WE LOVE IT HERE, YOU WILL TOO!
Welcome to Orca View Cottage.
OUR STORY
Otter Point Property (Orca View) was bought by my Grandparents Myrtle and Amell Shafer and their son (my Dad) Russell Heathman in 1943. The property had 3 buildings on it, the main house; Marge’s Manor, a second cottage; next to the large forested property to the west, that is now the trailer park and the third small cottage that was on the extreme east end of the beach. There was no electricity or running water and a well was used for water. It had a "cooler box" which was a hole in the wall with a screen on it at the shady side of the house where they kept milk and fresh produce. My Grandparents lived in the main house (Marge’s Manor) and my father; Russell, mother; Marjorie and myself (Gladys) lived in the original beach cottage until my brother Rick was born (1947).
Amell and Myrtle decided they wanted a bigger piece of land, so they sold the Otter Point piece to their son Russell, who moved our family up to the second cottage on the cliff until my sister Wanda was born (1956). Dad added on to “Marge’s Manor” front half of the house where the main bedroom is. That became the kitchen/living room. When I left (1958), they added on the piece where the kitchen and living room is.
There were only two close neighbors. One just after the beach you can see as you drive to Otter Point, the original tiny shack is still there. Two spinsters from Ireland lived there. The other neighbors were a couple from England, they lived past the property just before you get to the actual point.
The Sea was a constant fascination at the Otter Point property. The fishing, wildlife viewing and storms provided a never ending source of entertainment. There lots of cougars and deer around at that time and the government had a bounty on the cougars as they were such a problem. With two young children on the property, they were always aware of wildlife and the dangers. Amell and Dad both raised mink on property that is on the other side of the road.
There was a natural spring on the piece of land where the trailer park is called Wells o’Weary where travelers could stop and get fresh water to drink.
My mom and dad lived on the property for 50 years
MEET YOUR HOSTS
Gladys
Owner & Host
George
Host
BEHIND THE SCENES
Turina
Web & Media
Lorraine
Cleaning Service
GET IN TOUCH
Staying at Orca View on Vancouver Island is the best decision you will make if you want to relax and enjoy the highlights of this amazing island. It is the perfect place to sit back, relax and just appreciate the serene atmosphere and stunning views that will surround you. Thinking about your next holiday? Contact us now!
One of the most beautiful places we have ever been, an indescribable view.
