Get a glimpse into Grand Forks' rich and varied past at an array of historic and heritage sites. Ruins around the area, museum displays and period architecture recall the era of mining and smelting wealth while several Doukhobor sites explore the communal agrarian lifestyle of a sect of pacifist Russian immigrants.
Visitors can't miss the Grand Forks Heritage Courthouse, a stolid Palladian building located on the south side of Central Avenue/Highway 3 in the heart of town. Complete in 1912, it was constructed with local lumber, brick and marble, and the surrounding wrought iron fence was fabricated by a Grand Forks blacksmith. Inside, feature details include stained glass windows, vintage wood work and an imposing floor mosaic in the entrance hall.
Today, the courthouse hosts the Grand Forks Visitor Centre, the Grand Forks Art and Heritage Gallery, and an excellent gift shop that features the work of regional artisans.
Courtroom Art
Art fans stroll through the imposing double-door entrance of the former provincial courtroom on the second floor to see local and regional works. Look up for a view of the ornate ceiling and rows of stained glass windows. This space also hosts live performances by musicians and theatre groups. Side galleries display more artwork, of potters or book makers. Exhibitions change several times each year.
Hands-on Heritage Centre
On the main floor, history buffs browse among the permanent displays with historic photos, models and artefacts relating to mining, railways, forestry and agriculture. This "please touch" heritage centre is very kid friendly. The rag rug loom, sponsored by the Boundary Spinners and Weavers, is especially popular.
Historic Walking Tour
The architecture of Grand Forks reflects the prosperity and optimism of the 1890s and early 1900s when the town was booming economically with railroads, mining, smelters and power plants.
Pick up a guide to the historic walking tour at the Visitor Centre and stroll the shady downtown streets to see impressive public buildings like the Provincial Courthouse and post office/city hall; the ornate embellishments of Victorian residential design; and a selection of commercial buildings, many of which display historic photos of their original look.
Doukhobor Village
The Mountain View Doukhobor Village historic site preserves the remains of the Makortoff Doukhobor Village. Established in 1910 it was one of the last of nearly 90 communal villages settled by these Russian immigrants. It presents a variety of exhibits including historic photos and artefacts of their pioneer life. Opening times, posted on a sign at the entrance, are limited because of ongoing restoration through The Land Conservancy of British Columbia.
Doukhobor Flour Mill
Located on the site where a Doukhobor gristmill was built in the 1920s this new mill turns out additive-free flour under the brand Pride of the Valley, available in area specialty stores. Original millstones, a replica outdoor bake oven and parts of the steam engine that powered the mill are also on exhibit.
Ask at the Grand Forks Visitor Centre for information on arranging a tour.
Fructova Heritage Centre
The Fructova Heritage Centre is housed in the former Fructova School (Fructova translates from Russian as "fruit of the valley"). It was built in 1929 to provide the Russian-speaking, pacifist Doukhobor children with a mainstream education. The red brick school is typical of Doukhobor architecture with the addition of a wrap-around white veranda.
Boundary Museum Exhibits
The building has been renovated by the Boundary Museum Society and now houses the exhibits of the former Boundary Museum. History and sociology buffs visit the classroom where "I will not speak Russian in class" is written on the blackboard, and see the scale model of a Grand Forks Doukhobor Village.
Mining & Smelting Artefacts
Mining fans can browse the many artefacts relating to the area's rich mining and smelting heritage, including scale models of the Granby Smelter and a vintage claim post used by prospectors to mark the boundaries of a "staked" claim.
The Grand Forks Visitor Centre, 524 Central Avenue (Hwy 3) in the heritage courthouse, stocks brochures on historic sites, a guide to the historic walking tour and staff can provide information on opening times and tours.
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