Kelly Lake in British Columbia has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. The lake and its surrounding area has been inhabited by various Indigenous peoples for countless generations, long before European contact. These First Nations, including the Tsilhqot’in and Dakelh, relied on the lake for sustenance and as a central gathering place.
When European explorers and fur traders began arriving in the region in the late 18th century, Kelly Lake became an important location for the fur trade. The Hudson’s Bay Company established a trading post near the lake to facilitate trade with the local Indigenous groups. The introduction of trade goods and the fur trade significantly impacted the way of life for the Indigenous peoples in the area.
In the mid-19th century, the discovery of gold in the Cariboo region brought a wave of prospectors to the area, including around Kelly Lake. The lake served as a stopping point for many travelers en route to the goldfields, providing water and a place to rest. The gold rush brought significant changes to the region, with the establishment of settlements and infrastructure to support the influx of people.
As the area around Kelly Lake continued to develop, logging became a major industry in the region. The abundance of forests surrounding the lake attracted logging companies, who began harvesting timber on a large scale. The logging industry brought jobs and economic opportunities to the area but also raised concerns about environmental impact and sustainability.
In the early 20th century, the construction of the Pacific Great Eastern Railway (now known as BC Rail) further transformed the region around Kelly Lake. The railway provided a crucial transportation link for the movement of people, goods, and resources, opening up the area to increased settlement and development.
Today, Kelly Lake remains an important part of the local community, offering recreational opportunities such as fishing, boating, and camping. The lake and its surrounding area also hold cultural significance for the Indigenous peoples who have called the region home for generations.
Overall, the history of Kelly Lake in British Columbia is a reflection of the broader changes and developments that have shaped the region over the centuries, from Indigenous communities to the fur trade, gold rush, logging industry, and modern-day recreational activities. Its history serves as a reminder of the deep connections between people and the land, and the ongoing importance of preserving and protecting these natural spaces for future generations.