Built in 1827 along the banks of the Fraser River, Fort Langley began as a Hudson’s Bay Company trading post and quickly became an important centre for commerce in what would become British Columbia. Established as part of the company’s expanding network across the Pacific Northwest, the fort connected regional trade routes and helped support the growth of early settlements throughout the Fraser Valley.
A Growing Trade Hub
Fort Langley was originally established to support the fur trade, exchanging local resources for goods brought by the Hudson’s Bay Company. Over time, the fort expanded beyond fur trading, becoming a centre for agriculture, food production, and shipping.
The surrounding land proved ideal for farming, allowing the fort to produce supplies for nearby communities and trading posts. Salmon, cranberries, and other local products also became important parts of the fort’s economy, helping establish Fort Langley as a key location for trade along the Fraser River.
The Birthplace of British Columbia
Fort Langley’s importance grew even further after the border between British and American territory was established in 1846. Its location made it a valuable connection between inland trading routes and the Pacific Coast.
In 1858, the discovery of gold along the Fraser River brought thousands of newcomers to the region. During this period of rapid growth, Fort Langley became the location where Governor James Douglas proclaimed the Colony of British Columbia on November 19, 1858, marking a defining moment in the province’s history.
Fort Langley Today
As British Columbia developed, Fort Langley’s role as a trading post gradually changed. Recognizing its historical importance, the site became a National Historic Site of Canada in 1923, with restoration efforts preserving its buildings and stories for future generations.
Today, Fort Langley National Historic Site allows visitors to experience the history of one of British Columbia’s most significant early settlements. From its beginnings as a Hudson’s Bay Company trading post to its role in the creation of the province, Fort Langley remains an important part of BC’s heritage.
Explore our blog to learn more about historic sites and agricultural landmarks across British Columbia, just like this one!