Discovering Paldi: A journey of history, culture, and connections
- syoung679
- Sep 16
- 5 min read
By Sarbdeep Kaur Johal (she/her), teacher, Surrey
As a high school teacher, one of my core missions is to provide students with opportunities to learn both inside and outside of the classroom. The best lessons often happen when students are immersed in the richness of history, culture, and the connections we share with the past. During my maternity leave, I took the opportunity to research into an incredible part of Canadian history: the early Sikh Canadians who resided in Paldi, a small but historically significant community, near Duncan, British Columbia, in the Cowichan Valley.
The history of Paldi and its significance
Paldi, once a thriving community in the Cowichan Valley, holds a unique place in the history of multicultural Canada. In the early 20th century, Paldi became home to one of Canada’s first multicultural communities. A melting pot of different cultures, the village was established by a blend of people from various backgrounds, including Sikhs, Japanese, Chinese, and Europeans. These communities came together and created a town that was not only diverse but also prosperous, forging relationships that transcended race and culture.
The history of Paldi is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of immigrant communities. The Sikh Canadian community played a particularly significant role in Paldi’s growth. Sikh men, many of whom had arrived in Canada as early as the late 19th century, worked tirelessly in the logging industry, agriculture, and construction. Over time, they built lives for themselves, contributing immensely to the development of the region. The early Sikh Canadians in Paldi forged a bond with their neighbours, resulting in a uniquely harmonious multicultural settlement.
An unforgettable trip to Paldi with students
In 2023, I had the incredible opportunity to take a group of 26 Grade 12 students from my Punjabi 12 class on a trip to explore the history of Paldi. This was the first of three planned trips, and it became an unforgettable learning experience for both my students and me. We were welcomed by the extended family members of Mayo Singh, a prominent figure in Paldi’s history, and had the chance to learn first-hand about his life and legacy.
Mayo Singh, one of the early Sikh settlers in Paldi, was deeply involved in the community and worked to maintain its integrity. His family’s contributions to the community are still remembered today, and during our visit, we were able to connect with his descendants. It was an emotional and enriching experience to meet Mayo Singh’s family, hear their stories, and see the impact they continue to have on the region.
The temple in Paldi, known as the Gurdwara Sahib Paldi, is a historical and spiritual landmark that has stood for nearly a century. Built in the early 1900s by the Sikh community, the temple has served as a place of worship, gathering, and community support for generations of Sikhs who settled in Paldi. The Gurdwara is a symbol of the resilience and deep faith of the Sikh settlers who established themselves in this multicultural town. During our visit, we had the privilege of experiencing a beautiful prayer session led by the Granthi Ji. The students were honoured in the traditional way, with parshaad (a sweet offering) and snacks, symbolizing the sharing of blessings and community. Many elders from the community also gathered to connect with the students, sharing stories of their childhood experiences at the temple in Paldi. They spoke about their memories of growing up in the area, the challenges they faced, and the strong sense of community that thrived in Paldi. This exchange of stories created a deep bond between the generations, allowing the students to understand the lasting significance of the temple and its role in shaping the lives of those who had lived there.
The trip to Paldi took an unexpected turn for me personally. While researching, I was stunned to learn that my father’s side of the family had links to Mayo Singh’s relatives, a revelation that made the entire experience feel even more profound. It was a reminder that history is not something that exists in isolation—it’s alive, interconnected, and relevant to every one of us.
While in Cowichan Valley, our group also visited the Cowichan Valley Museum, which holds a wealth of knowledge about the region’s Indigenous culture. One of the highlights of our visit was learning about the local totem poles of Duncan, a city famous for its totem pole collection. These totem poles are significant symbols of the Coast Salish peoples, representing their myths, spiritual beliefs, and the deep connections they have to the land.
The totem poles in Duncan are a testament to the rich cultural heritage of the Indigenous people in Cowichan Valley. As my students and I stood in awe before these towering figures, we discussed the importance of preserving Indigenous traditions and understanding the cultural significance behind each totem pole. It was a moment of reflection for all of us, reinforcing the interconnectedness of cultures in Canada.
One of the most impactful aspects of our trip was the opportunity to meet with an elder from the Cowichan community to learn about the Indigenous art of weaving. The elder taught us the techniques behind weaving, and my students had the chance to create bracelets and keychains using traditional methods. This hands-on activity gave students a deep appreciation for the art and the cultural practices that have been passed down through generations.
The experience also provided an insight into the Indigenous ways of being and doing. Indigenous communities in Canada have a unique worldview that emphasizes interconnectedness with the natural world, respect for the land, and a deep understanding of sustainability. These values were shared with my students, and many left with a renewed sense of respect for Indigenous cultures and traditions.
Documenting Paldi’s multicultural legacy
The following year, our trip grew even more special. We were able to bring along a radio production company to help document our experiences. The students from Queen Elizabeth Junior Secondary, alongside the Grade 12 students, worked with the radio team to create a documentary about the multicultural history of Paldi. The documentary captured the stories of the various communities that had come together to build Paldi, including the Japanese, Chinese, European, and Sikh Canadians.
Through interviews and discussions, students reflected on what it meant to live in a multicultural society. They talked about how Paldi served as an early example of how people from diverse backgrounds could co-exist and thrive together, laying the foundation for the multicultural mosaic that Canada is known for today.
Teaching beyond the classroom
The trips to Paldi and Cowichan Valley were not just educational field trips; they were transformative experiences for both the students and me. Through the exploration of local history, Indigenous culture, and personal connections, students gained a deeper understanding of Canada’s multicultural past and the importance of embracing diversity. They also learned that history is not just a series of events—it is something we are all part of, shaping the future with every step we take. The experience reinforced my belief that education is not just about textbooks and tests—it’s about making meaningful connections and fostering a sense of belonging in the world.
Heritage Minute
Historica Canada has made a Heritage Minute about Paldi.
