Primrose Hill Manor: the history of the Janetville mansion

non-fiction

with photos by: Paulette Sopoci and Captive Camera

Packed with gorgeous photos of every incredible detail, this coffee table book tells the story an unexpected Italianate villa in a small village in the middle of rolling countryside in rural Ontario. Who built it? Who lived there? What happened to them?

An 1885 Italianate Victorian home built by a doctor in the rural Ontario village of Janetville, Primrose Hill Manor is a house that has not only stood the test of time but has also become a beloved landmark, cherished by all who have had the pleasure of witnessing her grandeur.

Inside these pages you will find more than just a chronicle of a house; you will find a bridge connecting the past to the present, the historical significance and timeless beauty of this architectural masterpiece. From its role as a doctor’s house to the preservation of original features, this home embodies a legacy that is meant to be shared with the world.

Over the years the house has had 11 owners, each with their own family story told in this book. With its Scottish foundation stone and ruby flash glass, the house has been known by many names– Manverston Hall, Manvers Hall, Janetville’s Casa Loma, the Doctor’s House, and most recently as Primrose Hill Manor– but has always remained iconic.

Step inside the front door with this photographic tour of the house’s features and gorgeous architecture and nearly 140 years of history.

Owners have included:

the Allan family from Fogo, Scotland who had the house built, incorporating exquisite details and craftsmanship, before falling from grandeur and aristocracy
the Nasmyth family, who rose from middle class to opulence during the railroad boom
the Davis family, descendants of the Davis Dry Dock Company, famed builders of luxury steamships

Product:

152 full-colour pages

8.5″ x 11″ coffee table book

hardcover

RELEASE DATE: November 1, 2024