Loyalist House, located in uptown Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada, is a museum and National Historic Site. This house was the residence of the prosperous Merritt family from the time it was completed in 1817 until 1958. The Merritt family were United Empire Loyalists who originally hailed from Rye, New York. They landed in Parrtown, New Brunswick in May 1783, along with approximately 6,000 other loyalists, after fleeing the American Revolution.
The Loyalist House museum occupies most of the two main floors of the house, with other areas serving as office space and storage. The museum is furnished with numerous examples of high-quality Georgian and Victorian furniture, sourced from the collections of the New Brunswick Historical Society, the New Brunswick Museum, and Kings Landing Historical Settlement.
Loyalist House is open during regular business hours from Loyalist Day, on May 18, until the beginning of September. However, it extends its opening hours for cruise ships well into the autumn. Guided tours of the house are available at all times, providing visitors with a detailed insight into the lives of the Merritt family and the wealthy residents of Saint John during the 19th century.
History & Anthropology Historic house
120 Union St, Saint John
No exhibitions in Loyalist House have been found.
Loyalist House has 1 rating.
Loyalist House in Saint John, Canada, is a well-preserved historical site that offers visitors a glimpse into 19th-century life. The Georgian-style home, built in 1817, stands as one of the oldest buildings in the city and has survived various historical events, including the Great Fire of 1877.
Visitors generally appreciate the authenticity of the house and its period furnishings, which provide an accurate representation of upper-middle-class life during the Loyalist era. The museum's volunteer guides are often praised for their knowledge and enthusiasm, offering informative tours that bring the history of the house and its inhabitants to life.
The house's architecture and interior decor are notable points of interest, with many guests commenting on the well-maintained condition of the building and its artifacts. The small size of the museum allows for an intimate and detailed exploration of each room.
However, some visitors note that the museum experience is relatively brief, and those expecting a larger or more elaborate site might find it somewhat limited in scope. Additionally, as with many historical houses, accessibility can be an issue for visitors with mobility challenges due to the narrow staircases and multiple levels.
Overall, Loyalist House provides an educational and engaging experience for those interested in Canadian history and period architecture. While it may not be a extensive museum, it offers a focused and authentic look at a specific slice of Saint John's past.
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