Builders of the Dunsmuir Legacy

On September 30, 1890, the Vancouver World reported that Joan Dunsmuir had moved into her new $500,000 residence. Craigdarroch Castle’s scale and grandeur were unprecedented in Victoria, inspiring admiration for its craftsmanship while drawing attention to the wealth and power it so boldly displayed. Although scores of city dwellers worked on the construction project, many key tradesmen came from elsewhere. Several remained in Victoria, building their reputations on the skills showcased at Craigdarroch. Drawing on research from the book, Craigdarroch Reconstructed, castle curator Jenny Seeman will introduce us to some of the architects, contractors, and craftsmen behind the iconic Dunsmuir homes that still shape Victoria’s skyline.