Unveiled at 4 p.m. on Friday, June 19, 1987, the big steel gold pan is the product of Linden Welding, a local machine and welding shop. The unveiling was accomplished by then Tourism Minister Bill Reid during a visit to Quesnel, Barkerville and area. Not only is this the World's Largest Gold Pan, it is accompanied by the World's Largest mock gold nugget and the World's Largest shovel and pick. The gold pan is about 20 feet in diameter, weighing in at just over 3,000 pounds. The cost to construct and mount the gold pan, pick, shovel and nugget was around $20,000.
With forest as a backdrop, the gold pan, shovel, pick and gold nugget stand atop a landscaped berm, surrounded by manicured flower beds.
The following short news article was the first to introduce the concept of the gold pan to the populace following city council's decision to go ahead with the project.
Coming Soon To An Intersection Near You!
February 11, 1987 | Quesnel Cariboo Observer
Quesnel's $20,000 effort to build the largest gold pan in the world is almost on the launch pad.
To be located at the junction of Highways 26 and 97, plans include extending the site currently occupied by the Wells-Barkerville tourist bureau. The city intends to mount the 18 to 25 ft. high structure into the mound created last year to pay tribute to Expo 86. Accompanying the gold pan will be the world's largest mock gold nugget and the world's largest shovel and pick.
Early May has been set as a tentative opening celebration for the new tourist attraction. The 'Goldpan Park' is expected to be a focal point for visitors and will also include the Quesnel and District Chamber of Commerce city map billboard. The huge structure — which currently sits along side Highway 97 South, is expected to be moved to its new location to coincide with the opening. The sign features a map of the city on one side and promotes Troll Resort on the other.
From the Quesnel Cariboo Observer