The present-day Fort, with its reconstructed and original
buildings and landscape, has changed little in appearance from its
19th-century fur-trading days. Restored to the summer of 1896, it
is considered one of the finest restorations in Canada. Fort St.
James displays the largest group of original wooden buildings
representing the fur trade in Canada. The Fort's general warehouse
building holds the highest designation Parks Canada can bestow on
heritage resources. It is, perhaps, North America's finest example
of Red River framing. Animators dressed in period costume carry out
daily chores and activities that portray the lifestyle of this
trading post in 1896.
The Fort St. James National Historic site maintains a modern
Visitor Reception Centre with an exhibit room, theatre and
washrooms. A nine minute introductory video, 'A Letter Home', is
offered in the theatre. It is available in English, French and
German as well as closed caption for the hearing impaired. Self
guiding media is available to rent or purchase. The self guiding
tour is scheduled to take approximately 45 minutes, depending on
the listeners pace.
Community of Ft St James
Fort St. James is the oldest European community in B.C. The
quaint town is fully serviced and includes motels, resturants,
provincial campgrounds and grocery stores.
Stuart Lake is one of the largest natural lakes in the province at
90 km long with 270 km of shoreline. The community of Fort St.
James is located on the southeast end. The main body of the lake is
between 6 to 10 km wide and is road accessible at many locations.
The northwestern arm of the lake is narrower, has limited road
access, and more of a wilderness feel. This portion of the lake is
very scenic with numerous bays, points, and islands. Wildlife
viewing, boating, hunting, and angling are popular pursuits in the
area.
Just a few minutes drive north of the national historic site
takes you to a beautiful picnic spot and point of interest at
Cottonwood Park. Here, a one-third size replica of a Junker's W34
aircraft was erected in 1991 to commemorate Fort St. James'
aviation history. From this vantage point you can also view Our
Lady Of Good Hope Church, one of the oldest Catholic churches in
B.C.
We hid the cache with some of our many extended family that
reside in Fort St James. It is hidden outside the Fort but make
sure you allow time to visit the Fort. All Parks Canada criteria
have been met.