A tour down Queen Street in Georgetown reveals a number of majestic buildings boasting
exquisite architecture. They are landmarks that transcend time and can be enjoyed to greatest effect by walking slowly past, rather than driving by. The expansive front lawns draw your eye toward the inviting entryways of these historic wonders.

If you pause, a hint to ghosts of tenants past whispers in the leaves of the massive trees that pepper the yards and gardens. Close your eyes and you will be transported back in time to the late nineteenth century when these wonderful homes of new brick and scrubbed stone were a symbol of their owner’s prosperity.

1. 6 Queen Street
Built between 1922 and 1934, this sturdy stone home boasts tall, looming lines and impressive bay window, in keeping with the Gothic Revival architectural style. Clearly, attention to detail and quality craftsmanship have withstood the test of time.

2. 8 Queen Street
This stone house was built in 1906-7 for George Ramsden, a local druggist.
Ramsden owned the house for 3 years
then sold it in 1910 to Fredrick Near. At
one time you could see the old carriage
house that was used as a barn to stable
Steens Dairy horses.

3. 14-16 Queen Street
Another example of Gothic Revival architecture, these homes were built
about 1890. The elegance of the high pitched roofs and the tall narrow windows command a presence on the street.

4. 18-20 Queen Street
Both homes were built around 1900 using Gothic Revival architecture. The brick beauty
at #20 Queen has a tasteful display of
gingerbread and is believed to have been
built by Edward McCannah owner of
Grey Vernon at 5 Albert Street.

5. 22-24 Queen Street
Appearing like twins in the landscape, these two imposing buildings are almost identical. Although there have been changes made recently to reflect the individuality of their current owners, the houses have the same basic shape and footprint. Built in 1900 by Edward McCannah, the irregular roof and asymmetrical layout are indicative of the Queen Anne architectural style..

6. 26 Queen Street
A distinctive addition to the street, this genuine log house was built in 1900. Constructed from timber harvested from a dismantled railway trestle, Edward McCannah created something truly unique. The stone porch enhances the entrance to this massive home.

7. 48 Queen Street
Francis Barclay, a dry goods merchant, purchased the lot at 51 Edith Street in November 1857 from William Barber and James Young. Barclay built the house and employed William Watson who was the leading plasterer in town. The intricate brick pattern was skillfully created using the triple Flemish bond technique, which was also used on Francis’s business, Barclay Block, at Mill and Main where the Royal Bank now stands. Adding to this home’s distinctive features is the intricately designed 1859 porch.

8. 50 Queen Street
One of the earliest homes built on this street, it is believed that Thomas Bailey constructed this house in 1875. The veranda, steep pointed gables and decorative gingerbread make it a lovely example of Gothic Revival architecture.

9. 56 Queen Street
Known as Grandview House, this superb house was originally a single family dwelling constructed in 1880 for G.S. Goodwillie by building contractor, William Watson. Grandview was a three storey mansion with 34 rooms. Among them, a reception room off the entrance hall, a front and rear parlour, wine room and spacious dining room. With 12 foot ceilings throughout, the second floor housed the library with book-lined walls and a billiard room could be found on the third floor. The house was often described as a small hotel. The expansive grounds included tennis courts, a bowling green, a large stable, and a race track. In 1905, Grandview House was sold to glovemaker H.T. Arnold who then sold it to Samuel MacKenzie. The house was
converted to apartments in 1937.

10. 5 Albert Street
The house at 5 Albert Street was known as Grey Vernon and was the
home of landowner, Edward McCannah. Once considered the most attractive house in Georgetown, Grey Vernon actually faces Queen St. and had a commanding view of Wilbur Lake before it was drained. Edward McCannah, who at various times owned most of the land bordered by Guelph, Queen, McNabb and Albert Streets, had this home built in 1889. Arches over windows, steep roof, and gingerbread embellishments are some architectural elements consistent with the Queen Anne style of building. There was once a large circular driveway now occupied by 10 and 12 Queen St. When McCannah died in 1938 the house was converted to
apartments.

Click here for a map of the Yellow Walking Tour

Part of the beauty of Georgetown is its eclectic mixture of new and historical buildings giving us opportunities to pause and reflect on what has come before and hope that the best of what we’re doing today might also be preserved.
Credit: Georgetown Urban Inventory.