In its 47th year, the Niagara Foundation’s Annual House Tour showcases the finest heritage homes and sites in Niagara-on-the-Lake. Each of the properties showcased is of unique architectural or historical significance. Tour runs from 10 am to 5 pm on September 18, 2010. Tickets, for $25 each,  may be purchased by clicking here

Foghorn House - 99 River Beach Road

Historically, The Foghorn Station was a semi industrial structure built in 1904 by the Department of Marine and Fisheries Canada and operated as a warning signal for marine vessels. It remains as one of the very few original structures of its kind still standing in the country.

It is a shingle or colonial style of architecture, popular at the turn of the century, housing heavy machinery including air pumps and fog alarm until decommissioned in 1978. The building was then converted to residential use by the station keeper who also operated the two dock area lighthouses. The property was acquired by the Town of N.O.T.L. in 1982 and is an example of adaptive reuse of an industrial building for residential purposes, undergoing many changes over the years to accommodate its changing functions.

Demeath - 69 Prideaux Street

This fine Georgian home was built in 1815 by Dr. Robert Kerr in part on foundations of his previous home destroyed in the burning of the town by withdrawing American forces in December 1813.  The brick front of decorative Flemish bond features an off-centre entrance with a fan-enclosed rectangular transom; an identical doorway graces the rear of the house.  However, the present second window to the right of the front door was originally a second front entrance, presumably to Kerr’s office and surgery.  In addition to his private practice in town, Kerr (son-in-law to the famous native Loyalist, Molly Brant) was surgeon to the Indian Department, regimental surgeon, magistrate, school trustee and Grand Master in the Masonic Lodge.

Inside, the original detailed woodwork has survived; of particular interest is the fine mantelpiece flanked by alcoves in the second floor drawing room/master bedroom.  A sympathetic extension to the north was added c 1890.  The property was purchased two years ago from the estate of the late Gerald Wooll who was the first president of the Niagara Foundation.  The new owners have undertaken an extensive restoration and have added a modern kitchen, eating area and family room across the rear of the original house with unobstructed views of the terraced lawns and gardens extending down to Front Street and the Niagara River beyond.

SCANDRETT HOUSE - 87 PRIDEAUX, CIRCA 1845

Thought to be built by John Davidson the joiner and carpenter credited with producing so much of the fine woodwork in Niagara, including the pulpit in St Andrews, between the late 1820,s and early 1860’s, the home was built right on the front of the lot with its  gable facing the street resulting in a side hall layout. The later addition of a side ell and embellishments of a simple barge board with finials, drops and pendants suggests mid or later Victorian  improvements  by  a subsequent owner, possibly  John Torrance  circa 1860 or John Marchbands  Lawder in the later 1860’s.  The lacework frill about the eaves and other ornament are a slight concession to the Gothic Revival. The louvered vestibule, reminiscent of a sedan chair, is a later Victorian improvement.  This charming cottage with picturesque barn and courtyard garden has been tastefully and cleverly updated, by Mary and Sarah Scandrett, without compromising  the original ambience.

Bartolini Residence - 180 Prideaux Street

When Steve and Elaine purchased their property in Niagara on the Lake, they envisioned a relaxing country retreat for their family.  Inspired by the buildings and homes of the historic town, they hired architect John Culmone to draft a design that combined the past and present, to create a new house that would have an old world charm. John worked closely with the couple to create a home that would accommodate their needs, have all the newest features, and blend seamlessly into the neighbourhood. A fresh take on the Victorian style was conceived. The traditional double hung windows, a white siding facade, and a wrap around porch, gives the home the style and versatility they were looking for. They now have a perfect place to entertain family and friends.

Senlac House - 292 Gate Street

Senlac house is a 1990’s renovation of a 1947 house that was designed to look like an English Regency cottage circa 1830. The ceilings are nine feet throughout the house except in the living room and dining room where they are10 feet, 6 inches high. The formal living room opens on to a seasonal sunroom that was added about ten years ago to take advantage of the large and very beautiful extended garden.  The house was given the name “Senlac” because of its raised location on a berm which reminded a former owner of the location of the Battle of Hastings. In this decisive battle where Harold, King of England was defeated by the Normans in 1066, Harold took up a defensive position on a high ridge known as “Senlac”.

Railway Station - 223 King Street
 
The building was originally built around 1913, as the Radial Station for the N.S. & T. Electric Railway, providing Niagara on the Lake residents with shopping, employment and school access to St. Catharines. When the railway ceased to operate in the 1930's the building was used as a home, a dry cleaners, and as a retail store. During this time the building had been lifted, a basement added, various doors and windows added, changed, or removed, leaving only limited historic features to the present day building. Recently purchased and renovated, the owners wanted to restore the historic relevance of the building while providing a commercial space that would become a long term established destination spot in the town.
 
Balzac's Coffee Roasters was the perfect fit. They look for unique historic locations for their cafes, and with locations in Stratford, Toronto, Kitchener, and a roasting plant in Stoney Creek, Niagara-on-the-Lake was the next logical site.