Where Gumbo Was #434
Gumbo was visiting the provincial capital of Saskatchewan, located in Regina. It’s a nicely situated Legislative Building that’s home of the province’s government. Congratulations to George G, who recognized where Gumbo was.
(Saskatchewan Legislative Building viewed across Wascana Lake)
The Legislative Building is best approached on a drive around Wascana Lake, which offers a number of interesting perspectives of this imposing structure as you circle the lake.
The Saskatchewan Legislative Building was built from 1908-1912 in the beaux-arts architectural style, one commonly seen in Canadian public buildings of that era. To my eye it very much resembles the provincial capital of neighboring Manitoba.
I visited Regina last fall when CoVid hysteria was rampant and the interior of the building was off limits, but it is said to be attractive. I did take the time to explore the exterior and grounds of the structure.
While the building’s plans called for it to be constructed of red bricks, Premier Walter Scott decided that Manitoba Tyndall stone would give it greater grandeur, an observation with which I agree. Tyndall stone is a type of limestone rich in fossil deposits and with an interesting pattern caused by prehistoric worm tracks. The Saskatchewan Legislature is the largest capital building in Canada and a popular tourist attraction. It underwent a major renovation and restoration in the late 1960s – early 1970s.
The building is set on spacious grounds containing many flowers, shrubs, statues, and other attractions. It faces the downtown skyline of Regina across the waterfront of Wascana lake.
Across from the main entrance of the legislature is a lovely garden named in honor of Queen Elizabeth II, with a statue of her on horseback at the front of the garden, A light frost had touched the plants when I visited in mid-September, but the floral displays were still enjoyable. Here are some photos of the Queen Elizabeth II Gardens:
The park also features a statue of Premier Walter Scott, holding a document with the silhouette of the legislative building.
The legislative building and its grounds were designated a National Historic Site in 2005. It is also a Provincial Heritage Property. Next time I’m in Regina I’d like to see its interior.
