Imagine a city before it was a city. That's where Some Reminiscences of Old Victoria drops you. Edgar Fawcett didn't just study history; he lived it. He arrived in Victoria as a young man in 1859, right in the middle of the Fraser Canyon and Cariboo Gold Rushes. His book isn't a single, plotted story. Instead, it's a warm, personal scrapbook of his life and observations from those early, formative decades.

The Story

There isn't a traditional plot. Think of it as a series of vivid snapshots. Fawcett talks about his first job as a lamplighter, trudging through the mud to light the town's few gas lamps. He introduces us to the wild parade of humanity that passed through: hopeful miners, shrewd merchants, Indigenous leaders, and eccentric characters who could only exist in a frontier town. He describes the sheer hustle of the place—the sudden wealth, the rough justice, and the collective effort to turn a rough settlement into a proper capital. He shares gossip, legends, and his own small adventures, painting a complete picture of a community being born.

Why You Should Read It

This book has soul. What makes it special is Fawcett's voice. He's not a distant historian; he's a neighbor telling you stories over the back fence. You get the sense of his genuine affection for the place and its people. His memories are specific and tangible—you can almost smell the sawdust and sea air. It's this personal touch that brings the past alive in a way facts and dates never could. He doesn't shy away from the rougher edges of frontier life either, giving us a balanced, human view of history.

Final Verdict

This is a must-read for anyone who calls Vancouver Island home or has an interest in West Coast history. It's also a gem for readers who love primary sources and personal narratives. If you enjoy books that feel like a conversation with the past, you'll be charmed. It's not a long or difficult read, but it's packed with personality. Perfect for a cozy afternoon, letting Edgar Fawcett guide you through the dusty, booming, unforgettable streets of old Victoria.