Accession Number

2022.007.008

Description

One sepia-toned photograph depicting an old house with a central tower at the top of a hill (the house is Mt. Adelaide). In the foreground is a gravel drive veering off to the right. The road turns left at a right angle and has neo-classical urn planters on either side, each containing a single dracaena plant. Near mid-ground is an arbor, a wooden bench, and a lawn. Several Douglas Fir and Garry Oak trees are interspersed in the landscape.

Narrative

This photograph by Ernest Crocker may have been taken from the grounds of "West Bay", the house built for and occupied by Sam and Ada Matson, who were close friends and neighbours of Mary Jean Dunsmuir (also known as Mrs. Henry Croft) and her husband Henry Croft. West Bay was built after Mt. Adelaide. Following the death of Mary Jean Dunsmuir in 1928, the Matsons moved into Mt. Adelaide.

The photograph is what Ernest Crocker termed a "Private Postcard". These appear to have not been intended to be posted in the mail, but rather, were intended for private consumption. 

History of Use

This photograph was in the possession of Mr. Crocker until shortly before his death in 1968. It was given by him to his friend who later gave it to the donor's late husband. It has been on Vancouver Island since its creation.

Date

circa 1912

Dimensions

9.1 x 14.3 cm

Artwork Title

Mt. Adelaide

Subject/Image

Mt. Adelaide

Support

Paper, Photographic paper

Country of Origin

Canada