The first settlers arrived in 1859, and encouraged their families to come to the island and establish farms and business around Vesuvius, Fernwood, Ganges and St. Mary Lake.

The name Mouat has been associated with Salt Spring Island for 5 generations. Mouat's Trading Company, has been a focal point in Ganges for almost 100 years.

 
The Mouat's came to Saltspring Island in 1986; my Grandfather Gilbert James Mouat and his Mother Jane Mouat acquired Mouat's store in 1905. Ownership of Mouat's Trading continues with decendants of the Mouats, under the name of Toynbee, the married name of Gilbert James Mouat's youngest sister, Jessie Mouat.
 
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"27 years experience & knowledge."
Saltspring Island is the largest of a group of islands nestled in the Strait of Georgia between mainland Vancouver and Vancouver Island (Victoria). Saltspring enjoys a mild climate year round. Nicknamed "Canada's Hawaii".

Renowned for its creativity Saltspring Island is known as one of North America's best small arts towns. With gallery and artists' studios offering the visitor a wide choice of high-quality arts & crafts from paintings to pottery and weaving to woodwork. Saltspring also has its own currency that can be purchased and spent on the island.

There's lots to do on Saltspring Island in addition: hiking, beachcombing, kayaking, fishing and golf are among the more popular outdoor activities. You can also pamper yourself with various alternative health treatments that are offered by local spas and practitioners.

For more on the history of Salt Spring visit the Salt Spring Archives website.