Ladysmith is an attractive waterfront town on Vancouver Island, a little north of Chemainus. The town sits geographically on the 49th parallel, which is the latitudinal border dividing the mainland between the U.S. and Canada.[1] The town survives on forestry, agriculture, and tourism.[2]

Attractions
Ladysmith’s main attraction is its old buildings, which have been renovated to give the town a pleasant look.[3] Ladysmith also holds an annual “Festival of Lights”, a time when homes and businesses are decorated with colorful lights for six weeks leading up to Christmas.[4]

History
Ladysmith’s history dates back to 1898 when it was founded by James Dunsmuir who built shipping wharves to transport coal mined from the Nanaimo area. The town grew as a settlement and residence for miners and their families.[5]

References:
Carroll, Donald. Insider’s Guide Canada. Edison: Hunter Publishing, Inc, 1996. ISBN: 1556507100.

“Ladysmith, British Columbia.” < http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ladysmith%2C_British_Columbia>

[1] Carroll, 74
[2] Ladysmith
[3] Carroll, 74
[4] Ladysmith
[5] Id.