Ainsworth Hot Springs Resort, BC, Canada

Photo of the SS Moyie Courtesy of the Kootenay Lake Archives

There are many stories in early chronicles which mention the Hot Springs. Like many Canadian natural attractions, Ainsworth Hot Springs was probably first discovered by native Indians. The Indians came up to Kootenay Lake in the late summer mostly to take advantage of the Kokanee Salmon run. Since this timing coincided with the ripening of the huckleberry crop, it would be natural to assume that after spending the days clambering around the hills these people would welcome a soak in the hot springs.

This idyllic lifestyle probably continued for decades until the Indians guided the first prospectors in the area.

In 1882 George Ainsworth of Portland, Oregon, applied for a preemption of the townsite which is now Ainsworth Hot Springs. It was at first called Hot Springs Camp and had been founded on the strength of silver, lead and zinc discoveries in the vicinity. Names like the Krao, Keyline, No. 1, Let-Her-Go-Gallager and Highlander were the foremost of an impressive list of mining properties.

During this time the Hot Springs itself didn't seem to be very high on the priority list of Ainsworth. It wasn't until the 1920's when the town was starting to decline as a mining centre, that an effort was made to develop the hot springs. The mining company that owned the property at that time decided to build a pool to be used primarily by the miners.

A very progressive move!

By the time the pool and caves were finished in the early 1930's the great depression was in full swing. A succession of lessees operated the pool and lodge through the 30's 40's and 50's.

Ainsworth's Early Days

In the 30's the pool was open 24 hours a day, and a swim cost 10 cents.

In the 40's and 50's, mining activity peaked and production was the highest ever recorded, mostly due to improved machinery. In the later 50's, silver prices dropped and the mines were closed. The owners of the Hot Springs, Yale Lead and Zinc Co. Ltd., decided to sell their property in the Ainsworth townsite, including the pool, cave and lodge.

Sam and Belle Homen purchased and operated the property in 1962. They retired in 1979 and the property was bought by their daughter Joyce Mackie and her husband Norm Mackie.

The pool and change rooms were getting old and worn by this time and in 1983 renovations were made. The pool and caves were renovated and new change rooms constructed. The result of this work was an increase in business which in turn pointed to a need for accommodation and food services. So in 1987 the present hotel was built.

By Norm Mackie

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