In celebration of Black History Month, the Sidney Museum will feature a special exhibit that highlights the history of Black pioneers on the Saanich Peninsula.
Created in partnership with the BC Black History Awareness Society, the display will run from February 1st to 28th.
In 1858, James Douglas, the first Governor of the Colony of British Columbia and Governor of the Colony of Vancouver Island, invited San Francisco’s Black community to move to Vancouver Island.
Among the first to answer that call were the ancestors of Jennie (née Anderson) and Frederick Clanton.
The display provides visitors a glimpse into the Clantons family’s life in Sidney during the 20th century, where they raised eight children, played active roles in local organizations, and regularly participated in community gatherings.
“BC has such a rich history of Black people that have and continue to contribute in many areas,” said Jamila Douhaibi, Executive Director of BC Black History Awareness Society.
“We look forward to visitors finding out more about the Clanton family and other local Black history.”
In addition to the Clantons, the exhibit also highlights Jennie’s family, who settled on Salt Spring Island, and the Clanton’s eldest daughter Verna, who married into a Central Saanich family.
Don’t miss the chance to explore this important chapter of the Saanich Peninsula’s history at the Sidney Museum starting February 1st.
Black Pioneers on the Saanich Peninsula
- Where: The Sidney Museum, 2423 Beacon Avenue
- When: February 1st to 28th – times vary
