A B O U T

The Bleak House

The waterfront estate property known as the Bleak House stands majestically at 495 King St West in Chatham Ontario. With its narrow width and high step for carriages, the stone porte cochere is believed to be the only remaining carriage size specimen in Ontario.

In the back yard the shore is caressed by the Thames river (Antler River or Deshkan Ziibii in the Anishinaabee language) Built between 1885 and 1887 by a prominent citizen Captain Harry Albert Patterson. H.A. Patterson was a respected lumber merchant and founder of a lumber yard located on the street that now bears his name. A freemason and politician, Patterson was active in local politics in several capacities between 1880 and 1905 including two terms as Mayor. Patterson was a founding member of the Macaulay Club, Canada’s oldest independent debating team.

Difficult times at the turn of the century created much hardship for many. Mr Patterson was unable to maintain ownership and it is believed he named the Bleak House at this time. (name taken from a famous novel of the same name written by Charles Dickens)

Over the years three additional families have called the Bleak House home, contributing to its rich history by restoring and preserving this unique treasure.

Carriage size Porte-cochère at the Bleak House