16. Early Gothic Revival

            16a. Early Gothic Revival (Kingston), 'Elizabeth Cottage' (1841-1843)

There are a few different 'varieties' of the famous Gothic Revival houses. The Early Gothic Revival is definitely one of my favourite styles. It also happens to be rare!

The beautiful example above is the renowned 'Elizabeth Cottage' on Brock Street in Kingston. You can see the vast number of Gothic Revival decorations that adorn this house.(The building is sometimes referred to as a 'Regency Gothic'.) The Elizabeth Cottage has also been alluded to as "a bit of romantic whimsy".

The second Early Gothic Revival is called Auchmar House (1852) and is located on Hamilton 'Mountain'. There is an interesting history that goes along with the building and its builder, Isaac Buchanan. For those history buffs among you I have photographed two of the plaques that are at the front of the house.

               16b. Early Gothic Revival (Hamilton), 'Auchmar'

     16c. Auchmar details

                           16d. Auchmar details                                          

What to look for (clues)

• Houses are asymmetrical and rambling.

• A number of different window shapes; each with its own moulding. May include a 2nd story bay window (oriel).

• Portions of the roof or even a bay window may have battlements.

• A dull gray stucco appears common.

• Fancy bargeboards (gingerbread) appears on the edge of the gable ends along with wooden drops or finials at the high points and corners.

            16e. Early Gothic Revival (Elora)

I recently came across this this structure in Elora. For most of the year it is hidden behind rather dense foliage. I believe that it is also an Early Gothic Revival but so far I have no details about it.

Where to find it

I really can't say! The Elizabeth Cottage is in an urban setting in Kingston. Auchmar House was originally perched on the Niagara Escarpment overlooking Hamilton (but is now absorbed within that city. The Elora building is by a ravine in a small Ontario town.

If you are aware of any other Early Gothic Revivals in Eastern Canada, please send me the address. A picture would also be very welcome.

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