Office of George Étienne Cartier

Explore the office of George Étienne Cartier as re-created in the style of the early years of the Confederation. In 1872, George Étienne Cartier was the Minister of Militia and Defence.

In 1872, George Étienne Cartier was the Minister of Militia and Defence. Before Confederation, Cartier had served as co-premier for Canada East in the Union government with Macdonald. The two men became great friends and allies, promoting the cause of confederation.

The Gothic windows are large with cusped tracery showing the wide variety of window shapes used in the building. Six of the ministerial offices, are the same size with very similar details. This kind of spacious accommodation stands in stark contrast to the average backbencher, who had no office at all at this time.

The colours and furnishings of this office reflect the tastes of the mid-Victorian era. The rich colours used in the ceiling moulding, for example, have been carefully researched to ensure accuracy. Over time, the character of this room was toned-down to suit the preferences of a succession of occupants with more modern, streamlined tastes. These have included every prime minister from Sir Wilfrid Laurier to Pierre Trudeau.

When the Prime Minister's Office moved across the street to the Langevin Block in the 1970s, it was time to turn back the clocks and rediscover the forgotten past of rich colours, heavy draperies, gas lamps and coalfires.