Historic Point Ellice House (mentioned previously on this blog), long a magnet for heritage tourism in Victoria BC, is celebrating its 150th anniversary this weekend, and you are invited.
Point Ellice house will hold its celebration on August 21 from 11.00am to 4.00pm. Check out its Facebook page for more information. There’s also a contest: win 2 tickets to 150th Anniversary Heritage Festival at Point Ellice House ($24 value).
Designated a National Heritage Site, Point Ellice House is a quiet refuge located right in the heart of Victoria’s bustling industrial area. From its vantage point overlooking the waters of Victoria’s scenic Gorge Waterway, this museum and natural refuge is a great place to spot everything from recycled steel being sent to China, as well as kayakers, canoes, and the ever present harbour seals.
According to Point Ellice House, Peter O’Reilly, the original inhabitant of the house, immigrated to Canada from Ireland, a letter of introduction to Sir James Douglas in hand, and became one of the first Gold Commissioners and judges in British Columbia. Peter and Caroline O’Reilly moved into the Point Ellice House in time for the birth of their daughter Kathleen December 31, 1867. The O’Reillys had four children: Frank, born in 1866, Kathleen, born in 1867, Mary Augusta, born in 1869, and Arthur (also known as Jack), born in 1873. The house was a gathering spot for Victoria’s social elite, and remained in their possession for 108 years.
Three generations of the O’Reilly family lived in the house until 1975, when it was sold to the provincial government:
The family left behind everything – from armoires to tea services, a harp, clothing, writing desks, board games, kitchen utensils, and more – giving us a rare opportunity to see one of North America’s largest collections of Victoriana in its original, privileged Victorian home.
The 150th Anniversary Heritage Festival at Point Ellice House and Gardens in Victoria on August 21 from 11.00am to 4.00pm.
