In 1878, Angus and his family moved into his new house at 240 Drummond Street in the Golden Square Mile. Like many wealthy Montrealers, Angus had a passion for floriculture, particularly his beloved orchids, and the house featured a large conservatory. His new home provided a suitable space for the art collection that he had started with purchases from Montreal and London dealers in the late 1870s. His collection contained many fine examples of the Old Masters. Angus served as president of the Art Association of Montreal, donating six paintings in 1889 – the most significant gift since the Association's foundation and the first major one in contemporary art. Before his Montreal home was demolished in 1957, it served as McGill University's conservatory of music.