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Description of Ladysmith
Ladysmith (pop. 7,538) is situated right on the 49th parallel overlooking the east coast of Vancouver Island. The town is just over a one hours drive north of Victoria and about a half hour drive south of Nanaimo. The local economy is based on forestry, tourism and agriculture. A hillside location adjacent to a sheltered harbour form the natural characteristics of the community.
James Dunsmuir, a coal baron, designed Ladysmith as a shipping port and recreation and dormitory centre for his miners. When Dunsmuir received word that British forces had come to the aid of their fellow soldiers in Ladysmith, South Africa, he named the settlement Ladysmith. He also named many streets after British generals who served in the Anglo Boer war. Incorporated on June 3, 1904, the town is one of the oldest settlements north of Victoria. It is also the birthplace of actress Pamela Anderson.
