Prominent Loyalist and Chief Justice John Saunders built this house around 1833 using "a large portion of the material of the first Government House" which had been partially destroyed by a major fire in 1825. For example, Saunders reused all of the woodwork from the old dining room, where he had "enjoyed many a glass of wine to ’King and Country’ with men famous in the early history of this country." The wide grassed area which stretches from here up to Charlotte Street (along with a matching counterpart at the bottom of Smythe Street) dates back to the original 1786 survey of the City which reserved this area for farmers’ markets and cattle enclosures, although they likely never served either purpose.
Saunders House built in 1796, is located on 177 University Ave. This cottage was the town residence Saunders, who became Chief of Virginian Loyalist John of Justice New Brunswick in 1822. This home was plaqued by the Fredericton Heritage Trust in 1977.
Fredericton Heritage Trust is a volunteer-run organization, powered by people who care about our city’s history. Preserving our built and natural heritage isn’t just about the physical structures—it’s about the people and stories that have shaped our landscape. With no paid staff, our work depends on members, donors, and volunteers like you, who give their time and energy. Join us ain advocating for the stories, places, and history that make Fredericton unique.