10 Facts About Robert Beaven

Robert Beaven, son of James Beaven, was a British Columbia politician and businessman.

Robert Beaven entered business in Victoria, which was then the capital of the Colony of Vancouver Island.

Robert Beaven was elected to the provincial legislature in 1871, the year of union with Canada, and served in the cabinets of De Cosmos and his successor George Anthony Walkem as chief commissioner of land and works.

Robert Beaven was accused by the opposition of corruption and was criticised for not opening up land for settlement quickly enough as well as running up the deficit.

Robert Beaven was in opposition during the government of Andrew Charles Elliott but rejoined the government when Walkem became premier for a second time in 1878 and became minister of finance and agriculture.

In 1882 Robert Beaven became premier of the province but many of his supporters were defeated in the subsequent July election and Robert Beaven ruled with a minority.

In January 1883 Robert Beaven attempted to introduce a legislative program but his government was brought down by a Motion of No Confidence and he resigned on January 29,1883.

Robert Beaven remained an MLA and leader of the opposition until 1894 when he lost his seat in an election after having served in the legislature for twenty-three years.

Robert Beaven served three terms as mayor of Victoria, British Columbia in the 1890s.

Robert Beaven died in 1920 and was interred in the Ross Bay Cemetery in Victoria.