Abandoned Ontario Gothic Farmhouse
This abandoned Ontario Gothic farmhouse was one of those properties that immediately stood out from the road. Built in the late nineteenth century, the red brick home featured classic Gothic Revival elements including steep gables, decorative brickwork, and pointed-arch windows. Although its architectural character could still be appreciated, years of neglect had taken a heavy toll on the property.
As Zenning with Zay & I approached the house, the extent of the decay was impossible to ignore. Sections of the porch had collapsed, many windows had been boarded over, and vegetation had begun to take over the grounds. The once-proud farmhouse was being slowly reclaimed by nature.
Inside, the condition of the home was even worse. Floors had been damaged, ceilings had deteriorated, and debris was scattered throughout many of the rooms. Evidence of frequent visitors was found almost everywhere. A surprisingly large number of bullet casings and shotgun shells were discovered throughout the property, suggesting the house had been used as a target range for years. It was unfortunate to see so much damage inflicted on a home that had survived for well over a century.
Despite the destruction, a few details from the past remained. One bedroom still featured some beautiful old wallpaper that had managed to survive decades of abandonment. The faded patterns provided a glimpse into what the farmhouse may have looked like when it was still occupied. Small reminders like this are often the most interesting part of exploring an abandoned Ontario Gothic farmhouse.
While the house was clearly in rough shape, enough original features remained to showcase the craftsmanship that went into its construction. Even in its deteriorated state, this abandoned Ontario Gothic farmhouse remained an impressive example of Ontario's rural architectural history.