Description of Historic Place

John Johnston Residence is a two-storey residence that is a Maritime vernacular interpretation of Classic Revival residential architecture. It is located on Water Street in the Historic Water Street Business District in the City of Miramichi.

Heritage Value

John Johnston Residence is designated a Local Historic Place for its association with its former owners and for its architecture.

John Johnston Residence is recognized for its association with resident owners Robert and John Johnston. Robert was one of four emigrant brothers to the Miramichi and prospered within the community as a general merchant at his nearby place of business. His son John followed in the family business and occupied the family home with his siblings.

John Johnston Residence is a good example of a Maritime vernacular interpretation of Classic Revival residential architecture. It exhibits such traditional details of this style as a rectangular three bay plan, a gable roof and a front balustrade. This two-storey residence was built for Robert Johnston circa 1864.

Source: City of Miramichi Heritage Office – Beaverbrook House – Historic Places File #06-66

Character-Defining Elements

The character-defining elements that describe the Maritime vernacular Classic Revival architecture of the John Johnston Residence include:
- two-storey rectangular massing;
- three bay plan;
- low pitched side gable roof;
- narrow returned eaves;
- full façade open veranda with balustrade;
- centrally placed entrance with fanlight transom and sidelights;
- balanced placement of rectangular windows on façade;
- clad in painted wooden shingles.