The first settlers in what is now Witty's Lagoon
Regional Park were the Northern Straits Salish people. When Fort
Victoria was established in 1843, members of the Ka-Kyaakan band
were the sole inhabitants of the area north of the spit. They reef-netted
salmon, gathered camas bulbs, berries and shellfish, and crafted
baskets, canoes and clothing. Shell middens reveal traces of their
early habitation, including their village site at the edge of the
lagoon.
In 1850, James Douglas of the Hudson Bay Company
purchased the land from Pedder Bay to Albert Head for 43 worth of
blankets. One year later, the Witty's Lagoon section was purchased
privately, and farmed by various families until 1867, when John
Witty took ownership. During this time, the Ka-Kyaakan band continued
to live on the beach, providing canoe transport to Fort Victoria
for the community. Today all that remains of the early settlements
are shell middens, heritage orchards and part of a cement weir once
used for irrigation.
In 1969, CRD Parks purchased 18 hectares of land
around the lagoon from the Witty family. Today 56 hectares of protected
land form this Nature Appreciation Park and ensure the preservation
of its unique ecosystem.
is located off Metchosin Road in Metchosin. The Nature Information
Centre is located at the main parking lot: Phone (250) 474-PARK
for seasonal hours. To reach Tower Point, follow Duke Road to Olympic
View Drive. To reach Witty's Beach, follow Witty Beach Road to the
parking area.
For additional information call (250)
478-3344.
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