Heritage & Museum
The Stationhouse Museum is OPEN year round by appointment. Donations appreciated.
Because the railroad ended its services in 1936, the Stationhouse passed into private hands. In 1982 it was donated to the Okanagan Landing & District Community Association by Wes and Kay Whitehead. The heritage building is now a museum for memorabilia and photos. It is home of an amazing scale model depicting Okanagan Landing in 1914.
Stationhouse History
History of Okanagan Landing
Okanagan Landing, nestled along the shores of Lake Okanagan in British Columbia, has a rich and vibrant history that reflects the evolution of the region and the community that calls it home. Originally inhabited by Indigenous peoples for thousands of years, the area is rich in cultural significance. Over time, it became a bustling settlement, playing a key role in the development of the Okanagan Valley.
Indigenous Roots and Early Settlements
Before European settlers arrived, the Okanagan Landing area was home to the Syilx (Okanagan) people. Their deep connection to the land and water shaped their way of life, and many traditional hunting, fishing, and gathering practices continue to influence the community today.
In the late 1800s, European settlers began to arrive, and the area soon became an important hub for agriculture, industry, and transportation. The fertile lands around the lake were ideal for farming, and the area attracted settlers seeking opportunity.
The Rise of Paddlewheel Steamers
A key moment in Okanagan Landing’s history came with the arrival of the paddlewheel steamers in the early 1900s. These iconic boats, such as the SS Okanagan, served as essential transportation links for people and goods between communities along the shores of Lake Okanagan. The steamers helped shape Okanagan Landing into a vital transportation and trade center.
The presence of these paddlewheel boats also led to the establishment of key infrastructure, including the Paddlewheel Hall, which has been a central gathering place for the community ever since. The hall and surrounding area became the heart of Okanagan Landing, hosting events, celebrations, and social gatherings for generations.
Growth and Development
The Stationhouse Museum stands as a testament to the rich history of Okanagan Landing, preserving the stories of early pioneers, the rise of agriculture, and the development of the transportation system that helped shape the region. The museum offers a glimpse into the past and tells the story of the people and industries that built Okanagan Landing into the thriving community it is today.
Over the years, Okanagan Landing has evolved from a quiet settlement to a bustling residential and recreational area. Today, it continues to be a place where history, heritage, and nature come together, offering a unique blend of old and new for both residents and visitors to enjoy.
Preserving Okanagan Landing’s History
The Okanagan Landing & District Community Association plays a crucial role in preserving the community’s rich history. Through ongoing projects and initiatives, we work to maintain important landmarks such as Paddlewheel Park, Paddlewheel Hall, and the Stationhouse Museum. Our mission is to ensure that the heritage and stories of Okanagan Landing continue to be shared and celebrated for generations to come.
Whether you are a lifelong resident or a first-time visitor, the history of Okanagan Landing offers a glimpse into the heart of our community, one that honors both the past and the future.
Explore our historic landmarks, learn about our rich heritage, and be part of the continued story of Okanagan Landing!
Ships were fast, reliable and efficient way for mail, people and cargo to travel. As a result, sternwheelers provided the primary transportation from Vernon to Penticton.
The Stationhouse was the primary facility to board the sternwheelers.
Paddlewheel was a bustling centre of commerce and CPR shipbuilding over 100 years ago. Sternwheel steamships Aberdeen, Okanagan, Sicamous, and the tugboat Naramata were constructed here.
To learn more about Steam Ships click HERE.
The Stationhouse Museum is an associate of Greater Vernon Museum and Archives