The colony of British Columbia was established on August 2, 1858 by James Douglas, who was appointed as the Governor of the colony by the Hudson's Bay Company. The colony was established to assert British control over the region and to compete with the expansion of the United States into the Pacific Northwest.

The centennial of this event was celebrated in 1958, marking 100 years since the founding of the colony of British Columbia. This celebration was marked by a number of events and activities, including parades, fairs, and the issuance of commemorative stamps and coins. The 1958 centennial was an important moment in the history of the province, as it helped to shape the provincial identity and marked a significant milestone in British Columbia's development as a distinct entity within Canada.

The establishment of the colony of British Columbia in 1858 was an important moment in the history of the region, as it marked the beginning of British control over the area and the establishment of a formal political and administrative presence in the region. The colony was established to assert British control over the region and to compete with the expansion of the United States into the Pacific Northwest.

The colony also played an important role in the development of the region's economy, as it helped to spur the growth of industries such as fur trading, fishing, and logging. The colony also helped to spur the growth of towns and cities, such as Victoria, which became the capital of the colony and is now the capital of the province.

Additionally, the colony helped to shape the cultural identity of British Columbia, as it brought together people of different backgrounds and cultures, including Indigenous peoples, European settlers, and immigrants from other parts of the world.

In general, the establishment of the colony of British Columbia in 1858 was an important event that helped to shape the political, economic, and cultural development of the region, and set the foundation for the growth and development of the province that we know today.

Some of the celebrations that took place for the 1958 centennial of the colony of British Columbia included:

• The Centennial Parade, which featured floats and marching bands from communities across the province, as well as dignitaries from Canada and other countries.
• The Centennial Fair, which was held at the Pacific National Exhibition grounds in Vancouver and featured exhibits showcasing the province's history, culture, and industry.
• The Centennial Pageant, which was a historical reenactment of key events in British Columbia's history, performed in front of a large audience.
• The Centennial Air Show, which featured aerobatic displays and flyovers by military and civilian aircraft.
• Commemorative stamps and coins were issued by the post office and the Royal Canadian Mint, respectively, to mark the occasion.
• Many municipalities, towns, and communities throughout the province also held their own centennial celebrations, such as parades, open houses, and other events.
• It was a big celebration and many people from all over the province participated in the celebration and it was a big milestone for the province.