Adopted 24 January 1962 on 82F/NW.

Source: BC place name cards, or correspondence to/from BC's Chief Geographer or BC Geographical Names Office

Named to remember Canadian Army Private Michael Thomas Patrick Prestley, K4108, from Nelson. Serving with the Black Watch (Royal Highland Regiment) of Canada, when he was killed in action 22 July 1944, age 21. Buried at Beny-Sur-Mer Canadian War Cemetery, France, grave XII. H. 4. Survived by parents Joseph and Lyda Prestley.

Source: BC place name cards, or correspondence to/from BC's Chief Geographer or BC Geographical Names Office

Joseph Prestley (1886-1942) came to Nelson in 1912 from Ottawa; he worked as an adsman, shaping the huge timbers used for trestles, bridges and bracing in mine shafts. Joseph married Lyda Picard (1896-1933), from Nakusp, and they had 4 children: Bernard (1921-1949); Michael (1923-1944); Frances (1925-2005); and Jack (1927- ). Michael "Mickey" Prestley was a natural leader and gifted student who excelled at sports; he had a beautiful singing voice and outgoing personality, so was always in demand to sing at special events in the community. Older brother Bernard "Barney" was good at sports but quiet and shy; he loved the radio and rebuilt many from salvage. He was stationed in Australia as a code breaker in the Pacific Theatre in WWII, and returned to Nelson after discharge; he died in Nanaimo, age 28. Frances was a great student and gifted singer, and was a registered nurse for many years. (information provided January 2007 by Jack Prestley, Nanaimo)

Source: included with note