Encyclopedia of BC -- KnowBC - the leading source of BC information

Welcome to the Encyclopedia of British Columbia

EBC is the definitive reference work on BC. With more than 4,000 entries and 1,500 accompanying photographs, maps, charts and tables, as well as sound and video clips, EBC is the source of readable and authoritative information on all the significant BC people, places and things.

Originally a bestselling 824-page book, the Encyclopedia of BC is now available exclusively online, allowing for easy access to continually updated information and an expanding database of articles.

With thousands of linked cross-references, a complete index, and sophisticated data searching capabilities, the EBC is indispensable at home, at school, in the office—everywhere comprehensive, authoritative, concise information about BC is needed.

Enter a keyword in the "Search this Book" window or click here to Browse the Index

For Teachers

Since its online debut in 2001, the EBC has proved a valuable resource for students and teachers in BC. We are pleased to present this teachers’ resource as a guide for educators and to highlight...

Did You Know?

Did you know that Simon Gunanoot, a Gitksan trapper accused of murder, remained on the run from the law for thirteen years (1906-1919) before he finally gave himself up, stood trial and was...

KnowBC Quiz

Test yourself on your knowledge of BC people, places and things—and learn a fascinating fact or two! All the answers are taken from articles in the Encyclopedia of British Columbia.

Sample Articles from the EBC

Military History of BC

Early History to 1914

Prior to 1858, the HBC administered the territory that would become BC and relied on the Royal Navy for military support. The HBC established a number of trading posts,...

BC's Strongest and Tallest

Waterfalls are a spectacular feature of BC's mountainous terrain. Here are some of BC's tallest falls.

Mountains are the most characteristic physiographic feature in BC. Here are ten of BC's highest.

Tides create brisk currents in the many channels along the coast as water piles up at the ends of narrow passes, waiting to surge through. Here is a list of some of BC's strongest tidal rapids.

From the Editor

The success of the Olympic bid was the end of one story, and the beginning of another.