The Legacy Beneath Our Boots
Perched high in the Monashee Mountains, Rossland’s story begins millions of years ago with volcanic geology that would later reveal seams of shimmering gold. The discovery of Red Mountain’s ore in the early 1890s ignited an all-out rush, drawing prospectors, speculators and fortune hunters from around the globe to this once-unnamed wilderness. Visionary settler Ross Thompson secured the townsite and gave Rossland its name, laying the foundation for a booming mining centre that flourished with over 40 saloons, local breweries, bustling storefronts and a growing cultural life along Columbia Avenue.
As the gold veins faded, Rossland refused to fade with them. The town carved out a new identity through innovation and recreation, becoming a cradle of Canadian ski culture under the influence of Norwegian miner Olaus Jeldness, who introduced ski jumping and organized winter sport. From its industrious boomtown roots to its enduring mountain spirit, Rossland remains a living piece of Kootenay history — where gold, grit and snow built a legacy that still shapes the town today.
Forged in Gold, Shaped by Snow
Gold, Grit & Glory
The Rossland Museum & Discovery Centre
Want to dive deeper into Rossland’s colourful past? The Rossland Museum & Discovery Centre is a must-visit. Recently refreshed, the museum showcases gold-rush era antiquities, fluorescent minerals, photographic records, and interactive displays that tell the stories of Ross Thompson, Olaus Jeldness, and the people who shaped this mountain town. Knowledgeable staff and volunteers guide visitors through exhibits on mining, power generation, skiing, and local life, while curated displays highlight the geology, exploration, and community groups that built Rossland into the town it is today. Located at the junction of Highways 3B and 22, the museum is open year-round, offering a rich, hands-on experience for history buffs and casual visitors alike.
