The Knoll

The Knoll is of significant heritage value to the Rothesay area because of its association with former owners and for its architectural merit. Mr. J. Morris Robinson, a prominent Saint John Banker, had The Knoll built in 1877. It is thought that The Knoll was originally used as an auxiliary dormitory for Rothesay College, as the college was founded the same year The Knoll was built. For forty years after its construction many different people, with a variety of professions, owned The Knoll. These owners, after Mr. J. Morris Robinson, were; J. Harry Robertson, accountant; George A. Freeze, Agent of Maine Central Railway; John A. Pooley, Barber; and James B. McMurray, Superintendent of Dredges. Finally, The Knoll passed into the possession of Elsa Marjoric Ellis, whose family remained in the residence until 1977.

Architecturally, The Knoll is an example of Second Empire design, sporting a mansard roof, dormers, and other characteristics to that effect. However, The Knoll’s architectural design also includes a unique dormer that is built in a gambrel rather than a gable. This feature was included to create a pairing effect between The Knoll and the original barn that existed on the property.