Abbotsford - Community Overview

After gold was discovered in the Fraser River, the British sent Royal Engineers to survey the area. John Cunningham Maclure purchased 160 acres in 1889, which would eventually become the village of Abbotsford. He later sold the land to his son who in turn sold it to Robert Ward. Ward filed for townsite subdivision in 1891. Abbotsford was named after a friend of the Maclure family, Harry Abbott. Abbott was the Western Superintendent of the C.P.R.

When the C.P.R. spur line reached Abbotsford the area opened up economically. Many saw mills were built during 1890-1919. The establishment of the Abbotsford Lumber Company by the Tretheway Family helped the development of Abbotsford in every way. 

In 1995 the District of Matsqui, Abbotsford and the Village of Clearbrook amalgamated to create the new City of Abbotsford. Abbotsford is surrounded by the Fraser River to the north, the American border to the south, Langley to the west and Chilliwack to the east.

Abbotsford is the commercial and regional hub for the Fraser Valley. The economy of Abbotsford is based on agriculture, transportation, precision manufacturing and retail. In recent years, the interest of tourists has grown and resulted in the foundation of a bureau of tourism.

Abbotsford is approximately 70 km southeast of downtown Vancouver, by means of the Trans-Canada Highway #1 or the Fraser Highway #1A. Situated in the Lower Fraser Valley, Abbotsford is one of the most productive agricultural areas in British Columbia. 

The population of Abbotsford numbers approximately 149,928.

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