In 1859 the Hudson’s Bay Company set to establish a post on the Fraser River across from the town of Lillooet. It was to serve as a supply post for the gold rush that was occurring in the region from 1858 to 1860. A plot was allocated and building supplies were shipped to the site. Construction never began and by 1861 it was decommissioned. Fort Berens was named after Henry Hulse Berens, who was a Hudson’s Bay Governor from 1856-58.
Lillooet has an exceptional growing season and the idea of having a local vineyard was explored. Dutch immigrants, Rolf de Bruin and Heleen Pannekoek embarked on the venture in 2005, when they left the Netherlands and shifted from corporate careers to living and working on a farm. With the founding of Fort Berens, Rolf and Heleen turned their lifelong dream of running a vineyard and winery into a reality.
The historic community of Lillooet has seen its share of pioneers, gold seekers and farmers. These hardworking residents have found a new form of gold! The beauty of this site near the Fraser River and surrounded by mountains is indeed breathtaking.
Go through the gates, park in the designated parking area and walk to cache location.