A photograph for the classic car enthusiast.
"1947::The Hudson's Bay Parking Lot on Douglas Street in Victoria, British Columbia" Photo: BC Archives (I-01859)
In 1947, an unknown photographer stood on the rooftop of Victoria's Hudson's Bay Company (HBC) building on Douglas Street and pointed his camera toward Blanshard Street. With a keen eye, he framed this exciting display of early 20th-century vehicles in the parking lot below and captured a snapshot of automobile designs that had graced the city's streets since the first car arrived in 1902.
"1947::The Hudson's Bay Parking Lot on Douglas Street in Victoria, British Columbia"
Photo: BC Archives (I-01861)
The HBC on Douglas Street, flanked by Fisgard and Herald Street, was conceived in 1911 when the world was on the brink of change. The age-old company had acquired the lot for $225,000 (equivalent to around six million in today's Canadian currency) and began construction in 1912. In 1914, with the onset of the First World War, the builders faced labour shortages and disrupted supply chains, significantly slowing their progress. However, they persisted. In 1915, the HBC on Douglas Street quietly opened its doors, opting for a subdued celebration out of respect for the men fighting overseas. The building, now known as The Hudson, is a testament to this significant historical era, housing a street-level public market and private residences on the upper floors.