LOCAL HISTORY
Discover Victoria: History, News, Travel, and Stories
Explore the events, newspaper stories, people, and moments that shaped Victoria through the years.
1843 - Victoria, British Columbia founded
Fort Victoria established in 1843; Victoria incorporated in 1862.
1855 - With the discovery of gold on the British Columbia mainland in 1855, Victoria became the port, supply base, and outfitting centre for miners on their way to the Fraser Canyon gold fields,
mushrooming from a population of 300 to over 5000 literally within a few days.
1861--Population of Vancouver’s Island, through immigration, 3,024, of whom 2,350 are in Victoria and its vicinity.
(Governor Douglas’ Dispatch.)
Victoria was incorporated as a city in 1862. It was named after Queen Victoria.
1866 - The Colony of British Columbia and Colony of Vancouver Island are united as British Columbia, with the capital at Victoria.
1873
VICTORIA, the seat of Government and capital of British Columbia, is situated near the S.E. extremity of Vancouver Island, where the adjoining Strait of Fuca is 17 miles in breadth, 143 miles from Olympia (Puget'sSound), 320 miles from Portland (Oregon),3,000 miles from Montreal. Lat. 48° 25' 20" N., Lon. 123° 22' 34" W.
The surroundings of Victoria are singularly beautiful. To the south is a wide stretch of sea, closed in by the magnificent range of the Olympian mountain's. These mountains, the lower portion of which is shaded with a soft velvety mist, and the tops covered with snow strongly reflecting the rays of the sun, form the most prominent feature in the landscape. To the eastward is Mount Baker, which, at a distance of nearly 100 miles, rears its snowy peak far away into the clouds. To the west-ward is a long wide stretch of sea, bounded on one side by the Olympian range and on the other by the rocks and mountains of Vancouver, jutting out here and there into the Strait;...
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1885 - It is said that the oldest record in the consular service is that of the man who was at Victoria, B. C. - The Judge.
St Joseph Herald
Saint Joseph, Michigan
September 26, 1885
1888 - At Victoria, B. C., the discovery was made on the 24th of a powerful Chinese society whose object was to murder at $500 a head.
St Joseph Herald
Saint Joseph, Michigan
January 28, 1888
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1888 - AH FAT was hanged on the 30th ult. at Victoria B. C., for the murder of a Chinese woman, Chney Whey. He declared his innocence to the last.
St Joseph Herald
Saint Joseph, Michigan
February 4, 1888
1889 - On the 27th exploring schooners reported at Victoria, B. C., that there is a great abundance of fish on Black Coal Banks, off Queen Charlotte's Island, and that the coasts are dotted with natural harbors, in which the anchorage is excellent.
St Joseph Herald
Saint Joseph, Michigan
January 5, 1889
1892 - St. Andrew Cathedral established at Victoria
1895 - Victoria
Victoria, a city of the Dominion of Canada, the capital of British Columbia, is charmingly situated on Fuca Strait near the S.E. extremity of Vancouver Island, about 100 miles N.W. of Seattle, Wash., and 3000 miles nearly due W. from Montreal. Lat. 48° 25' 20" N.; lon. 1239 22' 34" W. The surroundings of Victoria are singularly beautiful. Three miles distant is the harbor of Esquimalt, one of the finest on the Pacific coast, and the fortified naval station of Great Britain for the Northern Pacific. Victoria has good streets, with fine drives, over excellent roads, in every direction, and adjoining the town, bordering on the strait, is a large extent of ground, locally known as Beacon Hill, which has been reserved for a public park. On the outskirts of the city are many attractive residences, and every cottage displays its pretty garden. There are many neat and substantial buildings, among which are the provincial offices, the churches, a synagogue, the Angela College for young ladies, ...
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Victoria has something for everyone. Here's a list of places to go and things to do in Victoria:
Butchart Gardens: These world-renowned gardens are a must-visit. Explore the stunning floral displays, themed gardens, and tranquil paths that wind through the 55-acre site. Don't miss the evening illumination during summer.
Royal BC Museum: Dive into the rich history and culture of British Columbia through engaging exhibits, including the First Nations Gallery and Natural History Gallery.
Fisherman's Wharf: A colorful marina with floating homes, restaurants, and unique shops. Grab some fish and chips, feed the seals, or take a harbor tour from here.
Victoria's Inner Harbour: This bustling waterfront area is the heart of the city. Stroll along the causeway, enjoy street performances, and take in views of the Parliament Buildings and the iconic Fairmont Empress Hotel.
Craigdarroch Castle: Explore this beautifully restored Victorian-era mansion. Learn about the Dunsmuir family history as you wander through the opulent rooms and admire the stunning architecture.
Beacon...
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History of Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
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