The History of Quebec House
Located on Quebec Square in Westerham, Kent, England, Quebec House is the birthplace of General James Wolfe. The building was originally known as Spiers. It was later renamed to honor the victory and death of Wolfe at the Battle of Quebec in 1759. The house remains a significant site for those studying the military history of the eighteenth century.
The property was presented to the National Trust in 1917 by Charlotte Learmont. Since then, the National Trust has maintained the house and its surrounding grounds. The site serves as a memorial to the life and legacy of General Wolfe, preserving the environment of his childhood home.
The Architecture of the Building
The structure originated in the mid 16th century, constructed between 1530 and 1550. In its earliest form, the building was a timber-framed L-shaped dwelling. This original configuration was later altered during the 17th century. Between 1630 and 1650, the house was remodelled into a double-pile house, which established the current exterior seen today.
The building is listed Grade I on the National Heritage List for England, a designation it has held since September 1954. The architectural evolution reflects changing domestic preferences from the Tudor period through the mid-17th century. Beyond the main house, the property encompasses a garden designed in the 18th-century style.
The Collections of Quebec House
The collection held at Quebec House consists of objects and works of art cared for by the National Trust. These items provide insight into the life and legacy of General James Wolfe. The holdings reflect broader historical themes of empire, warfare, and national memory. Much of the material on display relates specifically to Wolfe’s military career and his connection to this house.
Paintings and memorabilia are positioned throughout the house to document Wolfe's history. These pieces offer a perspective on the period in which the family resided here. The selection of works focuses on the military significance of the Battle of Quebec and the personal circumstances of the Wolfe family during the 18th century.
- General Edward Wolfe (1685-1759), about 1730 - James Thornhill
- General George Warde (1725 - 1803) as a Young Man - Benjamin West
- Posthumous James Wolfe as a young man - Benjamin West
- The Death of General James Wolfe (1727-1759) (after Benjamin West PRA), 1784 - George Roth
- General James Wolfe (1727-1759) - B. Schaak
Masterpieces of the Collection
The collection focuses heavily on the life and military legacy of General James Wolfe. Several works capture the subject at different stages of his life, including a portrait of him as a young man by Benjamin West. This is accompanied by a depiction of General James Wolfe by B. Schaak. These works provide a visual record of the man who was born within these walls in 1728.
The historical significance of the Battle of Quebec is represented through various interpretations of the conflict. George Roth produced a version of the death of General Wolfe in about 1784, following a composition by Benjamin West. Other significant portraits held here include James Thornhill’s depiction of General Edward Wolfe from about 1730 and Benjamin West’s portrait of General George Warde as a young man.
- General Edward Wolfe, about 1730 - James Thornhill
- General George Warde as a Young Man - Benjamin West
- Posthumous James Wolfe as a young man - Benjamin West
- The Death of General James Wolfe (after Benjamin West PRA), about 1784 - George Roth
- General James Wolfe - B. Schaak
Exhibitions and Research
The Coach House contains a permanent exhibition on its first floor. This display examines the details of the Battle of Quebec. It provides historical context regarding the military campaign and the circumstances surrounding the death of General Wolfe. Visitors can also find the exhibition 'The Story of the Westerham Foundlings' located within the Coach House. This particular installation explores the lives of 18th-century children who were brought to live in Westerham.
Seasonal programming includes the exhibition 'A Woodland Realm – Christmas at Quebec House'. The house also maintains a focus on the history of the local area through various displays. These efforts connect the military history of the site with the social history of the community. The research conducted here links the personal history of the Wolfe family to the broader movements of the 18th century.
Visiting Quebec House
Quebec House is open to the public from Wednesday to Sunday. Entry to the house requires pre-booked tickets. Visitors can explore the interior to find paintings and memorabilia relating to the life of General James Wolfe. The house is located in Westerham, Kent, and is owned by the National Trust.
The grounds include an 18th-century garden containing roses, wisteria, and herbs. This space features a revived herb and kitchen garden. The Coach House provides additional facilities, including a second-hand bookshop for visitors.
