Joseph Gould’s Grand Residence

Toronto Street – Circa 1859

Seen here, the Home Of Joseph Gould which was located on Toronto Street where the Township Offices are now. Photo courtesy of Uxbridge The Good Old Days by: J. Peter Hvidsten

Joseph Gould’s grand residence, built in the 1850s, once stood as a striking example of 19th-century Ontario architecture. Located on Toronto Street in Uxbridge, this impressive home occupied a significant property that now houses the town’s municipal offices. As a prominent figure in the community, Gould’s home reflected his stature and influence, embodying the elegance and craftsmanship of the era.

The stately two-storey structure was constructed of yellow brick and featured a distinctive glassed-in cupola atop its roof, offering sweeping views of the surrounding landscape. Set back from the street and encircled by ornate iron fencing, the property exuded refinement and exclusivity. The exterior was adorned with intricate wooden columns embellished with statue-like figures, enhancing its sophisticated appeal.

Beside the main house stood a secondary two-storey brick annex, likely used for additional living quarters or utility purposes. A double-wide iron gate to the south of the pedestrian entrance facilitated carriage access, leading to barns situated at the rear of the property.

A circular driveway, accessed through an elegant gate, led to the front entrance, where a spacious covered porch wrapped around the entire building. This thoughtful design not only provided a shaded retreat but also served as an inviting space for social gatherings.

The meticulously landscaped grounds were home to mature trees, lush lawns, and vibrant gardens that flourished near the carriage entrance. These gardens supplied the Gould family with fresh flowers and vegetables, adding to the estate’s charm and self-sufficiency. From the rear of the house, one could take in the picturesque view of Wheeler’s large pond and the charming village of Uxbridge beyond, a serene backdrop that underscored the beauty of the property.

Despite its grandeur, the Joseph Gould House met an unfortunate fate. In the winter of 1961-1962, the home was demolished to make way for a playground for the new St. Joseph’s Separate School. Before its demolition, the stately residence had been occupied for eight years by three convent nuns, who departed in 1959. The decision to remove such a historic landmark was made in June 1962, marking the end of an era for one of Uxbridge’s most distinguished homes.

Today, while the house itself no longer stands, its legacy endures through the stories of Joseph Gould and his contributions to the town. The site, now a hub of municipal activity, once bore witness to a bygone era of architectural grandeur and community significance.

Read our blog post on the Uxbridge Township Office

Photo taken from Toronto Street looking east towards Joseph Goulds stately home. Photo courtesy of Uxbridge The First 100 Years by: J. Peter Hvidsten

Here you can see Jospeh Goulds home in the background of this photo taken in front of the St Joseph’s Separate School in 1961. Photo courtesy of Uxbridge The Good Old Days by: J. Peter Hvidsten