What is Salmon Belle Mar?

Introduction

Belle Mar is a small community located on the eastern coast of Vancouver Island, approximately 10 kilometers south of Campbell River, British Columbia, Canada. The settlement of Belle Mar is rich in history, mainly renowned for its former salmon canning industry, dating back to the late 1800s and contributing to the economic prosperity of the region during that time. Today, Belle Mar remains as a picturesque coastal neighborhood with a strong connection to its fishing and canning past.

Historical Significance

The history of Belle Mar as a salmon canning town unfolds in the late 19th century when the abundance of salmon in the surrounding waters of the Discovery Passage attracted cannery operators. The first cannery in Belle Mar was established by the British Columbia Canning Company in the 1880s, leading to the rapid development of the community as a thriving center for the salmon canning industry.

The location of Belle Mar, situated along a sheltered bay with access to rich fishing grounds, made it an ideal location for salmon canning operations. During its peak, the community boasted several canneries, including the British Columbia Canning Company, North Pacific Packing Company, and Anglo-British Columbia Packing Company. These canneries employed hundreds of workers, mostly seasonal, who came to Belle Mar from various parts of the country and abroad to participate in the annual salmon canning season.

Canning Process and Economic Impact

The salmon canning process in Belle Mar involved several stages. Fishing boats ventured out into the waters to catch salmon, mainly sockeye and pink salmon. The caught fish were then brought back to the canneries, where they underwent processing. The salmon were cleaned, filleted, and canned by workers, often working long hours to meet the demands of the industry.

The canned salmon produced in Belle Mar were primarily exported to markets across the world, including the United Kingdom, Europe, and the United States. The salmon canning industry played a vital role in the local economy, providing employment opportunities and contributing to the overall development of the Campbell River region.

Decline of the Industry and Transition

In the early 20th century, the salmon canning industry in Belle Mar faced challenges, including competition from larger canneries and changes in market conditions. The demand for canned salmon declined, and the industry experienced a gradual decline. By the 1950s, most of the canneries in Belle Mar had closed down, marking the end of an era.

Following the decline of the canning industry, Belle Mar transitioned into a residential community, maintaining its connection to the fishing heritage. Today, the community has a mix of residential housing, vacation homes, and small businesses, retaining its peaceful and picturesque coastal charm.

Cultural and Historical Preservation

Despite the decline of the canning industry, Belle Mar residents have preserved the community's historical heritage. The former cannery sites have been converted into residential areas and parks, with several heritage buildings still standing as reminders of the past. The community also celebrates its history through events and local initiatives that promote the cultural significance of Belle Mar's salmon canning era.

Conclusion

Belle Mar stands as a testament to the rich history of the salmon canning industry in British Columbia. Once a bustling center for salmon canning, the community has transitioned into a scenic residential neighborhood while preserving its connection to its fishing and canning past. Belle Mar's historical heritage and cultural significance continue to be valued and celebrated by its residents and visitors alike.