McNeill Bay (British Columbia) facts for kids
McNeill Bay is a beautiful bay located in Oak Bay, British Columbia, on the coast of Vancouver Island. It is also sometimes called Shoal Bay. This special place has a lot of history!
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Discover McNeill Bay
McNeill Bay was named after an important person from the past.
Who Was Captain McNeill?
The bay is named after Captain William Henry McNeill. He was the captain of a famous steamship called the SS Beaver. This ship belonged to the Hudson's Bay Company, which was a very powerful trading company. Captain McNeill was also one of the first five people to own land in the area that is now Oak Bay.
The SS Beaver's Historic Visit
On March 14, 1843, the SS Beaver anchored right here in McNeill Bay. On board was James Douglas. He was a very important leader for the Hudson's Bay Company, known as a Chief Factor. They were exploring the area to find the best spot to build Fort Victoria. This fort was very important and later grew into the city of Victoria!
A Gift to the Community
Today, there is a lovely walking path, or esplanade, along the shoreline of McNeill Bay. This land was generously given to the community by a kind person named Rosina Irene Margaret Ross.
Images for kids
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McNeill Bay as seen overlooking Beach Drive.
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Plaque commemorating Victoria's settlement.
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Plaque remembering McNeill homestead.
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Plaque honoring McNeill memories.
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A view towards the esplanade.
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Plaque thanking Ross donation.
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Sign reminding dogs how to behave.
