postcard
Document/Book
Accession Number
2000.021.005Alternate Name
souvenirDescription
A sepia-toned postcard of Craigdarroch published by T.N. Hibben & Co. of Victoria, B.C. showing the building's south-west façade, foundation plantings and tower roof with original finial.Narrative
This circa 1900 image was taken before the weathervane was removed from the tower peak. It was bent in a wind storm and this probably damaged the first level of decorative terra cotta beneath it. The weathervane and damaged terra cotta was replaced during Mrs. Dunsmuir's lifetime by a copper finial.The postcard illustrates the window awnings that appeared on the sitting room and one bedroom by the late 1890's. The wooden window shutters of a second floor bedroom are strikingly evident in this photograph.
Foundation plantings in the form of bushes and ivy are evident. Also visible is a bollard or hitching post at the far right, perhaps suggesting that family members might have temporarily tied-up horses here while leaving or entering the building through the door near the Castle's service wing.
