Fountain Lake

Fountain Lake is a man-made lake located in Beacon Hill Park.  The lake is situated in the center of the park and is surrounded by gardens, walking paths, and picnic areas.  The lake is named for the fountain that sits in the middle of it and is a cast iron structure that was originally installed in the lake in 1884. Over the years, the fountain has undergone several restorations and repairs, and it is now a popular landmark in the park.

The lake was created in the late 1800s as part of the original design of Beacon Hill Park. It was originally intended to be a reflecting pool for the nearby Crystal Garden, which was a popular attraction at the time. However, the Crystal Garden was later demolished, and Fountain Lake became a standalone feature of the park.

The lake is fed by an underground spring and is home to a variety of fish, turtles and waterfowl, including ducks and geese. There is a fountain in the center of the lake that shoots water high into the air, adding to the scenic beauty of the area.

Visitors to Fountain Lake can enjoy a leisurely stroll around the perimeter of the lake, take in the sights and sounds of nature, or simply sit on one of the park benches and relax. The lake is also a popular spot for photographers and birdwatchers.

Overall, Fountain Lake is a serene and picturesque location within Beacon Hill Park, offering a peaceful respite from the hustle and bustle of city life.

The Baha'i Peace Tree  

In Beacon Hill Park, there is a special tree that was planted in 1987 to commemorate the International Year of Peace. The tree was planted by the Baha'i community of Victoria in collaboration with the City of Victoria.

The Baha'i Faith is a religion that emphasizes the unity of all people and the importance of promoting peace and harmony. The Baha'i community wanted to commemorate the International Year of Peace by planting a tree that would serve as a symbol of their commitment to these values.

The Baha'i Peace Tree is a Himalayan Cedar, also known as a Deodar Cedar, which is a species of cedar native to the Himalayas. It was chosen for its beautiful and distinctive appearance, as well as for its symbolism. The cedar tree has been used as a symbol of strength and endurance throughout history, and it is mentioned in many spiritual traditions.

The planting ceremony for the Baha'i Peace Tree was attended by members of the Baha'i community, as well as representatives from the City of Victoria and other community groups. The tree was blessed with prayers and was dedicated to the cause of peace and unity.

Since its planting, the Baha'i Peace Tree has become a beloved landmark in Beacon Hill Park. It is often visited by people from all walks of life who come to admire its beauty and to reflect on its meaning. The tree serves as a reminder of the importance of working towards peace and unity in our communities and in the world as a whole.

The Mrs. Alfred Watt Memorial Stone is in Beacon Hill Park located on the west side of Fountain Lake.The stone was layed in honor of Mrs. Alfred Watt, (1867 – 1948) who was a prominent member of the Victoria community in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Mrs. Watt was known for her philanthropic work in the community, particularly in support of the Victoria Order of Nurses and the Children's Hospital. She was also a member of the Women's Christian Temperance Union and was active in promoting the temperance movement in Victoria.

The memorial stone was erected following Mrs. Watt's death, as a way to commemorate her contributions to the community.