Laurier House

Originally built in 1878, the “Laurier House” served as the residence for two of Canada’s important Prime Ministers.Sir Wilfred Laurier (for whom the House was named) was Canada’s First Prime Minister of French Canadian descent. He lived here from 1897 until 1919. His wife, Zoe, willed the home (upon her death in 1921) to William Lyon MacKenzie King, who governed the country longer than anyone else. King lived in the house until his death in 1950. In his will, King bequeathed the home to the Canadian Crown. Touring this house was tantamount to exploring the first years of Canada’s political history. Some of the world’s most important political leaders of the time, conducted state business while here. Among the many “VIP’s” that were received as guests in the “Laurier House” were King George VI, Winston Churchill, Charles de Gaulle, Franklin Delano Roosevelt, as well as many others.The building was designated a National Historic site in 1956. For the entirety of 2017, admission to this historic homestead is free.

Having been home to Canada’s two most important politicians, the Laurier House is a beautiful Victorian mansion.

Sur Wilfred Laurier was the first Canadian Prime Minister of French Canadian heritage.

William Lyon MacKenzie King governed Canada longer than anyone else.

Our exploration of this historic Victorian mansion began with Melissa (on the left) and Sandra (on the right)...

...one of whom (i.e. Sandra) is a star in her own right. Sandra was one of the models used for the Laurier House brochure.

Off of the ground floor hallway was the Reception Room where dignitaries were first received in the mansion.

The Drawing Room was the mansion’s social center...

...while the formal dining room was used for state occasions.

Smaller and more intimate, this dining area was used for family meals.

Being the home for the Canadian Prime Minuster required a certain amount of security. This Royal Canadian Mounted Police room served as headquarters for the security force .

While formally known as the library, this room served primarily as the Prime Ministers’ office

For us, what made this mansion truly elegant was the wrap-around porch. We loved it!