In 1780, Nova Scotia's Lieutenant Governor, John Wentworth resided on these grounds. In 1794, Prince Edward, Duke of Kent arrived in Halifax to command the garrison. Wentworth then lent the estate to him, where he and his French mistress, Julie St. Laurent (born Thérèse-Bernardine Montgenet ) lived. Edward turned the grounds into heavily landscaped pleasure gardens, built ornamental temples, waterfalls, a grotto and a pond.
The retreat was the social center of the colony for the local elite, and activities included garden parties, picnics, concerts, and winter skating parties on the pond after sleigh rides from Halifax.
By the 1950s, all that remained of the original estate was the muddy pond, and one decorative temple; the round music rotunda.
Thank you for your kind words. I think it would make a better photo in the summer when the leaves are on the trees and the sun shining on the building. It is located next to a busy highway (which I had to cross) because I did not want the power lines in the shot.
@cgribben
Thanks Charleen. How exciting for you to be planning a trip to my wonderful province. There is lots to see and much history in Nova Scotia. I'm sure you won't be disappointed. :)
Thank you for your kind words. I think it would make a better photo in the summer when the leaves are on the trees and the sun shining on the building. It is located next to a busy highway (which I had to cross) because I did not want the power lines in the shot.
Thanks Charleen. How exciting for you to be planning a trip to my wonderful province. There is lots to see and much history in Nova Scotia. I'm sure you won't be disappointed. :)