Victoria: A HarbourTown History

by Gayle Baker

Lauded as a most interesting story of Victoria, this popular history introduces you to the intriguing tales of an amazing city nestled in the splendor of the Pacific Northwest. Victoria, A HarbourTown History will introduce you to the Lukwungen who were there before Victoria was Victoria and the powerful Hudson's Bay Company who came to dominate their area. You will also get to know the settlers, gold seekers, merchants, and visionaries who followed. Together, they created today's Victoria, one of the world's favorite destinations as well as a wonderful place to live.

From bustling boom town to an almost abandoned settlement, Victoria's early years were marked by trial and triumph. Emerging as the centre of power and wealth in British Columbia, Victoria's leaders battled unsuccessfully retain its dominance over Vancouver. Eventually becoming a delightful English-like city surrounded by stunning scenery, this story will show you the Victoria hidden beneath its glamourous image. Enriched by the tales of the leaders who loved and transformed it and the stories of most memorable buildings, this concise, comprehensive history will introduce you to one of the world's favorite destinations.

Designed for those who love Victoria, those who enjoy history, and those who simply enjoy a good read, this new popular history is sure to please.

114 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 18, 2017

Reviews

[Diane · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is a wonderful overview of how Victoria, B.C. turned into the renowned city it is today. The author includes great summaries of many of the key figures who played important roles in Victoria's development such as James and Amelia Douglas whose fame and prosperity was directly tied to the success of the Hudson's Bay Company and the early settlement of Fort Victoria by the British. Other important individuals mentioned are Robert and Joan Dunsmuir whose wealth acquired from the coal industry allowed them to build the magnificent Craigdarroch Castle; Francis Rattenbury, the architect behind the beautiful provincial parliament buildings and the famous Empress Hotel; Robert and Jennie Butchart whose entrepreneurial success in the cement business led to the creation of the impressive gardens which are now a major tourist site; as well as the groundbreaking modern artist and writer Emily Carr. The story of the Lekwungen (known today as the Songhees and Esquimalt First Nations) is highlighted throughout the book, and it explains how indigenous culture continues to be a vibrant part of the city. The development of the railway and the discovery of gold are also chronicled, as are the arrival of Chinese labourers and the creation of a vibrant Chinatown in the 19th century. Not only does the author celebrate Victoria's successes, but she also discusses some of its failures which include racism and discrimination of non-white residents. It is evident that the author is passionate about her subject matter and has done quite a bit of research to bring a nuanced history of Victoria, B.C. to life. If you are interested in knowing more about this Canadian city, this book is an excellent resource!

[Marco · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thoroughly enjoyed reading! This historical recollection compliments Rekstens notable account while maintaining its own unique character and charm- well done Gayle! Highly recommend to all my friends and family who call Victoria home.