Government House (Quebec) is the traditional term referring to the official residence of the Sovereign's representative in Quebec, historically the Governor of the Province of Quebec, and subsequently the Lieutenant Governor of Quebec. While the term "Government House" has been generically applied to various official residences over time, the current and most notable historical site associated with this role is the residence located on the former Spencer Wood estate in Sillery, a district of Quebec City.
History
Prior to the mid-19th century, the official residence for the Governor of the Province of Quebec (and later the Governor General of the Province of Canada, when Quebec City was the capital) was primarily the Château St-Louis, a fortress and residence built atop Cap Diamant, overlooking the St. Lawrence River. After the Château St-Louis was destroyed by fire in 1834, various temporary arrangements were made.
In 1854, the Crown acquired Spencer Wood, a prominent estate located on the outskirts of Quebec City. This estate became the permanent official residence for the Governor General of the Province of Canada when the capital was in Quebec City, and subsequently for the Lieutenant Governor of Quebec after Confederation in 1867. The original villa on the Spencer Wood estate served as the residence until it too was destroyed by fire in 1898. A new, purpose-built residence was constructed on the same site and completed in 1900.
Current Residence
The building completed in 1900 continues to serve as the official residence of the Lieutenant Governor of Quebec. It is formally known as the Hôtel du Lieutenant-gouverneur (Lieutenant Governor's House). Located at 1010 Saint-Louis Road in Quebec City, the property includes the residence itself, extensive gardens, and woodlands, maintaining the park-like character of the original Spencer Wood estate.
The Hôtel du Lieutenant-gouverneur serves as the primary office and ceremonial residence for the Lieutenant Governor. It is used for official functions, meetings with dignitaries, investitures, and the presentation of awards. While not regularly open to the public, the grounds are occasionally accessible for special events. As the visible symbol of the Crown in Quebec, the residence plays an important role in the provincial constitutional system and in fostering community spirit and identity.