Kildare House was built in 1899, in the Second Empire style, as the home of Sir James W. Woods and his family, then substantially enlarged around 1912. It was named after St. Ambroise de Kildare in Quebec, where he was born. James W. Woods (1863-1930), a prominent financier and philanthropist was knighted in 1915 for his wartime industrial work. Woods was a key member of the lumber industry as well as canvas supplies. His gear outfitted many vital expeditions of the early 20th century. The “Woods” brand name still exists today in outdoor and sporting goods retail. http://www.woods.ca/content/microsites/woods/en/woods-legacy.html adlocation=SeeMore_SeeOurLegacy_WoodsLP_en
In 1933 Kildare House became a retreat for nuns, then served as a barracks during the war. Later it became home to the Canadian Hunger Foundation and various offices. In the fall of 2016 it was sold and interior restoration work began. Today it serves as offices, many in health and wellness.
Additional Information:
In 1933 Kildare House became a retreat for nuns, then served as a barracks during the war. Later it became home to the Canadian Hunger Foundation and various offices. In the fall of 2016 it was sold and interior restoration work began. Today it serves as offices, many in health and wellness.
Additional Information:
- www.ash-acs.ca/history/james-w-woods/
- www.thememoryproject.com/stories/2738:eleanor-cowburn/
- www.torontopubliclibrary.ca/detail.jsp?Entt=RDMDC-TSPA_0107526F&R=DC-TSPA_0107526F&searchPageType=vrl