountains, was once primarily a mill town, and home to the largest covered-in sawmill in North America.

The port of Chemainus was one of the first ports to have been developed in the Pacific Northwest. Chemainus lies within the boundaries of the District of North Cowichan, tucked neatly in the Cowichan Valley region, on south eastern Vancouver Island. North Cowichan is the third oldest municipality in British Columbia, with a population of approximately 27,000.

For years, it was believed that the forestry sector, which was the backbone of Chemainus' economy, and indeed the Cowichan Valley, would always thrive. During the early 1980s, the forest industry began to show signs of decline, and the Chemainus mill operation suffered greatly.

Never let those who say it can't be done, stand in the way of those who are doing it. This is the credo of Karl Schutz, the force behind the original Chemainus Mural Project. There were many who looked at Chemainus, and declared that turning the town into an Outdoor Art Gallery simply could not and should not be done. Fortunately, the people who were busy trying to do it were too busy to get discouraged. And that is why, today, Chemainus is world famous and known as "the little town that did."

With more than 35 murals and 13 sculptures depict the town's history, people and future. Chemainus' murals are world famous and attract hundreds of thousands of visitors annually. It's the world's largest outdoor gallery, and each year new artworks are added. Follow the footprints for a self-guided tour of Chemainus's colourful past, or take a tour via horse-drawn carriage or simulated steam train.

In the heart of town, nestled in giant fir trees, is Waterwheel Park. While children play in the whimsical, nautical-themed play area, parents can relax and watch performers at the outdoor band shell. Don’t miss the sights and shops in Old Town, just a short stroll through the Gateway. Kin Park is a seaside picnic spot with a playground, swimming beach with change houses, and boat ramp.

A Boeing 737 is adding to the major attractions found in this picturesque little town. This artificial reef was sunk in January 2006 and now has four years off life under the Salish Sea. Divers from all over the world have visited this dive site. Many visit every year to see the changes.

There is an abundance of other activities that Chemainus offers including is golfing, boating, fishing, hiking and camping. And for those interested in history, there is the Chemainus Valley Museum and live theatre if you wish to pursue your cultural side.

Chemainus is located south of Nanaimo and one hour north of Victoria on the Trans-Canada Highway. Cassidy Airport is 20 minutes to the north and the town is also serviced by coach lines between Victoria and Nanaimo. A more stunning route to travel is via the Esquimault and Nanaimo railway, which passes through some of the most beautiful scenery in Canada and provides panoramic views of the Gulf Islands.

Yet Chemainus is so quaint and quiet you will not want to leave!