Exploring the Historic Butter Stone Church
A Photographers Journey Through Vancouver Island’s Past
Visiting Historic Sites Near Duncan, BC
The Pull of Abandoned Places
As an outdoor adventure photographer based on Vancouver Island, I’m drawn to the stories that old, abandoned places tell. My love for history leads me into some pretty interesting spots but on this occasion it was my friend Brad that talked me into driving down to the Cowichan Valley to check it out.
A Stone Church Built from Butter
Built in 1870 by a missionary priest with a penchant for churning butter, The building would serve as a church for only a decade before being abandoned for a wooden structure less than a mile away.
The priest, Father Peter Rondeault paid the native workers for their labour by selling butter that he had churned himself - Hence the name. Father Rondeault was a true pioneer. While today society may not look fondly on a priest arriving from the east to evangelize the native population, history will remember the priest as a zealous man with an incredible work ethic.
Rondeault arrived in Fort Victoria in the summer of 1858 and set out for Cowichan with a sack of flour and his gun. He worked hard upon his arrival to build a log structure that temporarily served as a house and church for his mission. Rondeault was a man of the cloth until his death at the age of 76. Today his legacy is this old stone church that sits in ruin under the shadow of Mount Tzouhalem. Rumour has it that the original stained glass windows are still intact and at home in St. Pauls Church in Fulford Harbour, Salt Spring Island.
Exterior view of Butter Stone Church, Duncan BC
Finding the Church — Respectfully
On our first approach to the old church I followed a narrow road up a small hill. We found ourselves unintentionally trespassing onto private property. This church is unsurprisingly built on native land - Part of the reason for its abandonment in the decade following its construction. Wishing to be respectful of the No Trespassing signs (*Obligatory “You should always respect Private Property” message*) we backed down the driveway and found a different approach. A small pull-out on the main road afforded us a parking spot close to an old stone pathway up to the church.
*A quick note: I visited this property prior to the Covid pandemic and sometime since then access to the building has been restricted. I have heard that visitors are welcome after paying a fee to the property owner. Please respect the private property and obtain permission before visting.
Brad checking out the interior graffiti of Butter Stone Church, Vancouver Island
Show off your wild side with a Wild Portrait Experience
First Impressions and Reflections on European Heritage
After my travels in Britain and Portugal, where centuries‑old stone churches are common, A stone church built in 1870 hardly classifies as ancient. But on Vancouver Island, a stone structure from 1870 is rare. Places like the Butter Stone Church, or Craigdarroch Castle in Victoria, remind us why preserving our local heritage matters.
Inside the Ruins: Graffiti, Owls and Missed Shots
The church is small but sturdy for its age. There are no doors or windows left and the inside is plastered with graffiti - as most abandoned things are. We approached slowly entering through what was once the front door. Almost immediately I was startled by a commotion above when great horned owl flew from the rafters. Now alone, Brad and I took some time exploring the structure through our respective lenses. I found the building to be in remarkable condition with the exception of a gaping hole in one side.
Interior graffiti of Butter Stone Church, Vancouver Island
Capturing the Moment: Photography Notes
The usual items littered the floor - empty spray cans, broken glass and the omnipresent, always empty, cans of Lucky Lager. Once I’d documented the interior, I turned my camera on my friend Brad as he soaked in the atmosphere.
Having done all I could in the small space, I returned outside to shoot the exterior. This is one of my favourite shots from the day
Exterior view of Butter Stone Church, Duncan BC - Dylan Phillips Photography
Want a piece of history? My favourite exterior shot of the Butter Stone Church is available in my print shop .
Adding it to your home helps support local art and preserves Vancouver Island’s stories.
Visiting Tips and Etiquette
Located near Duncan in the Cowichan Valley, off Tzouhalem Road.
Park in the designated pull‑out and follow the stone path.
Respect private and sacred land; leave no trace and be mindful of the environment.
The church isn’t large, but its historical significance makes it worth a stop
Have you visited the Butter Stone Church before? Share your story in the comments!
Capture Your Own Vancouver Island Story
Exploring places like the Butter Stone Church reminds me why I love photographing on Vancouver Island. Each ruin, forest trail and coastline offers stories waiting to be told. If this inspires you, let’s plan a Wild Portrait Session together. I’ll guide you to locations that match your story and capture portraits that feel like you. Follow my adventures on Facebook or Instagram , or browse more prints and stories on my website .
