Approximate driving time: 50 minutes

Copyright Nelson Streetscapes

With limited flat land, expansion of Nelson during the latter part of the nineteenth century took place uphill from the city core. Many heritage homes in this area are still in a remarkable state of preservation. The firehall, the city gaol, a brewery and substantial churches were also constructed in the uphill district.

The early roadways of Nelson reflect the city's historic patterns of growth and development. many retaining walls, necessary for road construction in the steeper parts of the city are visible examples of this progress. The rock walls used to shore up gardens and road beds not only display an esthetic charm, but also add a distinctive quality to Nelson.

Once the responsibility of homeowners, the boulevard shade trees came under the protection of an 1898 bylaw which prevented removal, felling, or damage and furthermore, stated that "no horses or other animals shall be fastened to trees". Today these magnificent trees are an integral part of Nelson's historic streetscape.

The Nelson electric tramway company, incorporated in 1899, took advantage of the already established pathways and routes. It was the smallest electric streetcar system in the British Empire and the first to operate between Vancouver, BC and Winnipeg, Manitoba. The system operated, not without mishap, from its inaugural run on 23 december 1899 to its last, at noon on 20 June 1949

1.  600, 614 Railway Street (1900)

Nelson Coke and Gas Works

Built to house modern extraction machinery, the Nelson Coke ad Gas Works converted coal into coke, tar, and natural gas. The buildings were constructed of local stone and brick in order to house the machinery in a secure, fire retardent structure. Careful and imaginative use of these materials exemplify early industrial architecture in the province. The smaller building received Nelson's Heritage Building of the Year award for 1981.

2.  90 Baker Street (1900-1901)

Canadian Pacific Railway Station

In 1900 when Nelson became a divisional point for the C.P.R., the railyard was extended and this station was constructed on the site previously used as a market garden by the Chinese community.






3.  420 Railway and
Baker Streets (1908)

Designed by local architect, Alexander Carrie, this house was constructed for the District Superintendent of the Canadian Pacific Railway. Its location, impressive style and setting on the hill overlooking the station and railyards typified the traditional role of the Manager's residence. Set off by itself on once spacious surroundings, the house displays the complex and picturesque characteristics.

4.  402 Victoria and Stanley Streets (1909)

Nelson Young Men's Christian Association

This attractive symmetrical brick block was the second Y.M.C.A structure in the interior of the province. In 1909, during a three-day whirlwind fundraising campaign, $30,000 was raised for the construction of this building which became a centre for young men's social activities.

5.  702 Stanley and Silica Streets (1900)

Nelson Congregational Church

Late Victorian church architecture adopting a modified Gothic Revival style is exhibited in this attractive building. With dominating crenelated corner tower and brilliant stained glass.

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