Stone Frigate (No. 23)

The Stone Frigate (No. 23) is a Recognized Federal Heritage Building because of its historical associations, and its architectural and environmental value.

Historical Value

The Stone Frigate (No. 23) is one of the best examples of a structure associated with the early military history of British North America. Its construction was directly related to the disarmament process after the war of 1812. The building bears witness to the shift in the defence of Canada away from a maritime strategy to a campaign of extensive land-based fortifications and canals. After the withdrawal of the British army from Canada in 1820, the Royal Military College (RMC) was established to provide a system of military education to train officers for the armed forces and militia. The building, as the first building on site at the College, is also associated with the early years of growth and prosperity in Kingston.

Architectural Value

The Stone Frigate (No. 23) demonstrates a very good aesthetic design which displays the high quality of design and construction typical of British military architecture. The building represents an austere interpretation of the British Classical tradition of architecture, befitting its function as a warehouse. Elements of this tradition, based on a strong sense of order, symmetry and balance, are evidenced in the building’s simple form and distinguished patterning. The building is one of the best surviving examples of the work of Archibald Fraser, a Scottish-born architect-builder whose building practice spread across Upper and Lower Canada.

Environmental Value

The Stone Frigate (No. 23) reinforces the character of the parade square precinct at Royal Military College and is a familiar building on campus.