The heritage value of 12 West Street (The Eden Hall,) lies in its Queen Anne Revival architecture, its association with James Eden, its connection with Lieutenant Governor George DesBrisay DeBlois and its role in supporting the West and Grafton Street streetscapes.
12 West Street was built for successful wine merchant and tavern owner, James Eden in 1897. Records indicate that before moving to the fine house, Eden lived and operated a tavern at 87 Pownal Street, near to what was then the local jail. Business must have been brisk however, as he hired prominent local architect, C.B. Chappell to design his new beautiful Queen Anne Revival house in the west end of Charlottetown. Eden spared no expense in the construction of his home using sycamore and oak for the interior finishing. He would live at 12 West Street until 1923, when it was purchased by merchant and future Lieutenant Governor, George DeBlois.