A modest farmhouse built in 1871 has officially been recognized as a heritage landmark in a ceremony that was anything but ordinary.
Now serving as the clubhouse for a thriving condominium community in Ottawa, the former Richardson family farmhouse was awarded a City of Ottawa heritage plaque this month, celebrating its architectural and historical significance. The event drew a rare and moving crowd: descendants of the original Richardson family stood shoulder to shoulder with current condo owners, city and provincial officials to mark the occasion.
Among the attendees were Kanata North City Councillor Cathy Curry, Kanata-Carleton MPP Karen McCrimmon and the City’s Heritage Planning Program Manager Lesley Collins- underscoring the civic importance of the recognition. The plaque ceremony highlighted the value of preserving heritage within modern residential developments, and the role condo communities can play in stewarding local history.
“This building has witnessed over a century and a half of change,” said Pierre Cyr, President of the condominium corporation overseeing the property. “To see it honoured not just as a structure, but as a living part of our community’s story is deeply meaningful.”
The Richardson farmhouse, once surrounded by open fields, now anchors five low-rise buildings and 70 residential units. Its transformation into a clubhouse has kept its original charm intact, while giving it new life as a gathering place for neighbours and events.
“This is more than a plaque,” said Donna Cyr, Chair of the Richardson House Committee. “It’s a bridge between past and present, and a reminder that history lives on when communities choose to honour it.”
“We feel very fortunate that the condominium board and community members have a special regard for the homestead as does the family” said Randy Richardson one of many descendants in attendance.
“This plaque tells every visitor that history matters here,” said Kanata-North Councillor Cathy Curry. “It’s a reminder that progress and preservation can and should go hand in hand.”