Urgent Appeal to Save Emily Carr’s Historic Home in Victoria

UPDATE: An urgent plea has been made to save the historic House of All Sorts, once home to renowned artist Emily Carr, as its condition deteriorates. Owner Peter Wills is calling for immediate provincial funding to preserve this cultural landmark located at 646 Simcoe St., Victoria, British Columbia.

The 112-year-old residence, built in 1912, is more than just a house; it represents a significant piece of Canadian history. “This property isn’t just a house, it’s a living piece of Canadian history,” Wills stated. He emphasized the need for urgent repairs, including a new roof and stabilization of Carr’s original paintings on the ceilings, which could cost an estimated $100,000.

Unfortunately, years of deferred maintenance due to a lack of funds have left the property in disrepair. “We’ve worked hard to preserve it and share it with the public, but it’s unaffordable and we can’t do it alone,” Wills lamented.

This privately owned home, adjacent to Beacon Hill Park, was purchased by Wills’ grandmother and designated as a historic site in 1974. However, with the weight of its heritage designation comes significant financial responsibility. “It comes with a lot of costs far and above what a homeowner in Victoria and British Columbia would have,” Wills explained.

Wills highlighted the potential of the House of All Sorts to attract visitors akin to other renowned sites like Bob Marley House and the childhood homes of The Beatles. He believes that with adequate funding, the site could achieve greater recognition and appreciation. “I want to restore it but I get zero funding from the province,” he asserted.

In response to the financial challenges, Wills is not seeking a handout but has proposed a solution: a short-term rental exemption to generate income for restoration efforts. “I think that’s a fair ask. That would allow me independence for financial funding and it would allow me a little bit of a budget to actually restore the property and maintain the property,” he said.

As the situation develops, Wills hopes that the province will recognize its moral and ethical obligation to support the preservation of Carr’s legacy. Visitors often walk by the site, yet many remain unaware of its significance. “It’s a bit unknown to many,” he noted, calling attention to the stories of Carr’s life and work that are captured in her book, “House of All Sorts.”

The urgency to act is clear as the future of the House of All Sorts hangs in the balance. Wills is committed to preserving this vital piece of history, and advocates for immediate support to ensure that Emily Carr’s artistic spirit continues to inspire future generations.

For more information about the House of All Sorts and efforts to preserve it, visit houseofallsorts.com.