The first Government Building on the site of the existing Red House was constructed between 1844 and 1848. The buildings compromised two blocks as a concession to allow Prince Street, now Sackville Street, to remain open to St Vincent Street and Brunswick Square., now Woodford Square. In 1892, in an effort to provide much needed accommodation, alterations were carried out. Two new buildings of two floors were erected on either side of the northern building, used for the Court House- one to house the Registrar, the other the Record Office. Ornaments were also added to the exterior of the building. In 1897 to commemorate Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee, the Government Offices were painted red and subsequently became popularly known as “The Red House”. The building was destroyed by fire in the Water Riots of 1903.

With D. M Hahn as the architect, the Red House was then rebuilt using the most of the external walls, but with added galleries and the Chambers at the northern and southern ends. Additional ornamentation in neo classical style was added to upgrade the appearance and the building was reopened in 1907.

The Red House is currently being restored

Property of interest located on a parcel of land situated in the City of Port of Spain, bounded on the north by Knox Street, on the south by Hart Street, on the east by Abercromby Street and on the west by St. Vincent Street.

Other Known Name: The Seat of Parliament

Address: 25-27 Abercromby Street

Town/City: Port of Spain

Region: Port of Spain

Site Type: Cultural Heritage

Ownership: Public

Public Accessibility: Limited Access

Grade: Grade 3 – Property in which there may be allowed (a) alterations to international non-structural components and roof cladding material; or (b) specified alterations to the internal structure

Cultural Community: British

Site Features: Public Buildings