It all began 1906, when the 54 acres purchased by Governor General, Earl Grey were named Boswell Ranch after British author, James Boswell. Then in 1907, Boswell became the areas official name submitted for the new post office. Farmers mainly from England and Scotland were the original European settlers of Boswell. The development of the community grew thanks to the introduction of the paddle wheeler. The area offered the perfect fruit growing conditions and preserved their harvests for year round consumption by expanding in to jam production (to ship around the province, and apples or cherries into the United States), as well as other agricultural farming. Today, the community that stretches along the lake is a haven for tourists seeking a place with a mild climate far from the hassle of every day city life.
When traveling through British Columbia you will find Boswell along Highway 3A just east of Kootenay Lake, (38 kilometers south of the ferry at Kootenay Bay). The highway meanders through Boswell showcasing the towering mountains and water views. However you like to travel, comfortable stays are available in resorts, campgrounds or bed & breakfasts accommodations of your choice.
Population: 2,125
Highlights:
Coffee and home made cinnamon rolls at Destiny Bay Market.
Riondel's Bluebell Mine previously the longest running production mine in British Columbia. Discover how the mines tunneled across the area and even under the lake.
Walk either Lockhart or Makcie park beaches.
Visit the Glass House of Boswell.
History:
Elders of the original aboriginal tribe Ktunaxa offer teaching of their cultural heritage during Tipi Camp on Pilot Peninsula. Their people had existed in the area dating back over 8,000 years and evidence remains in petroglyphs, arrowheads and artifacts seen and collection throughout the lake and surrounding woods.
In the 1880's, the draw of wealth and riches found in the hills of British ColumbiaÂ’s interior brought prospectors in search of gold passing through the area. These Europeans and Americans began to develop modes of transportation to reach the various areas by rail, paddle wheeler and horse. Evidence of their struggles and successes are everywhere in the Kootneys including rundown miner shacks and sunken paddle wheelers. However, when luck ran thin, settlers had to reinvent their fortunes from the land. Orhcardists became a new generation of prosperous industry and culture.
Climate:
Summer average 20 degrees Celsius
Winter average 2 degrees Celsius
