Keg Mansion - The Gothic Heritage Home that once Belonged to the Massey Family

2020 - The Keg Mansion is located at 515 Jarvis St, just north of Wellesley St E in the Upper Jarvis neighbourhood of Toronto — 2020 – The Keg Mansion is located at 515 Jarvis St, just north of Wellesley St E in the Upper Jarvis neighbourhood of Toronto

The Keg Mansion is a stately home located at 515 Jarvis St (just north of Wellesley St E on the east side) in the Upper Jarvis neighbourhood of Toronto.

The Architecture of Keg Mansion

Built in 1868 at a cost of approximately $20,000, this Gothic-style mansion was designed by the architects Gundry & Langley for Arthur McMaster, the nephew of William McMaster, who was the founder of the university.

During that period, this section of Jarvis St was known as “Millionaires’ Row,” as it served as a retreat for the city’s upper class to escape the bustling downtown area.

After Arthur McMaster’s passing in 1881, the home was purchased by Hart Massey, a highly successful agricultural equipment manufacturer. The mansion was named Euclid Hall and, at one point, included a greenhouse on its south side. The Massey family also went on to build one of Canada’s most influential entertainment venues, Massey Hall. The last Massey to live in the mansion was Lillian Treble, the only daughter of Hart Massey, who lived in the home until she died in 1915.

The Home After the Masseys

Circa 1912 - The Keg Mansion is located at 515 Jarvis St, just north of Wellesley St E in the Upper Jarvis neighbourhood. The home was once the residence of the Massey family — Circa 1912 – The Keg Mansion is located at 515 Jarvis St, just north of Wellesley St E in the Upper Jarvis neighbourhood. The home was once the residence of the Massey family (City of Toronto Archives, Fonds 1244, Item 3070)

The mansion has served various purposes over the years. By 1918, it became the Military Convalescent Hospital, and from 1922 to 1923, it was known as Euclid Hall Hospital. In 1925, it was transformed into Ryan’s Art Galleries, which remained there for several decades. In 1927, it was also the first home of the CFRB radio station, which is now called Newstalk 1010. During the 1960s, the mansion housed the popular Julie’s Restaurant, with the Bombay Bicycle Club located upstairs.

In 1975, this historic gem was designated a heritage property by the city. In the mid-1970s, the mansion became the home of The Keg Steakhouse + Bar, which continues to operate there today.

Haunted Tales

There are rumours of several ghosts haunting the Keg Mansion. One of these spirits is believed to be the maid of Lillian Massey Treble, who, after Lillian’s death, was so distraught that she hanged herself in the foyer.

Some visitors have reported a female presence in the women’s washroom, where stall doors unlock, and toilets flush on their own. Many have also experienced an eerie feeling, as if someone is watching them. Additionally, there have been sightings of a young boy playing on the staircase, along with sounds of children playing upstairs. Click for more haunted tales.

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