New Westminster
New Westminster is a city located in the Lower Mainland region of British Columbia, Canada. It is a member of the Metro Vancouver Regional District and holds historical significance as one of the oldest cities in the province. Known colloquially as New West and in hən̓q̓əmin̓əm̓ as sӽəyəməɬ, the city was established in 1858 by Richard Clement Moody as the capital of the newly formed Colony of British Columbia.
Historical Background
New Westminster was originally selected by Governor James Douglas as the capital of the colony, a choice proclaimed on February 14, 1859. The city was initially named "Queensborough," a name that did not appeal to London, leading Queen Victoria to rename it after Westminster, the area in London where the British Parliament is located.
The city played a pivotal role in the development of British Columbia, especially as a transportation and administrative hub. In 1892, the city's official boundaries were set, encompassing its original city and suburban lots. However, the westernmost neighborhood, Connaught Heights, remained disincorporated until later developments.
Economic and Cultural Development
New Westminster has been a center of trade and commerce in the region, facilitated by its strategic location along the Fraser River. The BC Electric Railway established a tramway station named "Connaught Hill" in 1912, providing vital transport links between New Westminster and Vancouver. This station was named after Prince Arthur, Duke of Connaught and Strathearn, contributing to the name of the Connaught Heights neighborhood.
A significant historical event in recent times was a major fire in 2013 that destroyed part of Columbia Street, a key area known for its historical character, including the longstanding Copp's Shoes store.
Notable Areas
Sapperton
Originally a "suburb" of New Westminster, Sapperton was named for the Columbia Detachment of Royal Engineers, known as "Sappers," who had a camp on the hill now part of the Fraserview neighborhood. Sapperton houses the historic Fraser Cemetery, comparable in historical significance to Victoria's Ross Bay Cemetery.
Infrastructure
The city is served by the New Westminster Station on the Expo Line of Metro Vancouver's SkyTrain, following the path of the historic BC Electric Railway tramway. The New Westminster Bridge, also known as the Fraser River Swing Bridge, is a notable piece of infrastructure connecting the city across the Fraser River.