Off to the Coldwater Fair

School children from Victoria Harbour around the turn of the century, when this photo was taken, looked forward to the annual Coldwater Fair for many reasons, not the least of which being that it meant a day off school.  The children also enjoyed the excitement of competitions in art, creative writing and penmanship, as well as typical fair treats, such as candy apples.  The parade in the above photo is making its way along Albert Street.  In the background stands the Victoria Harbor Lumber Co.’s Number 2 Mill, and in front of it, on the left side of the intersection, is the company store.  The Royal Victoria Hotel is visible on the right side of the intersection.  The buildings in the foreground are Gardiner’s Studio, on the left with the skylights, and Mrs. Burnier’s Millinery Shop on the right.            The school that the children are marching from was located on the north side of William Street, and is no longer used.  Victoria Harbour school children, however, continue to participate in the Coldwater Fair every year, which has been held annually for over one hundred years.