The Virginia - Moore Farm - Integrated Project Dossier (2017)

Virginia-Moore Farm has taken on many roles over the years. In the early 19th Century, she was cleared for farming. In the middle 20th century, she was turned into an equestrian centre. Along with many other additions, the fundamental calling of Virginia-Moore farm is still being preserved, as she was handed over to the National Capital Commission in 1973 to be commemorated as a time capsule that has been unearthed. The significance of the Moore Farm stable house is due to its historical associations, the value of its architectural style, and its relation to its environment. The Queen Anne Revival style of this building illustrates the conditions of the early Canadian farming culture of the late 19th century and the influence that English traditions had on the area. This style can be seen in the functional interior, the timber framework, and the H-shaped structure that has multiple gables of varying sizes. The trusses at the gable ends can be seen from the outside and feature ornamental king posts. The central cupola allows light into the center of the building. The round-headed windows also add to the character of the building. The stable’s perched location compared to the surrounding farmland remains unchanged since its construction, and its location near the downtown core of Ottawa and Gatineau adds to the environmental value of the farm. Currently surrounded by suburbs, the site provides a natural escape within the city. The structure’s striking view from the road makes it a known landmark to the local community. Starting out as primarily agricultural, the farm eventually became an important equestrian site in the region. In 1973, the Parker-Moore family donated the farm to the NCC with wishes that the estate is publicly accessible and preserved. This is the Integrated Project Dossier compiled by a group of undergraduate students of the Architectural Conservation and Sustainability Program (Engineers and architects) at Carleton University for the CIVE3207 (ARCN4100) Historic Site Recording and Assessment course in 2017.