A historic residence known as the Little Red House in Langley Township, British Columbia, has been ravaged by a fire, ending its nearly 140-year existence. The structure, officially named Mclver House, was constructed by Murdoch and Annie McIver between 1887 and 1890, as per township records.
Despite its fame for being situated in the Glen Valley area and serving as a popular backdrop for photoshoots and videos, the Langley Heritage Society noted the house had deteriorated over time. The Gothic-style farmhouse, nestled within a turf farm, was renowned for its picturesque appeal, often evoking nostalgic sentiments of bygone eras.
Township of Langley councillor, Rob Rindt, lamented the loss of the iconic house, expressing deep sadness at its destruction. He shared footage depicting the flames engulfing the historic structure, emphasizing the sentimental value it held for many who had admired its beauty.
Historical archives of Langley Township describe the McIvers’ decision to construct the house to accommodate their large family, replacing an earlier log cabin. While the residence was inhabited until the early 1990s, by 2010, it had fallen into disrepair and remained unoccupied within the expanding turf farm.
Regrettably, the Langley Heritage Society acknowledged the missed opportunity to preserve this significant piece of local history. The community mourns the loss of the Little Red House, a symbol of the area’s heritage and charm.