The Carleton facts for kids
The Carleton is a very old and famous building in Halifax, Nova Scotia. It was built way back in 1760! It was first the home of an important person named Richard Bulkeley. Besides two churches, it's the oldest building still standing in Halifax. People say some of its stones came from the ruins of an old French fort called Fortress of Louisbourg. Since 1786, this special building has been known as "The Carleton."
A Look Back in Time
Richard Bulkeley built his new house on Argyle Street. The land used to belong to Captain James Bannerman, who sadly died in a battle called the Attack at Jeddore. Richard Bulkeley made his home extra special by adding a beautiful black marble fireplace from the Governor's house at Fortress Louisbourg. It's also believed he used stones from the ruins of Louisbourg to build his house.
In the 1780s, Bulkeley often hosted important guests at his new home. These included the future King William IV of England, who later helped end slavery in the British Empire. He also welcomed Prince Edward, who was the father of Queen Victoria.
Bulkeley loved to host big parties and dinners. He held large gatherings on New Year's Day and the queen’s birthday. He also had special dinners on St Patrick’s Day and St George’s Day.
He named his home Carleton House after Guy Carleton, 1st Baron Dorchester. This happened when Guy Carleton visited Halifax in 1786. Carleton became the governor general for all of British North America. He was known for ordering the creation of the Book of Negroes. This book listed thousands of formerly enslaved people, known as Black Loyalists, who were moved from New York to Nova Scotia to find freedom.
After Richard Bulkeley passed away, his wife eventually sold the house. It was bought by Henry Hezekiah Cogswell in 1816.
Famous Visitors
Many important people visited The Carleton over the years. Here are some of the well-known guests and owners:
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Henry Hezekiah Cogswell
