Built after 1840, 5 Clothier Street West stands on land originally developed by Lyman Clothier Jr. Local lore suggests the home was funded by the Hunters Lodge, a secretive republican group disbanded after the 1838 Battle of the Windmill. In 1843, Nathaniel Fenton purchased the property and ran it as a hotel. It later became a finishing school, where student Elizabeth Bell met and married Dr. Charles Ferguson, a doctor, pastor, and Member of Parliament (1874–1896). They moved into the home in 1897, which remained in the family until 1953.

Known fondly as “The Doctor,” Ferguson was deeply committed to the community—serving on council and the Board of Education for over 40 years. The attic housed beds for those in need; offering shelter to transients. One man stayed 13 years and became a preacher. In 1909, after tending to a woman in labour who couldn’t afford another doctor, he returned to bed and quietly passed away.

His obituary read:

“With many warm friendships such as it is given to few men to achieve… this broad-minded, active, manly man has concluded his life of great usefulness. We shall not soon see such another.”

The house was a hub for political and social life, hosting Sir John A. Macdonald and raising G. Howard Ferguson, Ontario’s Premier from 1923 to 1930. Later, it became the Stonehaven Rest Home, continuing its legacy of service.

Sources: NorthGrenville.ca & ngtimes.ca