Delta Yesterday

Before the first European settlers arrived, most of Delta was an often submerged marshland, with Coast Salish settlements in the highlands of North Delta and the western beaches near what is currently the Tsawwassen Reserve. Delta's first European pioneers arrived in 1859. They cleared land on the Fraser River shores in North Delta for farming. However, it was the foresight of two brothers, Thomas and William Ladner, who initiated the beginnings of the community of Delta. In 1868, each claimed 160 acres for farming adjacent to the Chilukthan Slough. This waterway was used for access between farms and the stern wheeler dock at Ladner's Landing, as there were no roadways. Produce was shipped to New Westminster and Victoria making Ladner's Landing the hub of a thriving farming and fishing community.

1879 saw the incorporation of Delta, with William Ladner as its first Reeve. Floods in 1891 and 1895 inspired an ambitious diking and drainage project which successfully alleviated flooding in the lowlands. The rich, fertile soil produced bountiful crops and an thriving agricultural industry that remains strong today. Modern extensions to the dike system ensure protection from flooding today, and enable modern farms to grow a wide variety of different foods.

Delta takes its name from its location in the Fraser River delta. (Akrigg). More information on: Delta History, and History of North Delta.