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150 Years of Incorporation

Logo of the number 150 and the words corporation of the City of Nanaimo

Recognizing Nanaimo’s 150 years of incorporation

In December 1874, the City of Nanaimo became the sixth municipality to be incorporated in British Columbia. Fast forward to 2024 and Nanaimo is known to be one of the fastest growing cities in Canada.

Nanaimo has a rich history dating back before its time as a coal mining, forestry, tech and tourist hub. The Snuneymuxw First Nation resides in the centre of Coast Salish territory on the eastern coast of Vancouver Island and encompasses one of the most magnificent and resource rich areas at the heart of the Salish Sea. Since time immemorial, the Snuneymuxw People have resided in Snuneymuxw Territory as the first peoples.

150 years of incorporation provides a chance to highlight the City's success and recognize its citizens and community partners who have contributed to Nanaimo’s vibrancy over the last 150 years.

The Nanaimo 150 logo

Nanaimo 150 street banners designed by Amy Pye

The Nanaimo 150 corporate logo and street banner was designed by local artist Amy Pye.

The designs were inspired by the convergence of land and sea, and the unique blend of urban and rural life that makes our landscape truly exceptional. Pye's design will grab attention and inspire thoughtful reflection throughout the year. '150' becomes more than just a number, and instead takes on life and transformative shape as it tells its story:

  • Rural tradition meets urban innovation in a harmonious visual balance between nature and our modern city, as recognizable symbols of our diverse landscape transform the shape of the 1-5-0 and cascade down the banner;
  • fertile countryside meets bustling city streets;
  • the flight of an eagle reveals the bounties of the sea; and
  • a soaring seaplane finds the solid structures of an urban centre.


These dynamic relationships are highlighted by the artist, coming to life as balanced opposites.

The street banners will be installed along Nanaimo's streets and in our parks, and the corporate logo will be integrated into the City's everyday business for the year ahead.

History of Nanaimo

Nanaimo has a unique and colourful history. Founded on coal mining in the early 1850s, the City evolved from a small Hudson's Bay Company outpost to the dynamic regional service centre for the mid-Island that it is today.

Learn about the history of Nanaimo , and find information about heritage buildings, sites and structures, past mayors and more in the Nanaimo Archives

Last updated: November 13, 2024

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