I have come to Clinton a couple times now for historical research.
What an amazing community! There is so much to do in here in Clinton, let alone in the province that I am beginning to think that there really is no way people actually work here in Clinton, British Columbia! I mean there is things like hiking out in the back country, white water trips on the Fraser, touring old abandoned gold mines, to horseback riding in the rolling hills with spectacular views, or hang gliding off the famous rocks above the town.
No matter where I go here in this incredible province I find that I am taken aback by the beauty here.
I guess that is why it is called Beautiful British Columbia.
While visiting here in Clinton there are a few places I would suggest visitors stop in to see and get a feel of the old town history: - The Clinton Emporium (Jim the owner, has it full of antiques and treasures for everyone and most often a story behind each piece that he is more than willing to tell to anyone who will stop long enough to listen.
) - The Vallance Pottery and Gifts (Jill is a wonderful lady full of information about her store and it's original use not to mention the safe-door behind her counter is from the 1860s - And her selection of teas are to die for!) - The Country Square Gift Shop (Susan is a dear in there and loves to welcome everyone to Clinton whether you are there just for lunch, a couple days, or decide to move there.
She is very willing to let you know all about the up coming events and shows.
) I was sitting in a coffee shop with a local, Robyn Fennell, and he told me this story as part of my historical community research.
I hope you enjoy it.
It's about a man from the Clinton area that wanted to go to the Clinton Annual Ball, back in the horse and buggy days, which really isn't that long ago here in Clinton...
The Big Bar Ferry (a reaction ferry) was the only way the guy could get from his ranch on one side of the Fraser River to the other side of the river to head up the dirt road to Clinton.
He had gotten all 'gussied up' and got his horse all ready to go, saddle, bridle and such then headed down to the ferry in the evening.
He saw that the ferry was closed for the evening (the ferry runner had gone to the Clinton Annual Ball as well) but that didn't stop this fellow, he un-did the bridle on the horse and used it to get himself and the horse across the River.
He had thrown the bridle over the cable that ran the width of the river that the ferry ran on and the horse swam (walked, kicked whatever it was the horse had to do to stay afloat) and the fellow kept himself and the horse in line with the cable and pulled them across the river.
Once on the other side of the river he bridled the horse again and an hour later walked into the Ball with wet pants but ready for a good time.
Now if you know anything about the Fraser River, it isn't a little creek to be taken lightly.
It is a man eater if not respected.
I guess this fellow never had an issue with the river and the river never seemed to have one with him.
The rest of my visit was interviewing authors, researchers, historians, and checking out all the places that tourists don't know about.
I've taken lots of pictures but you will just have to see the area yourself for what an incredible place it is.
The people here are warm and welcoming.
The locals sit in the favorite hangout, Cordial Cafe, and love to tell stories and gossip of not only days gone by but of people that are there or even the ones that are gone.
If you have the patience and love of stories, the old locals will fill your head for as long as you are willing to sit there and listen.
If you have questions about any of the places I have been or am going to, please just let me know.
I would be happy to tell you what I can.
Happy travels!