Hamnett Kirkes Pinhey

In 1820, Pinhey travelled to March Township in Upper Canada and settled at a site on the Ottawa River.

Pinhey established himself as a gentleman farmer on his land and named this location Horaceville after his eldest son.

The first part of the stone house was completed in 1825, and consisted of a large Parlour for entertaining and the servants quarters on the second floor.

The second part of the house was not completed until 1841, and included the Grand Entrance, the original Dining Room, the Master Bedroom and a second stone kitchen for Mrs. Pinhey.

[citation needed] In addition to the house, Pinhey built a grist mill, sawmill, and St. Mary's Church on the site.

Pinhey welcomed members of the British elite into his home, including Lord Dalhousie and Upper Canada Anglican Bishop John Strachan.

Pinhey continued to serve in various positions in local government and, in 1847, became a member of the Legislative Council of the Province of Canada.

Upon her death in 1971, Ruth Pinhey left the estate to a family member, who then sold the property to the township of March.