On September 30, 2015, TLC completed the transfer of Monks Point Park to the District of Tofino for its continued stewardship. The Alberni-Clayoquot Regional District continues to hold a conservation covenant on Monks Point to ensure the sites protection from development and subdivision, and allow public access. For more information please view the news release.
Captain Harold F. Monks loved the ocean. Born in Tofino, B.C., Harold grew up surrounded by water and gained a real affinity for sailing and all things nautical. But no matter how much time Harold spent on the sea, his greatest passion was for the place he called home – a beautiful 2.5-acre waterfront property near Tofino harbour.
Set high on a bluff, the property is often described as having waterfront on three sides. Harold’s house offers fantastic views of the harbour and Clayoquot Sound, while a cottage on the property looks out over Duffin Cove to the south.
As an adult he purchased the home from his parents and maintained it as his anchor to friends and family on Vancouver Island. The park-like grounds held memories of his mother in the rhododendron blooms each spring, while the home looks out on the docks where his father worked. As a sea pilot, Harold saw many places the world over and viewed this as a special place that held memories of the historic past of Tofino. Harold wanted to protect this treasure and share it with his community. Thanks to Harold’s fondness for things “shipshape”, the property has been exquisitely manicured. With its gorgeous rhododendrons, the site looks much more like a park than a residential lot.
To Harold, this place wasn’t merely a property where he lived. It was a living connection to the memory of his parents, to his friends, his community, and to people everywhere. He loved the idea that he was maintaining a place for friends to gather, share a meal, tell stories, and have a laugh. That’s why Harold chose to leave the property to The Land Conservancy of BC in his Will with the dream that “Monks Point Park” would be created for future generations to enjoy.
Sadly, Harold passed away in the summer of 2008. And while we are saddened to have lost a dear friend, we are honoured that Harold chose The Land Conservancy to make his dream a reality.
