God’s Acre Cemetery Green Space is in the seaside community of Esquimalt, one of thirteen communities in the Capital Regional District of British Columbia. This military site is a National Historic Site and has guided tours with the Old Cemeteries Society of Victoria. It was previously known as the Royal Navy Cemetery. This beautiful place has several mature trees and is surrounded by the greens of the Gorge Vale Golf Course. Take in the towering arbutus and cedars. Enjoy a stroll under the cherry blossoms in springtime with glimpses into our country’s history. The interred, dating back to eighteen sixty-eight, are located near the twelve hole. Sir Frederik Seymour, the first Governor and Commander-In-Chief of British Columbia rests here. Cherry, birch, pine, Douglas fir, and Garry oak provide shade over the delightful chapel, built of teak, camphor, ironwood and mahogany. Stroll near the columbaria surrounded by fern, shrubs and snowberry shrubs along the woodland trail, composed of a crushed granite surface. There are several benches for restful moments. Colville Ball and Field parks, Rockcrest Nature Area, Lugrin Park, Wurtele Park and Rockheights Park area nearby.
Geographical Location N48º 26’ 29” W123º 24’ 46”
God’s Acre Cemetery Green Space can be reached from the Trans-Canada Highway when you turn southward onto Tillicum Road. Follow Tillicum to reach Colville Road. Turn right onto Colville Road and continue to Veterans Way. Follow Veterans way to reach the small gravel parking area beside Colville Ball Park and the Base Hospital. Continue on foot about two hundred meters along the asphalt road through the gate, with caution, and across the golf course green. Be wary of errant golf balls. There is very limited parking near the chapel. City buses travel along Colville Road.
Additional information can be found at
Heritage Cemeteries of Victoria, B.C. at https://www.oldcem.bc.ca/cem.htm and
Walks in Your Backyard 