The Windsor Hotel
The Windsor Hotel, located at 901–905 Government Street in Victoria, British Columbia, is a historic building recognized as the city's first all-brick hotel. Constructed in 1858 by George Richardson, it originally operated as the Victoria Hotel and is listed on the Canadian Register of Historic Places.
Notably, the Windsor Hotel was the site of a dramatic gas explosion in 1876, which resulted from Richardson investigating a gas leak with a lit candle. The explosion caused significant damage but remarkably did not result in serious injuries.
In the early 20th century, the building underwent renovations, including the addition of a Tudor-style façade. Today, the Windsor Hotel houses various retail establishments, contributing to the vibrant character of Victoria's historic downtown.