Wentworth Villa
1156 Fort Street V8V 3K8 Victoria, BC, Canada

Restoration of Muirhead house has began. Epic Project Management has taken on this enormous task. Here is some local news coverage of the project: https://www.cheknews.ca/victoria-heritage-house-damaged-in/ One of our exhibitions is about the Muirhead house, to read more about the house: https://wentworthvilla.com/muirhead-residence/ If you can, please consider supporting the Gofundme campaign to help with the costs of the restoration: https://gofund.me/36ac45d9

Music at Wentworth Villa is excited that our second online concert from our 2020/21 season is available now at https://wentworthvilla.com/voces-intimae-quartet/. Nordic Voices is a program of Scandinavian works for string quartet recorded in December 2020 by the recently formed Voces Intimae Quartet. Watch and enjoy the performance, pass on the link to your friends, and make a donation and help us to support our incredibly talented local classical musicians. #classicalmusic #yyj #quartet #stringquartet #conversation

Bach Up! An exciting piano recital by international concert pianist Shoko Inoue. Recorded at Wentworth Villa in our events hall. Enjoy.... https://youtu.be/kewsChiaP5s

Wentworth Villa is thrilled to offer you our first online concert given by pianist Shoko Inoue. The program will be works by J.S. Bach and S. Rachmaninov and will be available from October 18th at 2:30 pm. This performance is to help us to support our incredibly talented local musicians by offering them opportunities to perform at Wentworth Villa. The performance will be available here: https://wentworthvilla.com/shoko-inoue-bach-up/

An update for our supporters and visitors: As a small museum, we have determined that the best course of action for Wentworth Villa is to remain closed during this stage of BCs Restart Plan. When reopening is viable, we look forward to welcoming you with refreshed exhibitions and new programming. We invite you to connect with Angela, our museum director, if youd like to coordinate a virtual tour, inquire about the Modern City exhibition, or have any questions by sending he...r an email: [email protected]. You can also keep an eye on our website (wentworthvilla.com) or our Instagram page (@wentworthvilla) for the latest news and updates. Although we remain closed, the wisteria, which is over 120 years old, is in full bloom. Do stroll by and enjoy this beautiful sight! #yyjheritage #yyjarchitecture #yyjarts #yyjculture #yyj

On July 4th, Canada is celebrating Historic Places Day#AllSummerLong! This is an opportunity for historic sites across the country to share their stories, and for you to discover them virtually or in person. In the latest Wentworth Villa newsletter, the Villas director, Angela, writes about the role architecture plays in telling the stories of challenging historical situations. Residential architecture reveals what sets people apart, as well as presents the elements of ...our society that bring us together. Understanding present-day inequalities and struggles can be aided by discovering the stories presented by historic architecture. To read more, subscribe to our newsletter: https://wentworthvilla.com/contact/. To discover more about #HistoricPlacesDay: https://historicplacesday.ca/. National Trust for Canada / Fiducie nationale du Canada #everyplaceastory #cdnhistory #cdnheritage #yyjheritage #yyjarts #yyjculture #yyj

Our neighbours at Craigdarroch Castle have opened their doors again for guided tours! Speaking of neighbours, have you heard of Erin Hall? It once stood amongst Garry Oak meadows and orchards. Craigdarroch Castle could be seen to the west, and Wentworth Villa was only a short walk away. Completed in 1874, Erin Hall was home to Samuel Nesbitt, Sr. He opened the first commercial bakery in Victoria and supplied the Royal Navy with biscuits and crackers. Samuel Nesbitt, Jr. marr...ied Marion, the daughter of Henry and Martha Ella (who lived at Wentworth Villa). Marion and Samuels grandson, James K. Nesbitt, was the founding president of the Craigdarroch Castle Society. Erin Hall burnt down in 1962, but the stories of people and places that connect the dots of Victorias history remain. : Image B-05263 courtesy of BC Archives #yyjarchitecture #yyjheritage #yyjculture #yyjarts #yyj #MuseumsTogetherBC

Did you know that Samuel Maclure (the architect of the Biggerstaff Wilson Residence), together with Francis Rattenbury, designed Government House? The build was completed in 1903. Unfortunately, a fire in 1957 destroyed the building; however, the porte cochre survived. Does it remind you of another porte cochre designed by Maclure? If youre thinking of the one at Hatley Castle & Gardens, youre right! From Wentworth Villa, you can enjoy a leisurely walk past Craigdarroch... Castle to B.C. Government House to see the porte cochre in person. : Image D-03028 courtesy of BC Archives #yyjarchitecture #yyjarchitects #yyjheritage #explorevictoria

The upcoming Victoria Day brings to mind a royal visit that took place in the fall of 1882. Princess Louise, the daughter of Queen Victoria, visited the city with her husband, the Governor General, the Marquess of Lorne. Arches were erected throughout the city to celebrate the visit, including this one in front of Wentworth Villa. Fort Street has changed a lot since then! : Image B-03950, courtesy of BC Archives... #yyjheritage #yyjarchitecture #victoriaday #yyj City of Victoria - Local Government Heritage BC

The Biggerstaff Wilson Residence (1770 Rockland Ave.) was designed by architect Samuel Maclure in 1905. It is featured in one of our exhibits at the Villa because it is a signature design by Maclure. His work architecturally connects neighbourhoods throughout Victoria, Vancouver Island, and other B.C. communities. Maclures designs range from homes both the simple and the grand to banks, churches, gardens, and even a sports stadium. You may be familiar with Hatley Castle & Gardens and The Butchart Gardens, but what other designs by Maclure can you spot on your explorations of Victorias neighbourhoods? #yyjheritage #yyjarchitecture #yyjarchitects

Continuing with architectural connections between neighbourhoods did you know that architects Wright and Sanders possibly had input on Wentworth Villas design, and also designed Emily Carr House and Point Ellice House Museum & Gardens? The weather is perfect for a walk past each to examine (from a distance!) their architectural features. #yyjheritage #yyjarchitecture #yyjarchitects #yyj

Blossoms abound right now throughout Victoria! Did you know that the Muirhead Residence had King apple trees growing on the property? This particular variety was developed for growing in the Pacific Northwest, though it is uncommon now. Does anyone still have a King apple tree growing in their yard in Vic West? #yyjheritage #yyjarchitecture #heritageapples #heirloomplants

Architectural connections between neighbourhoods: The Muirhead Residence at 223 Robert Avenue in Vic West is the subject of an exhibit at Wentworth Villa. One of Muirheads architects, Charles E. Watkins, also designed Victoria High School in Fernwood. Do you know what other buildings Watkins designed in Victoria?... #yyjarchitecture #yyjheritage #yyjarchitects : Image H-05445_141, courtesy of BC Archives

Does being at home more often than not these days have you thinking of making some changes? Why not liven up the walls with wallpaper? Did you know that during the Villas restoration, the walls in each room revealed at least 8 layers of wallpaper? This sample shows the different layers found in one of the front rooms on the first floor. These were put up between 1870 and the 1890s. #yyjarchitecture #yyjheritage #heritagedecor #heritageinspiration

Until further notice, Wentworth Villa is now closed in order to do our part in helping reduce transmission of the COVID-19 virus. We thank you for your understanding, and we hope everyone stays well.

The concert featuring lvaro Pierri scheduled for March 22 has been cancelled due to COVID-19. Please check back for updates regarding the May 10th concert featuring Russian piano duo Fedorova & Takser. #yyjmusic #yyjevents

If you havent already discovered the music of world-renowned classical guitarist lvaro Pierri, then March 22nd is your chance! #yyjmusic #yyjevents #yyjarts #yyjheritage #yyjculture #visitvictoria #explorevictoria

Get your #beatouristvic wristband and enjoy FREE admission to Wentworth Villa (as well as other great deals!)! Attractions Victoria, BC Canada #yyjevents #yyjheritage #yyjarchitecture

Its #BCHeritageWeek! The restoration of Wentworth Villa is an example of this years theme: Bringing the Past Into the Future. Drop in and see for yourself what it looks like today, and how it is being looked after for the future. #yyjarchitecture #yyjheritage Heritage BC

Do you have a favourite Modernist building in Victoria? Drop by Thursday Saturday to see the visiting exhibition Modern City: The Legacy of Architectural Modernism in Victoria, and discover more about the buildings you may walk past everyday. #yyjarchitecture #modernism #yyjheritage #yyj #visitvictoria #explorevictoria

2020 has more concerts in store for you at Wentworth Villa! Next up: cellist Rosanna Butterfield and pianist Jannie Burdeti in performance on February 22nd at 7:30pm. #yyjmusic #yyjheritage #yyjarchitecture #yyjevents #visitvictoria #explorevictoria

Already looking forward to the New Year? So are we! Join us Jan. 4th @ 7:30pm and Jan. 5th @ 2:30pm for our first two concerts of 2020. Both concerts will feature singers Ingrid Attrot, Sarah Fryer, Benjamin Butterfield, and Gary Relyea, along with pianists Stephen Ralls and Bruce Ubukata.... #yyjheritage #yyjmusic #yyjarts #yyjculture #yyjarchitecture #explorevictoria #visitvictoria

We look forward to seeing you this Thursday when the exhibit Modern City: The Legacy of Architectural Modernism in Victoria opens! #yyjarchitecture #yyjheritage #explorevictoria

New exhibition opening December 5th! Wentworth Villa is hosting the exhibit Modern City: The Legacy of Architectural Modernism in Victoria until April 25, 2020. Created in collaboration with DAmbrosio Architecture + Urbanism and curated by Martin Segger, this visiting exhibition highlights the footprint and impact of Modernist design in Victoria through modern and historic photographs and modelling.... #yyjarchitecture #yyjheritage #explorevictoria

Stumped on what to get the art lover, museum goer, heritage enthusiast, or culture admirer on your list? The Pass It Around card is perfect for them all!

Looking to preserve heritage while updating your home? This FREE webinar may be for you! #yyjheritage #yyjarchitecture

Thanks to the Times Colonist for a preview of our two concerts this weekend featuring tenor Isaiah Bell. Got your tickets yet? We hope to see you there! https://www.timescolonist.com//classical-music-tenor-isaia #yyjheritage #yyjmusic #yyjarchitecture #yyjevents #explorevictoria

Remember to get your entry in for 2 FREE Pass It Around cards at Visit - Victoria BC!

Do you want to have a chance to get 2 FREE Pass It Around cards? Then head over to Visit - Victoria BC to enter their Halloween Giveaway contest!

History is in the details: this is the newel post that sits at the bottom of the staircase in the foyer on the main floor of the Villa. Despite being installed over 150 years ago, it hasnt shifted even an inch! #yyjheritage #yyjarchitecture #visitvictoria #explorevictoria

Still contemplating buying tickets to one of our concerts featuring tenor Isaiah Bell and pianist Anna Cal? Dont wait too long to decide! Most tickets are already sold to the November 3rd concert, so November 2nd is your best chance to enjoy an evening of classical music in a unique setting of architectural heritage. Isaiah Bell, tenor #yyjheritage #yyjmusic #yyjevents

What does an apple, a farm, and a house have in common? Heritage! And heritage, in all its forms, provides a means for sharing stories that connect the past to the present. In the 1850s, Thomas & Ann Blinkhorn planted an orchard on the first settler farm in Metchosin. Under those trees, guests celebrated the marriage of their niece Martha to Captain Henry Ella. When Thomas died, Ann, Martha, and Henry moved to Victoria where they built Wentworth Villa in 1862.... Today, heritage apples continue to be harvested from the same orchard and weddings are still celebrated there on Bilston Creek Farm, and Wentworth Villa is a heritage home listed in the register of Canadian Historic Places. #yyjheritage #yyjarchitecture #bcheritage #explorevictoria #explorevancouverisland Heritage BC

Its true it is a new season, but our opening hours are the same. We look forward to your visit during our regular hours Thursdays Saturdays, 11am to 4pm. We accept the Pass It Around card, so bring it with you or purchase one while youre here! #yyjheritage #yyjarchitecture #explorevictoria

Irwin Shungs concert was an amazing performance. Irwin had the audience fully engaged and it was one of our most exciting evenings yet. Dont forget about our next concert coming up: Vetta Quartet Masterworks for String Quartet September 29 @ 2:30 pm... https://wentworthvilla.com//vetta-quartet-masterworks-for/ There still are a few tickets left, but this concert will definitely sell out! Hope you can make it.

We love how our neighbourhood is full of heritage, arts, and culture! Also just a short walk away from the Villa the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria!

Are you wondering if you should get a season pass for our 2019/20 concert series? Then consider this: with the pass, youll get to enjoy seven concerts for the price of six! Season passes are on sale until September 8th. Find out more about the concert series on our website: https://wentworthvilla.com/music-at-wentworth-villa/. #yyjheritage #yyjmusic #yyjevents #explorevictoria

Take a selfie for a chance to win $1000 for yourself? Maybe. Take a selfie for a chance to win $1000 for yourself and $1000 for your favourite historic place? Definitely! Visit Wentworth Villa on July 6th for #HistoricPlacesDay. Take a selfie that includes the Villa, and enter the contest to win! Check out www.historicplacesday.ca for contest details.... Were also offering free admission for Historic Places Day! Bring a friend... or the entire family, everyone is free!! National Trust for Canada / Fiducie nationale du Canada #historicplaces #everyplaceastory #yyjheritage #yyjarchitecture #explorevictoria

Spend #HistoricPlacesDay on Saturday, July 6th at Wentworth Villa. The theme this year is Every Place, A Story. Wentworth Villa has many stories to tell, from the tales of the familes who lived here to the stories of other heritage homes in Victoria. Come discover this National Heritage site and celebrate one of Canadas Historic Places! Wentworth Villa will have free admission for Historic Places Day! Bring a friend and drop by! See you this Saturday!! National Trust for Canada / Fiducie nationale du Canada #yyj #yyjheritage #yyjarchitecture #historicplaces #everyplaceastory #explorevictoria

Theyre here: single tickets are now on sale for the 2019/20 concert season! The first concert is on September 8 @ 2:30pm and features pianist Irwin Shung. Get your tickets or season pass today! #yyjevents #yyjmusic #yyjheritage #yyjarts #yyjculture #explorevictoria

Season passes for the 2019/20 concert series at Wentworth Villa are on sale now!

In this photo from the early 1900s, Martha Ella (in the dark dress) is having tea with her daughter and granddaughter in the Villa gardens. To the right of her, you can see short boxwood hedges along the walkway. Some of those same boxwoods are still growing there today. The wisteria in front of the Villa is also over 100 years old its in full bloom now and looking as lovely as ever. Come by and see for yourself! #yyjheritage #explorevictoria