The Summerland Community Mural Project

Help commemorate the Bicentennial of the Fur Brigade Trail 

Two hundred years ago four fur traders travelled by horseback through the Okanagan Valley - from Fort Okanogan, Washington to Kamloops, BC.  The men followed an ancient Aboriginal trail along the Okanogan River and north, through what is now Summerland, eventually arriving at Tk’emlúps (Kamloops). This historic visit represents the first recorded contact between the White and First Nation people of the southern interior of BC. 

Summerland is the site of the only encampment site which is preserved as a municipal park (Priest Camp Historic Park) and the only portion of the original trail preserved as a municipal linear park (Fur Brigade Trail Linear Park).  

To commemorate this historic event, the Faith Rebekah Lodge, Summerland Museum and Summerland Community Cultural Development Committee (CCDC), have commissioned Larry Hunter to paint a “Fur Brigade Trail” mural and map on the walls of the I.O.O.F./Rebekah Hall on Main Street.  

Public art provides an attractive addition to our downtown core and has a positive effect on tourism and our local community.  This mural will not only add life to Main Street, it will also tell a story about the significance of the Fur Brigade Trail in Summerland’s history. 

The mural will cost approximately $10,000. This includes mural design and artwork, preparing the wall for painting and all materials.  Donations from individuals, businesses and organizations are urgently needed!  Donations are needed to help transform a blank wall into a work of art and will contribute to the beautification of our town!  A permanent dedication plaque will be installed to celebrate the donors that have made this historic project possible!   All donations will receive tax receipts.   

Cheques may be made out to “The Summerland Museum and Heritage Society” or “The District of Summerland”, with reference to “CCDC Mural Project”.  (by October 1st if possible).  

Donations can be dropped off or mailed to the Summerland Municipal Hall, 13211 Henry Avenue, Box 159, Summerland, V0H 1Z0, or the Summerland Museum 9521 Wharton Street, Box 1491,  Summerland,V0H 1Z0.  

For more information contact: Sharon Stone, Administrator, Summerland Museum – info@summerlandmuseum.org   250-494-9395 or 250-494-8238