HT Homes | St. James Anglican D

2026 Holiday House Tour Homes

BASIL COTTAGE 125 PARK ST W

Built in 1860, Basil Cottage is a charming single-detached worker’s cottage that reflects the simple, practical character of early Dundas homes. The cottage has evolved thoughtfully over the years, while retaining many of its original features and its welcoming, intimate character.

A summer kitchen was added in 1872, followed by the addition of a kitchen and bathroom in 1935, bringing modern conveniences to the home. A sunroom was added in 1990, creating a bright and inviting space that complements the cottage beautifully.

Inside, original wood flooring and high ceilings provide a wonderful sense of history and character. The home is filled with a personal collection of books and art, giving each room a warm, lived-in quality. Cozy and full of charm, Basil Cottage is a lovely example of how a modest historic worker’s home can evolve with the times while preserving the character and stories of its past.

FOXBAR 7 0VERFIELD ST

Built in the 1840s and named by its original owner, Thomas Robertson, after a town in Scotland, Foxbar is a stately two-storey stone residence on a hill overlooking Spencer Creek. The house makes an impressive first impression with its central doorway, double-arched windows and masonry. The exterior is constructed of squared sandstone blocks, intricately laid—a testament to the skill of the original builders.

The house also benefits from a side porch and decks, providing inviting places to enjoy the elevated setting and views toward Spencer Creek.

In 1901, Foxbar was purchased by Frank Lennard, beginning another chapter in the home's history. For a number of years, the property was owned by Rygiel, whose institutional requirements led to changes to the interior. The panga-panga African hardwood floors were covered with linoleum, while the oak-panelled walls were covered with plastic. What might have seemed damaging at the time ultimately helped preserve these valuable original features.

Foxbar's generous proportions continue with four large bedrooms, a spacious hallway and a mezzanine. The rooms are filled with character, with chandeliers throughout, vintage clocks, rugs and paintings contributing to the home's historic ambiance. The living room retains its original moulding.

With its hillside setting, sandstone masonry, generous interior spaces and inviting outdoor areas, Foxbar is a fine example of a substantial 1840s Dundas residence. Its architecture speaks to the confidence and craftsmanship of the period, while its layered history and preserved interiors offer a glimpse into the generations who have called this remarkable house home.

OSLER HOUSE 30 SOUTH ST

Built in 1847 for William Miller, a Dundas lawyer, Osler House is a gracious and character-filled residence with an extraordinary connection to both Dundas and Canadian history. In 1857, the house was purchased by Featherstone Lake Osler, an Anglican clergyman who ran a school for children who worked in the local mills. Along with his wife, Ellen Free Pickton, they had nine children (six sons and three daughters) and went on to become one of the most prominent families in Ontario. Notably, The Ellen Osler Home, in downtown Dundas was purchased by the Osler children following the matriarch's death in 1907 at the age of 101, for the purpose of providing to women who were elderly or widowed with limited incomes. Today, under the same name it serves as a halfway house for women transitioning from federal prisons to community.

Three sons went on to have to have significant impacts on the Dundas, Ontario and indeed the world. Their second born son, Britton Bath Osler, became a legendary trial lawyer and started the Osler, Hoskins &Harcourt LLP, which is one of Canada’s largest and most prestigious law firms today. Their fifth child and forth son, Sir Edmund Osler, associated with the Royal Ontario Museum, and their eighth child firth son, Sir William Osler, renowned internationally as the “Father of Modern Medicine.” The house therefore provides a fascinating link between Dundas's early industrial community and one of Canada's most celebrated families.

Architecturally, the house retains many of the features that give a 19th-century residence its particular elegance. High ceilings, a centre-hall plan and handsome crown moulding create a wonderful sense of proportion and formality. The screened front porch offers a welcoming place to enjoy the grounds, while the distinctive front door with its centre knob adds an especially charming period detail. Radiators throughout the house are another reminder of the many generations of change the home has witnessed.

They new owners bring their own heritage and customs alive in the home. Among the most memorable rooms is the Scotland Room, a warm and atmospheric space celebrating Scottish heritage with whisky, gold-toned décor and a painting of Robert Burns. They are also strong supporters of the Dundas Valley School of Art and have filled the home with a collection of contemporary art, creating an intriguing dialogue between the historic architecture and contemporary works.

Outside, Osler House is surrounded by magnificent landscaping and mature trees. Among its treasures is a yellow cucumber magnolia tree of historical significance, adding another layer to the property's remarkable story. The gardens provide a beautiful setting for the house and make the property feel secluded despite its connection to the town.

There is an unmistakable sense of personality throughout Osler House. Historic details, family history, Scottish character, modern art and exceptional gardens come together in a home that has clearly evolved with the people who have loved it.

This is a house that oozes with character at every turn—an elegant survivor of Dundas's past that continues to be enjoyed, collected and lived in today.

ORCHARD HILL 5 0VERFIELD ST

Built in 1838, Orchard Hill is a magnificent example of an early Dundas residence, combining Georgian influence with a classic centre-hall plan and symmetrical window placement. The most striking feature of the façade is the elegant Palladian window above the entrance, an architectural detail that gives the house a distinctive sense of proportion. At approximately 5,500 square feet, the home is substantial in scale, with triple-brick construction.

The house has five bedrooms, three bathrooms and five fireplaces, four of which remain in working order. A particularly wonderful feature is the original kitchen, where history remains tangible. A kitchen trough, for example, was once used to provide water for the horses!.

In 1857, Orchard Hill was sold to the Reverend William McMurray. Following the sale, the front of the house was renovated to serve as the first rectory for St. James. The first St. James Church was built on Hatt Street in 1843.

The house is filled with details that reward careful looking. Throughout are distinctive cross-and-Bible doors, while the hallway preserves an original wall displaying framed land deeds associated with Kern, Wardell and McMurray. The dining room, with its teaset, candelabra and wall painting create a wonderful sense of the home's history.

The house was surrounded on all four sides by a verandah, which remains on the North side. The property encompasses approximately 1.5 acres. Among its outdoor pleasures is a large gunite pool, while the grounds attract an abundance of wildlife.

One of the home's unusual features is its collection of witches' hats. This is particularly fitting given that the current owner has been the Kitchen Witch in Dundas for 14 years, bringing a touch of whimsy and personality.

The owners describe the house “as lit from within”. The light in the downstairs hallway illuminates the upstairs hallway as well.

Orchard Hill is a home where history has not simply been preserved—it has been lived in, added to and given new personality over generations.

This is far more than a house—it is a piece of Dundas history, lovingly adapted over more than a century and a half into a distinctive and welcoming home.

SOUTHWOOD HOUSE 29 SOUTH ST

We are delighted to welcome you to Southwood House—a home filled with warmth, history, art, and a deep appreciation for the natural world.

A Home with a Story

Built in 2000, Southwood House was designed by architect John Stirling and built by Fred Spencer. Our home rests on land cared for by Indigenous communities, and we are mindful of the history and heritage. We continue that spirit of care through our gardens and our love of the outdoors.

We have planted some 50 trees, including native Canadian hemlocks and spruce. Our gardens have been restored with native plantings, especially in the peaceful garden at the back of the house. Four outdoor water features bring a gentle sense of calm.

Southwood is a home that continues to evolve. Recently refreshed with environmentally friendly paints, it combines comfort, character, and a thoughtful approach to sustainability. We have introduced energy-efficient lighting throughout the house, including special lighting that can change colour and mood to suit the occasion. Water purification systems, five heat pumps, induction stoves, and electric fireplaces help make our home more energy-conscious. And for a little fun, the basement has been transformed into a pub—a place to relax, enjoy a little cheer, and imagine the wonderful conversations!

Art lovers will find something special around every corner. Most of the artwork is original, created by local artists whose work brings warmth, personality, and a sense of community to our home.

Christmas is a particularly special time at Southwood. Our festive displays feature energy-efficient LED lighting, and the large illuminated balls in the outdoor trees were designed and made by John Janisse, one of the owners.

This year, one of our trees celebrates the Indigenous heritage of the land, while the other honours the history and family traditions that have shaped our lives. As you wander through the house, we hope you will enjoy the many other Christmas touches and perhaps discover a few favourites of your own.

More than anything, Southwood House is a home meant to be shared and enjoyed. It reflects our love of nature, our appreciation of history and creativity, and our belief that a home is made truly special by the warmth and kindness of those who gather within it.

It is our pleasure to welcome you. May your visit to Southwood House leave you with a smile, a warm memory, and perhaps a little inspiration of your own. To learn more about our home, visit our website: www.southwoodhouse.ca.

With warmest wishes, The Owners of Southwood House