HomeLaurier House was home to two prominent Canadian prime ministers: Sir Wilfrid Laurier and William Lyon Mackenzie King. Its collection of memorabilia evokes the political life of Canada over more than half a century.
Sir Wilfrid Laurier: Canada’s First French-Canadian Prime Minister
Several rooms contain Laurier’s mementos and furnishings, harkening back to the turn of the 20th century when Canada was growing with new provinces and waves of immigrants. Laurier’s faith in his country is reflected in his famous words “The twentieth century belongs to Canada.”
William Lyon Mackenzie King: Canada’s Longest-Serving Prime Minister
The majority of the house is restored to the King era and is filled with his collections of memorabilia and gifts from around the world. His third-floor study is particularly evocative of the man who governed through the boom of the Roaring Twenties, the bust of the Dirty Thirties and the challenges of World War II.
The site is operated by Parks Canada and is open for visits year-round.
Did You Know?
- In 1896, there was no official residence provided for the prime minister. The Liberal Party purchased the home for their newly elected leader, Wilfrid Laurier.
- Lady Laurier willed the house to William Lyon Mackenzie King, who succeeded Laurier as leader of the Liberal Party.
- King received many important guests at Laurier House including Churchill, Roosevelt, de Gaulle, Shirley Temple and the Dionne quintuplets. Churchill even left behind some of his famous cigars.
- King’s study contains the crystal ball he used to seek the help of spirits in decision-making.
Location
335 Laurier Avenue East, Ottawa
Directions
Facing Parliament Hill, turn right on Wellington Street, then turn right on Elgin Street. Continue south for five blocks, then turn left on Laurier Street. Proceed on Laurier Street for approximately 1.5 kilometres (0.9 miles). Laurier House is on the corner of Laurier Avenue East and Chapel Street.
The site is operated by Parks Canada and is open for visits year-round.
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