Victoria’s Kwakiutl Bear Totem Pole Returning Home

Iconic Kwakiutl Bear Totem Pole leaves Victoria’s Inner Harbour for Fort Rupert to honor cultural traditions and preservation.

A Piece of History Moves from Inner Harbour

Victoria’s Inner Harbour will soon bid farewell to one of its most iconic landmarks. The Kwakiutl Bear Totem Pole, standing at Belleville and Government streets since 1966, is being returned to the family of its artist, Henry Hunt of the Kwakwaka’wakw First Nation. The Greater Victoria Harbour Authority (GVHA) announced the move, citing ongoing deterioration despite a 2014 repair and repaint.

Preserving the Life of the Totem

Totem poles are living artworks, typically lasting about 50 years. While they are traditionally allowed to return to the earth where they stand, the busy urban location of the Kwakiutl Bear Pole makes this impossible. Instead, the pole will be brought to the Hunt family’s property in Fort Rupert, ensuring it continues its cultural journey in a respectful setting.

Honoring Cultural Heritage

“This totem pole has helped people from around the world learn about First Nations’ art and culture,” said Stan Hunt, Henry Hunt’s son. “We are grateful that the pole has been hosted on Lekwungen territory for so many years.” The landmark cedar pole was carved in the Kwakwaka’wakw tradition to commemorate the 1866 union of Vancouver Island and mainland British Columbia.

Part of a Larger Totem Legacy

The Kwakiutl Bear Pole is one of 19 totem poles commissioned across the province, crafted by nine carvers as part of the Route of the Totems. “This totem pole has been an important part of the waterfront for decades and has been enjoyed by countless visitors and residents,” said Judith Ethier, acting CEO of GVHA. “As it reaches the end of its time in the Inner Harbour, we are honoured to return it to the Hunt family with gratitude for its enduring presence and the stories it has carried.”

Removal with Respect and Consultation

GVHA confirmed the pole’s removal will follow cultural protocols, in alignment with the wishes of the Hunt family and local Nations. In its place, a cedar planter featuring local Indigenous plants will be installed. GVHA will also consult with the Songhees Nation and Esquimalt Nation on a new Lekwungen artwork as part of a broader placemaking initiative, ensuring the Inner Harbour continues to celebrate Indigenous culture.

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