James Reid Wilson House, Montreal

The James Reid Wilson House, also known as the Baxter Mansion, is a remarkable example of early 20th-century residential architecture in Montreal鈥檚 prestigious Golden Square Mile. Built in 1907, the mansion reflects the wealth and refinement of the city鈥檚 industrial elite during a period when Sherbrooke Street was lined with grand residences. With its elegant limestone fa莽ade, elaborate ironwork, and commanding presence, the house remains a symbol of the opulence that once defined this historic neighborhood at the foot of Mount Royal.

Architecturally, the mansion blends Beaux-Arts and Edwardian influences, visible in its carved stone motifs, arched windows, and stately mansard roof. The interior echoes this richness, with original woodwork, decorative plaster ceilings, and marble fireplaces showcasing the fine craftsmanship of the era. The house was home to three prominent bankers in succession鈥擳homas Craig, James Baxter, and James Reid Wilson鈥攅ach leaving their mark on the property. At its peak, it served as the residence of James "Diamond Jim" Baxter, a figure well known in Montreal鈥檚 financial circles. The house later became the headquarters of the Corby Distilling Company, continuing its legacy of association with wealth and influence.

A poignant chapter in the mansion鈥檚 history is tied to H茅l猫ne Baxter, widow of James Baxter, who was returning to Montreal in April 1912 aboard the RMS Titanic with her children, Quigg and Zette. The family had booked one of the ship鈥檚 most expensive suites. On the night of the disaster, H茅l猫ne, unwell and anxious, was helped to the lifeboats by her son. As he placed her and his sister in lifeboat 6, Quigg handed her a silver brandy flask for warmth鈥攁 gesture that earned him a scolding for his drinking. He did not survive. Though H茅l猫ne and Zette reached safety, the emotional toll lingered, and H茅l猫ne never fully recovered, passing away in 1923.

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Create Your Own Self-Guided Walk to Visit This Sight

Sight Name: James Reid Wilson House
Sight Location: Montreal, Canada (See walking tours in Montreal)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:

The RMS Titanic Walking Tour

Walking Tours in Montreal, Canada

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Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
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Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.5 Km or 2.2 Miles

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The outpost of Frenchness in North America (and the world's 2nd largest francophone city after Paris), Montreal is the meeting point of the New and Old World styles, the collision of the French, English and Aboriginal cultures. The historical and ethnic uniqueness of the city is seen throughout...

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