The Welcome Pole at Lime Bay Park
On October 4, 2023, a magnificent 30-foot Welcome Pole carved by renowned artist Tom LaFortune was installed at Lime Bay Park, adjacent to the Victoria International Marina.
Commissioned by the Victoria International Marina in 2017, the Welcome Pole was created after consultations with local Esquimalt and Songhees First Nation elders and leaders. These conversations emphasized the importance of an art installation with authentic ties to the land and its Lekwungen stewards. Songhees elders recommended a Welcome Pole as the most appropriate art form for the area’s historical context.
Lime Bay, located on the traditional territory of the Lekwungen-speaking peoples, once featured gently sloping sandy beaches where First Nations welcomed visitors to land their canoes and make camp. Today, the Welcome Pole stands as a testament to this rich history.
“After a long journey, we are excited to see the Welcome Pole being raised at the Victoria International Marina,” said Chief Ron Sam of the Songhees Nation. “This project has spanned several years, and we thank carver Tom LaFortune for his dedication. We look forward to visitors being welcomed in one of our traditional Salish ways, and to the continued efforts by the Victoria International Marina to strengthen Lekwungen presence.”
Victoria International Marina CEO Craig Norris added, “We are proud to have worked with the Songhees and Esquimalt First Nations throughout the development of the marina project. We’re grateful for their support, guidance, and leadership, and are thrilled to see the Pole installed in its permanent home, a visual testament to the land’s Lekwungen origins and significance.”
Welcome Pole Description
“The 30-foot Welcome Pole begins with the grandmother’s killer whale, who entered the village to inform her grandson about canoes struggling in the outer waters. She guided her grandson to welcome them into safe harbour. Above the welcome figure is a Salish design representing past, present, and future. Further up are two otters, one with a sea urchin and the other with a large clam, symbolizing hard work, playfulness, and family strength. At the top is an eagle with wings at his side, overseeing all the daily activities in the village.” – Tom LaFortune.
About the Artist
KAtēwha‡et/Katekwa het Tom LaFortune is a proud member of the Tseycum Nation, with connections to several families whose ancestral lands are in the southern part of what is now known as Vancouver Island. He completed his first carving at just 11 years old. Over the years, Tom has created masks, rattles, paddles, dishes, talking sticks, single figures, and countless poles. He has also crafted and painted drums. Tom’s work is distinguished by its fluidity and refined use of colour.
