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Nelson, British Columbia

© Andrea Jones

Incorporated in 1897 after the “Silver Rush” the City of Nelson in the West Kootenay region of British Columbia is thriving, although it’s mining days are long gone. Nelson’s strength lies in it’s character and the amazing sense of community; that not only keep residents living in Nelson, but keeps visitors returning year after year.

According to John Villani’s book “The 100 Best Small Art Towns in North America”, Nelson rates #1 in Canada and #4 in the whole of North America! It’s amazing what a City with a population of less than 10,000 can accomplish!

Nelson’s location is one reason for it’s popularity. Lying on the west arm of the beautiful Kootenay Lake, below the Selkirk Mountains and Kokanee Glacier, the scenic splendour of Nelson is undisputable.

In addition to its natural beauty, Nelson is also a Heritage City with at least three hundred and fifty well-preserved historic homes and buildings for the visitor to admire. Heritage walking and driving tours are offered in the city and details can be found at tourist information offices and the Nelson Chamber of Commerce. Do you recall the firehall in Steve Masrtin's 1987 movie "Roxanne"? That was Nelson's old firehall! Visit Nelson’s museum on Anderson Street to learn more about its history and the pioneers of the area.

Nelson has a diverse population of artists, business people and youth and retirees. Many are drawn to Nelson because of its community spirit of conservation, its friendliness and its diversity. Many are business people who wanted a change of pace from the fast moving larger centres and a quieter hometown atmosphere in which to raise their families. With the Kootenay School of the Arts and Selkirk College, Nelson is a town that welcomes young people and many stay rather than leaving for bigger cities. When relaxing with a coffee on one of Baker Street’s sidewalk cafes, Nelson’s eclectic personality is evident in the people walking by. Saying hello to strangers, unusual in most cities, is a custom still alive and well in Nelson.

The fresh mountain air must bring out the best in the local artists and proof can be found in the city’s arts and crafts stores. There are so many mediums to choose from – handmade clothing in natural materials, paintings, ceramics, carvings and much more. An incredible opportunity to shop for family and friends. One way to see that all these artists have to offer is to attend the Annual Artwalk, which takes place in Nelson through the summer months. Artwalk Guides can be obtained from the information centre.

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