The Homecoming Statue
Inspired by Gratitude
A year ago it was just a vision but, thanks to you, today it is one of the most visited and enjoyed locations at Victoria’s Inner Harbour. Dedicated and unveiled by His Honour Steven L. Point, Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia, on 4 May 2010, the “Homecoming” statue by local sculptor Nathan Scott has been widely acclaimed as capturing that magical moment of a sailor returning from the sea to his daughter’s welcoming home embrace. A unique and important feature of the plaza is the arc of over 900 engraved bricks from our supporters and it is evident that each brick has both sentiment and a story behind it. The site itself, provided by the Provincial Capital Commission, is beautifully designed and created to accentuate the “Homecoming” theme, present a picture perfect view of Victoria Harbour, and provide a quiet place of relaxation and reflection.
We are deeply grateful to our major sponsor, The Butchart Gardens, as well as to our significant financial supporters acknowledged on our large granite Rocks of Honour and Service at the site. As well, it simply would not have been possible without the enthusiastic support of the people of Greater Victoria and beyond who donated funds to the project, supported the project’s Gala Evening, or acquired “bricks” for the site. Finally, we would like to acknowledge the support “in kind” of friends, contractors, and media for without their strong support throughout the past year it simply would not have been possible. The combined efforts of our sponsors and supporters alike has truly resulted in a first class site on the Inner Harbour marking the 100th Anniversary of the creation of the Canadian Navy.
It is important to note that sufficient funds were raised to permit two activities to be undertaken. Firstly, it was always the intention if possible to support the Military Family Resource Centre(MFRC) with financial assistance to enable them to undertake selected programs. We are pleased to report that $50,000 has been provided to the Victoria Foundation earmarked for the MFRC a portion of which is to be allocated on an annual basis to the Centre. Secondly, sufficient funds were raised to commission our sculptor Nathan Scott to create an addition to the Homecoming Statue Plaza.
Announcing The Second Sailor
It is with great pleasure that we announce that next May there will be an unveiling of a second sailor at the site. This sailor will be dressed in the traditional Navy dress of bell-bottomed trousers, blouse and round cap with an HMCS cap tally. Our sailor will be seated on a bench facing the present statue and remembering his own Homecomings Past. In creating the second sailor the intention is to honour the Navy of yesteryear in addition to the Navy of today.
Finally, the Military Family Resource Centre has indicated its desire to continue the brick sales and placement of bricks at the site as a fund raiser for the centre. If you are interested, please support them and visit their site for further details.
It has been a magical year…thanks to YOU
The Homecoming Statue Project Committee