Description of Historic Place

Constructed in 1883 by James Waddell, the Waddell House is located at 61 Drummond Street East near Craig Street. This house is an elegant representation of the Second Empire architectural style in Perth.

The Waddell House was designated under part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act in By-law number 2537.

Heritage Value

The Waddell House has played an important part in the development of Perth's historic downtown streetscape and is one of the original homes in the area. This 1883 building is one of only two Second Empire homes in Perth. It is a modest representation of a building style which was a major influence for public and commercial architecture during 1870 to 1890s. There are two full bay windows, a mansard roof with second-storey protruding windows. The first floor walls are yellow Perth brick. The second floor wall and roof is covered with contrasting patterned wood shingles. The light brick structure is trimmed in heritage burgundy and blue. The front door has double arched lights and a cast iron window cover. The fence along the street has been maintained, as well as the flower beds, in the English country garden style, complete with a gazebo. The modest front verandah combined with all of the above features provides a feeling of comfort to this charming Second Empire style country home.

Source: Town of Perth By-law 2537, Heritage Perth.

Character-Defining Elements

Character defining elements that define the Waddell House's heritage value include its:
- mansard roof with protruding windows
- yellow Perth brick
- two full bay windows
- double arched lights at the front door
- roof clad in contrasting patterned wood shingles
- original front verandah
- fence along the street
- English country garden with a gazebo
- location within the neighbourhood