The Costume Museum at Government House

02/14/2026

We will have a beautiful selection of Peggy’s dresses on display this year, including three brand new (to us) fabulous ballgowns.

11/21/2025

08/01/2025

Government House is open to the public via guided tours. Tours give a look into the residence of the Lieutenant Governor and the ceremonial home of all British Columbians, covering history, points of interest, and art and architecture. Tours are free but space is limited, and visitors must register in advance.

Tours will also be available on BC Day, Monday, August 4!

Pre-registration is required – register and select a date and time here, up to two weeks ahead: https://www.eventbrite.ca/o/government-house-49152051653

06/04/2025

The 60’s had some great musical talents, but were also an important decade for the Canadian identity. Come and find out why the 60’s were considered’the decade when Canadians lost their mind’.

06/04/2025

2025, and we are showcasing the important impact the Sir James Douglas had on the Colony of BC and Province of BC. And how his invitation to free black Americans led to some amazing early pioneers who helped settle and develop Victoria

05/04/2025

As well as featuring their parents, Sir James and Lady Amelia Douglas, we will also showcase their children:
Agnes - The Family Flirt
Alice - The (Accidental) Bigamist
Cecelia - What a Wild Wedding!
Jane - The Governor's Wife
Martha - The Favoured Child
James - Only Surviving Son

05/04/2025

A feature display this year will be Old Square Toes and His Lady - Sir James Douglas and Amelia Douglas. The first true 'First Family' of British Columbia - they have a fascinating tale to tell.

05/04/2025

The Alexander Dress is back! This iconic gown was worn in 1906 for Nancy Alexander's 50th wedding anniversary. Come and learn more about the Alexander family and their adventures as one fo the first black families to settle in Victoria.

04/18/2025

Our brilliant volunteer, Nancy Kostyrka, who did 99% of the research for our Chatelaines display, is keeping the ladies alive with her presentation on their lives, to clubs and groups. Here she is talking to the Harbourside Rotary Club

04/18/2025

In case you missed our brilliant display last year, honouring the Chatelaines (wives) of Government House, have a look at these pictures. These ladies were so much more than just the wife of the Lieutenant Governor and we told their stories.

04/18/2025

Before we can start our new displays, we have to clean and refresh the Museum space. Thankfully, we have a great team of volunteers who get stuck in when needed.