The Grange, Toronto

The Grange is a fascinating place to visit, and gives you a glimpse into one family's life during an era when the city was less liberal, and ruled by a small group of power-thirsty people known as the Family Compact. This was the Boulton family home, and when Harriette Dixon Boulton Smith died in 1909, she donated the Grange and its 6 acres to the homeless Art Gallery of Ontario. It was originally built in 1817 by D'Arcy Boulton Jr. on 100 acres of land. He was a member of the ruling elite, and the house became a hub of political and social life. He held several government posts, and his son, William Henry, was Mayor of Toronto four times. When William Henry died, his widow re-married to Goldwin Smith, a journalist and professor who was renowned for his entertaining. Edward, the Prince of Wales and Winston Churchill were among the many visitors. The house itself is based on life in the mid-19th-century, and the contents of each room are listed and described on boards. The pier table in the dining room caused much controvery in the family as it was actually made in America. Upstairs there are two bedrooms and a very large and impressive music room in which the endless parties and balls were hosted. Possibly the most fascinating part of the house is the servants' quarters, where a fire burns near the bake oven. Here you can also fine old exhibits confirming the riches of most of the other members of the Family Compact. Located at 317 Dundas Street West, the Grange really does make for an interesting and altogether different day out. For hotels in Canada, Global Hotels are delighted to offer the best selection and rates. Some area specific locations include: Edmonton Hotels, Montreal Hotels and Vancouver Hotels. We hope you have a pleasant stay in Canada and that you found our services useful. We look forward to welcoming you back to our sites soon. [ Toronto hotels in Toronto] - [Site Map] - [ Secure Server ] - [ Privacy Policy ] - [ Disclaimer ]