370 Hess Street South, Hamilton, ON

This one has a wonderful story, and I’d preserve more of that history than usual. The provenance, nearly 50 years with one family, architectural details, gardens, and sense of continuity are what distinguish it. Welcome to Kildallan, a magnificent circa-1850 Second Empire Victorian residence and one of the most distinguished historic homes in Hamilton’s Durand neighbourhood. Set on one of the area’s largest east-west-facing lots, 370 Hess Street South offers more than 4,500 sq. ft. of above-grade living space, with six bedrooms and three-and-a-half bathrooms. A rare offering, Kildallan has remained in the same family for nearly 50 years. Originally built by the Moore family, the home was occupied by Colonel Alexander Huggins Moore of the 13th Regiment, Royal Hamilton Light Infantry, until his death in 1916. Its name, Kildallan, was inspired by his mother’s parish in Ireland—a connection to the past that remains part of the home’s remarkable story. From the street, the residence commands attention with its grand Victorian architecture, beautiful proportions, mature gardens, and one of Durand’s spectacular magnolia trees. Inside, the impressive entrance and principal rooms showcase 11-foot ceilings, high baseboards, generous crown moulding, original crystal chandeliers, and ornate plaster ceiling medallions adorned with delicate flowers and birds. Original wood flooring extends throughout the main level, complemented by exceptional architectural detailing. Designed on a grand scale yet wonderfully suited to entertaining, the main floor offers an effortless flow between its principal rooms. A large arched living and dining room opens to a light-filled, south-facing conservatory, where French doors lead directly to the back garden. A separate family room and library provide additional spaces for gathering or quiet retreat, while the generously sized kitchen is complemented by a secondary staircase and butler’s pantry/laundry room. Upstairs, the second level offers three generously proportioned bedrooms, including the primary suite with ensuite privilege. The top floor provides four additional rooms and a three-piece bathroom, offering remarkable flexibility for bedrooms, offices, creative spaces, or guest accommodations. Beautiful in every season—from its gardens and flowering magnolia in spring to its unmistakable warmth and grandeur at Christmas—Kildallan is more than a historic residence. It is a home with a story spanning generations, awaiting its next owner to make it their own and carry that story forward into a new chapter.