Ladysmith was founded to provide living space for the miners and their families who worked at the Extension coal mines about 20 miles to the north of Ladysmith. Many buildings (commercial and residential) were moved to this site via rail and by oxen; some have been refurbished and still stand today. Ladysmith was named after a victorious battle in the Boer War, which took place in Ladysmith, South Africa. The municipality was incorporated on June 3, 1904. Ladysmith offers excellent services and facilities for its residents. Also, commercial expansion is available at Coronation Mall, at the south of Town, and in the historic downtown core. Work is in progress to attract a variety of development opportunities to Ladysmith, including establishing or expanding on waterfront residential/marine-commercial, marina, health care, industrial park, heritage and cultural centres.
