This community was built during the 1864 Kootenay Gold Rush. Originally known as Galbraith’s Ferry, was the first North West Mounted Police post in B.C. The name was changed in 1888 to honour police superintendent Samuel Steele. In the 1890s the town grew to 4000 residents as a centre for trade, communication, transportation and social activity. In 1898 the British Columbia Southern Railroad bypassed Fort Steele for Cranbrook, causing the town’s decline. By the mid-1940s the town had only 50 people.
Fort Steele Annual Events:
Dominion Day (July 1), Celebration of Horse Power (August), Thanksgiving Celebrations (October)
Fort Steele Attractions
Fort Steele Heritage Town
9851 Hwy 93-95
Fort Steele, BC V0B 1N0
250-417-6000
This living museum includes more than 60 restored and reconstructed buildings. You can ride a steam train or enjoy a horse-drawn wagon ride.