Description of Historic Place

The Patrick McDonough House is located on the south-east corner of John Street and Dock Street in Shelburne, Nova Scotia. This two-and-a-half storey, wood frame New England Colonial style house was built around 1784. The building and property are included in the municipal designation.

Heritage Value

The Patrick McDonough House is valued for its historical association with local businessman, Patrick McDonough and for its contribution to the streetscape along Shelburne’s historic Dock Street.

The Patrick McDonough House was built around 1784 by local businessman, Patrick McDonough. McDonough operated a tavern here. As well, McDonough was a real estate dealer, victualler and tidewaiter in His Majesty's Customs for Port Roseway. By late 1789, McDonough moved to Halifax and continued as a tavern keeper.

In the early part of the nineteenth century, the Patrick McDonough House was owned by Thomas Bingay, Jr. The 65 ton schooner, the "Swallow," was built for Bingay, John and William Roxby, and others, who were importers of flour and corn from Philadelphia. Later on in the eighteenth century, the McDonough House was owned by William McLean, a one-legged sea captain. This master mariner owned the McDonough House until the early part of the nineteenth century.

This two-and-a-half storey, New England Colonial style house has been little altered and sits prominently on Shelburne's historic Dock Street facing Shelburne Harbour.

Source: Town of Shelburne, Heritage Property file, no. 9, Shelburne, Nova Scotia.

Character-Defining Elements

Character-defining elements of the Patrick McDonough House relating to its New England Colonial style include:

- two-and-a-half storey wood construction;
- moderately pitched roof with little overhang and short return boards;
- five bay front façade;
- small enclosed portico;
- moulded cornerboards;
- granite block foundation;
- wood shingle;
- six-over-six windows;
- prominent location on Dock Street facing Shelburne Harbour.