Abkhazi Garden: An Iconic Victoria Garden as a Site of War Memory

This presentation introduces the films of the War Heritage Research Initiative, and its new project on Abkhazi Garden.  The Initiative has produced over 30 films, each focused on a site of war memory and its significance to Canadian heritage. The story of Prince and Princess Abkhazi stretches across two world wars, in far-off places such as Abkhazia, Shanghai and Paris. Calling Victoria home in 1946, their story reminds us of the power of place and nature in rejuvenating the soul, and the strength to start anew. 

Bio

Dr. Geoffrey Bird is a Professor in the School of Communication and Culture at Royal Roads University. Geoff created the War Heritage Research Initiative seven years ago, producing over 30 short documentaries exploring Canada’s heritage from the world wars as free public education.  His most recent film was on CHEK TV, called Trees of Remembrance, about the Shelbourne Street.

Prior to working in the University, Geoff held various positions with the provincial and federal governments, as an entrepreneur and and consultant, as a naval officer, and as a heritage interpreter at the Canadian National Memorial at Vimy Ridge, France. He has lived and worked in Southeast Asia, Europe and across Canada. Victoria has been his primary residence for over 50 years.