The birthplace of Canada's eighth Prime Minister, Sir Robert Borden, has officially hit the market for the first time this century. Located in the picturesque community of Grand-Pré, Nova Scotia, this historically significant property carries an asking price of $1.375 million.
A Property Steeped in Canadian History
Constructed in 1792 on Grand Pré Road, the home stands on land originally settled by New England Planters after the Acadian expulsion of the 1750s. Sir Robert Borden was born in this very house on June 26, 1854, beginning a journey that would lead him to become one of Canada's most significant prime ministers during the First World War era.
The current owners, Brian Twohey and his wife, purchased the property in 1999 and undertook extensive $800,000 renovations in 2004. "Tacky we were not," Twohey told National Post, emphasizing how their addition carefully matched the original home's architectural style.
Modern Comforts Meet Heritage Preservation
The sprawling three-acre property boasts five bedrooms and three full bathrooms, including the original birthing room where Borden entered the world, which now serves as a guest room. The residence features a built-in heated garage with double driveways and a barn overlooking beautifully maintained gardens.
While the heritage designation protects the exterior appearance—"if there's a window facing east there still has to be a window facing east," as Twohey noted—the interior has been completely modernized for contemporary living while preserving historical elements.
Connections to Canada's Political Legacy
Borden's political career saw him elected as a Conservative MP in 1896, become party leader in 1901, and serve as prime minister from 1911 to 1920. His tenure spanned monumental events in Canadian history, including:
- The First World War
- The Halifax Explosion
- The Winnipeg General Strike
- Granting women over 21 the right to vote and run for Parliament
The property maintains direct connections to Borden's legacy, with original furniture pieces and historic photographs still displayed throughout the home. One notable image shows Borden with his Union Cabinet, framed with the inscription: "These are the men."
The location itself holds additional historical significance, situated within the UNESCO World Heritage site designated in 2012 and adjacent to Covenanter Church, Canada's oldest Presbyterian church, where Borden's relatives and parents are buried.
"My wife and I loved the property because of the historical significance," Twohey explained. "That was the allure of the property. It's not because of the design of the house or anything like that, its because of who was born there."
