This 2-storey brick dwelling was constructed in 1894 for Hon. Patrick G. Ryan. This house is situated on the south side of George Street near the corner of St. John Street.
Heritage Value
The value of the substantial brick house at 682 George Street is associated with the life and career of politician, Hon. Patrick George Ryan. Originally from Bathurst, New Brunswick, Patrick Ryan had been engaged in the tanning and leather industry in his native Gloucester County before becoming politically active. Ryan was first elected to the New Brunswick House of Assembly as a member for Gloucester County in 1875 and remained in politics until his retirement in 1892. Hon. Patrick Ryan settled in Fredericton upon his retirement from political life, and had this house constructed in 1894.
During his political career, Ryan played an important role in keeping the seat of Government in Fredericton. The destruction of the old Parliament building in 1880 sparked considerable debate about where to rebuild the Legislature; there was a movement afoot pushing for Saint John as the site for the new building. In essence, Saint John would be restored as Provincial capital. Hon. Patrick Ryan had been a strong advocate for maintaining Fredericton as the seat of Government, and Ryan’s position and influence in this matter became his greatest legacy for Frederictonians.
Character-Defining Elements
The character-defining elements related to the brick house at 682 George Street include:
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2-storey brick construction
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hipped roof, with variety of roof lines
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projecting, 2-storey front bays
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open side verandah, supported by slim columns