MacKenzie Building, Kingston

MacKenzie Building, Kingston

The Mackenzie Building, also known as Building No. 16 or the former Education Block, was erected between 1876 and 1878. This three-storied rectangular edifice exemplifies the Second Empire style, which was prevalent in Canada during the 1870s and 1880s. The building's design features symmetrical pavilion massing, a hallmark of this architectural style. Dominating the structure is a four-storey central tower that houses the main entrance, flanked by five bays on each side. The distinctive roofline, adorned with a copper-clad mansard roof and classically detailed stone chimneys, further accentuates its architectural elegance.

The Mackenzie Building is a Classified Federal Heritage Building, recognized for its historical significance and architectural merit. The Second Empire style, employed here, was a popular choice for educational and institutional structures of the time, chosen for its ability to convey a strong and dignified presence. This style, with its ornate detailing and robust construction, was seen as an appropriate medium for local, state, or federal building commissions aiming to project authority and stability. T

The Mackenzie Building is also notable as one of the best surviving works of Thomas Seaton Scott, the Chief Architect of Public Works during its construction. Scott's influence is evident in the building's design, which seamlessly integrates functionality with classical architectural elements. Today, the Mackenzie Building stands as a testament to the architectural and historical legacy of the Royal Military College Kingston, continuing to serve as a symbol of the institution's storied past and enduring significance.

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MacKenzie Building on Map

Sight Name: MacKenzie Building
Sight Location: Kingston, Canada (See walking tours in Kingston)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:

Walking Tours in Kingston, Ontario

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