Hiway16 Magazine... about people and places in north-central British Columbia, Canada

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A Visit to Old Fort Babine

by Diana Roberts

Old Fort Babine is a village inhabited by Lake Babine First Nation people on the north side of Babine Lake, near Granisle.

Only a few of the 50 residents of Old Fort live there year round. Most of them only spend 2 to 4 weeks a year there, during fishing season. One of the families that usually stay there year round is that of an elder of the band, Dick Alec and his wife,

Best way to travel to Old Fort Babine is by boat

Old Fort is very isolated. The only way to get to it, is by boat or float plane. Many people drive to Granisle, then go across Babine Lake by boat. There is no electric power and no telephones at Old Fort, which makes it the perfect spot to get away from it all.

There are approximately 12 houses at Old Fort that have been there for quite some time. Recently two new homes have been built, as the residents try to bring the village back to what it used to be. I also noticed a greenhouse that seemed to be a new addition.

The church at Old Fort Babine, a landmark on Babine Lake

The village has a church, which was built in 1898. It is not being used, as it needs a lot of work. There are plans to have it renovated and brought back to it's original beauty.

There is a large bell in the bell tower of the church. It is only rung if there is a wedding, a death, or for church services. When you are out on the lake, the church is the first thing you will notice.

Inside the church are beautiful statues and old pictures, that will once again take their place of honour, once the church is renovated.






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