Kimberley

Kimberley, city, southeastern British Columbia, Canada. It is situated near St. Mary River, just northwest of Cranbrook. Built on the rolling slopes of the Sullivan and North Star hills, Kimberley is Canada’s highest city (3,662 feet [1,116 metres]).

The community dates from 1892, when the prospector Pat Sullivan staked his claim, leading to the development of the Sullivan lead-zinc mine, one of the world’s largest. The Sullivan ore concentrator, a fertilizer factory, and an iron and steel plant are now the city’s most important industrial establishments, while logging and sawmilling and winter sports facilities provide additional sources of income. Originally known as Mark Creek Crossing, the settlement was renamed Kimberley in 1896 for the South African mining centre. Its downtown buildings have been renovated in Bavarian style. The Kimberley Snow Fiesta is held annually in February. Inc. city, 1944. Pop. (2006) 6,139; (2011) 6,652.