Page 7 - Aberthau Mansion

Then and Now
Aberthau was the first notably large residential property in the municipality of Point Grey designed by Samuel Maclure. The house was built originally for Vancouver businessman Mr. J.S. Rear during the years 1910 to 1913. In 1928, the house was sold to Colonel Victor Spencer, son of David Spencer, founder of the Vancouver department store. It was Colonel Spencer who gave “Aberthau” its Gaelic name meaning “a place filled with light”. Under Colonel Spencer’s direction, several major renovations were carried out, giving the house its present form.
The Federal Government began expropriation procedures to acquire Aberthau for use as an officer’s mess in 1938. Eventually, the house of 22 rooms, together with 5.86 acres of land, was turned over to the Federal Government. The Armed Forces vacated the building in the spring of 1972, and it was then turned over to the City of Vancouver and assigned to the Board of Parks and Recreation in order to provide interim space for the West Point Grey Community Recreation Project.
Since 1974, the mansion has been home to the West Point Grey Community Centre. Aberthau Mansion is a hidden gem and a unique venue perfect for intimate wedding ceremonies and receptions. Its architecture and hardwood interiors draw many soon-to-be-married couples who are planning a small to mid-size wedding at an elegant venue.
WEDDING PLANNING GUIDE
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