A History of Growth: Abbotsford’s Journey from Settlement to Urban Center

Abbotsford’s rich and layered history is a reflection of the broader evolution of British Columbia itself, with Indigenous heritage, European settlement, and economic development all playing crucial roles in shaping the city we see today. Long before European settlers arrived, the land was home to the Stó:lō people, who have lived along the banks of the Fraser River for thousands of years. The Stó:lō developed deep cultural and spiritual connections to the land, relying on the region’s abundant natural resources to sustain their communities. Their knowledge of the land and its ecosystems remains an important part of the area’s heritage, offering valuable insights into sustainable land stewardship even today.

European settlers began arriving in the mid-19th century, drawn by the promise of fertile farmland, natural resources, and economic opportunity. The construction of the Canadian Pacific Railway in the 1880s further opened the area to settlement and trade, connecting Abbotsford to larger markets across Canada. Early settlers established small farms, mills, and trading posts, laying the groundwork for the agricultural and business community that would define the region’s economy for generations. The city’s name itself is believed to come from Harry Braithwaite Abbott, a railway official whose contributions to the area’s development were recognized with the naming of the growing community.

Over the decades, Abbotsford’s growth was propelled by a combination of factors — from its strong agricultural base to its strategic location along key transportation routes, including Highway 1 and the US border. The creation of key public institutions, such as schools, hospitals, and community centers, supported the growing population, while infrastructure investments helped attract new industries and residents. By the time Abbotsford was officially incorporated as a city in 1995 — following the amalgamation of the District of Abbotsford and the District of Matsqui — it had already evolved into a dynamic urban center with a unique blend of rural charm and modern opportunity. Today, Abbotsford’s history continues to shape its identity, with a diverse and growing population building on the foundation laid by Indigenous communities, early settlers, and generations of farmers, entrepreneurs, and community leaders.

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Jenny is a business insurance broker with Waypoint Insurance.

She is also a business development consultant with Impresario Partners, helping Canadian Business expand overseas.

She can be reached at 604-317-6755 or jhansen@waypoint.ca. Connect with Jenny on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenny-holly-hansen-365b691b/.  Connect with Jenny at BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/jennyhollyhansen.bsky.social

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Jenny Holly Hansen is a cohost with Chris Sturges of the Langley Impact Networking Group. You are welcome to join us on Thursday’s from 4pm to 6pm at: Sidebar Bar and Grill: 100b - 20018 83A Avenue, Langley, BC V2Y 3R4

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