Historical site

This grand estate was the home of Sir William Mackenzie, best known as co-founder of the Canadian Northern (National) Railway.

Sir William Mackenzie was born in Kirkfield in 1849. Born in a log cabin with mud floors, he rose from total poverty to become one of the wealthiest men in the country. Along with his partner Sir Donald Mann, Mackenzie was the only private individual to build and own a transcontinental railway.

He transformed early Toronto by electrifying the system of horse-drawn trams to create the first streetcars.

The Kirkfield property was Sir William’s country estate from 1888 till his death in 1923. He and Lady Mackenzie raised nine children here.

From 1927 to 1976, the property was owned by the Sisters of Saint Joseph; they organized St. Margaret’s School and Convent here.

Mackenzie House is located within 13 acres of woodland and gardens and has been recognized as a historical site by Parks Canada.

Photos: Vlad Umnov