The Captain John Purdy House, a white, 1 1/2-storey Classic Revival vernacular clapboard cottage, is situated in Sackville‘s Captain’s Corner. It is designated a Local Historic Place due to its architectural style, location, and connection with its initial owner.

The house is notable for its architectural design, built in 1877 as a prime example of Sackville’s vernacular Classical Revival cottage architecture. Key features include the 1 1/2-storey rectangular structure, clapboard siding, paired bay windows, and steeply pitched gable roof.

The location of the house is also significant. Situated at the intersection of Queens Road and Main Street in a historic area of Sackville known as Captain’s Corner, it was once home to numerous sea captains sailing from the Port of Sackville. In 1876, Captain John Purdy purchased the land, which was originally part of the extensive property owned by prominent Sackville shipbuilder Christopher Boultenhouse, whose residence was across the street. Queens Road, initially a laneway, was named after Boultenhouse before its extension, which provided a route from the old Post Road to Dixon’s Landing and the government wharf.

The Purdy House is further distinguished by its association with its first owner, Captain John Purdy. A master seaman, he navigated from the Port of Sackville to various ports worldwide, transporting cargoes of wood, agricultural products, and building stone. He captained the 85-ton steamer “Sir John” until it succumbed to a fire in Saint John’s harbor in December 1886.

In June 1887, Captain John Purdy left for California and eventually settled in Westminster, British Columbia. He continued to command significant vessels along North America’s Pacific Coast.

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