AGENDA

McLean House Celebrates 70th Anniversary

McLean House reached a landmark earlier this year. It has been seventy years since construction began on the Georgian style revival mansion, regarded as one of Ontario's finest examples of this type of architecture.

McLean House was created by the innovative Canadian architect, Eric Arthur a professor of architecture at the University of Toronto. In 1929 Arthur was commissioned by J.S. McLean to design a unique home for his family.

J.S. McLean was the President of Canada Packers Ltd., but is perhaps best known for his contribution to the arts in Canada. He was an avid collector of Canadian paintings, displayed proudly throughout his magnificent home.

McLean's philanthropy continued beyond the confines of his home to the post-World War II McLean Foundation devoted to the assistance of educational, cultural and charitable works in Canada.

McLean House has enjoyed a remarkably versatile existence. In 1967, the University of Toronto expropriated McLean House. The mansion became a clinic facility for the Donwood Institute for almost twenty years. In 1985, McLean House was converted into the splendid social and conference facility that it is today.

If J.S. McLean were to walk in the front door today, he would find few structural changes at McLean House. Aside from the subtle interior modifications required to convert a residence into a special events and conference facility, McLean House has undergone minimal changes. It has experienced little impact from development occurring on nearby lands. Even the Coach House, has weathered the past seventy years with dignity and remains an architectural gem in its own right.

McLean House entered its seventh decade in style. Much of the mansion and the adjacent Coach House were refurbished earlier this year for the 70th anniversary. Managing Director Kirk Brady ensured the integrity of the beautiful mansion and Coach House was maintained. "It is critical to maintain the sense of history in one of Toronto's architectural landmarks," says Brady.

"I believe my father would agree that the house is being put to good use," remarks Bill McLean. Celebrate seventy years of memories and philanthropy by hosting your next social or corporate event at McLean House.