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Former Geological Survey of Canada Building: A Historic Ottawa Landmark

Explore Ottawa's past at the Former Geological Survey of Canada Building, a National Historic Site in the heart of the ByWard Market. A landmark of history and architecture.

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Located in Ottawa's ByWard Market, the Former Geological Survey of Canada Building is a National Historic Site with a rich history. Originally built in 1863, it has served as a hotel, barracks, and the first Ottawa home of the Geological Survey of Canada, playing a vital role in the development of Canada's national museums.

A brief summary to Former Geological Survey of Canada Building

  • 541 Sussex Dr, Ottawa, Byward Market - Parliament Hill, Ontario, K1N 6Z6, CA

Local tips

  • Bring your camera to capture the building's stunning architecture and historical details.
  • Combine your visit with a stroll through the ByWard Market to experience local artisan shops and eateries.
  • Visit Parliament Hill, located within walking distance, to see more of Ottawa's iconic landmarks.
  • Check local event listings for cultural activities happening nearby in the ByWard Market area.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Former Geological Survey of Canada Building is located in the ByWard Market area, making it easily accessible on foot from many nearby attractions. From the ByWard Market, walk south on William Street, continue straight until Rideau Street, turn left onto Rideau Street until Sussex Drive, then turn right. The building is located at 541 Sussex Drive. The walk is approximately 1.2 kilometers and should take about 15 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    To reach the Former Geological Survey of Canada Building via public transport, take any OC Transpo bus or O-Train line heading towards downtown Ottawa. Disembark at a stop near the Rideau Centre. From there, walk east on Rideau Street until you reach Sussex Drive, then turn left. The building will be on your left at 541 Sussex Dr. A single-ride fare is $4.00 CAD if paying with cash or $4.00 CAD if paying with a card.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    For a direct route, take a taxi or ride-sharing service. Input '541 Sussex Dr, Ottawa, ON K1N 6Z6' as your destination. Taxi base fares are approximately $4.00 CAD, plus $1.86 CAD per kilometer. Expect to pay between $15-$30 CAD from most areas in Ottawa Valley to downtown Ottawa.

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Discover more about Former Geological Survey of Canada Building

The Former Geological Survey of Canada Building, situated at 541 Sussex Drive in Ottawa's ByWard Market, stands as a testament to the city's rich history. Designated a National Historic Site in 1955, this three-story stone building has played many roles since its construction in 1863. Initially, the George Street wing of the building was erected as Skead's Hotel by James Skead and Edward Griffen. It briefly served as a military barracks known as the George Street Barracks from 1864 to 1871 before being purchased by William Mills and operated as the Clarendon House Hotel. In 1879, the Canadian government acquired the property to house the Geological Survey of Canada, established to map the country's natural resources. In 1880, it hosted the first exhibition of the Canadian Academy of Arts, which later formed the basis of the National Gallery of Canada's collection. The building was renovated to accommodate the Geological and Natural History Survey of Canada's offices and museum, attracting thousands of visitors and contributing to the development of Canada's national museums. The Geological Survey of Canada remained in the building until 1911. The building's architecture reflects classical and Italianate styles, featuring a symmetrical design, bracketed eaves, and detailed cornices. Today, the Former Geological Survey of Canada Building is used for offices and retail purposes. While it no longer functions as a museum, its presence in the ByWard Market serves as a reminder of Ottawa's heritage and contributions to Canadian culture.

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