Billy Barker was not the first man in the Cariboo to strike gold, but when he unearthed the motherlode in 1862, every small town along Williams Creek folded as miners soon clambered to Barkerville swelling its population to numbers that surpassed San Francisco and Chicago. Because of its wealth, and the need to establish social order, Barkerville played a significant role in British Columbia's entry into the Confederation of Canada. Barkerville has survived the decades and provides visitors a hands-on glimpse into the past.
Barkerville offers many activities ranging from panning for gold, to a stagecoach ride out to Richfield to observe Judge Begbie met out his own brand of justice. Interpreters in period costumes represent people who lived and breathed this era. Follow along as they amble through town leading tours designed to give visitors an accurate portrayal of life in the 1800's. Round out your day with dinner at one of Barkerville's fine restaurants and catch the last show at the Theatre Royal before calling it a night.
