History of the Reddick Mansion

The Reddick Mansion has a rich and varied history. Since its completion in 1855, it has served as a family home, Ottawa’s public library, and a community office building. Today, most of the Mansion has been restored back to its Victorian splendor, providing a glimpse into Ottawa’s history and a bygone era.

Architecture

Architectural History

Commissioned in 1855 by William Reddick, the twenty-two-room mansion was designed by two prominent Chicago architects, William B. Olmsted and Peter A. Nicholson.  It was built at a cost of $25,000 in the Italianate style and features striking red brick, cream limestone, and ornamental cornices.

 

The Reddick Family

Reddick Family History

The Reddick Family Era lasted from 1858 to 1887.  For nearly thirty years, William Reddick, his wife Eliza, and their “adopted” daughter, Elizabeth Funk, made the Mansion their home.

The Reddick Library

The Reddick Library History

William Reddick’s interest in bringing the advantages of education to persons who, like himself, had been forced to educate themselves is evident from the bequest by which he gave his home to Ottawa to be used as the city’s public library.