Apr
3
Then...
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| Image H-02505 courtesy of Royal BC Museum, BC Archives |
From the days of the first arrivals of white people, the area of land we know as Beacon Hill Park was recognized as something to be cherished. Officially established as a public park in 1859, it was already a place of recreation for the first settlers. Horse racing (gambling), cricket, croquet, picnicking to the sounds of naval and local bands and orchestras played a large part in the local culture. In 1887 a plan was approved for the building of a bandstand. The result, as believed to appear in the attached picture, was completed in 1888, located to the west of Circle Drive. Its cost was three hundred dollars. Tables and benches were grouped around for the benefit of the audience. Twelve years later the bandstand was moved to enhance the charming and quaint appearance of the stone bridge and Goodacre Lake. It served as a bandstand until 1927 when it was converted to an aviary. It served in this capacity until 1989. After ending its time as a birdhouse, the structure fell into disuse and decay.
There is some question as to whether the existing building is the original, as yearly Park Management Reports are not continuous. If it is, the present structure predates the 1889 competition and commission for an overall Beacon Hill Park design. It is the oldest structure in the park
...Now
A facelift and re-purposing came in 2010. The former bandstand, and derelict aviary had a major restoration, and was converted to a public information kiosk. Important architectural details were meticulously preserved; original colours were researched and where possible, matched; and alterations were tastefully executed.
The oldest building, the only remaining example of a Victorian era bandstand in Victoria, stands proud and rejuvenated near the stone bridge in Beacon Hill Park. Under its cover nine interpretive display panels, explaining the history and features of the park, are permanently displayed. After 126 years, the bandstand, aviary ( now information kiosk), chronicles the story of our park.