Okanagan History

Frank Herbert Latimer

Frank Herbert Latimer was synonymous figure in the development of the South Okanagan as a surveyor and engineer. In 1891 Latimers' term in Vernon was spent engineering by laying out an irrigation system for the Lord of Aberdeen's at his ranch. The Coldstream Ranch is still a functioning cattle ranch to this day but back in Latimer's day it was the largest in Canada. Frank Latimer was sought out by the municipality of Vernon for his engineering ability and was made engineer of Vernon.

John Moore Robinson and Latimer were hired to lay out irrigation for Peachland, Summerland, and Naramata. In 1905 the South Okanagan Land Company hired Latimer as an engineer in charge of subdividing land formerly owned by Tom Ellis. Latimer with his expertise of the Okanagan Valley laid out the original town of Penticton designing irrigation systems that tapped into Penticton Creek and Ellis Creek. In 1912 Latimer was hired by municipality of Penticton as engineer responsible for water and electrical systems for the responding area. Latimer moved south to accommodate the Soldiers Land Act after WW1 to help provide land for returning Veterans from the war. Latimers expertise did not stop there he was than appointed by the South Okanagan Lands Project and became Chief Engineer of "The Big Ditch" referring to the canal and dam system which was completed in 1923. Latimer and family resided on Edkhardt Ave now a heritage building where he indulged in gardening. In 1948 the era of an over accomplished Laimer came to pass leaving a legacy of foundations of the Okanagan as we know it. He was and still is a pillar of our beautiful Okanagan.

Okanagan History Index

By: Elaine Harrison