150-152 James Street was built by Charles Watt in 1903. (See description below of him from the Hardware and Metal merchandising magazine.) Describe as a “beacon of light” he was born in Edinburgh Scotland in 1872. Came to Canada in 1888 and shortly after spent 5 profitable year at M. Philbin hardware store in Montreal. In 1900 he and James Thorp Blyth bought an well-established business from Robert McAllen continued a plumbing and hardware business at 298 Bank Street called Blyth & Watt 1900-1907(see attach photo of store interior). From what we understand Mr. Watt was married to Blyth sister (Roberna Isabella Blyth). Watt’s sister, who was married to Joesph Lawson(who was employed at Great West Life) lived at 150 James Street. Blyth and Watt were early men of commerce and influence in a growing city of Ottawa. Blyth’s premature funeral in 1928 was attend by the prime minister of the time William Lyon MacKenize King. Charles Watt, known for is rich melodious baritone voice, participated in many of Ottawa’s musical production over the years till his death at the age of 85 in 1958.

The current homeowners, appreciating the architectural value of the property, have recently undertaken a restoration of the front porch which was beginning to deteriorate. Our goal was to preserve and respect the existing architecture consisting of a two-storey curved verandah which is considered unique to Ottawa. Paul Denys of Denys Builds Designs lovingly raised the front elevation of the porch 5″ to correct a gradual sag the happen over time, plus replace first floor decking, framing, columns and railings. Paul Denys managed to recreate sympathetic top & bottom railing profile which had been lost to time.