A name that almost vanished, a town that wouldn’t wait: Vanderhoof marks its centennial in 2026

The name Vanderhoof has its own meaning. In Dutch, it means “of the farm.” Pavon notes this is a fitting coincidence, since agriculture became a big part of the community’s identity.

Herbert Vanderhoof wanted the town to be more than just a farming community. He dreamed of turning it into an arts colony and put $35,000 into building a large hotel for retired writers, poets, and artists. The project didn’t work out, and unpaid workers took apart the building and used the wood for their own homes. Herbert Vanderhoof returned to the United States and died soon after, reportedly from the stress of losing his money.

After he left, residents were so upset they voted to change the town’s name. The vote passed, but the name was never officially changed. Vanderhoof kept its original name.

“Even though his original plan failed, his influence still remained,” Pavon says. “It’s known not just for agriculture, there are writers and artists here as well. It fulfilled part of his original vision.”

Now, 100 years after becoming a community, Vanderhoof is getting ready for what organizers call a once-in-a-lifetime celebration. The two-day festival is set for July 4th and 5th at Riverside Park, with local entertainment, historical exhibits, cowboy poetry, artisan markets, and a free outdoor concert on Sunday night.

The concert will feature Tom Cochrane, Trooper and The Headpins, all well-known Canadian rock bands.

Ernest Martens, chair of the centennial celebration committee, says the response since the announcement has reached far beyond the community’s roughly 4,500 residents.

“We want to welcome everyone from the whole central interior and wherever,” Martens said. “The people here are friendly and welcoming, and that’s a big part of our culture.”

Admission to the July 5th concert is free. The centennial celebration takes place July 4th and 5th, 2026, at Riverside Park in Vanderhoof.

For more information about the centennial and how to get involved, visit the District of Vanderhoof.

by Dave Branco

A name that almost vanished, a town that wouldn’t wait: Vanderhoof marks its centennial in 2026

What's Trending