Helmcken House, Victoria

Helmcken House was built in 1852 for Dr. John Sebastian Helmcken, a prominent physician, and politician who played a crucial role in the early history of British Columbia. Considered one of the oldest remaining houses in British Columbia, it is now a popular tourist attraction.

The building's architecture reflects the colonial style of the mid-19th century. It is a simple, rectangular wooden structure, with a steep gabled roof and a central chimney. The walls are made of hand-hewn, square-cut timbers that were covered with split cedar shakes. Inside, the house is divided into several rooms, with a central hallway and a staircase leading to the upper level. Interior furnishings are mainly original or replicas from the mid-19th century.

The history of Helmcken House is closely linked to the history of British Columbia. Dr. Helmcken played a significant role in the establishment of the colony and the creation of the province. He was also one of the signatories of the BC Terms of Union, which united British Columbia with the rest of Canada in 1871.

Helmcken House remained in the Helmcken family until 1930, when it was purchased by the Province. The house was restored to its original condition in the 1940s and became a historic site open to the public in 1955.

Why You Should Visit:
Quick glimpse into the past that provides some additional insight and history in a different context than that of the Royal Museum.