Most of the island was bought as a farm in the 1920s by Digby de Burgh, an Irishman from County Limerick, who used it to raise sheep, goats and cattle. His descendants still own much of the island, which is still primarily a sheep and cattle farm. A few smaller private homes were built on the northwest side of the island.
Gulf Islands National Park Reserve
James Bay (also named for Captain Prevost) is a part of Gulf Islands National Park Reserve (GINPR).[2] There are 10 marine-accessible backcountry campsites available at James Bay. Facilities are limited to pit toilets; no campfires are permitted. The Current Map and Hiking and Camping Information brochure on the GINPR website [1] provides updated camping fee information [2]. Boaters will find good anchorage at Selby Cove, and paddlers can land at James Bay beach.
The Portlock Point Lighthouse
The Portlock Point Lighthouse, on the eastern extremity of the island, was built in 1895. It replaced a stake lighthouse built five years earlier. The light was automated in the late 1960s and rebuilt in 1987.[3] Portlock Point is now a part of Gulf Islands National Park Reserve.[2]