Behind the Doors: A Spring Walk Through New West History

In this warm and nostalgic episode of New West Podcast, host Carla McNeil offers listeners a heartfelt preview of the 44th Annual New Westminster Heritage Homes Tour happening May 31st. Rather than covering every stop on the tour, this episode highlights several remarkable homes that reflect the city’s rich architectural and personal history — including Irving House Museum, the Murchie House, Chittick House, Douglas House, Nelson House, and the iconic Overend House. Listeners will hear stories of Victorian craftsmanship, Depression-era resilience, carefully restored Arts and Crafts homes, and bold mid-century modern design — along with the families and personalities who once lived within these walls. From original stained glass and handcrafted woodwork to hidden stories of entrepreneurship, restoration, and community life, this episode celebrates the homes that continue to shape New Westminster’s identity today. Perfect for architecture lovers, local history enthusiasts, spring walkers, and anyone curious about the stories hidden behind New West’s beautiful heritage streets. 🏡 Featured Heritage Homes Irving House Museum 302 Royal Ave, New Westminster, BC Built in 1865, Irving House is the oldest intact home in the Lower Mainland and one of British Columbia’s most important heritage properties. Murchie House 207 Eighth St, New Westminster, BC A bright 1927 Craftsman bungalow once home to Jemima Maria Murchie of the Murchie family legacy. Chittick House 817 Dublin St, New Westminster, BC An Arts and Crafts home built in 1922 by Ann Elizabeth Chittick and lovingly restored over many years. Douglas House 913 Tenth St, New Westminster, BC A modest Depression-era Craftsman bungalow reflecting resilience, practicality, and handcrafted design. Nelson House 211 Queens Ave, New Westminster, BC A refined 1941 Berwick and Pratt-designed residence blending early modernism with warm livability. Overend House 316 First St, New Westminster, BC A striking 1946 California Moderne home designed by architect Robert Berwick, featured online this year due to ongoing repairs. 📅 44th Annual New Westminster Heritage Homes Tour Sunday, May 31, 2026 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Self-guided tour throughout New Westminster Tour Information: Heritage New West Additional home details sourced from Heritage New West tour materials.