Carriage House

Point Ellice House

The Carriage house

Because the horse-drawn carriage was at the time a primary mode of transportation for the privileged class, the Carriage House was an essential part of daily life at Point Ellice House. This structure once stored the family’s horse-drawn carriages, riding gear, and tools used to maintain their vehicles.

Built with functionality and durability in mind, this modest yet significant outbuilding reflects the logistical needs of the O’Reilly family and their servants, who traveled through the growing city of Victoria using carriages, carts, and wagons.

This space provides a fascinating look at how people moved through Victoria in the late 1800s and early 1900s.

Antique carriage wheels and harnesses

The Carriage House holds a collection of antique wheels, wooden axles, and leather harnesses, each offering a glimpse into the craftsmanship of the 19th century.

The family’s original horse tack

Discover the O’Reilly family’s original horse tack, including saddles, bridles, and bits, many of which bear the marks of wear and care.

Stories of the workers who maintained the O’Reillys' transportation

The Carriage House was a hub of activity for the staff members who worked tirelessly behind the scenes.

A Ride Through Time

A Window intoTransportation History

The Carriage House is more than just a storage space, it’s a living exhibit that illustrates how people moved through Victoria in the late 1800s and early 1900s. Before paved roads and automobiles, horse-drawn carriages were vital to everyday life, whether for daily errands, social visits, or business trips into the bustling downtown core.

Through preserved artifacts, educational signage, and guided tours, visitors can:

See

The evolution of transport technology, from simple carts to elegant carriages.

Understand

The labor-intensive care required to maintain horses and equipment.

Experience

The sights and sounds of a working carriage house, imagining the clatter of hooves and the clinking of tools.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a student, or a casual visitor, the Carriage House at Point Ellice House offers a fascinating journey back in time, where the everyday tasks of the past become a source of inspiration and learning today.