The Blenkinsop Valley in Saanich, British Columbia, tells a fascinating story of evolution from untouched forests into a hub of agricultural activity, ingenuity, hard work and community resilience.

First Nations Heritage

Long before European settlement, the Blenkinsop Valley was home to Indigenous peoples who lived in harmony with the land. The valley provided a rich source of food, shelter, and spiritual connection for the local First Nations communities, including the WSÁNEČ (Saanich) people. They utilized the area’s diverse ecosystems for fishing, hunting, and harvesting native plants, such as camas, which were cultivated in nearby Garry oak meadows. These traditions highlight the deep, sustained relationship between the First Nations and the valley’s natural resources.

The Blenkinsop Valley also served as a significant travel and trade route for Indigenous peoples, connecting various communities across the region. Today, efforts to recognize and honour this heritage are essential for understanding the full history of the area and ensuring the cultural contributions of the First Nations are preserved and celebrated.

Roots of Settlement

In the mid-19th century, the area that included Lost Lake, later renamed Blenkinsop Lake, began to attract settlers seeking new opportunities. Two notable landowners, Henry Von Allman and George Blenkinsop, laid the groundwork for the valley’s development. George Blenkinsop’s contributions were so significant that the lake was renamed in his honour, cementing his legacy in local history.

The Rise of Agriculture

Clearing dense forests in the early 20th century, settlers transformed the valley into fertile farmland. William Mercer’s acquisition of 125 acres in 1906 marked a turning point, as he established a thriving dairy operation that expanded to 200 acres by 1909. Farming families like the Pendrays carried forward this agricultural tradition into the latter half of the century, solidifying the valley’s reputation for rich, productive land.

The Lim Family: Pioneers in Community Farming

The Lim family’s contributions to the Blenkinsop Valley and the greater Saanich area stand out as a beacon of entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to the community. Marion and Harvey Lim, central figures in this legacy, began their farming journey after Marion’s early experience working in her parent’s grocery store on Fort Street. In 1945, after their marriage, they began cultivating land on Blenkinsop Road, eventually expanding their efforts to West Saanich Road.

Their hard work culminated in the establishment of the Big Barn Market, which became a cherished local institution. The market not only offered fresh, high-quality produce but also fostered community connections. Customers knew it as a place where they could count on not just goods but a friendly, welcoming atmosphere.

A New Generation: Terry Lim and the Future of the Valley

For the past 50 years, Terry Lim took on the responsibility of stewarding the family’s land and continuing its agricultural legacy. His dedication ensured that the traditions established by Marion and Harvey Lim were upheld, even as the valley faced increasing urban pressures. Terry’s work maintained the land’s productivity and its role as a vital part of the community. For much of the last decade, Terry has worked with the neighbouring Galey Farms to maintain the commercial farming status of the land. In mid-2024, the Blenkinsop Community Agricultural Centre purchased the property, marking a new chapter for the valley while preserving the Lim family’s contributions. Terry’s stewardship bridged the gap between the family’s historical role and the valley’s modern evolution.

A Community Legacy

Marion and Harvey Lim’s efforts extended beyond farming and commerce. Their contributions left an indelible mark on Saanich, providing a foundation for future generations of farmers and community leaders. Marion’s passing in 2005 was deeply felt, with many remembering her warmth, grace, and dedication. Her legacy endures through the relationships she built and the example she set for blending enterprise with genuine care for others.

Modern Challenges and Resilience

As the Blenkinsop Valley continues to face pressures from urban development and changing agricultural demands, families like the Lims symbolize the resilience needed to navigate these challenges. Their story is a reminder of the profound impact that dedication, hard work, and a focus on community can achieve.

Today, the valley stands not only as a vital part of Saanich’s agricultural heritage but also as a testament to the enduring contributions of families who shaped its history and character. Terry Lim has been a part of the project development from the start and is excited to see that his family’s efforts and those farmers they have worked with (such as the Galeys) , will see the lands preserved as “growing” lands for the community.

The Next Era

The establishment of the Blenkinsop Community Agricultural Centre is designed to both preserve the legacy of agriculture and the innovation that has come before it. The goal is to bring more of the community back to the land. To provide an agricultural refuge in our growing urban environment. The legacy will continue.