Description of Historic Place

The Robert Graham house borders the downtown and an older residential area of Water Street in Peterborough. It is a single storey, brick Regency style dwelling that is recognized for its heritage value by City of Peterborough Bylaw 1997-101.

Heritage Value

The heritage value of the Robert Graham house lies in its representation of small brick houses built in Peterborough during the 1850s. It is a good example of a Regency cottage style that was built in the early settlement period of many Ontario communities including Peterborough. The house was built in 1856 for local merchant Robert Graham on land purchased from James Wallis. The
cottage was owned by the Graham family for over 60 years. It retains its original window sashes and full height basement containing the characteristic basement kitchen. The Craftsman style verandah and front gable are 1920s additions. Source: Heritage Designation Brief and City of Peterborough Bylaw 1997-101

Character-Defining Elements

Key elements that embody the heritage value of the Robert Graham House include:-the original 6 over 6 double hung, window sashes; -the full height original basement; -the three bay front facade with two pane transom and simple mouldings surrounding the main entrance; -Craftsman style porch and front gable addition; -the low hipped roof with front gable facade