History buffs will find that Mackenzie, one of BC's newest towns, has a rich past.
Mackenzie was incorporated in 1966 through provincial legislation as an "instant town." Its economy relies heavily on forestry and the majority of Mackenzie's labour force is employed in the manufacturing industry.
Highlighting this quiet community's forestry roots is the world's largest tree crusher, the Le Tourneau G175, which visitors can see near the entrance to the town on Highway 39. At 175 tons and 17m/56ft long, the machine was used to clear space when the town was being created.
The First Nations and Alexander Mackenzie
The first inhabitants of the Mackenzie area prior to European settlement were the Tse'khene First Nations. Tsay Keh Dene, Kwadacha Nation, and McLeod Lake Indian Band have traditional territories in the area today.
The town was named for famous Scottish explorer Alexander Mackenzie, who travelled through this area in 1793. Born in Scotland, Mackenzie became involved in the North American fur trade and focused his efforts on finding an overland route to the Pacific Ocean. In a courageous journey, he and nine others portaged difficult canyons along the Peace River from Hudson's Hope, making their way west to where the Finlay and Parsnip rivers joined north of Mackenzie.
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Mackenzie Landing and Williston Lake
In 1993, to celebrate the 200th anniversary of this journey, BC Hydro and Mackenzie residents jointly dedicated Mackenzie Landing, which lies at the southern end of nearby Williston Lake, as a historic site. The Landing, which is located just 8km/5mi from town features a monument dedicated to Alexander Mackenzie, interpretive signage, a campground, picnic area and boat launch.
Williston Lake itself is also interesting from a historic perspective. In 1967, the building of the W.A.C. Bennett Dam flooded 166,000ha/410,000ac to create the lake, which remains BC's largest man-made reservoir as well as a pretty spot for visitors to enjoy.
Mackenzie Museum
Those interested in Mackenzie's history should visit the Mackenzie and District Museum, which has photos and exhibits from key moments in the town's timeline.
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