Sometimes the holidays can bring throngs of tourists and visitors to museums and galleries. Sometimes people would rather stay home and relax, or go shopping for Boxing Day specials. Luckily for me the days immediately following Christmas were quiet ones for Castle Kilbride, and I could take my time and explore each highly decorated room at my leisure. Ahh Victorian Ontario.
Castle Kilbride was built in Baden in 1877 by Scottish immigrant and successful industrialist, James Livingston. The Italianate home was named after his birthplace of East Kilbride, just south of Glasgow. Livingston was best known for his empire in flax seed, which allowed him and two further generations of his family to live in Castle Kilbride in the lap of luxury.
"A tour through Castle Kilbride is a journey into the lavish Victorian Era. Castle Kilbride dominates the landscape with its clean Italianate design, towering Belvedere, rich and extravagant furnishings and most importantly, interior artistry the likes of which are unmatched in a private residence in all of Canada." (Castle Kilbride)
Had I been able to take photos, I'm sure they would have turned out similarly to this example from a professional photographer. Unfortunately, due to the delicate nature of the items on display, and the many hand-painted elements of each space, photography is not permitted.
Castle Kilbride is one of those places that's right in your own backyard, one of those places that everyone's heard of, one of those places that few have been. It can be easier (and more exotic) to travel out of town to "see the sights", but we mustn't forget about the sights close to home. Be a tourist in your hometown! You'll be amazed at what you find. If you do live in Southern Ontario (or even if you don't), I would recommend a stop at Castle Kilbride. The people in Baden are friendly, and happy to show off the jewel of the township.
Sources
Castle Kilbride 2015, "History in the Making"
Waterloo Region Generations 2015, "James Livingston, MP"
Further Reading
Trust for Architectural Easements 2015, "Glossary of Architectural Terms"
Ontario Tourism Website
No comments:
Post a Comment