Backgrounder:
John R. Booth Residence National Historic Site of Canada
OTTAWA, ONTARIO, October 24, 2005 -- On behalf of the Honourable Stéphane Dion, Minister of the Environment and Minister responsible for Parks Canada, the Honourable John McKay, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Finance, today unveiled a Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada plaque commemorating the national historic significance of the John R. Booth Residence.
"The John R. Booth Residence is a striking example of a home built in the Queen Anne revival style that was popular across Canada in the years preceding the First World War," said Minister Dion. "With few of these homes remaining today, its preservation will allow future generations to appreciate this remarkable and unique part of Canada's built heritage."
Constructed in 1909 for prominent Canadian lumber baron John R. Booth, the elegant Victorian home is as impressive today as it was almost 100 years ago. Featuring two principle facades, elaborately shaped gables, ornate stone moulding and a square corner tower, the John R. Booth Residence stands out for its unique design and opulent grandeur. Located in the heart of Ottawa, the mansion exudes luxury, with an interior rich in woodwork, tapestries, sculpted staircases and Italian marble fireplaces.
The John R. Booth Residence remained in the Booth family until it was sold in 1947 to the Laurentian Club of Ottawa, a "gentlemen's" organization for socializing through dinners, dances and sporting activities. Respecting the wishes of the Booth family, the Laurentian Club maintained the integrity of the mansion by preserving its original features. Today, it houses the Laurentian Leadership Centre, a part of Trinity Western University based in British Columbia. The University remains committed to preserving the architectural integrity of the John R. Booth Residence.
"The commemoration of the John R. Booth Residence by the Government of Canada will help foster an understanding of the contribution heritage buildings have made to the development and growth of our nation," added Mr. McKay.
Created in 1919, the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada advises the Minister of the Environment regarding the national historic significance of places, people and events that have marked Canada's history. The placement of a commemorative plaque represents an official recognition of historic value. It is one means of informing the public about the richness of our cultural heritage which must be preserved for present and future generations.
Information:
Brigitte Caron
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of the Environment
(819) 997-1441
John Grenville
National Historic Sites Program Manager
Eastern Ontario
Parks Canada
(613) 545-8666 (ext. 102)
