Clayburn Village Community Society

The Clayburn Village Community Society (CVCS) is a Canadian nonprofit organization dedicated to the preservation, management, and promotion of the historic Clayburn Village located in Abbotsford, British Columbia. Established initially in 1917 as the Clayburn Athletic Society, the organization has evolved to focus on maintaining the cultural heritage of Clayburn, which is recognized as British Columbia's first company town.

History and Purpose

Clayburn Village was originally developed in the early 20th century to support the workforce of the Clayburn Brick Company, which operated from 1905 to 1930. The company not only manufactured bricks and clay products but also provided essential infrastructure for the village, including housing, a school, a church, fresh water supply, a sewer system, sidewalks, streetlights, and recreational facilities such as tennis courts, a soccer pitch, a ball diamond, and a nine-hole golf course.

After the closure of the Clayburn plant, many employees remained in the village, and the company gradually transferred ownership of assets to local residents and veterans, leading to the establishment of a tight-knit community that has preserved its unique heritage.

Activities and Facilities

The Clayburn Village Community Society oversees the management and maintenance of key heritage sites within Clayburn Village, including:

• Clayburn Schoolhouse: A heritage building used for community events and as a popular wedding venue.
• Clayburn Church: A historic church integral to the village's cultural fabric.
• Clayburn Park: A communal green space preserving the village’s outdoor heritage.

The Society is governed by a board of local volunteers who meet monthly to advance projects and initiatives related to the preservation and enhancement of the village.

Clayburn Village Museum

The Society also operates the Clayburn Village Museum, located in the lower level of the Clayburn Schoolhouse. The museum houses an extensive collection of artifacts, photographs, and models that document the history and cultural legacy of the village during its peak in the 1920s. It offers:

• Public museum hours during summer weekends.
• Private walking tours and educational openings for groups and schools by appointment.
• Interpretative programs conducted by local volunteers that highlight early education and community life in Clayburn.

The museum is an important educational resource, actively engaging visitors and residents in the village’s history and fostering community pride.

Significance

Clayburn Village is a notable example of a company town that has successfully preserved its historical identity through community effort and volunteerism. The Clayburn Village Community Society plays a crucial role in safeguarding this heritage, making the village a living museum and cultural landmark in British Columbia.

Visitors to Clayburn Village can experience a glimpse of early 20th century life through its well-preserved buildings, community events, and the dedicated work of the Society, which continues to honor the legacy of Clayburn’s residents and industrious past.

Registered Business Number: 889838140RR0001

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