Hennessey Residence

The Hennessey Residence is valued as a representation of New Westminster’s Victorian-era residential development, with subsequent adaptations to suit changing needs and tastes. At the time of its construction, New Westminster was beginning to emerge as an economic and industrial centre. Local growth was facilitated by the completion of the Canadian Pacific Railway spur line in 1886 and the Westminster & Vancouver Tramway in 1891, which linked Vancouver to New Westminster. This house, one of the earliest in this neighbourhood, was built in 1890 for Alexander M. Hennessey, who worked as a boot and shoemaker on Columbia Street. The site was relatively remote from downtown, but was desirable due to its location across from Moody Square (now Moody Park), and for its panoramic views south to the Fraser River. Hennessey and his family of six occupied the house until 1894; he died at the age of 70 in 1902.

During the Edwardian era, New Westminster was the major centre of commerce and industrial output for the Fraser Valley, reflected in a boom in residential construction. By 1909, the house had been renovated for new owners, Bryan M. Farley (1845-1925), a retired farmer, and his wife Mary (née Rabbitt, 1858-1942). The alterations reflected changing residential styles, and included new shingle siding that demonstrated the influence of the Arts and Crafts style.