A Walk Through History
Imagine strolling through Kamloops' downtown streets, where each building whispers tales from over a century ago. The echoes of early settlers, the hum of bygone industries, and the architectural marvels of yesteryears await those who embark on this heritage walking tour.
Kamloops' transformation from a fur trading post to a city was shaped by the arrival of the Canadian Pacific Railway in the 1880s. This shift led to economic growth and the construction of key buildings, many of which still stand today. The city's history is visible in its architecture and preserved landmarks. This walking tour highlights important historic sites, each representing a different chapter in Kamloops' past. From the oldest public building to a former cigar factory, these stops provide insight into the city's evolution and how it remains connected to its history.
Indigenous History
Kamloops is on the ancestral lands of the Tk'emlúps te Secwépemc, part of the Secwépemc Nation, who have lived in the region for thousands of years. The Secwépemc Museum and Heritage Park, located along the South Thompson River, provides insight into their rich cultural heritage. Exhibits feature oral histories, legends, and artifacts. At the same time, the heritage park includes a trail showcasing a 2,000-year-old pithouse and an ethnobotanical garden.
Planning Your Walk
The City of Kamloops provides a Heritage Walking Tour Map, outlining key sites and offering background information. The tour spans several blocks, making comfortable walking shoes essential. Many buildings remain in use, housing businesses, restaurants, and community spaces.
Starting in the morning allows for more time to explore. Public spaces along the route offer places to rest and grab refreshments. The Kamloops Museum and Archives, located along the way, provides additional historical context and exhibits that enhance the experience.
Key Stops on the Tour
St. Andrew's on the Square (159 Seymour Street)
Built-in 1887, this is the oldest public building in Kamloops. The wooden-frame Gothic Revival church features a steep roof, pointed arch windows, and a simple but elegant design. It was a central gathering place for early settlers and remains an event space today. Restoration efforts have preserved its historic charm while ensuring continued use.
Old Courthouse (7 Seymour Street West)
This 1909 Edwardian-style building played a key role in Kamloops' legal history. The stone exterior, symmetrical façade, and grand staircases reflect early 20th-century architecture. Now repurposed as an arts center, it hosts galleries and community events, allowing visitors to experience its history and current function.
The Plaza Hotel (405 Victoria Street)
Opened in 1928, this Spanish Colonial-style hotel signalled Kamloops' growth as a railway hub. It quickly became a social and business center. The hotel retains its original design elements today, offering a glimpse into early 20th-century hospitality.
Sacred Heart Cathedral (255 Nicola Street)
This Romanesque-style cathedral, completed in 1925, is notable for its large stained-glass windows and intricate interior details. It remains an active place of worship and a significant architectural landmark. Visitors can view its exterior or step inside during non-service hours.
Inland Cigar Factory (215 Seymour Street)
In the early 1900s, Kamloops had a small but thriving cigar manufacturing industry. This factory, one of the few remaining industrial buildings from that era, reflects the city's economic history. The exterior maintains its original character, offering a reminder of past industries.
Public Art Installations
Downtown Kamloops features several public art pieces reflecting its cultural diversity. "Community Confluence," a sculpture by Bill Frymire at 335 Lansdowne Street, symbolizes the merging of cultures and ideas, much like the confluence of the North and South Thompson Rivers.
Route Structure
Start at St. Andrew's on the Square at 159 Seymour Street. Continue westward to the Old Courthouse at 7 Seymour Street West. Walk southwest until you reach the Plaza Hotel at 405 Victoria Street, a historic landmark in Kamloops. Next, walk south to the Sacred Heart Cathedral at 255 Nicola Street. End the tour by heading east to the Inland Cigar Factory at 215 Seymour Street. This route ensures a logical progression through downtown Kamloops' history.
Alternative Routes or Extensions
For those who want to explore further, the Secwépemc Museum and Heritage Park is a short drive from downtown and provides a deeper look at Indigenous history. The Kamloops Art Gallery, located centrally, features exhibitions that highlight the region's heritage.
Accessibility Information
Accessibility varies among the sites. The Old Courthouse, now an arts center, includes ramps and accessible restrooms. However, older buildings like the Inland Cigar Factory may have limited accessibility due to their original designs. Checking with individual locations ahead of time is advisable.
Walk Through the Past, See the Present
Kamloops' history remains visible in its streets. This walking tour connects past and present, showing how early developments shaped the city. Each stop reveals a different part of Kamloops' story, from law and commerce to faith and industry.
Take this walk and see Kamloops through a historical lens. Share your experience and photos using the hashtag #KamloopsHeritageWalk. For a more detailed exploration, visit the Kamloops Museum and Archives or join a guided tour for expert insights into the city's rich history.
