Discover Henry House

Architectural History Preserved in Stone Awaits You

Henry House is a two-and-a-half-story stone establishment in Alberta is an excellent example of the common style in the area, with a granite façade, ironstone sides, and unique characteristics like three attic windows in the gable wall that represent 19th-century workmanship. This is a National Historic Property of Canada, a Provincial Registered, and a Municipally Registered. It is linked to the prominent personality William Alexander, who lived there from 1854 until 1864. It is placed in a historically significant residential section that provides a escape into the region's past, while its ongoing usage as the Restaurant and Granite Brewery Pub since 1968 offers a unique chance for current visitors to engage with its rich past. After exploring the historical charm of Henry House, don't forget to visit the Fort Heritage Precinct, where you can delve deeper into the region's rich history, making for a comprehensive and enlightening journey through time.

The Timeless Legacy of William Alexander Henry

William Alexander Henry was born in Halifax but raised in Antigonish. In Antigonish, he pursued a legal education, gaining admission to the Nova Scotia Bar in 1840. During the same year, Henry ventured into the realm of politics, securing a position in the Provincial House of Assembly as the Liberal representative for Antigonish. Henry's political career endured its fair share of peaks and valleys. He experienced defeat in 1843, a subsequent victory in 1847, and ascended to roles like Solicitor General in 1854 and Provincial Secretary in 1856. Notably, he transitioned to the Conservative Party in 1859. By 1864, Henry received the prestigious appointment of Attorney General for Nova Scotia.

In September of that eventful year, Henry attended the Charlottetown Conference, an experience that significantly influenced his perspective on Canadian confederation. Upon his return to Antigonish, he emerged as an ardent advocate for uniting the colonies, passionately extolling the anticipated advantages. Henry's dedication led him to attend both the Conferences in Quebec and London, England, where he played a pivotal role in the crafting of the British North American Act. Despite some Nova Scotians supporting confederation, Henry's constituency in Antigonish vehemently opposed it, causing him to lose his seat to an anti-Confederate candidate in Canada's inaugural federal election in 1867. Subsequently, Henry returned to his legal profession, only to reemerge in politics as the elected Mayor of Halifax in 1870. His illustrious career culminated in 1875 when he became one of the inaugural judges appointed to the Supreme Court of Canada.

Architectural Elegance in Every Detail

Every intricately conceived element embodies the highest standards of architectural craftsmanship. The captivating attic, snugly ensconced within the complex gable wall, provides a glimpse into bygone eras. Its meticulously designed layout, seamlessly extending from the front to the back, underscores the careful planning that went into its creation. An ornamental band above the basement serves as a testament to the exacting precision applied during construction, while substantial quoins introduce an element of robust refinement. The six-over-six double sash openings, adorned with exquisitely crafted frames, usher in natural light, enhancing the ambiance in each room. On the symmetrically arranged front facade, three openings encase an off-center front door, imparting a distinctive character to the welcoming entrance. The exterior showcases granite stone on the street-facing side and ironstone on the flanks, reflecting both enduring strength and allure. The structural elements stand as silent witnesses to history, and visiting this establishment is like stepping back in time to experience the enduring beauty of well-preserved architectural heritage.