HAVILAND CLUB - 2 HAVILAND STREET | BUILT 1868-1869
Original Owner
Using the money from her husband’s estate, Esther Lowden built a home described by many as an architectural gem. The building was rumoured to have been designed by Halifax architect David Stirling, who favoured the Italianate style of architecture. The home was located in an area that became know as Dundas Esplanade. After her death, the house was leased to the United States Consul for Prince Edward Island.
Prominent Location
The building is situated on the corner of Haviland and Water Streets where many large 19th Century homes are located. At one time the American flag, at 2 Haviland St., was likely the first flag seen when visiting vessels entered the Charlottetown harbour. It flew from a thirty-foot flagpole atop the peak of the belvedere.
Design Details
The building contains a number of architectural highlights including the twin bay windows on the first floor. The second floor features interesting windows such as: round-headed windows, a roundel window, and small horizontal ‘eyebrow’ windows in the frieze. Numerous decorative brackets have been placed under the eaves. The structure is capped by an elegant belvedere. Not seen in the illustration are four large chimneys.
Current Usage
It is now the location of the Haviland Club which is an association for men and women. In addition to regular scheduled social activities; weddings, birthdays, retirements, and business functions are held on site. The building contains features such as a large lounge with a movable bar, a wood-paneled wet bar, TV room, card rooms, library, and snooker room.