Ardgowan

Ardgowan is a Victorian house in Parkdale featuring Gothic Revival architecture with ornate veranda trim and original windows in an H-shaped layout. The residence sits on substantial grounds with landscaped gardens and open spaces.

William Henry Pope, a Father of Confederation, lived here from 1854 to 1873 and hosted political gatherings at the house. The residence became a meeting place during the 1864 Charlottetown Conference that shaped Canada's path to unity.

The house shows how important political figures on the island built their homes during a time of major national change. You can see the architectural tastes that were popular among the province's leadership in that era.

The grounds are open for visitors to walk around and explore the exterior and gardens. The building interior currently functions as offices for Parks Canada, so check ahead about what areas you can access inside.

This is the only documented home of a Canada's Founder that was actually lived in during the 1864 conference that created the country. It offers a rare glimpse into daily life during that critical moment in Canadian history.