Are you brave enough to tour Oliver’s ghost town at night?

Did you know Oliver has a ghost town dating back to the gold rush era with tales of murder and mystery?

Come and walk the old ghost town of Fairview at night while listening to tales of disasters, strange occurrences and grisly deaths that took place in the once rough-and-tumble gold mining town.

Just in time for Halloween, the Oliver & District Museum is offering two walking tours showcasing the area’s haunting history.

The Historic Cemetery Tour takes place Oct. 23 and 30 at 3 p.m., featuring selected stories of past residents, many of whom made significant contributions to the community through their lives and work. This tour, approximately 40 minutes long, departs from the Oliver Cemetery’s front gate at 1068 Rockcliffe Rd. It is a non-scary daytime tour, and while adults will enjoy it most, it is suitable for all ages.

The Fairview After Dark tour provides a much spookier atmosphere and is recommended for adults and teens.

This tour will be offered Oct. 23 and 30, departing at 7 p.m. from the Fairview kiosk, across the street from Willowbrook Road. Guests have the chance to wander a dark trail through the old ghost town. Bring a flashlight and wear warm clothing and appropriate footwear. Costumes are also encouraged.

Both tours are led by Museum curator Rebecca Rizzo, who is excited about sharing this local history with area residents.

“Fairview was here before Oliver in the 1890s when a prospector found gold,” Rizzo says. “By the time the first claim was made, everyone was rushing to find gold veins.”

An upper and lower town were created. The upper town held the saloons, bank and mill as well as the rougher side of life. It’s here the tour will explore.

“It was the Wild West so there are plenty of tales to tell,” Rizzo says.

Tickets are $4 for general admission, and $2 for Oliver & District Heritage Society members.

As spots are limited, pre-registration is required. To book a spot, please email curator@oliverheritage.ca or call 778-439-3100 and let them know which tour and date you wish to attend.

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