Built: 1863
Location: 10 By Street
There are conflicting histories of this building. Originally thought to have been built in 1876 however artifacts found in the attic suggest that is was built much earlier. The current theory is that the main building was built by Benjamin Chaffey in 1863 and stayed in the family until it was purchased by the Knapp family at the turn of the century. It remained in the Knapp family for over a century (1901-2007). Passed down from Martin Knapp to his daughter Ethel Knapp and then his grand daughter Margaret Foster. Margaret Foster was born in the upstairs corner bedroom.
The main building is clearly constructed in a distinct manner with 9 foot hight ceilings on both floors. The addition was clearly done after the main house was constructed and signs of a servants quarters and along with dedicated servants staircase which were added at the turn of the century.
The build quality between the main house and the additions are clearly evident, where the main house was/is of a higher quality to that of the addition. A garage was added within the past 20 years.
From left to right: Martin Knapp (Father) Ethel Knapp (Daughter of Martin) Andrew Samuels (farm hand) and Jennie Knapp (Daughter of Martin). Date 1910, Source: https://images.ourontario.ca/lakesandislands/77017/data
