Ottawa residents and tourists don’t usually cast a second glance at the East Block of Parliament Hill. Their attention dwells on the more famous Centre Block, home of the Peace Tower, and the country’s main political arena. But the East Block has history and a place in Canadian heritage. Even though it was once threatened with demolition, it still stands tall after 140 years.
The East Block is one of the few original buildings still intact on Parliament Hill. Its architecture reflects its 1866 construction and added wing in 1910, a Victorian Gothic style – gargoyles, detailed stone carvings, and a pale green roof.
The East Block was a key location when first built, as the prime minister, members of Parliament and federal cabinet met and occupied offices there. Before the Bank of Canada was created, the East Block’s vaults held many of the nation’s treasures.
The building outlived its residents. Because of years of neglect, during which its ventilation was closed off for fear of spies during the First World War, the East Block decayed and was in desperate need of restoration. The idea of replacing it with a modern office building was put forward, but thankfully in 1966 restoration began. Now, members of Parliament and senators use its offices.
The halls have seen the likes of Sir John A. Macdonald, Lester B. Pearson and every prime minister between. The creators of Confederation met in the offices and spoke of Canada as a nation. The Privy Council Chamber was where cabinet met for decades, shaping Canada’s history. The East Block of Parliament Hill stands as a monument of heritage.