Discover the Heritage of Dawson Creek
Dawson Creek has a rich history spanning from its roots in native aboriginals to its complete overhaul during the second world war. There are pieces of history that can be found in every corner of the town which makes it worthwhile for you to discover the heritage of Dawson Creek.
Here are a few places you can visit around the town.
Historic Walking Tour
The first thing you can do is the Historic Walking Tour. This tour will explore and experience Dawson Creek’s Pioneer and World War II History. It’s easy! Simply pick up the walking tour brochure and follow along its path. On your trip, you will be able to see original photographs and murals of city buildings. Each photo has a story behind it and this self-guided tour will give you all the reading material you need for your journey. The brochure is complimentary and is available at the Dawson Creek Visitor Centre and the Art Gallery.
Alaska Highway House
Alaska Highway House is located near the Mile 0 Post in downtown. It is a museum commemorating the highway’s construction. The museum explores the construction of the highway and the lives of more than 30,000 people who had worked on the highway. Things to do in the museum:
- Find stories and memorabilia, including many old photos
- Record a video message for friends and family from the museum
- Check out a model replica of the Kiskatinaw Bridge, the longest curved wooden bridge in North America
The Alaska Highway House is one of the newer tourist sites in Dawson Creek, so if you haven’t been through town in a while, stop in for a visit.
Walter Wright Pioneer Village
For most people, the Walter Wright Pioneer Village looks like an ancient settler village. It is a heritage site which explores the history of early pioneers who settled in the area of Dawson Creek, up to the Alaska Highway construction period. The village is set up like an actual town, complete with a general store, churches, and a schoolhouse. Pick up the self-guided walking tour and explore the lives and hardships of the early pioneers.
Kiskatinaw Bridge
Kiskatinaw Bridge was constructed by United States Army Corps of Engineers in 1943. The purpose was to build a pioneer road for military traffic from Dawson Creek to Big Delta, Alaska. This meant fording rivers and creeks in the most expedient, if not permanent, way possible. The responsibility for creating a more durable, all-season highway fell to civilian contractors who followed closely behind the troops and were coordinated by the United States Public Roads Administration. Now, it is a marvel and a great place to visit.
Dawson Creek offers a great place to see where history has made its mark and impacts the area today. If you are planning a local trip, it is totally worth it to discover the heritage of Dawson Creek!