Craigdarroch Castle : Artwork : photograph [2022.007.012]

Artwork

Accession Number

2022.007.012

Description

One black and white photograph of a group of standing and seated men and women in a garden taking food and beverage refreshments at tables. An arbor formed from thin bark-covered logs is placed on the other side of the tables has paper lanterns hanging from it. In the background is the roofline of Mt. Adelaide, including its tower at the upper left corner of the image.

Narrative

Mary Jean Dunsmuir (also known as Mrs. Henry Croft) was a keen supporter of the arts in Victoria. She often made the grounds of her home Mt. Adelaide available to arts groups and charitable organizations. Theatrical performances by children often occurred during the spring and summer.

This photograph depicting a catered reception was probably taken at The Rose Festival depicted in other related photographs part of this accession (see the links below).

History of Use

This photograph was in the possession of its photographer, Ernest 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.