Fort Nelson, named after Admiral Nelson, was established as a fur post in 1805 and is the gateway to the Northern Rocky Mountains and the Muskwa-Kechika Management Area. Life in Fort Nelson began to change drastically in 1941 and 1942 mainly as a result of World War II. The Northwest Air Staging Route established an airport in 1941. The population of Fort Nelson increased substantially in 1942 with the arrival of US Army troops to begin construction of the Alcan Highway, now called the Alaska Highway. With so many people working on the highway, it only took 9 months to survey and build the 1500 mile stretch of road.

Since 1942 Fort Nelson’s history is a history of modern experiences. The economy has expanded to include more than just fur trapping. It now includes guide outfitting, the forest industry, oil and gas industry, farming, transportation and tourism.

5553 Alaska Hwy,
Fort Nelson, BC V0C 1R0, Canada
P: 250-774-3536
E: info@fortnelsonmuseum.ca

Fort Nelson Heritage Museum Admission:

May 31st – early September
(off-season by appointment)

ADULT $10.00
SENIOR $7.50
YOUTH $7.50
FAMILY $25.00
OFF-SEASON $5.00

Plan: 1-2 hr

Fort Nelson Heritage Museum Hours:

Daily 9 am – 6pm

fortnelsonmuseum.ca

Image via Sean Mathis

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