Before the Settlers arrived, the Indigenous history of Okanagan Falls was deeply rooted in the Syilx Nation, also known as the Okanagan people.  The region was once a major meeting and trading centre for the Okanagan People and it was one of the best canoe routes to the Columbia River and the Pacific Ocean.

The Syilx Okanagan Nation are carrying on the work of their ancestors in revitalizing the traditions, customs and language of their people. The Salmon Feast, held here in September, honours the sacredness of the river at Okanagan Falls which remains a culturally significant site. The colonization of Canada brought about hydroelectric dams which meant the loss of their principal food and pushed the salmon to near extinction. 

Today, the Syilx Nation are stewards of the land, releasing Salmon fry into Skaha Lake every Spring.

Bassett House

The Bassett House is a prefabricated structure built in the early 1900's.  It was purchased by the Dick Bassett family and shipped in pieces by rail from Winnipeg to the Okanagan Landing and then by paddle wheeler down the lake to Penticton and, finally, by horse and wagon to Okanagan Falls, which is the oldest planned community in the South Okanagan. 

The Okanagan Falls Museum is a treasured part of our community, preserving the stories, artifacts, and heritage that define who we are. Your generous contribution—no matter the size—is deeply appreciated and plays a vital role in keeping this history alive for future generations. Donations help maintain exhibits, support educational programs, and ensure that the museum continues to be a place where residents and visitors alike can connect with the rich past of Okanagan Falls. With your support, we can continue to protect and celebrate the legacy of our community for years to come.  Thank you!

 

The Bassett Family was in the freighting business and handled stagecoach and freight hauling in the South Okanagan at the turn of the century.   The house was purchased by the Okanagan Falls' Women's Institute in 1982 and donated to the Heritage Society in 1983 to restore and maintain.  The Bassett House has significance to the community of Okanagan Falls for several reasons:
 

1. It was restored and converted into a museum by the Heritage Society to educate people in the community in their local history.
2. It is a living history for many of the community's seniors who frequented the house in their childhood as guests of the Bassett family.
3. It is a repository of historical artifacts of the era and of the local people.
4. It is a Centre of interest to tourists passing through the community as it is one of a very few buildings remaining in the area that dates back a hundred years.

Step back in time and get a feel of what it was like to live in the pioneer days.  The Bassett House is a prefabricated, or "kit" house. Some furnishings and artifacts are original to the house and donated by the Bassett family.  Imagine six people living in a two-bedroom house with no plumbing, electricity or furnace.  Learn about the pioneer Bassett family and their home and work life.  The exhibit includes photos on the huge job of moving the house to its present location.

Check out our Pioneer pathway leading to the house where you can purchase your own personalized brick!  See more details on our Join our Society Page.

 

Our museum will take you back and you will learn about indigenous beginnings, pioneer families, farming, mining, the Kettle Valley Railway and school life here in the Falls.  Children can sit at the school display and colour or work on activities provided.  They may even receive a prize if they bring their finished work to the Thrift Shop.

We offer private tours to schools, senior homes and groups.  These tours are arranged by contacting: curator@okfallsmuseum.ca

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Okanagan Falls was home to World Champion Bronc Rider, Kenny McLean!  He is recognized in many Halls of Fames including British Columbia Sports Hall of Fame and was given the Order of Canada alongside William Bennett.  Come and see for yourself, the room is full of his trophies, his saddle and many awards and accomplishments.  Check out the trophy room and see him in action.

In Centennial Park, across the road from the Museum, you will see the statue of him on his horse, Warpaint.  We are very proud of our Kenny McLean!

This room is available to rent for small gatherings up to 20 people.  Contact Us for more details.