July 17, 2012 | Tips from Travellers >
Smithers, Arts, Culture & History Tours
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This afternoon, I had the chance to explore the Bulkley Valley Museum in Smithers. The museum is housed in a beautiful heritage building built in 1925, which used to serve as the Smithers Court House. After signing the guest book, and browsing through the names of visitors from around the world, I began to explore the many exhibits and artifacts on display. I started out with the glacier exhibit, which describes how these awe-inspiring frozen rivers have shaped our beautiful British Columbian landscape. Next I checked out the fossil display, which showcases some fascinating prehistoric remains of the valley. Moving through the rest of the exhibits, I learned all about the social and technological development of Smithers and the Bulkley Valley. One thing I was surprised and interested to learn about was Smithers' "Gift to Civilization"-the invention of the egg carton! Smithers' resident Joseph Coyle created this handy little invention in 1911, as well as many other valuable everyday items like the first automobile anti-theft club and pocket cigarette cutter. I had a chat with the friendly staff, browsed through the cozy gift shop and then went on my way feeling very much informed about the history of the beautiful Bulkley Valley.