Dominion Observatory

The Dominion Observatory is a Classified Federal Heritage Building because of its historical associations, and its architectural and environmental values.

Historical value:

The Dominion Observatory is one of the best examples of the important historic theme of the advancement of pure and applied scientific research at the national level in Canada. Established to aid and improve the survey work of western Canada through the investigation and application of positional astronomy, the Observatory also served as a world-class centre for astronomical and geophysical research, and developed a national profile as the source of Dominion Observatory Official Time. The Dominion Observatory is one of four major public buildings constructed in Ottawa during the expansionist years of the Wilfrid Laurier government as part of Laurier’s efforts to turn Ottawa into the –Washington of the north-, and heralded Ottawa’s transformation from a lumber town to a capital city. Scientists of national standing directly associated with the observatory include its co-founders William Frederick King and Otto Julius Klotz, along with John Stanley Plaskett.

Architectural value:

The Dominion Observatory is an excellent example of an eclectic blend of Romanesque Revival and Edwardian Classicist styles. Carefully planned by the founding scientists, the functional design of the building’s research facilities originally accommodated the requirements of a small scientific department and has proven to be adaptable to new uses. A very good example of David Ewart’s work, the building successfully combined aesthetics with the original functional requirements, making it well-suited to both the scientific activities it housed, as well as fulfilling the government’s desire for a building that would express the federal and national importance of the institution.

The Dominion Observatory has a principal public façade which features most of the decorative detailing, and a more functional façade which features the photographic laboratory’s skylight and the curved projecting wall of the stairs which are direct expression of the building’s functions. Constructed of the highest quality materials and craftsmanship, the public and functional facades of the building are unified by the masonry work, which is characterized by a rich and vibrant palette of colours and textures.

Environmental value:

Visually prominent by virtue of its distinctive design, massing, materials and location, the Dominion Observatory forms part of a harmonious ensemble that includes the South Azimuth building and the Photo Equatorial building, which together reinforce the picturesque character of the Central Experimental Farm. The Dominion Observatory is one Ottawa’s most well-known and easily recognizable public buildings.

Sources:

Jacqueline Hucker, Dominion Observatory, South Azimuth and Photo Equatorial buildings, Ottawa, Ontario. Federal Heritage Buildings Review Office Report 92-35, 92-41, 92-42; Dominion Observatory, South Azimuth and Photo Equatorial buildings, Ottawa, Ontario, Heritage Character Statement 92-35, 92-41, 92-42.