Victoria is located on the southern tip of Vancouver Island, which is the
largest of British Columbia's 6,500 islands. It is a community of choice
for its temperate climate, natural beauty, recreational sites and superior
economic opportunities. For almost every citizen, native born or
"immigrant," the decision to live here is consciously made.
About 300,000 people make their home in the Greater Victoria area. The
population has increased from 148,000 in 1961 and is expected to approach
350,000 by the year 2000.
Named by Queen Victoria, the city began its commercial life clustered
around the downtown harbour when Hudson's Bay Company Emissary James
Douglas built a fort in 1843. Before Douglas' arrival, the Songhees and
other Native groups occupied the territory, which was mostly in its
natural state.
The population increased rapidly when the region became a supply centre
for the 1858 Fraser Gold Rush speculators. Incorporated in 1862, Victoria
became the capital of the (British) Colony of Vancouver Island, and then
of British Columbia, a position the city holds today.
The majority of residents are of British ancestry, but many other
ethnic and cultural groups are also well represented. Greater Victoria has
attracted people from all over Canada, the United States and other
countries. Many of those moving here add to the high level of artistic,
technical and professional skills as well as to entrepreneurial activity.
The region is a popular retirement centre and, each year, hundreds of
people select Victoria as their retirement location. But many younger
people also move here, bringing education, energy, skills and funds to
invest in local business. They often build new, job-creating industries
and other programs that help ensure the future for succeeding generations.
The region's strategic location as a gateway to the Pacific Rim, its
closeness to U.S. markets, and its many sea and air links have made the
area a hub for business development and economic investment.
Victoria
British Columbia on
