Description of Historic Place

Located on Main Street, Shediac, the Albert Allison Dysart Residence is a two and a half storey house built in 1912, at the very end of the Victorian period. Its style reflects Victorian eclecticism.

Heritage Value

The heritage value of the Albert Allison Dysart Residence as a local historic place resides in its architectural importance. The architecture of this house reflects Victorian eclecticism, demonstrating clearly the multiple influences of this style of construction. With its square massing, typical of the Four Square design, and its pavilion roof, the house also shows some touches of the neo-Queen Anne style in its wide cornices and its verandas, and some neo-Italian influence in its central projecting tower. The amalgamation of these different stylistic influences associated with its construction period gives this property a global style that fits in with Victorian eclecticism. The quality of its interior and exterior finishing testifies to the professional success of its original owner, Dr. Harley Murray, and his family.

Heritage value is also attributed to this site because of its association with Albert Allison Dysart (1880-1962). From 1943 to 1963, this residence was occupied by the Honourable Albert Allison Dysart, Premier of New Brunswick from 1935 to 1940.

Source: Registrar's Office - Shediac Town Hall - file #15

Character-Defining Elements

The character-defining elements of the Albert Allison Dysart Residence include:
- square massing of the main section;
- pavilion roof;
- wide cornices and overhanging eaves;
- central projecting tower with its pavilion roof;
- bay windows;
- verandas and balconies;
- main entrance with sidelights;
- stone foundation;
- brick chimney;
- wood siding;
- interior oak trim;
- hardwood floors;
- oval dining room;
- stained-glass windows;
- magnificent staircase;
- three fireplaces.