A virtual geocache leads to a potpourri of history and culture

This week I decided to find a virtual geocache.   A virtual geocache asks the seeker to find a location and answer questions or take on a task.  The coordinates for this virtual cache took me to St. Ann’s Schoolhouse to find the answers to several questions posted on the website where I go to find caches.  The structure, built in 1844, was purchased in 1853 for the Sisters of St. Ann’s to be run as a schoolhouse.  It is said to be one of the oldest buildings in Western Canada (but not on its original site and it is not open to the public.)   What a great way to learn about the history of this area.

After I found the answers to the virtual questions I looked around and was struck by the history and culture surrounding me.   On one side is the Royal BC Museum with its Woolly Mammoth and Imax, and on the other the Helmcken House built by Dr. John Sebastian Helmcken.  This house also has a claim for being the oldest house in British Columbia (this time on its original site and it is open to the public.)

Close to the Helmcken House is Thunderbird Park with its hand carved totem poles and the Mungo Martin Kwakwaka'wakw house. 

In front of the museum is the Netherlands Carillon Tower which boasts being Canada’s largest carillon with 65 bells.  The bells are played by a musician who climbs to the top of the tower several times a day.  I was intrigued to learn that some of the bell pitches actually commemorate specific historical events.

Across the road from the Thunderbird Park, and close to the historic Empress Hotel, is the new statue of Emily Carr.  The statue, like the lady herself and her artwork and writings, is larger than life and shows her with her constant companions: her pet monkey and little dog. 

Last mention is the Parliament Buildings and harbour which is in close proximity to the above square.  No wonder this area is full of visitors!!

Links to the above post:

St. Anne’s Schoolhouse:  http://www.royalbcmuseum.bc.ca/RBCM_Cult_Pre/St_Ann_Schlhse.aspx

Helmcken House: http://www.victorialodging.com/attraction/helmcken-house

Thunderbird Park: http://www.emilycarr.org/totems/exhibit/tour3.htm.  

Netherlands Carillon Tower: http://www.royalbcmuseum.bc.ca/RBCM_Cult_Pre/Nthrlnd_Crlln_Twr.aspx