Person: Dawson, George Mercer

Early Cranbrook, BC Scene c.1887

Early Cranbrook, BC Scene c.1887 A Dawson photo of the Baker Estate area, with Joseph Creek in foreground. Dan Melody commented: An amazing photo capturing a very historic location in Cranbrook. Very close to where the foot bridge across the creek, looking up the hill towards Baker's house.

Internal ID:	0140.0002
Medium:	Photograph
Date:	1887

1883 Joseph Prairie, now Cranbrook

Perhaps the earliest known image of what was to become Cranbrook, this photograph of Joseph Prairie shows the structures developed by John Galbraith on land he pre-empted prior to the sale of this property to Colonel James Baker in 1885. At this time there was a sawmill, residence and store on the property, as well as farm outbuildings. Dan Melody added: I've stared at this amazing photo for hours and always thought it was taken West of the creek near the NE end of the old swimming pool, looking East and up towards the Baker House. Now I am thinking it could be taken from above the Baker House, just below where the old ball diamond was, looking NW and down towards the creek with the Baker House to the right.