On a beautiful sunny day, we set out to explore the remnants of Phoenix, a once-thriving mining town nestled between Greenwood and Grand Forks, British Columbia. Our adventure led us through an area with a rich history, offering a glimpse into the lives of those who once called this place home.

Phoenix Cemetery: Echoes of the Past

Our first stop was the Phoenix Cemetery, now preserved by the Greenwood Heritage Society. Walking among the weathered tombstones, we were struck by the somber reality of the town's past. Many graves belonged to children and young adults, reflecting the harsh living conditions of the era. The cemetery was active until 1919, marking the end of an important chapter in Phoenix's history.  

The Heart of Phoenix: Cenotaph and Mining Legacy

Continuing up the road, we arrived at the former townsite of Phoenix. Today, a solitary Canadian flag and a granite cenotaph stand in silent tribute to the townspeople who served in World War I. Erected by the town council before Phoenix's decline, the cenotaph is one of the few enduring landmarks. If you look closely, remnants of railroad tracks and other infrastructures hint at the bustling activity that once defined this community.

Venturing to Mine #7 and the City of Paris Mine

Our exploration didn't stop at Phoenix. We navigated a narrow, winding road up the mountain, mirrors tucked in to avoid the encroaching trees, in search of Mine #7 and the City of Paris Mine. The City of Paris Mine was named after a notable underground vein formation, not an actual city. Established in the late 19th century, it is part of the rich mining history of the Boundary District.

At Mine #7, we discovered the entrance partially sealed and secured with barbed wire, reflecting safety precautions for such sites. Nearby, a tipple, remnants of tracks, and pieces of old mine carts and other mining equipment stood as relics of the mining operations that once thrived here. Further along, we stumbled upon  the remains of the #7 mining camp. The forest is gradually reclaiming the area, with old log cabins slowly succumbing to nature's embrace.

A Return Journey Awaits

The vastness of the area and the multitude of historical sites are calling out to us for further exploration. We plan to return with more time and preparation to hike deeper into the wilderness, uncovering more stories etched into the landscape of this once-vibrant mining region.

Our journey through Phoenix and its surrounding mines offered a profound connection to British Columbia's rich mining heritage, reminding us of the transient nature of such boomtowns and the enduring stories they leave behind.

For a visual tour of our exploration, check out our video below: