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History
The first stage in Abbotsford's colonial development occurred when the Royal Engineers surveyed the area in response to the Gold Rush along the Fraser River in 1858. This led to the building of Old Yale Road, the first transportation route to link the Fraser Valley. Settlement continued and butter, milk, and tobacco were produced by the late 1860s. In 1889 former Royal Engineer John Cunningham Maclure applied for a crown grant to obtain the 160 acres that would become Abbotsford.
Maclure transferred the title to his son, John Charles Maclure, who then sold it to Robert Ward. Ward then filed a town site subdivision on 9 July 1891. The Maclures named Abbotsford after family friend Harry Abbott, the Western Superintendent of the Canadian Pacific Railway. Also, in 1891, the CPR built a railway line through the area that connected Mission with Sumas, Washington.
The Village of Abbotsford was incorporated in 1892. At that time Robert Ward sold many of the lots to private investors; however, he also sold off a significant portion to the Great Northern Railroad's subsidiary company, the Vancouver, Victoria, and Eastern Railway. The British Columbia Electric Railway arrived soon after in 1910, ensuring a rapid rate of growth that has continued to this day.
1972 saw the amalgamation of the Village of Abbotsford and the District of Sumas into the District of Abbotsford. The District of Abbotsford amalgamated with the District of Matsqui in 1995 to become the City of Abbotsford.
Location
Abbotsford is located in the Fraser Valley, 75 kilometres east of Vancouver. It is the 5th largest municipality in British Columbia and the 37th largest in Canada. There are seven convenient exits off of the Trans-Canada Highway, daily flights to and from the Abbotsford International Airport, and a 24-hour Canada/US international border crossing.
Places to See
- Visitor Centre
The Abbotsford Visitor Centre is conveniently located near shopping, restaurants, services, and a variety of accommodation options. The Centre is easily accessible from the Trans-Canada Highway (take Exit 92 - Sumas Way). There is ample parking for cars, RVs, and buses. The area is perfect for a picnic lunch or a short rest.
- Castle Fun Park
Castle Fun Park is a year-round amusement park for the whole family. It is open every day except Christmas from 10:00am to midnight (1:00am on weekends). The 11-acre facility houses over 160 amusements, including three mini-golf courses (one outdoor, two indoor), go-karts, bumper cars, a shooting gallery, indoor golf driving and batting ranges, and dozens of arcade and skill games.
- Clayburn Village
Clayburn is a unique, secluded little village situated in the shelter of the west side of Sumas Mountain. The Village and brick plant were founded in 1905 by Charles Maclure, son of John Maclure, a former Royal Engineer who settled on a government land grant two kilometers west of Clayburn.
Little evidence remains of the once-thriving clay products manufacturing plant which operated at Clayburn shortly after the turn of the 20th century. However, the brick homes which housed employees, the village store, church, and school are still standing. Clayburn Village became a municipality designated Heritage Conservation area in 1996.
- Fraser Valley Trout Hatchery
Something fishy is going on in Abbotsford and you can catch all the fun at the Fraser Valley Trout Hatchery! This indoor/outdoor facility offers a number of instructional and self-guided experiences for budding biologists and outdoor enthusiasts of all ages. Featuring a dynamic array of exhibits and aquariums, you'll discover the natural habitats of some of BC's freshwater residents.
- Historic Downtown Abbotsford
Life's simple pleasures in this traditional village in the heart of Abbotsford are plentiful. Catch up with life over delectable afternoon tea or a hearty old English, Italian, or Greek lunch or dinner. Don't resist delectable freshly baked breads, cakes & pastries, and Dutch deli treats.
- Rossdown Farm Market
Located in the heart of the Fraser Valley, the Wiebe family invites you to their integrated farming operation. Nest-to-Plate production offers homegrown, homefed poultry products, and the freshest BC-grown fruits and vegetables.
Things to Do
- Skydiving
Abbotsford Parachute Centre offers skydiving, rides, lessons, and a full service rigging and sales centre. Many tourists are looking for adventure tourism these days and skydiving is #1 on the list.
- Horseback Riding
Matsqui Stables is located next to the Fraser River, where year-round riding adventures can be experienced along the Matsqui Trail Regional Park. Take in the beauty of both the Fraser River and the picturesque mountain views while riding on the trails. All levels of riders are welcome on the guided trail rides.
- Fishing
Rivers Edge Sport Fishing is locally owned and operated out of the Fraser Valley. Fully licensed, insured, and qualified guides will take you and your family or friends out for a great day on the water.
Events
- Annual Berry Festival
Celebrate the productivity of local growers with raspberry and strawberry pies, art and craft displays and street entertainment.
- International Music Festival
School bands and music groups from Canada and the US perform and march in a colourful parade in April.
- Annual Agrifair
Featires milking contests, draft horses, a rodeo, country music, antique farm machinery, and fireworks.
- Abbotsford International Airshow
For three decades, this has been the leading North American airshow. It features aerial acrobatic teams, vintage aircraft, and stunt flyers in August.
- Abbotsford Farm and Country Market
Saturdays from 9:00am to 1:00pm: Meet local growers with in-season produce and fruit, offering an array of products from the riches of the Valley. There are also talented crafters, artisans, live entertainment, prizes, and much more.
Contact Information
Tourism Abbotsford
34561 Delair Road
Abbotsford BC V2S 2E1
Telephone: 604.859.1721
Toll-Free: 1.888.332.2229
On weekends from 8am to 4pm, call:
Telephone: 604.864.5656
Toll-Free: 1.888.332.2229
E-mail: info@tourismabbotsford.ca
Website: www.tourismabbotsford.ca
City of Abbotsford
32315 South Fraser Way
Abbotsford BC V2T 1W7
Telephone: 604-853-2281
Website: www.abbotsford.ca
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