The community of Wells was built mainly during the Great Depression years of the 1930s to accommodate the employees of the Cariboo Gold Quartz Mine. However, the origins of the town really stem from the mid 1800s and the start of Cariboo Gold Rush, one of the largest in North America. The historic and heritage sites here encompass a much-larger area than the town itself. In addition to the community of Wells, explore Barkerville Historic Town, historically interesting grave sites and ghost towns.
Wells Heritage Sites
The community of Wells is divided by Highway 24, which neatly reflects history of the town. The portion on the upper north side, or the left side of the highway as visitors travel into town, is the original section of the community that was originally built as a mining town. The Wells General Store used to be the post office, the District Offices served as the town's apothecary, the historic Wells Hotel still welcomes guest, and there are several churches that date back to the Gold Rush era. Buildings on the south side of town were built later, on land reclaimed from mining debris.
Walking Tour of Wells
Stop in at the Wells Museum, the former Island Mining office, to see and hear more about the town's mining history. A Historic Walking Tour brochure is available at the Wells Visitor Centre, the Wells District office and from most local businesses.
Barkerville Historic Town
Western North America's largest heritage site, Barkerville Historic Town is today made up of more than 120 buildings. The oldest structures predate the great Barkerville fire of 1868. Following that fire, "new" town structures were built and were laid out in a more organized fashion and some structures were built based on photographs of the originals. The town has no residents, but is dedicated as a provincial heritage site. Restored to its former glory, Barkerville has gained recognition for its authenticity and exuberant atmosphere.
What to See in Barkerville
There are a number of sites within the historic town that are not to be missed, including: - China Town - unofficially established in the first few years of the gold rush; this area contains unique Chinese artifacts
- St. Saviour's Church – built in 1870, it is the oldest continuously-used church in BC
- The King House and Kelly House B&Bs or the St. George Hotel (also a B&B) offer Victorian-style accommodation
- Theatre Royal presents daily theatrical performances
- A working blacksmith shop sells unique iron tools made on-site
- Machinery from the sawmill at the Stopping House or "Sawmill House", built by George Clarke at Williams Creek
- Gold-panning opportunities at the Cornish Waterwheel
- The Newspaper Office has with an authentic 19th Century printing press
In Barkerville, take time to enjoy a street show, ride the stagecoach to Richfield, pan for gold flakes or watch a real working blacksmith. Try a meal in one of the restaurants established in a historical building or sample candy from the sweetshop made using traditional recipes from that era.
Learn more about the history and culture of Wells.