1 Oshawa, Ontario, is home to Parkwood Estates. Built in 1917, the project was an expensive undertaking. Artists, landscapers, and architects joined to create a model of early 20th century design. When complete, R.S. McLaughlin moved into the fifty-five-room mansion. He lived there with his wife and five children.
2 Mr. McLaughlin was an important Canadian. He was the founder of General Motors Canada. Along with his business pursuits, he was a well-known philanthropist. He made generous donations and set up scholarships. In 1972, Mr. McLaughlin died at the age of one hundred one. He left his estate to a group called Parkwood Foundation.
3 Parkwood Foundation's goal is to protect the site for the enjoyment and education of Canadians. In 1989, the estate was named a heritage site. This was a key step in preserving the history, art, and architecture of the early 1900s. The site also offers future generations a peek into the life and times of R.S. McLaughlin.
