Colonial Hotel
1239-1245 Government Street
Date of construction: 1875
Architect: John Teague 
The British Colonist
of July 7, 1875 reported that the plans for the new Colonial Hotel,
designed by John Teague, had been released to reporters. The article
outlined the lavish appearance of the new building which was to replace
the old wood structure that had recently been destroyed by fire on June
7, 1875. Along with a corner entrance for the hotel, the
streetscape also featured storefronts. One of the first to occupy was
the San Francisco Baths. This new building is a good example of
Italianate commercial architecture and is a visual landmark, even in
modern Victoria.
By 1892, the
B. C. Cattle Co. had its meat outlet here, and by 1902, it was the home
of the Victoria Printing & Publishing Company, Barber Bros.
Novelties, and B. C. Candy Kitchen. In 1907, when the streetcar made it
way past the building, it was occupied by Victoria Printing and
Publishing Co., Anton Zarelli - bootblack, and the British
Columbia Market Co. Ltd. For many years in the 20th century, it was the
home of the Poodle Dog Restaurant which had moved down the street from
615 Yates.
Today, the building houses a retail clothing outlet and a small restaurant.
This Hallmark Society project has been funded by the Hbc Foundation and the BC150-Heritage Legacy Fund.
Project manager and researcher: Helen Edwards.
Principal Photography & Consultant:
Ron Bukta, West Ventures Photography.