A Vanishing Garden of Eden Leading to a Political Resignation

Fantasy Gardens was a Richmond, British Columbia land parcel designed in the theme of a combination amusement park and Biblical Garden. It was popular as a film and television backdrop filled with sculptural religious icons bordering on kitsch. The Christian theme was implemented by owner Bill Vander Zalm who purchased the property in 1984 and sold it less than a decade later to a Chinese businessman. Vander Zalm was coincidentally the Premier of British Columbia at the time of sale and the furor over the transaction prompted his resignation. Critics claimed he employed a conflict of interest with the sale using his political position. The buyer would later sell his interest to a commercial developer. The sole remaining remembrance is a replica of Coevorden Castle, the reputed Dutch home of Captain George Vancouver. A 12-acre public park and residential condo complex called The Gardens has replaced the formerly fabled amusement grounds. The trio currently is barely noticeable as motorist’s head towards