Bell's Baddeck Residence now a Provincial Heritage Property
Beinn Bhreagh Hall, Baddeck, the summer home of Alexander and Mabel Bell, is now recognized as part of Nova Scotia's built heritage, ensuring the house's exterior and grounds will be conserved in nearly their original state.
The stately house and grounds have been added to Nova Scotia's provincial registry of heritage properties in recognition of the people and companies associated with them, of the house's architectural value, and the beauty of the grounds and gardens.
"I'm pleased to recognize Beinn Bhreagh Hall as a heritage property to acknowledge its ties to the community of Baddeck, and its architecture and construction," said Communities, Culture, and Heritage Minister Tony Ince. "Mabel Bell's contributions to her community, to local women and the province of Nova Scotia should not be forgotten. This recognition will help ensure that."
Mabel Bell's contributions to Cape Breton were an important factor in the decision to register the property. A well-travelled woman, she shared what she learned with the community of Baddeck during the 30 years the family summered in the community. Two of her most important innovations were the public library, which still operates in the community, and the initiation of a branch of the Victorian Order of Nurses. She also developed a home industries centre that gave local skilled craftswomen the chance to earn their first income.
Sara Grosvenor, great-granddaughter and president of the Alexander and Mabel Bell Legacy Foundation said Beinn Bhreagh Hall was more than a home for Mabel Bell.
"The gardens were a creative expression of her artistic abilities. The interior reflected her personality - bright, casual and welcoming. In the people of Baddeck, Mabel found the motivation to help empower Canadian women and children, particularly in rural areas, and encourage women to educate themselves and effect changes in various areas of society, including health, home industries, women's suffrage, children's labour and children's education."
Other factors in the decision to register the property were the builder and the architect. The Rhodes Curry Company was a prominent Nova Scotia firm known for grand homes and businesses, which completed the construction of the home in 1893. The architect, Arthur Everett, was renowned for his designs for Johns Hopkins Hospital, houses in Boston's famous Back Bay, and rambling, elegant country homes for affluent Americans.
Beinn Bhreagh Hall is designed in a modified Queen Anne style, and is an excellent example of its architectural style and construction technique.
The spacious grounds and its setting on The Point offer views of Bras d'Or Lake and the garden features plants from around the world. The house and property are now managed by trustees, whose vision and stewardship have protected the property. Their decision to seek registration as a provincial heritage property ensures the exterior, gardens and setting will continue to look as they do now.
Learn more about Nova Scotia’s built heritage.
Learn about financial support for conserving a registered heritage property.
