Dundurn Castle brings 1850’s holiday traditions to life in Hamilton

It was a special trip back in time today at Dundurn Castle in Hamilton, and a peek at how one of the city’s most prominent residents would have celebrated Christmas 170 years ago.

Not just any Christmas, but Christmas way back in 1855 when Sir Allan MacNab lived at Dundurn Castle.

“Sir Allan Napier MacNab, he was living here with his sister-in-law and his youngest daughter Mini, ” said Daryl MacTavish, program coordinator.

Fun fact, MacNab’s great, great, great granddaughter is Queen Camilla.

MacNab, who was a successful politician, land speculator and lawyer, was very well off – and especially at Christmas – flaunted his wealth.

“They’re eating a dinner that’s even more extravagant than normal. The things that they’re eating would be common, so beef, poultry and pork. Even things like oranges the family would have imported. Not just to add to the menu, but the guests could sit and watch. Most people in Upper Canada had never seen an orange before,” said Frank Dilks, who was acting as a butler.

This is the first “Victorian Christmas Tour” of the year at Dundurn Castle. And aside from the obvious opulence, it shows the holiday was celebrated differently 170 years ago.

“It was a much smaller affair. The tree would go up on Christmas Eve and come down on Boxing Day. Today we have a very lengthy Christmas. Back then it would have been a celebration, but it wouldn’t have been the extent of one that people nowadays have,” said MacTavish.

The Victorian Christmas tours will be running at Dundurn Castle from 12 to 4 p.m. Tuesday to Sunday until Jan. 7.

Admission is $14 to $16 dollars, but free if you have a library card.

Another fun fact, $16 today would be worth close to $600 dollars in 1855.

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