Laurentian Manor, located at 179 John Street in Sudbury, Ontario, is a celebrated residence that blends architectural elegance with a captivating history. Built between 1929 and 1930, the home was commissioned by Ralph Douglas Parker, a Californian mining engineer who worked as superintendent of the Creighton Mine for the International Nickel Company of Canada. Parker envisioned a home that reflected the glamour of 1920s Hollywood and the romantic aspirations of his new life in Northern Ontario.

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The manor’s story is deeply intertwined with Parker’s love for Mina Bayne Todhunter, a cultured and refined woman who shared his appreciation for beauty and artistry. Inspired by the Spanish Colonial revival style he admired in California, Parker sought to create a home “fit for a star” to win Mina’s heart. Mina, captivated by the grandeur of Hollywood mansions, actively influenced the design, drawing inspiration from the homes of movie stars she admired. Together, they sourced exquisite furnishings and antiques from Europe and New York, ensuring that every detail exuded elegance.

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The manor’s architecture reflects this glamorous influence. Its stucco exterior, arched windows, wrought iron accents, and tile roof echo the Mediterranean-inspired homes of California’s elite. Practical adaptations, such as cork insulation and a custom humidifying system, ensured the house could withstand Sudbury’s harsh winters. The couple’s meticulous attention to detail and dedication to quality made the manor a true masterpiece of its time.

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Inside, the Hollywood flair continued, with treasures such as a baby grand piano, Persian rugs, and antique furniture reminiscent of the Golden Age of film. Mina’s love for art and design transformed the house into a gallery of unique pieces collected during her travels, turning it into a symbol of sophistication and cultural appreciation.

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In 1936, the manor was sold to Benjamin Foote Merwin, owner of Pineland Timber Company Limited. The Merwin family embraced the home’s grand style and made their mark by adding a recreation room in the basement—a space perfect for family gatherings, ping-pong matches, and dances. The home became a lively hub for entertainment, reflecting the family’s active social life. The Merwins also made practical updates, including replacing the original tile roof with more durable shingles, preserving the home’s exotic California aesthetic while enhancing its functionality.

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In 1966, Laurentian University acquired the property to serve as the official residence of its presidents. Over the decades, the manor hosted formal dinners, receptions, and cultural events, becoming a bridge between the university and the community. Distinguished visitors included Nobel laureate Dr. Linus Pauling, author Margaret Atwood, and former Prime Minister Jean Chrétien, among others. The home’s spacious layout and elegant design made it an ideal setting for fostering connections and celebrating academic and cultural milestones.

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Today, Laurentian Manor is a vibrant event space and Airbnb destination, offering a unique venue for weddings, private celebrations, and cultural gatherings. Guests can step into its rich architectural and historical legacy while enjoying modern amenities. The manor remains a treasured landmark, blending the timeless romance of its Hollywood-inspired origins with its role as a cornerstone of Sudbury’s cultural and social life.