Snacking on site Preview

2

Warrant Officers' Quarters

Contrary to what the name suggests, the Warrant Officer’s Quarters were primarily used as quarters for married couples. They were only used as an officer’s mess in the summertime.

Play

4

Casemates barracks

Soldiers at the fort were provided with three "simple, but good" meals a day. Seated beneath the marquee tent pitched in this courtyard, soldiers could share a meal in camaraderie before retiring to their barracks for the night.

Play

5

Fisgard Lighthouse

Fisgard Lighthouse is relatively close to Victoria and Esquimalt, yet it was still difficult for officials to coordinate the delivery of fresh and regular shipments of food to the lighthouse keeper. The causeway you’ve now crossed wasn’t built until the 1950s, so food was delivered by boat once every three months.

Play

3

The canteen

Soldiers in search of friendly chatter and a beer needn’t go far from their barracks. The canteen—which during the First World War was stocked with just enough non-perishable rations for an emergency—became a social gathering space during the interwar period (1919-1938). Just like you might pop down to the corner store or local pub, the canteen was the spot for soldiers to spend their wages on treats like pickled eggs, pig’s feet, chocolate bars, gin, and local ales.

Play

1

Welcome!

Cozy nights with family, a night out with friends or lunch with your favourite coworkers: food and drinks are a huge part of how we connect with each other. After all, we all eat! Today, step into history and learn about what mealtime looked like for those who have called Fort Rodd Hill and Fisgard Lighthouse home.At every stop, we’ll test your food history knowledge with a quiz question. You might find the answer in the text of this tour, or you might need to have a look around the site. Don’t worry, you get unlimited guesses!Fort Rodd Hill and Fisgard Lighthouse National Historic Sites are located on the traditional territories of the Lekwungen-speaking peoples, today known as the Esquimalt and Songhees Nations, whose historical relationships with the land continue to this day. We extend our appreciation for the opportunity to live and learn on this territory.

6

Garry Oak Learning Meadow

Once you’ve taken in all the beauty of the fort, be sure to visit the Garry Oak Learning Meadow. It isn't just a pretty garden, but also a haven for an at-risk ecosystem full of plants that are culturally significant medicines and foods for the Esquimalt and Songhees First Nations.

Play

7

Exit gates

We hope so! If you’re hungry for more fun facts and stunning locations, we hope you’ll visit us again.Find us on Facebook, Twitter, and our website to learn more, or to find out about upcoming programs and events. Thank you!

Comment card

What was the highlight of your visit? Please take just two minutes to rate the tour and share your experience with us. Your feedback is invaluable!