Have you ever wondered what it is like inside the big red “castle” on Bay Street between Blanshard and Douglas Streets? Â Well, now’s your chance to find out.
The general public is invited to help celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Bay Street Armoury by attending an open house and celebration event on Sunday 22 November 2015 from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm.
The impressive brick armoury designed by architect William Ridgway Wilson, mimics a medieval castle, with a square outer defensive wall, pierced by massive doors guarded with twin towers and a portcullis (No drawbridge!). It was built between 1913 and 1915.Â
The Armoury was created to provide training facilities for local militia units such as the Fifth Regiment of artillery, as well as to provide a home for two newly formed units, the 50th Gordon Highlanders of Canada and HQ Military District No. 11.
Join the 5th (BC) Field Regiment, Royal Canadian Artillery, the Canadian Scottish Regiment (Princess Mary’s), associated regimental organizations, and community heritage and history groups to celebrate the role this national historic site has played in the Greater Victoria community – and the contribution it has made to Canada and the world.
There will military display and demonstrations, music, and much more.
