
History of Abbotsford, BC
The history of Abbotsford, British Columbia dates back to the time when the area was inhabited by the Stó:lō Nation, the indigenous people of the region. European settlement began in the mid-19th century when the Royal Engineers surveyed the area in response to the gold rush along the Fraser River in 1858. The settlement grew rapidly, and by the late 1860s, the production of butter, milk, and tobacco had begun.
In 1889, John Cunningham Maclure, a former Royal Engineer, applied for a Crown grant to obtain the land that would later become Abbotsford. There is some controversy over the origin of the name “Abbotsford.” The most commonly cited origin is that Maclure named the land after his family friend Henry Braithwaite Abbott, the western superintendent of the Canadian Pacific Railway. However, Maclure’s sons later claimed that the property had actually been named after Sir Walter Scott’s home, Abbotsford House.
The Village of Abbotsford was incorporated in 1892, and the area continued to develop with the construction of a railway line in 1891, connecting Mission with the Seattle, Lake Shore, and Eastern Railway at Sumas, Washington. The British Columbia Electric Railway arrived in 1910, providing transportation between Abbotsford, Vancouver, and Chilliwack. However, the Interurban tram service was discontinued in 1950.
Abbotsford experienced a major flood of the Fraser River in 1948, which caused significant damage to the area. In September 1984, Pope John Paul II held an open-air Mass for over 200,000 people at Abbotsford International Airport.
The amalgamation of the Village of Abbotsford and the District of Sumas occurred in 1972, and the District of Abbotsford merged with the District of Matsqui in 1995 to become the City of Abbotsford. The population of Abbotsford grew significantly following these amalgamations.
Abbotsford has faced challenges in recent years, including controversies surrounding the treatment of the homeless population and a history of gang-related crime. In November 2021, Abbotsford residents living in the Sumas Prairie were given an evacuation order due to flooding in British Columbia, which was described as “catastrophic.”
Today, Abbotsford is the largest municipality in British Columbia outside of metropolitan Vancouver. It is known for its diverse population, with a significant proportion of visible minorities. The city is home to various institutions and facilities, including Tradex, the University of the Fraser Valley, and Abbotsford International Airport. Abbotsford has also been recognized as Canada’s most generous city in terms of charitable donations for multiple consecutive years.
It has a population of 153,524 people according to the 2021 Census. The city is known for its cultural diversity, with a significant population of visible minorities. European ethnic groups, including German, Dutch, British, Irish, Scandinavian, and Slavic origins, make up the largest pan-ethnic group. Abbotsford is also home to a diverse religious landscape, including Christianity, Sikhism, Hinduism, Islam, Buddhism, Judaism, and Indigenous Spirituality. Immigrants comprise 28.6% of the population, reflecting the city’s multicultural character.
The city’s geography spans 375.33 square kilometers (144.92 square miles) and is the largest by area in British Columbia. Abbotsford has an oceanic climate with warm summers and mild, rainy winters. It is governed by the Abbotsford City Council, led by Mayor Ross Siemens. The city has a vibrant sports scene, with various teams competing in ice hockey, soccer, rugby, lacrosse, basketball, and other sports. Notable individuals from Abbotsford include musicians, athletes, and public figures.
Is it Safe to Live in Abbotsford, BC
Abbotsford, located in British Columbia, is widely regarded as a community of moderate safety due to its distinctive demographic composition, educational institutions, and diverse recreational options. Several key elements contribute to the city’s overall sense of safety for local residents:
- Demographics: Abbotsford’s diverse population, featuring a notable representation of visible minorities, nurtures a tight-knit community spirit and cultural empathy, which positively influences the city’s safety. This is further enriched by immigrants accounting for approximately 28.6% of the populace, originating from countries such as India, the United Kingdom, and the Philippines, thus enhancing the city’s ability to address challenges and ensure effective emergency readiness.”
- Education: Abbotsford, British Columbia, is home to several prominent educational institutions. It hosts the University of the Fraser Valley (UFV), offering a range of academic programs and contributing to the region’s educational landscape. In addition to UFV, the city is also home to Columbia Bible College, known for its Christian-focused education. The Abbotsford School District plays a vital role in the city’s education system, providing K-12 education to the local community through various schools.
- Low Crime Rates: Protected by several police and fire stations that play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and security of the city. The Abbotsford Police Department, Abbotsford Police and Community Police Office are dedicated to law enforcement, maintaining public order, and safeguarding the community from criminal activities. On the other hand, the Abbotsford Fire Department operates multiple fire stations, including Fire Hall 1, Fire Hall 2 and Fire Hall 3.
- Recreation: Abbotsford offers a range of recreation activities, including hockey and soccer leagues for all ages, as well as opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to hike and explore picturesque spots like Mill Lake Park.
- Community: Abbotsford promotes community engagement through cultural heritage sites like the Trethewey House Heritage Site and the Mennonite Heritage Museum, offering educational programming and events to celebrate local history. The city also fosters community involvement in sports and arts, supporting various sports clubs and events, such as the Valley Royals Track & Field Club and local high school sports, while also hosting performances and promoting local arts and culture through initiatives like the Reach Gallery Museum.
It’s crucial to understand that every location comes with its own set of challenges and potential risks. From the information available, Abbotsford seems to offer a reasonably secure living environment. Nevertheless, it’s prudent to practice common safety measures and remain aware of the local situation to ensure your well-being.

Things to do in Abbotsford, BC
Abbotsford, located in British Columbia, Canada, offers a variety of attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy. Here are some of the top things to do in Abbotsford:
- Castle Fun Park: This amusement park features mini-golf, go-karts, arcade games, batting cages, and more, making it a fun destination for families and friends.
- Mill Lake: A scenic lake surrounded by walking trails, parks, and picnic areas, Mill Lake is a great place for a leisurely stroll, bike ride, or enjoying a picnic by the water.
- The Reach Gallery Museum: This art gallery and museum showcases a diverse range of contemporary and historical artwork and exhibits. It’s a must-visit for art enthusiasts and history buffs.
- Taves Family Farms: Experience the charm of a working farm at Taves Family Farms. Enjoy picking your own apples, exploring the pumpkin patch, and indulging in delicious farm-fresh treats.
- Clayburn Village: Step back in time and explore the historic Clayburn Village, known for its well-preserved heritage buildings. Take a leisurely walk through the village, visit the Clayburn Village Store, and learn about its fascinating history.
Field House Brewing Co. is a popular restaurant. Nature lovers can explore Mill Lake, the Discovery Trail, and Tanglebank Gardens. For a cultural experience, there’s the Mennonite Heritage Museum and The Reach Gallery Museum. Families can have fun at Play Abby or visit the Greater Vancouver Zoo. Other notable options include Fraser Fishing Adventures, Apple Barn At Taves Family Farms, and the Highstreet Shopping Centre. Whether you’re interested in outdoor adventures, historical sites, or family-friendly entertainment, Abbotsford has plenty to offer.
Abbotsford is a city located in British Columbia, Canada. It is adjacent to the Canada–United States border and is situated near Greater Vancouver and the Fraser River. It is the largest municipality in the province outside of metropolitan Vancouver.