Nestled along the South Arm of the Fraser River, London Farm is a remarkable piece of Richmond’s heritage, dating back to 1888. This historic site traces its roots to 1886, when brothers William and Charles London from Ontario acquired 200 acres of land, laying the foundation for what is now known as London’s Landing.
The London family were pioneers in the early development of Richmond, significantly shaping the city’s growth. They established the London Cannery and built a steamship landing on their property, which served as a vital docking point for steamships traveling from Victoria. Their innovation didn’t stop there; the Londons also constructed a private wharf to streamline the shipment of farm products to New Westminster and to receive essential supplies. Notably, they were the first to build a dyke along the South Arm of the Fraser River, marking a significant advancement in land reclamation.
These early developments transformed a small settlement at the foot of No. 2 Road into a thriving community known as London’s Landing. This bustling area boasted the London Brothers Store and Boarding House, Union Church, and various services catering to the local farming, fishing, and canning industries. In 1898, the Lulu Island Post Office was moved from Phoenix Cannery Wharf and renamed the ‘London Post Office,’ officially designating the area as London, New Westminster District.
London Farm, a pioneer in dyked and cultivated land on Lulu Island, began as a diverse agricultural operation, producing dairy, oats, wheat, barley, timothy grass, a variety of fruits including plums, pears, cherries, and apples, as well as an assortment of vegetables. It quickly became one of the largest and most prosperous farms in Richmond.
Today, London Farm invites visitors to explore its four-acre agricultural-themed park, where the historic London family farmhouse stands as the centerpiece. The park features meticulously recreated rooms in both the farmhouse and barn, offering a window into the daily life of the London family during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. For those captivated by London Farm’s rich history and eager to discover more intriguing stories, we invite you to explore our other blog posts!