George Brown House National Historic Site

Backgrounder

This was the home of George Brown (1818-1880), eminent journalist, politician, Father of Confederation and anti-slavery activist. Located at the corner of Beverley and Baldwin Streets in Toronto, the house was originally known as Lambton Lodge and occupied by Brown, his wife and three children. Built between 1874 and 1876 this substantial and distinguished residence proclaimed Brown’s status as a successful businessman. In 1976, a century after its construction, it was designated a National Historic Site of Canada for its association with Brown.

Brown was a publisher and influential journalist, who founded the Toronto newspaper the Globe in 1844. He became a prominent member of the Reform and Liberal parties, playing an important role in the years leading up to Confederation. After 1867, he continued to be active in both provincial and in federal politics. In 1873, he received an appointment to the Senate where he served until his death in 1880. He refused both the lieutenant governorship of Ontario (1875) and a knighthood (1879), preferring to retain an independent voice in public affairs.

Under the leadership of George Brown, the Toronto Globe served as a prominent platform for the expression of abolitionist sentiments in Canada. Brown was a vocal opponent of slavery and a founding member of the Anti-Slavery Society of Canada (1851), effectively organizing diverse Canadian abolition efforts during this time. The society raised funds to support the activities of its members, including those in the Underground Railroad, who guided escaped slaves to freedom. It helped former slaves to establish new lives in Canada and assisted their integration into Canadian society.

 

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