Top Bridge Crossing, a magnificent pedestrian-cyclist suspension bridge spanning the Englishman River SCO 11,341
The Spanish were the first Europeans to explore the area in 1791. In Spanish maps, the Englishman River is called "Rio de Grullas," (River of Cranes, herons) while French Creek is named "Punta de Leonardo." The first European settler in the Parksville area was John Hirst, who pre-empted 120 hectares (300 acres) of land on both sides of the Englishman River in 1873. The River, as it was known, remained an outpost until the turn of the century when a road was built from Nanaimo. A post office soon followed in 1877, with mail distributed from the cabin of Nelson Parks (to which Parksville owes its namesake). At that time, logging was a major industry and the extension of the Esquimalt and Nanaimo (E & N) Railway in 1901, to McBride Junction spurred Parksville’s growth and the beginning of a tourism boom, mainly Vancouver Islanders who travelled to Parksville to enjoy the incredible beaches. Motels, stores, resorts and campgrounds soon followed and the community continues to prosper today. The Village of Parksville was incorporated June 19, 1945. Parksville became a town on April 1, 1978, and a city on February 15, 1986. A private ferry service operates between French Creek and False Bay on Lasqueti Island. The ferry offers a foot passenger service only, and departs from the French Creek Government Wharf just off Highway 19. The ferry completes the round trip several times per day, except for Tuesday. There is no service on Wednesday during the off-season. For information on BC Ferry schedules please contact the Parksville Visitor Centre. The staff at the French Creek Marina and Store may also be able to assist with ferry information.
Size: 6108px × 4008px
Location: Englishman River, Top Bridge. Parksville. Vancouver Island. British Columbia. Canada.
Photo credit: © David Gowans / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No
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