If you had to pick a spot on the globe that fits with gold panning, Barkerville would be a rich choice. Not only is it the site of the historic Cariboo Gold Rush's motherload and the ensuing mining frenzy in the 19th century, it has been preserved in its original state so today it stands as a monument to the sourdough prospector.
This weekend, those who still swish the gravel from the gold by hand will be after riches of a different sort - fame and honour. Barkerville is the host site of the Canadian National Gold Panning Championships on Saturday and Sunday.
"This year the person to beat will be two-time winner and Wells local Karen St. John," said a statement issued by the organizers of the event.
James Douglas, manager of visitor experiences at Barkerville Historic Town, said audiences have a good time at gold panning exhibitions like this, and there are opportunities this weekend for anyone to try their hand at the age-old skill.
"Whether you're an experienced panner or someone who's never done it before, you'll find an incredibly supportive atmosphere at the event," Douglas said.
It may surprise some to discover that gold panning is a profession that is still active, and that the same creeks and streams that made Barkerville famous in the first place are still showing colour. The chief organizer of the championships is Scott Rea who is a seven-time world invitational champion who chooses to live in the Barkerville area.
"If you want bragging rights to call yourself King or Queen of Williams Creek, you've got to know you'll be dealing with some of the nastiest panning material around," said Rea.
"We don't fool around in Barkerville. You've got to go through what the original prospectors went through here in the 1860s, using the same kind of gold pan... and no compromises."
There are categories for veteran panners, those who have never or hardly ever touched a pan, teams and even grudge matches. There are categories for elders and children, and associated events like the dash for the dentist (a children's candy-hunt) and the scavenger pile (an adult free-for-all).
The main event is the King of the Creek category. The winner gets to stake his or her claim on bragging rights and a $1,000 cash purse.
There are also, of course, all the other features and activities that Barkerville always has to offer. Anyone enjoying the history and entertainment of the living museum and national historic site can, if they are so inspired, sign up on the spot to take part in the gold panning eldorado. As long as you register within 10 minutes of each event's start time, you get to take part.
