Findlay B.

Gonzales Hill Fortress Observation Post

Findlay B. 
South Island Pop-up Fair
Victoria, BC

Gonzales Hill Fortress Observation Post was built in 1938 for the protection of Victoria and Vancouver Island. Soldiers were posted at the fortress to protect the coast from Japanese and Axis powers attacks. It had a Barr-Stroud rangefinder to watch for enemy attacks. Gonzales Hill was part of the coastal defence system that maintained 4 posts to protect the coast in Victoria and the Esquimalt area. It was built as a ‘blind’ to look like a house to blend in with other houses. The Gonzales Hill Observation Post was active until 1956.

What sources and evidence did you consult for your project? What different perspectives did they provide on your topic?

 I used Oak Bay Archives for my primary source of information and the Oak Bay Municipal website for my secondary source of information.

What is the historical significance of your topic?

It is important to learn about this because we can learn one way the coast and Victoria was protected during World War II. I hope the Fortress Observation Post won't be needed again.

Why did you choose this topic? 

Studying history is a hobby I have. I really liked doing this research.