Mayor Ryan Windsor had the honour of presenting a heritage designation plaque for the Robert Franklin John Farm House (7247 West Saanich Rd) to Matt Peulen of Stride Properties at the February 24, 2020, Council meeting.
Built around 1870, the two-storey, side-gabled home has its original windows, including three-stained glass. It was originally a Pioneer style and evolved into a Victorian era home. The home was at one point owned by Robert Franklin John, who was once a member of provincial parliament for the area (1887).
The District would like to thank Matt Peulen, the current owner, for officially designated the property as a Heritage Site as part of a recent rezoning proposal and preserving an important piece of Central Saanich’s heritage.
Mr. Peulen also pursued heritage designation for Verdier House, now located at 1181 Stelly’s Cross Rd. Built in 1911 the Verdier House is an outstanding example of an Edwardian-era Arts and Crafts dwelling. Built around the same time as the village of Brentwood Bay expanded after becoming a stop on the BC Electric Railway. The residence features a verandah with decorative bannisters and tapered stone pillars, and is important for its association with the Verdier family, who were among the earliest settlers on the peninsula. The house, which Stride Properties relocated and restored, now provides eight rental dwelling units in the community.