Maison

Partially destroyed in 1986 (nearly 40% was razed) and now totally neglected, the Redpath Mansion was designed by architect Sir Andrew Taylor and built for Francis Robert Redpath, a member of the rich family who worked on the construction of the Lachine Canal and who founded the famous sugar refinery that still bears his name. His family was one of the most influential in 19th century Montreal.

Abandoned for more modern constructions or left behind to adrift once the occupants died, abandoned houses populate the countryside. Hidden under vegetation who tries to conquer its old territory, sometimes the time prevents explorers from entering into these incredible places by collapsing the foundations or by twisting the walls like old rags.

Few of them will be restored after many years left to themselves. Most of the time, years will turn them down or will be by the owners when municipal councils will be tired to see these building agonize (and visited by kids).

Ravenloft Castle is hidden deep into the woods outside a small town in upstate New York. Construction began during the early years of World War I. Unfortunately, the owner never had the chance to live in it, as he died three years before the construction ceased in 1924. The castle was never completed nor was it ever lived in. Today, it is on the National Register of Historic Places.

Abandoned for more modern constructions or left behind to adrift once the occupants died, abandoned houses populate the countryside. Hidden under vegetation who tries to conquer its old territory, sometimes the passing years prevent explorers from entering into these incredible places by collapsing the foundations or by twisting the walls like old rags.

Few of them will be restored after many years left to themselves. Most of the time, years will turn them down or they will be destroyed when municipal councils get tired to see these buildings agonizing (and visited by kids).

This is the story of Mr. Chaume and his house.  A house that was sold in the 1970s to my stepfather but the notarial act stipulated that Mr. Chaume,the seller, could stay in the house for free until his death. In the meantime, the buyer would not be able to visit his new house without the consent of the seller. Well, I must say that the interest of the property was more geared toward agricultural land (several acres) and not the house that already in the 70s, had several shortcomings that will never be corrected.