The Harrison House

A Home with History in Uxbridge

Tucked away in Uxbridge’s historic landscape, the Harrison House is a testament to the town’s rich architectural and entrepreneurial past. Built in 1873 by Henry Madill Jr., this charming 1 ½ storey home with a back kitchen and dining room reflects the craftsmanship and character of 19th-century Uxbridge.

Henry Madill Jr. was a well-known merchant in the community, operating a dry goods store on Brock Street. His investment in the home was not just a personal endeavour but a reflection of Uxbridge’s growth during that era. However, the property soon changed hands, marking a new chapter in its history.

The Harrison House – 2024

In 1861, James Harrison purchased the home, forever linking his name to the property. A harness maker by trade, Harrison ran a successful business on Main Street in Uxbridge for two decades. His craftsmanship in leatherwork was essential to the thriving equestrian and farming communities of the time. The Harrison family’s presence in the home solidified its reputation as a place of industrious spirit and community involvement.

Decades later, in 1949, the The Harrison House found itself at the heart of another significant transformation. Mrs. Alma Soper opened Cedarlea Maternity Home within its walls, offering a vital service to expectant mothers in the community. Operating for seven years, Cedarlea Maternity Home was a beacon of care, welcoming new life into Uxbridge and providing comfort to families during an important time in their lives.

The Harrison House remains an integral part of Uxbridge’s heritage, standing as a symbol of the town’s evolving identity. From its early days as a merchant’s home to its role as a maternity facility, the house has been a cornerstone of both business and family life. Today, it continues to remind us of the many layers of history that shape the community we know and love.

As Uxbridge continues to grow, preserving landmarks like the Harrison House ensures that the stories of the past remain woven into the fabric of the town’s future.

Read about other historic homes in our Uxbridge Historic Home Blog.

Source

The Township of Uxbridge Heritage Register.