Dundas Castle

All photos from Louis on Flickr

In the early 1800s, Bradford Lee Gilbert constructed Dundas Castle as a summer lodge, originally naming it "Craig E Clair" after his wife's hometown in Scotland. Gilbert's vision for the castle came to life, providing a charming retreat for his family during the warmer months. Tragically, in 1911, Bradford Lee Gilbert passed away, leaving behind his creation.

In 1915, the castle changed hands and came into possession of Ralph Wurts Dundas. He had ambitious plans for the castle and began construction to further enhance its splendor. However, his untimely passing in 1921 meant he never had the chance to witness the completion of the grand castle he had envisioned. Following his demise, his wife, Josephine, faced personal challenges and was committed to an asylum, leaving their daughter, Muriel, to inherit both the castle and their fortune.

Despite the inheritance, Muriel's life took a dark turn when the caretakers of the castle deceived her, stealing the fortune that was meant to be rightfully hers. Disheartened by the betrayal, she eventually married and relocated to England, leaving behind the castle that had once held so much promise.

With no one to take care of the estate, Dundas Castle's fate took a different course. Over the years, it served various purposes, including being used as a children's camp and a masonic retreat. However, the castle's glorious days have long since passed, and today, it sits abandoned, a haunting reminder of its illustrious past.

As the years have passed, Dundas Castle's once majestic halls and grounds have succumbed to the elements, adding to its air of mystery and allure. The echoes of its rich history and the dreams of its original builders now remain silent within its decaying walls, waiting for the next chapter in its storied existence.