WATCH: His credentials include a Guinness World Record and 21 years of modelling. Now offers are pouring in to give Howard, the world’s tallest gnome, a new home. April Lawrence reports.
Not long after Bridget Matewish made a public plea for a new home for the massive gnome her grandfather built in Nanoose Bay, offers started pouring in.
“We’ve had a few really interested parties that have specifically reached out and are very interested him,” Matewish said.
Matewish was recently told by the gas station owners where Howard, the world’s tallest gnome, is located that he would be torn down by April due to his state of disrepair. Now suggestions have started pouring in.
Some think he deserves a prominent spot at Clover Point on Victoria’s waterfront or as a replacement for the current sculpture outside Save-on-Foods Memorial Centre.
Others have suggested in front of Victoria City Hall where a Sir John A. MacDonald statue was removed.
Oak Bay Police are weighing in, saying Howard would be great at calming traffic.
Beacon Hill Children’s Farm has been nominated as a potential home, but operator Lynda Koenders say Howard isn’t a good ‘fit’.
“We’re only 3/4 of an acre so we’re already jammed to the rafters as it is,” she said.
There is another farm, known for its wild and quirky displays, thinking about calling Howard up.
“Right away my wheels started spinning and here we go,” said Rob Galey, owner of Galey Farms in Saanich.
Galey used to live across the street from Howard and says he’s heading to Nanoose Bay Wednesday to check him out.
“He would absolutely blend into the crazy themes around here, he’d be very welcomed,” he said.
The family of Howard’s creator admit they’d love to see him stick closer to home, in the Oceanside area.
Pauline Nelsen thinks her unique antique shop and RV park overlooking Coombs junction, Treasures Curious and RV Park, would keep him in the public’s adoring eye.
“It’s different it’s fun, just like to have fun,” she said.
You don’t have to pay to bring the gnome home, but he does need a major makeover including power washing and a full paint job.
Matewish would like to see him at a public place like a corn maze, mini-golf course, or maybe even the Coombs Old Country Market.
For fun, we put Howard the Gnome at some different locations. Share your own ideas on our Facebook post here or email [email protected].
April Lawrence
