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.
The Priest's Wagon is getting it's box rebuilt this year thanks to the volunteer efforts of George Henry who has been overseeing the work of his grandson George. George and George started work on this project last week. Drew Oberson donated some cedar planks and we're excited about this important restoration project. The priest's wagon was used by the Oblate priest during the gold rush years when travelling between Port Douglas and 29 Mile. In the 1980's the wagon box was re-built by the museum and as you can tell by the photos the box was in dire need of some reconstruction after this past winter.
Once completed the George team will erect a cover to protect the wagon from the weather. The wagon assembly will begin next week and we will send out more pictures as the project progresses.
Thanks to George Henry, who is overseeing the project for the museum. Young George has done an excellent job following George's instructions.
Tags: Priests Wagon, Pemberton Gold Rush, Pemberton Museum, Pemberton B.C.
