Trompe L'oeil

James Livingston recruited the best tradesmen to assist him with the building of the Castle. One of the best moves he made was to hire the artist H. Scharstein (or Schasstein). Little is known about this man but what he left behind has inspired all who have seen his work. The Castle was not painted immediately after it was built because plaster required a few months to cure. It was likely 1878-79 that the paintings were created. The artist used a style of painting called "Trompe l'oeil".

"Trompe l'oeil" is a French term which means "to fool the eye". This illusionistic painting technique is employed in many of the decorative ceiling and wall paintings found throughout Castle Kilbride.

Evidence of this three-dimensional technique of painting, "Trompe l'oeil" is a central reason for Castle Kilbride's designation as a National Historic Site in 1995. These interior paintings are one of the finest examples of skillful artwork in a domestic home from the mid-Victorian Era in Canada. Found within the paintings at the Castle are a number of hidden images and classical motifs.

Since 1877, Kilbride served as the Livingston family home, until James Livingston's graddaughter, Laura Louise and husband Harris Veitch decided to seek smaller accommodations in 1988. A development company purchased the home and furnishings were sold at a huge four day auction that same year.

Proposed development did not take place and the home was vacant for five years. Local citizens were concerned as the property began to deteriorate. In 1993, the Township of Wilmot purchased the home with the vision of saving the local landmark and combining local heritage with Municipal Administration. Aided by government funding and private donations, a program of thorough restoration was embarked on.