Step Back in Time: Discover Summerland’s 1908 Townsite Development
Step back in time and explore the charming town of Summerland through the lens of history. The Summerland Museum & Archives Society has provided a rare glimpse into the early days of the town’s development in 1908.
The original townsite was located on the beautiful lakeshore, now known as Lower Town. Developed by the Summerland Development Company, established by Sir Thomas Shaughnessy in 1902, the town boasted a range of modern facilities including water, septic tanks, electricity, a school, and even a sawmill.
Summerland had the privilege of being the first town in the Okanagan region to enjoy electricity, a remarkable feat for the time. Furthermore, it was the first to have telephone service, starting in 1907.
The museum shared a captivating photo capturing the essence of Summerland in 1908. The image showcases the bustling businesses that thrived along the lakeshore during that era. Smith’s Wharf, a hub for travellers and the offices of the CPR, was being expanded to accommodate the increasing number of visitors.
The Summerland Supply Company, constructed in 1902 to cater to the needs of the town’s inhabitants, can be observed at the end of the wharf. In 1911, this structure was relocated to become an annex of the Summerland Hotel. In its place, the brick-clad Empire Hall was erected, hosting concerts, dances, and theater performances.
In the photo’s foreground, a grand white building stands proudly as the Summerland Hotel, which opened its doors in 1902. Sadly, in 1925, it met its demise due to a devastating fire. Adjacent to the hotel, on a small hill, sit the Methodist Church and Manse, representing the strong religious presence in the community.
The charming white building on the right side of the photo served as the Post Office, established in 1902, while the bank occupied the adjacent structure.
Many of the businesses in Summerland were situated along Shaughnessy Avenue, now known as Lakeshore Drive. It is fascinating to compare the view captured in the photo with the current landscape, which includes the Summerland Yacht Club on the left, the Trout Hatchery, and the new Oasis development on the right.
To delve deeper into Summerland’s intriguing history and explore captivating archival photos, visit the Summerland Museum & Archives Society’s social media platforms. They frequently share compelling content as part of their Throwback Thursday series, allowing residents and visitors alike to appreciate Summerland’s rich heritage.
Step back in time today and uncover the stories that shaped this picturesque town nestled in the heart of the Okanagan Valley.
