 
| Spences Bridge |
Originally called Cook's Ferry after Mortimer Cook who ran a raft style cable ferry across the Thompson River, it was later re-named after Thomas Spence. Spence, a Royal Engineer and road builder, won the contract to build a bridge across the river to replace the ferry during the construction of the Cariboo Wagon road. The government ran short of money during the road's construction, so when the bridge was completed in 1894, the contractor was allowed to charge a toll on his complete section of road. The bridge then became known as Spence's Toll Bridge. Unfortunately the bridge was built too low and during spring runoff in 1894 it was washed away. A new bridge was built on the footings of the original at the insistence of local ranchers. This bridge also washed away in 1928, but was repaired and remained in place until a steel bridge was built in 1932. This narrow bridge is still in place where the original highway ran before the wider concrete one was built when the Trans Canada Highway was completed in 1964.
Fruits and vegetables have been grown in the area for generations and are sold at fruit stands along the highway during the summer months.
Spences Bridge is well known for its big horn sheep. What started as a herd of 50 introduced to the area by the government in 1928 has since grown to several hundred. They can frequently be seen grazing along the highway and it's not uncommon to see a row of motorist stopped along the roadside taking pictures. The animals are not shy and don't seem to mind the extra attention.
Late summer and fall attracts sport fishermen from all over the world who try to catch the famous Steelhead and salmon in the Thompson River. Other activities include hiking, gold panning and river rafting.
Population: 155
Amenities include:
- Accommodation
- Camping
- Restaurant
|
|
