House Histories
I own a property in the Glebe that has obviously served many different functions over the years. I'm sure the building has a long and interesting history. I would like to find out more about the history of the property.
A while back I read of a woman who does home histories. Are you familiar with her? Can you help me in getting the ball rolling. I have no idea where to start. I would appreciate any input from you.
I think the woman you are asking about is Gillian Magnan. She operates a company called House Heritage. There was an article about her by Robert Sibley in the January 10, 2005, Ottawa Citizen. She can be reached at 236-3749. I don't know anything about her, except what I read in the paper. I don't know what she charges for her services.
You could also do some research on your own. I suggest that you go down to the main branch of the Ottawa Library, and visit the Ottawa Room. They will have a complete set of Ottawa City Directories. These Directories were issued once a year, and list inhabitants of every street address in Ottawa. A caution - sometimes street names change, (for example, Pretoria Avenue was called Jane Street before 1900) and sometimes street addresses change as well. (i.e. buildings on a street are re-numbered for some reason.)
You can also go to the City Registry at the Court House on Elgin Street at Laurier, and get the records of who has been the registered owner of your house. Actually the registration records the property on which the house or building stands, not the house itself. If there is a sudden increase in property value, it is usually because something has been built on it. You will need the legal description (from your deed) of your property to do this.
Good luck! Please send me a copy of your research for the Glebe Historical Society Archives.