Originally the Maryvale Convent, this lovely building celebrated its centenary in 2013. It was home to the Sisters of Providence who taught separate school and high school , painting, “fancy work”, vocal and instrumental music. In 1966 it became a nursing home. In 1983 it was converted to a residential home for seniors. Today it is known as the Abbey for the Arts , hosting retreats, gatherings, special occasions, and recitals as well as regular art shows. I was delivering some pieces and helping with the hanging this weekend for a show next week … and in between hammering and measuring I took a few shots. Three additional images which I particularly liked have been loaded to my photography blog – here, here, and here.
21489 Butternut Lane, Glen Nevis, Ontario
office door off entrance hall
Main entrance and foyer
Entrance hall
The Great Room
Beyond the Brush 
Wonderful interior shots! They convey another time so well.
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I was trying to portray the essence of the place as well as its reality so I appreciate that, Lynn – thank you.
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Great to see history living on.
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I agree. Our history is still so young, it’s nice to keep what we’ve got instead of tearing down and starting new.
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I love to see old buildings finding new uses, so that life keeps flowing through their rooms. Lovely photos
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All too often we seem to tear down and start over. When I enter an old building I wonder what events have happened in the hallways, back rooms and passages.
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Lynne I’m exactly the same….what passed before us enchants and intrigues me 🙂
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😉
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Beautiful..! love the nostalgic feel 🙂
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Hi Andy. The current owners are doing a great job of restoration.
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What stories the walls of buildings like this could tell!
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Indeed, Carol! I’ve spoken to a few ladies who attended school there some 70 years ago – definitely an interesting and varied history. It’s great that it has survived. The current owners have done a tremendous amount of restoration, all well done and suited to the building’s age and architecture, and have continuing plans for more.
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Beautiful, Lynn!
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Hi there Naomi 🙂 It’s one of the grand old buildings that has managed to survive.
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