The Bastion's second floor was home to Nanaimo's arsenal.
On this floor, two four-pound and two six-pound carronades were held.
The cannons were brought over by the Hudson's Bay Company in 1853, when the Bastion was being constructed.
Guns, ammunition and additional firing supplies were also stored here.
While the purpose of the Bastion and cannons were for defense, there was never an instance where they had to be used for that purpose.
Instead, the cannons were only fired in welcoming ceremonies when dignitaries were sailing into the harbour.

The second floor now holds information and exhibits on the guns of Nanaimo, as well as a timeline highlighting the building's history and construction.
The Bastion's second floor was home to Nanaimo's arsenal. On this floor, two four-pound and two six-pound carronades were held. The cannons were brought over by the Hudson's Bay Company in 1853, when the Bastion was being constructed. Guns, ammunition and additional firing supplies were also stored here. While the purpose of the Bastion and cannons were for defense, there was never an instance where they had to be used for that purpose. Instead, the cannons were only fired in welcoming ceremonies when dignitaries were sailing into the harbour.
The second floor now holds information and exhibits on the guns of Nanaimo, as well as a timeline highlighting the building's history and construction.
Nanaimo Bastion