Vancouver Island, rich in natural beauty and history, hosts several ghost towns that reflect its storied past. Here are eight popular ghost towns, their locations, and brief histories:
- Leechtown
- Location: Near Sooke, along the Leech River
- History: Founded in 1864 during the gold rush, Leechtown quickly grew to house over a thousand miners. As gold deposits dwindled by the late 1860s, the population declined, leaving behind the remnants of a once-thriving community.
- Beaufort
- Location: Near Port Alberni
- History: Beaufort was established in the early 20th century as a logging community. It thrived for several decades until the decline of the logging industry led to its abandonment. The site now has a few remaining structures and overgrown pathways.
- Bevan
- Location: Near Courtenay
- History: Bevan was a coal mining town established in the late 19th century. At its peak, it had a bustling community with schools and stores. The closure of the mines in the early 20th century led to its gradual abandonment.
- Granite Creek
- Location: Near Cowichan Lake
- History: Granite Creek emerged as a gold mining town in the late 1800s. It flourished briefly before the gold ran out, and miners moved on to other prospects. Today, only a few foundations and mining equipment remain.
- Koksilah
- Location: Near Duncan
- History: A lumber town founded in the early 20th century, Koksilah grew around the sawmill industry. The decline in logging and mill operations led to its decline by mid-century. Some old buildings and machinery can still be found.
- Michael’s Crossing
- Location: Near Ladysmith
- History: Originally a railway stop and logging camp, Michael’s Crossing saw its peak in the early 1900s. With the decline in logging, the town was eventually deserted. The site now features overgrown tracks and remnants of the camp.
- Minto
- Location: Near Nanaimo
- History: Minto was established as a coal mining town in the late 1800s. It thrived for several decades but was abandoned after the coal mines closed in the early 20th century. Some old mining structures and homes can still be seen.
- Youbou
- Location: North shore of Cowichan Lake
- History: Youbou was a thriving lumber town in the early to mid-20th century. The town declined after the sawmill closed in the 1980s. Today, it is partially inhabited, with some abandoned buildings and a few remaining residents keeping its history alive.
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