Songhees Point 2

Songhees Point is named for the Songhees Nation. During the early days of Victoria's history, the native peoples lived on the opposite side of the harbour from Fort Victoria. Now this area is occupied by an ever-increasing number of condominiums. The totems on Songhees Point as well as being objects of beauty in themselves also serve to remind us of the original inhabitants of this area and their rich culture.

War Correspondent...

...is something I'll never be. I spent considerable time yesterday taking pictures aboard the HMCS Nanaimo, and more time today trying to find a single photo that was usable and expressive of yesterday's Canada Day festivities, without any success. So, here is a photo from last week of two of this province's most important symbols, without all the messy Canada Day crowds. On the left, our Legislative Assembly Buildings, and on the right, a totem pole. Pax vobiscum, tillicum!

Dockside Green Totem Pole

Though we had more snow last night, today was another bright and sunny day so I went down and had a look at the nearby Dockside Green condominiums. I've written a little about this project here and here and it continues to be an interesting subject. In May of this year they erected the totem pole pictured above. It was carved by Charles Elliot, master carver of the Tsartlip Nation. In the photo below, newly erected Dockside Green buildings are in the background. The Galloping Goose Cycling Trail passes directly in front of this pole.

Totem Child

Taking advantage of the mild climate and abundant natural resources, the indigenous peoples of the northwest Pacific Coast developed cultures with remarkable artistic, ceremonial and social characteristics. When I see their creations I often feel like this child portrayed on a totem next to the Royal BC Museum in downtown Victoria. In the photo below you can see the totem where it stands in front of a traditional native long house that has been constructed on the museum grounds