Boats and boating, Gorge Regatta, 1890.
IMAGE A-02903 COURTESY OF ROYAL BC MUSEUM, BC ARCHIVES
In the first seventy-five years of social activity among Victoria’s aristocracy, times changed considerably. From the high-jinks in Fort Victoria’s Bachelors’ Hall to elegant, glittering Government House balls in the early part of the twentieth century, life had progressed at a leisurely pace. The stories of the eight families discussed have shown this natural progression.
It was a fascinating social journey of discovery, set in the Victorian era when morals and standards were paramount, and customs and traditions all important. The one thing that had remained constant through it all was the strong division of the classes. It was generally accepted that every human being had his station in life. Victoria’s upper-class establishment maintained this belief and strongly upheld it in all their social activities.
Their high teas, their balls, and their banquets set standards of acceptable behaviour, just as the way they dressed, how they travelled, their conversations, and their customs were all-important means of recognizing and establishing what they believed was their rightful place in society. Where they lived, whom they married, and even how they were buried were also strong indicators of their importance.
These intimate details were what set them apart and confirmed their place in the establishment.
Boats and boating, Gorge Regatta, 1890.
IMAGE A-02903 COURTESY OF ROYAL BC MUSEUM, BC ARCHIVES