The Douglas Trail was constructed in the fall of 1858. This was the first public works project on the mainland. It was initiated by Governor Douglas to ensure food and freight could be transported to the goldfields inland.
Did you know that Port Pemberton was founded as a stopping point on the historic Harrison-Lillooet gold rush trail? 30,000 gold-rushers passed through this region from 1858-1865 and Port Pemberton was an important stopping point for travelers making their way to Lillooet and the gold-fields beyond.
Did you know Pemberton has produced seed potatoes for commercial sale since the 1930's, eventually developing the first commercial virus free seed potatoes in North America in 1966?
Did you know that electricity didn't come to the valley until 1951 and phone didn't arrive until 1958?
Did you know the only way in an out of the Pemberton area until the mid-1960's was by foot, by horse or by rail? As early as the 1930's cars and roads existed in Pemberton but you could only drive from one end of the valley to the other until the highway arrived in 1967.
Can you imagine walking to Pemberton from Vancouver, clearing the land with horses and building a house with hand tools? William Morgan Miller did this is 1894 and you can explore this original hand-hewn log building, with dove-tail joints at the museum.
The Pemberton Heritage Museum is a collection of buildings and artifacts that date back to the 1860's. Displayed in a setting that resembles a small village are three original hand hewn log homes and artifacts dating from 1860-1950.
Around the museum grounds you will see various horse drawn tools, wagons, machinery, a trapper's cabin and other curiosities from times past.
We are located in the heart of downtown Pemberton at 7455 Prospect St. The Society meets every 2nd Wednesday each month at the Museum.
Opening May 16th, 2009. We are open from May to Sept annually from 10am 5pm daily, 7days per week. Guided tours available upon request. Research requests available year round. Please contact us in advance.
Check out our Gift Shop stocked by local artisans and full of unique gifts and curio's.
Join us for Tea & Tales every Tuesday at 2pm in July and August.
Families can explore the site using our "World of Yesterday" scavenger hunt for children and plant lovers will enjoy our "Museum Garden Tour" of heritage perennials. Walkers will love our 2.5 km "Heritage Walk" from One Mile Lake through the Village and out to the end of Portage Road. Pick up a brochure at the Visitor Center or at the Museum.
Become a member or just come on by for a visit.
Check the Events & Programs page to find out what is going on at your community museum.
Visit our blog for Pemberton Museum news and updates.
