Happy Holidays from Newboro Manor
A storied past, a cherished community landmark, and a vibrant hub of creativity
A historical Gem
Newboro Manor
Newboro Manor is a house of significant historical importance, built in the 1860s by the prominent Irish merchant John Draffin. This architectural marvel has witnessed over a century of local history, making it a must-visit landmark in Newboro.
A Brief History of Newboro Manor
Discover the Story of Newboro Manor
A House of Historical Significance
Constructed in the 1860s, the Manor House is a significant example of early settlement architecture in Newboro, Ontario. Built by Irish merchant John Draffin—who operated a prosperous general store on Main Street and married Margaret Bell of Carleton Place—the home originally stood as a reflection of local ambition and community growth.
In 1895, the property was sold to the Anglican Church and served as a rectory for the parish until 1945. It then passed into private hands, most notably those of Paul and Margaret Bedore, who planted thousands of daffodil bulbs across the grounds—an enduring gesture that continues to shape the seasonal landscape and supports Newboro’s designation as the Daffodil Capital of Ontario.
In the early 2000s, the Manor was purchased by Terry and Bea Heaslip, whose stewardship marked a turning point in the home’s preservation. The Heaslips undertook a major restoration campaign that included careful repointing of the stonework, significant updates to the home’s infrastructure, and the thoughtful addition of both the glass conservatory and the carriage house. Their contributions represent one of the most important chapters in the property's architectural legacy, ensuring the Manor’s structural integrity and beauty for future generations.
From 2016 to 2021, the house was owned by Isabelle Goulet, who operated it as the distinguished bed and breakfast Daffodil Acres, continuing its tradition of hospitality. In 2021, the Manor was acquired by Kim Lulashnyk and Stuart Ash and renamed Newboro Manor. Today, the property welcomes the public through curated art retreats and workshops held in the beautifully restored carriage house, now home to Stone Manor Studios.
From "The Heritage Information File" Township of Rideau Lakes:
The two-story John Draffin Manor is an Italianate style house (famous in Ontario between 1860-90) and features brackets under wide overhanging eaves, quoins, a symmetrical façade, simple square hipped-roof, elegant proportions and narrow segmentally arched windows (here they are doors on the 2nd floor). An open porch shelters the main entrance which acts as a 2nd-floor balcony and is emphasized by large light transoms and sidelights. The 1 1/2 story extensions equally of randomized stone and has a door and dormer, both facing south. A further addition is clad in stone to match the rest of the house and features large, rounded windows. A detached two-story, two-car garage is the most recent addition. It is equally clad in stone to resemble the main structure and features a guest house with a balcony on the 2nd floor. John Draffin (born 1818) arrived in Canada from Ireland in 1860. He was a successful local merchant with a store on Main Street. It is believed that he and his wife, Margaret, built a modest 1 1/2 story structure, on his property on New Street, then added the present two-story stone structure. In 1895, the house was owned by the Diocese of Ontario to be used in trust with St. Mary's Anglican Church in the village. It hosted church-related events such as St.Mary's Jubilee Social on June 27, 1900.
Our Story
Our greatest fortune was discovering Newboro and the remarkable home that would become Newboro Manor. Located in the heart of Rideau Lakes, this small village of just 250 residents is a vibrant and welcoming community. Originally from Manitoba, Stuart and I met while studying English and History at university and later moved to Ottawa, where Stuart began his career in intellectual property law and I pursued graduate studies in English and Canadian Studies.
Over the years, my work has bridged art, education, and community engagement—ranging from painting and pottery to coordinating national public art projects and completing a Bachelor of Education. In 2021, we purchased Newboro Manor and I launched Stone Manor Studios, where my creative and academic paths converge. As Owner and Creative Director, I’m proud to offer a space where art, learning, and connection thrive amidst the beauty of the forest, gardens, and heritage architecture. We love living & working on this historic property.
~Kim Lulashnyk & Stuart Ash
Mr. & Mrs. Draffin
Mr. John Draffin
(from the McCord Museum Archives)
Mrs. Margaret Draffin (Bell)
(from the McCord Museum)
Contact Us
Join us for a workshop or retreat at Stone Manor Studios and see Newboro Manor in all its splendor.
We are working to bring the beauty of this historical landmark to people around the world. Stay connected to hear about events and opportunities to visit as we grow and flourish. Who knows, maybe weddings will arrive!
