Accession Number

2022.007.020

Description

One sepia-toned photograph of two lawns separated by a flower bed. On the left lawn in the distance is a building with what appears to be a canvas roof with scalloped edges at its bottom. On the right lawn sits an archery target.

Narrative

This circa 1914 photograph depicts a pleasant garden scene incorporating a recreational building and an archery target. In 2024, architectural historian Jim Wolf kindly identified the location and provided context: "This was taken looking towards the rose garden from the tennis/croquet lawn of Government House. That bark roof pavilion was designed by Samuel Maclure and was part of the circa 1908 redesign by G.K. Maclean."

Mrs. Robert Dunsmuir and her daughters sometimes hosted receptions on Craigdarroch's grounds and also at Beacon Hill Park. There was a summer house/pavilion on Craigdarroch's grounds near the tennis courts where refreshments were served. On at least one occasion, archery was enjoyed by some of the guests.¹

1. BC Archives MS-2786 Vol. 3, File 14. Letter from Gavin Burns to his wife Flora Burns (nee Macdonald):
"They had a band on the terrace at the top of the wall, and three tennis courts down towards the Ward's fence and archery and a charming summer house where refreshments were dispensed, but the principal refreshments were to be had in the dining room. The house was all thrown open and very handsome it is. The floors are all polished like glass and very slippery. Mrs. Dunsmuir fell on one of the floors a few days ago and is now walking with a stick."

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.

Date

circa 1914

Dimensions

16 x 20.1 cm

Subject/Image

Government House, Victoria, B.C.

Support

Paper, Photographic paper

Country of Origin

Canada