The Manse… Our History

Hummingbird Gardens B&B formerly known as The Manse is a portion of the architectural history of British Columbia.

Built in 1908 as a parsonage for the Metropolitan Methodist Church The Manse was barged to Ladysmith from Victoria in 1994. The Manse was designed by Thomas Hooper who became the first official Architect for the Government of British Columbia.

Thomas Hooper came from Britain in the late Ninetieth century and set up an architectural firm in Vancouver. He quickly made a name for himself through his previous designs. Examples of his work which survive today include the Old City Hall in Chilliwack, the courthouses in Revelstoke and Vernon, and private residential structures such as the Edenbank Farm in the Fraser Valley.

The exterior of The Manse was fully restored, and the detailed work has brought back to life the qualities and charms of a more elegant time. The interior of the home has retained many of its original features from the magnificent stained glass to the grand main staircase to the additional butler staircase off the back of the kitchen. Many of the windows were hand rolled and there is an extensive use of fir throughout.

Designed as an English Country House, The Manse has been constructed in the classic Edwardian style, using building techniques that are as beautiful as they are functional. A three-sided wrap around veranda, though not part of the original design, was engineered to enhance the existing structure.

Hummingbird Gardens B&B is a truly grand home in a quiet and peaceful setting. R&R&R Relax, Rejuvenate, Reconnect.