Embedded Files
30a. Carpenter Gothic (Mahone Bay, Nova Scotia)
The Carpenter Gothic came into existence after the invention of the scroll saw. This marvelous tool permitted carpenters to create fancy gingerbread/bargeboard/vergeboard along the eaves and exotic verandahs through the creation of spindles and shaped posts.
The rest of the house is often quite plain with clapboard or board and batten used as the exterior siding.
Although the style may appear 'overdone' the end results are usually quite charming.
30b. Carpenter Gothic (St. Marys)
30c. Carpenter Gothic (St. Marys)
What to look for (clues)
What to look for (clues)
- The extravagantly decorated eaves and verandahs clearly identify the style.
- The house is normally well-painted in white with a strong colour for decoration. (I know of 3 dark green/white examples.)
- There is usually at least one gable pointed towards the street.
- Additional fancy balconies may be added to any 'flat' section.
Where to find it
Where to find it
Unfortunately the Carpenter Gothic tends to be rather rare in Ontario. They may be found in the older sections of towns or occasionally in a rural setting.
The final example, 'Edgemount' as noted in Robert Mikel's fine book 'Ontario House Styles' , overlooks Stoney Creek and and Lake Ontario from the Niagara Escarpment.
The Lee Family founded the home in 1808 and revised it in 1873.
Erland and Janet Lee later went on to be among the founders of the Women's Institution. The institutes first constitution was drafted in this house.
Mr. Mikel refers to the house as "a festive Carpenter's Gothic version of the Ontario Vernacular House".
Page updated
Google Sites
Report abuse