No, this isn't Texas. You didn't make a wrong turn when you started out this morning. Houston has been here since the early 1900's although the area was originally known as the Pleasant Valley. Houston is also home to the world's largest fly rod. It is constructed of aluminium and anodized bronze to simulate graphite and is 60 feet long and weighs approximately 800 lbs. This was truly a community project as over 41 local companies contributed goods and services to build the rod. It is permanently displayed just east of the Visitor Information Center on Highway 16.
Information/Emergency
There is a Visitor Information Center/Chamber of Commerce on Highway 16, Box 396, Houston, BC V0J 1Z0, 250-845-7640.
Emergency: Police 845-2204.
History Houston's history is typical of many small towns in
this area, yet in its own way, is unique. Before the construction of the Grand Trunk Railway, Houston was known as the Pleasant Valley. Although there is some confusion as to where the name Houston
came from, most locals seem to believe that it came from John Houston, a popular newspaper editor from Prince Rupert. When the Grand Trunk Pacific Railway was built, cutting ties became the local industry.
In 1914, two years after the railway was built, the town was listed in the
British Columbia directory with a population of 150! Over the next few years Houston added a hotel, general store, post office and an Anglican Church. The first school was opened 1916 for 7 students under the capable direction of Miss Bessie McKay. The 1940's brought the forest industry to Houston and it has flourished ever since.
In 1957, Houston was officially incorporated as a village and was also proud to have the first dial telephone system north of Boston Bar. Houston became
a District Municipality on January 31, 1969. Houston's present day population is 4300.
Accommodations Houston Motor Inn 2940 Hwy.16; 250-845-7112.
Idylwild Motor Inn 2800 Hwy.16; 250-845-2296
Pleasant Valley Motel 3030 Hwy.16; 250-845-2246
Camping Houston Motor Inn Hwy 16, 18 Sites Full Hook-ups available. 1-800-994-8333
Municipal Campground 14th St. along Buck Creek 11 Sites; 250-845-2238
Shady Rest RV Park Hwy 16 East, 53 Sites Full Hook-up available. 250-845-2314
Things To Do Take a stroll through beautiful Steelhead Park, located along Hwy.16. Known for it's
beautiful Christmas Light-up between Nov.1st and Jan.15th
Sawmill tours are offered by Canfor and Houston Forest Products, during the months of July and August. Tours are booked through the Visitor Information Center.
