Downtown in Victoria in Capital, British Columbia — Canada’s West Coast (North America)
Victoria, B.C.
1889
Fort Victoria had its start in 1843, centered on Fort Street and present-day Bastion Square. Most of Victoria’s Old Town however was constructed during the great building boom of 1886-1892.
During that period the red-brick character of Victoria became firmly established. Small wooden buildings were replaced by substantial structures suited to the largest city in the province.
Victoria’s status as a busy seaport gave rise to a large area of warehouses, saloons, hotels, manufacturing enterprises and wholesale houses. Many of these buildings surround you today.
A world-wide recession in 1893 halted construction for a time, and the Old Town area fell into a slumber that lasted until the 1960’s. Sparked by the City, and fueled by community pride and private owners, the restoration of Old Town has ensured that once again it is a vital, thriving part of the City.
Many of the superb heritage buildings in the 500 block of Johnson Street and Yates Street were restored in the 1980’s thanks in part to the financial assistance of the Heritage Area Revitalization Program (H.A.R.P.) of the British Columbia Heritage Trust.
Erected by British Columbia Heritage Trust.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Architecture • Forts and Castles • Settlements & Settlers. A significant historical year for this entry is 1843.
Location. 48° 25.653′ N, 123° 22.163′ W. Marker is in Victoria, British Columbia, in Capital. It is in Downtown. Marker can be reached from the intersection of Waddington Alley and Johnson Street. This marker is located behind the building at 537 Johnson Street. Touch for map. Marker is in this post office area: Victoria BC V8W 2Z6, Canada. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. The Oriental Hotel (within shouting distance of this marker); Thomas Earle Warehouse (within shouting distance of this marker); Waddington Alley (within shouting distance of this marker); Leiser Building (within shouting distance of this marker); Market Square’s Main Gate Fountain (within shouting distance of this marker); S.J. Pitts, Importer (within shouting distance of this marker); Shop/Warehouse (about 90 meters away, measured in a direct line); The Majestic Theatre (about 120 meters away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Victoria.
Additional keywords. restoration, renovation
Credits. This page was last revised on February 16, 2023. It was originally submitted on November 6, 2011, by Barry Swackhamer of Brentwood, California. This page has been viewed 737 times since then and 39 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9. submitted on November 6, 2011, by Barry Swackhamer of Brentwood, California. • Syd Whittle was the editor who published this page.