The Centre Fountain - in front of the Ceremonial Entrance to the Parliament Buildings - was designed by the Victoria-based firm of Messers, Hooper & Watkins. It was manufactured by J.W. Fiske in New York in 1905 at a cost of approximately $1,400. Originally 5.5 metres (18 feet) high with four basins, the Centre Fountain now consists of a single large basin set in a circular stone pool. It is believed that these upper basins were removed when they fell into disrepair in 1921.
The iron used in the Centre Fountain's construction was originally finished in bronze and white colouring, and although these colours have faded away, the exposed iron now gives the fountain a distinctive dark colour. The fountain is also equipped with LED lights that change colour, often in recognition of special events or causes. Coins tossed into the fountain are cleaned and donated to charity.
The Centre Fountain was supposed to be relocated to make room for a statue of Queen Victoria, but never was. Arrangements were made in 1915 to move the statue to the fountain's location, although World War I delayed the statue's arrival from Britain. When it did arrive in 1919, there was a change in government and interest was eventually lost in relocating the fountain.
At the time of its construction, local residents disliked the original design and location of the Centre Fountain. Many were not impressed with its small size when compared to the impressive facade of the Parliament Buildings. Public opinion of the fountain only worsened in 1921, when it was learned that the much more popular statue of Queen Victoria would not be replacing it as the centrepiece of the front lawns. For example, on May 7, 1921, the Victoria Colonist referred to it as a "silly little fountain that is neither ornamental nor useful." It is believed that this high public dislike contributed to the removal of the fountain's three upper basins in an attempt to improve its appearance. However, public opinion has since changed and the Centre Fountain is now a popular spot for taking photos and enjoying the scenery of the Legislative Precinct.
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