he Steeves House is a charming Colonial mansion filled with
light from massive windows. The original cottage was finished in
1812, and William Henry Steeves was born here in 1814 as the
oldest of eleven children. He became a Father of Confederation and,
later, Senator Steeves. The larger house was added circa 1840 when
William's father, Joseph, became rich just a few short years before
his death. This, together with later additions, brought the size of the
house to 6000 sq. ft. (600 sq. meters). To add to your pleasure when
visiting this fine country home, ample parking, green lawns, shade
trees, and picnic tables are available free of charge.

he Grapevine Quilt is one of the finest artifacts in the
house. It may be seen in the master bedroom, and is an
exceptional example of the fine art of appliqued quilt making.
It was crafted circa 1834 by Maria Steeves and is her original
design. Using natural dyes made by herself from flowers,
berries, and vegetables, she created colors which are as vibrant
today as they were the day she finished the quilt. Ottawa has
recorded this quilt on microfilm as one of the finer historic
textiles in Canada.

he Lordly Bedroom Suite is another interesting artifact in
the house - a twin to one which was in the house circa 1850. This
is an early example of factory-made Cottage Furniture and was
created at the Lordly plant just outside Saint John, N.B. This is
an interesting example of the art of hand-painted woodgraining.
On the bed is a quilt made by a sister-in-law of William.

he Dining Room is authentic, with a fine pine fireplace
that features the heavy hand-hewn styling so favoured by
the early German settlers. The wood has aged to a warm
sienna, which compliments the border of early-19th century
German blue tiles. A cousinhome-furnished the fine mirrors
which stand above the mantle.