Since moving to Victoria, we’ve
been exploring our new city and recently discovered yet another treasure –
Point Ellice House. This National Heritage Site, overlooking the waters of
Victoria’s scenic Gorge Waterway, exudes the peace and charm of a former time.
Peter and Caroline O'Reilly moved
into the Point Ellice House in time for the birth
of their daughter Kathleen December 31. 1867.
The house remained in the family's
possession for 108 years.
What makes this “museum” truly
unique is that in 1975, three generations later, O’Reilly’s grandson, John, and
his wife, Inez, sold the house and all its contents to the Province of British
Columbia. The family left behind everything – furniture, clothing, toys, tea
services, a harp, 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 Victorian home.
On seeing the parlor, my
granddaughter said, “This must be the playroom!” Chess set, piano, harp, toys,
tea sets ... definitely the playroom.
http://www.pointellicehouse.ca/
That was good of them to leave everything for a "museum."
ReplyDeleteIt sure was as it makes a marvelous atmosphere in which to explore a bit of our history.
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