Generations Past

In 1897, a prominent Nova Scotia businessman built Kingsbrae Arms as a summer “cottage” for his family. He and his wife had lived for many years in Shanghai where he owned a fleet of cargo boats loading and unloading trade from foreign ships. His daughter, Florence, created a salon for artists, poets, writers, and statesmen during her summers in residence and was herself, well versed in Chinese art and culture. This historic photo presents her surrounded by some of her beloved treasures in the parlor of Kingsbrae Arms. You can read an account of her passion for flowers on our blog. Through the years, this gracious “cottage” has hosted a number of prominent guests from around the world including all the Premiers of Canada.