History of Cumberland

Cumberland, the oldest of the three major communities which comprise the Comox Valley, is located on the east coast of Vancouver Island.

The Comox Valley, comprising a population of 57,000 is a sophisticated and diverse community area for its size, boasting a timely mix of natural and urban settings. Its geographical attributes, with mountains to the west and ocean to the east present a setting for a variety of recreational activities in all seasons. The Comox Valley, including Hornby and Denman Islands is, well known for its artistic community and is home to many ma or festivities and events involving the visual and performing arts.

The natural beauty and diversity of the Comox Valley has resulted in a significant population increase in recent years and is presently one of the fastest growing communities in British Columbia.

The Community of Cumberland owes its existence to coal mining. Coal deposits were discovered in the area in 1864 and in the 1880's, with Robert Dunsmuir's infusion of large capital the development proceeded on a large scale. In the late 1880's Dunsmuir plotted the town site and n-migration into the area began, with Cumberland growing into a city, comparable in size to Victoria at the time. In 1897 Cumberland, named after the English county, was incorporated as Canada's most western city. At the turn of the century Cumberland had one of the largest Chinese communities outside of San Francisco.

Miners from many countries sought work in Cumberland and the ethnic mix brought a cultural richness to the community. Still in its early days Cumberland was a "company town" it soon developed a strong community spirit best shown through its support of athletic teams that played for national and provincial titles.

A series of events that occurred in the 1930's and early 1940's led to an economic decline in Cumberland after 1945. The new use of oil from Alberta hurt the coal industry, the exodus from Cumberland's Chinatown during the depression, a great fire which destroyed three city blocks and the internment of the Japanese community all had major impacts.

During these post-war years the community managed to survive, displaying tenacity amazing in the face of circumstances that left it with no industrial or commercial base. This "fighting spirit" and voluntarism is a recognized characteristic of the community which it has maintained to its present day.

The community of Cumberland’s future appears very promising. New light industry, an influx of artisans, a demographic trend towards the "neighborhood" community, and the location of the new Island Highway are all factors which are leading towards a resurgence of Cumberland.