Nelson

The West Kootenay region of British Columbia, where the city of Nelson is situated, is part of the traditional territories of the Sinixt (or Lakes) and Ktunaxa (Kutenai) peoples.

Gold and silver were found in the area in 1867. Following the discovery of silver at nearby Toad Mountain in 1886, the town boomed quickly, leading to incorporation in 1897. Two railways were built to pass through Nelson. Due to its location near transportation corridors, Nelson grew to supply the local mining activity and soon became a transportation and distribution centre for the region.

The town built its own hydroelectric generating system. English immigrants planted lakeside orchards, and Doukhobors from Russia, sponsored by Tolstoy and the Quakers, tilled the valley benchlands. The Doukhobor museum is located nearby, close to the neighbouring town of Castlegar. Nelson's mountainous geography kept growth confined to the narrow valley bottom, except for certain hillside structures.

During the Vietnam War, many American draft dodgers settled in Nelson and the surrounding area. This influx of liberal, mostly educated young people had a “significant impact” on the area's cultural and political demographics {and the 'crops' that get grown here - it's very close to the USA border!}. 

Adrian scopes out the pie shop whilst junior exits in a bear suit

Rob stocks up ready for his daughter's return from a school trip

Novel method of suspending bread for the birdy num-nums

Some local activities on offer indicate the general alternative local flavour

Sometimes referred to as 'Hippy burners' these stoves can be incredibly efficient and get incredibly hot!! 

People have lost their shelters when insufficient care is taken

Rob thinks this was a Kingfisher ... someone else suggested Blue Jay ... neither work for me - I'll check and edit later ...

Minor door repairs before we leave!

Rear view from Rob's apartment balcony