POUCE COUPE, B.C.

The Village of Pouce Coupe is located in a valley in the north east corner of British Columbia, 10 km southeast of Dawson Creek on Highway #2. It is only 35 km to the Alberta Border from this community and 122 km to Grande Prairie. Pouce Coupe has a population of approximately 740 people (2006 stats) and serves a trading area of about 3000.

The first settler to call this place home was Hector Trembley who was on his way to the Yukon to dig for gold in 1898. In 1909 he set up the first trading post. The Police Barracks were established in 1917 and the first Post Office started in 1914 with C.B. Duke as postmaster. In 1921 the Red Cross Out Post Hospital was built overlooking Bissette Creek, and in 1945 the Pouce Coupe Community Hospital was opened (today is used as an extended Care Unit). The first train arrived in 1931. The name "Pouce Coupe" was taken from Chief Posscapee of the Beaver Tribe. That is one version, as there are numerous other versions of how it got its name. Pouce Coupe became a village in 1932.

Welcome to Pouce Coupe BC, the Pioneer Capital of Peace River Country. It was the "End of Steel" for the Northern Alberta Railway which operated between 1931 to 1974.

The main industries of this village is agriculture and oilfield services. The highway takes you right through the centre of this community.

Of the 740 residents of Pouce Coupe, most are between the age of 35-54 years with a total of 220 residents. Under 19 has a total of 190, while 55-74 years of age has a total of 145 residents. (2006 stats)

Special Events:
In March, one of the bigger events is the Winter Jamboree. Mud Dawgs and Trail Blazers Annual Mud bog event is held in late May. July 1st Celebrations include the Pouce Coupe Hospital Barbecure, a parade, activities at the Pouce Park, the BBQ pit roast and the Canada Day Fireworks.

NOW POSTED:
2012 Events of the Peace Country

Many enjoy downhill skiing, cross country skiing, skating and snowmobiling in and around Pouce Coupe. There are many service groups in Pouce Coupe including the Cubs and Scouts, Brownies, Guides and Pathfinders, Royal Canadian Legion and Ladies Auxiliary, and more.

Residential area, on the northeastern part of Pouce Coupe.

Changes at Pouce Coupe:
The Pouce Coupe Regional Community Centre and Municipal Library was built in 2008. It is as the same location as the school. A new Fire Hall was built in 2009 and in 2010 a new firetruck was added.