A grand piano sits majestically on the manicured lawn. This is Heintzman House. It whispers tales of loyalists and piano makers.
Heintzman House stands proudly. It’s one of Thornhill-Markham’s oldest buildings. Its story begins long before the Heintzman family. In 1798 United Empire Loyalist Anthony Hollingshead received a land grant. He built a modest mudhouse. This was one of the earliest homes in the province.
The house expanded over time. In 1817 the Honourable George Crookshank bought the property. He transformed the humble mudhouse into a 13-room mansion. He added black walnut paneling. This wood came from trees on the estate. The design blended Classical Revival and Georgian styles. Crookshank was a prominent figure. He served in the government and was a friend of Lieutenant Governor John Graves Simcoe. He even played a crucial role during the War of 1812 supplying Fort York.
The house changed hands several times. Eventually Charles Theodore Heintzman. He was the grandson of the founder of the Heintzman Piano Company. He bought Sunnyside Manor in 1930. Charles and his wife Marion added a conservatory and other features. They maintained the house’s character. Their additions subtly reflected Georgian and Regency styles. They even kept a herd of Jersey cattle on the property.
In 1959 the house faced demolition. Concerned residents campaigned to save it. Markham bought the house in 1966. They renamed it Heintzman House. It became a community centre and office space. In 1984 it gained heritage status. Today it hosts weddings and other events. It’s a testament to the past and a thriving venue. The Heintzman House Auxiliary. They actively support the house. They organized a yearly craft show to raise funds for its upkeep.
Heintzman House stands as a symbol of resilience. It’s a place where history meets the present. The legacy of loyalists piano makers and a community’s determination to preserve a piece of history lives on. This beautiful building stands as a reminder of a rich past.