Quatsino
In 1894 Norwegian settlers established Scandia, now named
Quatsino. The colonists arrived on the old wooden steamship
'Mischief' with the dream of creating a new settlement on
beautiful Quatsino Sound. With a one year supply of provisions
and all their worldly possessions this ship-load of men, women
and children choose this remote stretch of shoreline to start
building their new lives.
Within two years
the residents had a Government Wharf under construction and
a Post Office in operation. A few years later they built their
first school, a small one-room structure, which served the
children of the community plus the children from outlying
areas for over 30 years. Stores, hotels, sawmills, canneries
and a fueling station soon opened. Even a doctors clinic,
a saloon and a watch repair shop operated for a few years.
The North Island's
Canada Customs station operated out of Quatsino until 1974.
Today, a much quieter
Quatsino strives to maintain its unique rural atmosphere.
Walking the
13 km of gravel
road from the centrally located Government Wharf will give
visitors a good idea of the beauty and independent spirit
of this community. Visit St. Olaf's Anglican Church, the original
schoolhouse, now well over 100 years old. The community's
current school - Quatsino Elementary - was build in 1934 and
is one of the few remaining one-room schools still in use
in British Columbia.
Quatsino is accessible by boat or
float plane from Coal Harbour, which is a 20 minute drive
from Port Hardy. If you are planning to stay overnight, a
week, a month or a year, the Quatsino area offers a variety
of fully furnished homes or lodges for you to enjoy. Quatsino's
central location to spectacular fishing grounds enable local
Charter Operators to offer the visitor a wonderful marine
experience. This area is also excellent for kayaking and wildlife
viewing. Please note other visitor services are not
available at this time.
Why not experience
the recreational opportunities of the area and relax at a
historic resort, an all-inclusive vacation or a 'home away
from home'? More Info
E-mail
Us for reservations more information.
Back
to North Island Communities Page
|