Along with Quebec, New Brunswick and Nova Scotia, Ontario is one of the original provinces, and in 1867 it formed part of the federated colony which was to become a sovereign nation. Although not known for its architectural qualities and still quite young compared to it’s global, sovereign confederates, Ontario is home to some of Canada’s oldest and most unique structures.
Among these historic and celebrated structures is Dundurn Castle, the 18,000 square-foot neoclassical mansion located on York Boulevard in Hamilton Ontario. The castle was raised over a period of 3 years -ending in 1835 – and its construction costs totaled $175,000; equivalent today to over $6,000,000. Established at the former site of a British military encampment, the castle’s heritage and stunning masonry façade overlooks the city of Hamilton, while the back graciously faces Burlington Bay.
Hamilton’s masonry marvel is situated on grounds which feature many historically and architecturally significant structures; their heritage value lying in their Italianate, Gothic revival and Classical style design and in the prominent politician and businessman, Sir Alan Napier MacNab for whom they were built. The prominent and picturesque qualities of the buildings and landscape include the 19th century front entrance gates which were originally imported from England and the stone pillars which were cut from the Dundas Mountain.
Purchased by the city of Hamilton in 1900 and receiving a significant investment for the renovation of its brick construction, the castle’s halls and rooms along with their characteristic panoramic views are now open to the public.
Hamilton’s ancient architectural implications extend to the English Gothic style St. Paul’s Presbyterian Church: designed by one of the founders of the Canadian architectural profession, William Thomas. Receiving his architectural training in England, the Anglo-Canadian architect was renowned for designing some of the finest decorated Gothic 
Revival architecture in Canada. St. Paul’s Presbyterian Church – erected over the years from 1854 to 1857 – boasts a spire that now towers over neighboring structures at 180 feet, and the church holds the title for the highest steeple sculpted entirely out of stone in Canada.
Features like the cut-stone masonry and meticulously-proportioned buttresses which reinforce the corners of the tower contribute to preserving its provincial and municipal heritage. With most of the church’s grey limestone being sourced from Hamilton’s quarries, it is regarded as one of Hamilton’s finest masonry buildings, and was federally designated as a National Historic Site in Canada.
Hamilton’s lands bear some of Ontario’s richest stone-cut masonry formations, dating back to the early days of Canadian settlement, and confederation. With many locations being designated as National Historic Sites, the city has dedicated considerable resources to maintain, repair and restore its historically significant masonry structures.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- What is Dundurn Castle and why is it significant?
- Dundurn Castle is an 18,000 square-foot neoclassical mansion built in 1835 in Hamilton, Ontario. It is significant for its architectural style, historical heritage, and its connection to Sir Alan Napier MacNab, a prominent Canadian politician and businessman.
- How much did it cost to build Dundurn Castle, and what would that be equivalent to today?
- The construction of Dundurn Castle cost $175,000 in the 1830s, which is equivalent to over $6,000,000 today, reflecting its grandeur and historical importance.
- What architectural styles are prominent in Hamilton’s historic structures?
- Hamilton’s historic structures feature a variety of architectural styles, including Italianate, Gothic Revival, and Classical, each contributing to the city’s rich architectural heritage.
- What is unique about St. Paul’s Presbyterian Church in Hamilton?
- St. Paul’s Presbyterian Church is renowned for having the highest steeple made entirely of stone in Canada and is a prime example of English Gothic Revival architecture designed by William Thomas, a pioneer in Canadian architecture.
- How are Hamilton’s historic buildings preserved?
- Many of Hamilton’s historic buildings are federally designated as National Historic Sites and undergo regular maintenance, repair, and restoration to preserve their structural integrity and historical value.
- Why are Hamilton’s historic masonry buildings important to Canadian heritage?
- Hamilton’s masonry buildings are important to Canadian heritage due to their historical significance, architectural beauty, and their role in representing early Canadian settlement and confederation, making them key sites of national pride and historical education.
