Our History
In 1886, a group of Victoria’s leading citizens envisioned a museum dedicated to preserving British Columbia’s rich natural and cultural heritage. Their petition to the provincial government led to the founding of the Royal BC Museum, which opened in a small room adjoining the Provincial Secretary’s office in the Capitol Buildings, then nicknamed “the Birdcages.”
A lot has happened since then. The museum has moved, expanded, and evolved. Explore some of our key milestones:
1886 – John Fannin
An avid outdoorsman and skilled taxidermist, John Fannin was appointed the museum’s first curator, laying the foundation for its future growth. As collections expanded, the museum moved several times, finally settling in the East Wing of the Legislative Buildings in 1898.
1908 – The BC Archives
Recognizing the importance of preserving the province’s records, the Provincial Archives was established in 1908 as a separate institution. Together, these entities grew in scope and stature, with the 1913 Museum Act formally defining the museum’s role: to collect and protect natural specimens, Indigenous artifacts, and scientific knowledge related to British Columbia.
1941 – Thunderbird Park
The mid-20th century saw significant growth. In 1941, Thunderbird Park was created to display totem poles, a beloved cultural landmark that later inspired a restoration program and the creation of replicas to preserve the originals indoors.
1960’s – Fannin Tower
By the 1960s, the museum’s rising popularity called for new facilities. In 1969, the current museum building and Fannin Tower were completed, providing expanded space for exhibitions, research, and collections. The following decades brought the opening of important core galleries and popular temporary exhibitions.
2003 – Royal BC Museum Corporation
In 2003, through the proclamation of a new Museum Act, the BC Archives, Helmcken House, the Netherlands Carillon, Thunderbird Park, St Ann’s Schoolhouse, and the Royal BC Museum came together as the Royal BC Museum Corporation.
2020 – IMAX® Victoria
The last piece of the puzzle came when IMAX® Victoria joined the Royal BC Museum Corporation in 2020.
All these pieces come together to create a unique cultural precinct in the heart of British Columbia’s capital city. Although its buildings reside in Victoria, the Corporation reaches every corner of the province through its website, exhibitions, and services—and is responsible to all citizens of British Columbia.