Blog | Nicola Valley Museum & Archives

George McLean

admin_alpha — Thu, 05 Feb 2026 21:11:34 +0000

George McLean was the son of Angele Chilihitzia, of the Upper Nicola Band, and Allen McLean, an outlaw who would be hanged for murder in January of 1881. George grew up working as a cowboy at many ranches in the Nicola Valley. At the age of 25, George signed up to join the Canadian Mountain Rifles to fight in the Second Boer War (1899-1902). Although the recruitment process was racist, stating that all recruits were meant to be of “pure European decent”, McLean’s experience on horseback, and a letter of reference stating his good character allowed him to be recruited. He was considered to be a good horseback rider, and a fair shot and was awarded the South Africa Medal for his service.

In 1916, George McLean enlisted to fight in the First World War with the 172 (Rocky Mountain Rangers) Battalion. When he reached England, he was transferred to the 54^th Battalion and sent to the front to eventually fight at Vimy Ridge where he would receive a Distinguished Combat Medal for his actions.

The citation on his DCM reads: “For conspicuous gallantry and devotion when dealing with enemy snipers. Single-handed he captured nineteen prisoners, and later when attacked by five more prisoners, who attempted to reach a machine gun, he was able, although wounded to dispose of them unaided, thus saving a large number of casualties”.

1927 Diamond Jubilee

admin_alpha — Thu, 05 Feb 2026 20:43:52 +0000

On July 1^st, 1927, Merritt celebrated the 60^th anniversary of the creation of The Dominion of Canada, then called Dominion Day, now called Canada Day. As this was the Diamond Jubilee of Canada, meaning the 60^th anniversary, this was planned to be quite a large event with a budget of $700, which totals nearly $11,000 in today’s money. Of that $700, $450 of it was given away in prizes for events such as a bike race, a foot race, a relay race, and a tug-of-war, other prizes included things such as best decorated float.

The parade left at 11:45 that morning from the Merritt Public Schoolhouse, according to the Merritt Herald, and were met with hundreds of on lookers as they made their way to the old courthouse. There Mayor Boyd laid a wreath at the cenotaph to honour those who served and died for Canada, and G.B. Armstrong was given the honour of planting a maple tree. This ceremony is included in the photos below. From there the procession moved onto Voght park where proclamations made by both the Governor-General and Premier were read aloud. This was followed by a number of activities including a baseball game, a native horse race, a public dance, and a children’s matinee. The festivities continued onto the following day when a large picnic was held at Lake View Ranch in Nicola followed by the bicycle races, as well as track and field events.

The individuals in the cart are (I believe) some of the early settlers to the Nicola Valley: (in no particular order) A.R. Carringon, G.B. Armstrong, L. Quinville, Mrs. Quinville, Mrs. Philips, Mrs. Farr, Billy Smith, and Jas Smith.

Tour Bus Operators

admin_alpha — Thu, 05 Jan 2023 00:13:49 +0000

Welcome to Merritt, BC – the perfect stopover destination for tour bus groups traveling between Vancouver and Banff!

Located in the heart of the beautiful Nicola Valley, Merritt is an ideal place for groups to stretch their legs, grab a bite to eat, and explore the rich history and culture of the region. And what better place to do all of that than at the Nicola Valley Museum and Archives?

Located directly adjacent to the Railyard Mall, the museum is the perfect place for groups to learn about the people, industries, and indigenous cultures that have shaped the valley over the years. From the gold rush days to the present, the museum offers a fascinating look at the history and culture of the region.

When visiting the museum, you can expect to see and experience what life was like in the Nicola Valley many years ago. And when it’s time to take a break, the Railyard Mall is just a short walk away, offering a variety of food and shopping options.

Tour bus operators and travel agents, if you’re interested in bringing your group to the Nicola Valley Museum and Archives, please contact the museum manager, Cameron Bridge, at 250 378 4145 or by email here.

And don’t forget, there’s plenty of parking for large buses at the Railyard Mall, with a convenient walkway connecting the mall and the museum.

We hope to see you soon!

Days and hours of operation:

Monday – CLOSED

Tuesday – 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Wednesday – 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Thursday – 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Friday – 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Saturday – 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Sunday – CLOSED

Museum Tours

admin_alpha — Wed, 23 Nov 2022 18:44:45 +0000

The Nicola Valley Museum and Archives in Merritt, BC offers visitors a unique glimpse into the rich history of the Nicola Valley.

Located at 1675 Tutill Ct, directly behind the Railyard Mall, the museum is open from Tuesday to Saturday 10am to 5pm and is a must-see destination for anyone interested in the people, industries, and indigenous cultures that have shaped the valley over the years.

On a tour of the museum, you’ll be able to explore exhibits showcasing the early settlers, pioneers, and indigenous peoples who have called the Nicola Valley home. From the gold rush days to the present, the museum offers a fascinating look at the people and events that have shaped this region.

In addition to its permanent exhibits, the museum also hosts special events and displays throughout the year, offering visitors even more to see and discover.

So if you’re in the Merritt area and looking for a fun and educational way to spend the day, be sure to visit the Nicola Valley Museum and Archives. You’ll come away with a greater understanding and appreciation of the history and culture of this unique and vibrant region.