Carr House is a preserved Victorian home in Victoria’s James Bay neighbourhood and the childhood home of Canadian artist and writer Emily Carr. Its rooms bring her early life into view through period furnishings, family stories and displays about her work. Look for the upright piano and the paintings on the walls, then explore the gardens and small gift shop. The house displays reproductions of Carr’s paintings, not her original works, so pair the visit with an art gallery if seeing originals matters to you.
A home in 19th-century Victoria
Carr House was built in 1863 and is best known as the childhood home of Emily Carr, who was born there in 1871. She lived with her family in the house until 1886. The home originally belonged to the O’Reilly family, and Carr’s sisters later gave it to the Province of British Columbia as a memorial to her life and work.
The house is a wooden Victorian residence in James Bay. Its Italianate design is credited to local architects Wright & Sanders. The restored interiors offer a glimpse of family life in Victoria in the late 19th century, with period furniture and details such as carpets and an upright piano.
Rooms that tell Carr’s early story
The house is arranged to connect its rooms with Carr’s upbringing and the period in which she lived there. Furniture and personal details help make the visit about her home life as well as her later career as an artist and writer. Carr’s own descriptions in her autobiography, Book of Small, were used in restoring the house.
Displays introduce Carr’s life and work, including her painting and writing. The works shown in the house are reproductions rather than original paintings. If you want to see original works, plan a separate visit to the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria or the Vancouver Art Gallery.
Tours, film and the gardens
You can explore the house on your own or join a guided tour. A tour takes about 45 minutes and adds historical context to the rooms and the stories connected with Carr. The site also hosts workshops for children, and exhibitions or films about her life may be available during a visit. Check what is on before you go.
Outside, the maintained gardens add space to pause between rooms and displays. A small gift shop stocks books about Carr’s life and art, along with souvenirs. The house is a short walk from Beacon Hill Park and the Inner Harbour, so it can fit into a day exploring James Bay and central Victoria.
Preguntas frecuentes
Is Carr House Emily Carr’s childhood home?
Yes. Carr was born in the house in 1871 and lived there with her family until 1886.
Are Emily Carr’s original paintings on display?
The paintings shown at Carr House are reproductions. The Art Gallery of Greater Victoria and the Vancouver Art Gallery are suggested places to see original works.
How long does a visit take?
A guided tour takes about 45 minutes. You can also explore the house at your own pace.
Can you take a guided tour?
Yes. Guided tours are available, and booking one is suggested for more context about the house and Carr’s life.
