he Steeves House is a charming Colonial mansion filled with light from massive
windows. The original cottage around which the mansion is built was finished
in 1812, and in 1814, William Henry Steeves was born here, the oldest of eleven
children. He became a Father of Confederation and later Senator Steeves. The
larger house was added c 1840 when William's father Joseph became rich and only
a few short years before his death. This, together with later additions, brought
the size of the house to 6000 sq. ft. (600 sq. mts.). 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 by Maria Steeves c 1834 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 c 1850. This is an early example of factory made
Cottage Furniture and was made 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 sister-in-law of William.
he
Dining Room is very authentic, with a fine pine fireplace. It features the heavy
handhewn styling so favoured by the early German settlers, and which has aged
to a warm sienna which flatters the blue tiles imported from Germany early in
the 19th century. A cousin home furnished the fine mirrors which stand above
the mantle.
