In 1922, the mother of a little girl named Polly Scott asked the Women’s Institute of BC for help in the treatment of her child who was suffering a tubercular disease of the spine. Dr. Cyril Wace, who lived on what is now Kilipi Rd was consulted and suggested a Solarium should be built similar to those in England.
Mill Bay was chosen as the site, as it was thought to have the mildest climate, the purest air, the most morning sunshine, and was close to therapeutic salt water for bathing.
The building was completed in 1926 and named the Queen Alexandra Solarium. This was in honour of Queen Alexandra, a Danish monarch who married a British prince and who truly showed her desire to help those in need
Many of the children lived at the Solarium for several years. They had regular schooling, Girl Guides, Scouts, Cubs and Brownies, a stamp club, musical concerts and weekly movies.
Eventually it was decided it would be more convenient to have the facility closer to the medical facilities in Victoria and the Queen Alexandra Solarium was moved to Gordon Head in 1958. It wasn’t until 1961 that the Mill Bay site once again echoed young laughter as it was filled with the boys of Brentwood College and Mill Bay’s history continued.
Maureen Alexander
Be advised the Heritage Museum at 2851 Church Way
is closed until further notice due to the need for social distancing.
For reopening information please check
