Latest news with #OntarioHeritageTrust
Malaysian Reserve
15-07-2025
- General
- Malaysian Reserve
New provincial plaque commemorates the Guelph British Methodist Episcopal Church
GUELPH, ON, July 15, 2025 /CNW/ – The Ontario Heritage Trust, alongside the Guelph Black Heritage Society, has unveiled a new provincial plaque to the Guelph British Methodist Episcopal (BME) Church. This new provincial plaque tells the story of this building and how it fulfilled the spiritual and social needs of its congregation and Guelph's historical Black community. It was a meeting place, a safe haven and a symbol of freedom. People of African descent have resided in Guelph and Wellington County since the area was settled in the late 1820s. Black families in Upper Canada established homesteads, worked in a range of occupations and developed institutions of community life. In Guelph, the first Black congregation was formed in the 1850s. By the time of Confederation, the Black community had grown such that church services, once held in the private homes of worshippers, required a new public space. A wooden chapel was built in 1870, and the cornerstone of this limestone structure was laid in 1880. The BME Church became the centre of Guelph's Black community. Along with religious services, the church hosted programs and events that provided support and social opportunities that helped to teach life skills and literacy. Its story represents the resilience, drive and vision of Guelph's Black community and encompasses the long history of Black settlement in Guelph, in Wellington County and in Ontario. 'This new provincial plaque to the British Methodist Episcopal Church, a cherished cultural landmark, is a tribute to the voices that history tried to silence. By preserving and celebrating our shared heritage, we ensure that future generations understand the struggles and triumphs that shaped our community.' — Denise Francis, Guelph Black Heritage Society 'The Guelph British Methodist Episcopal Church stands as a powerful symbol of perseverance, faith and community. This new provincial plaque pays tribute to those who built a place of refuge, belonging and hope in the face of adversity,' said Graham McGregor, Minister of Citizenship and Multiculturalism. 'As we commemorate this historic site, we commend the Ontario Heritage Trust for its ongoing efforts to preserve our shared heritage and recognize the vital contributions of Ontario's Black communities.' 'The Guelph British Methodist Episcopal Church stands as a testament to the enduring strength of Ontario's Black communities. For generations, it was more than a place of worship — it was a cornerstone of civic and spiritual life. The Ontario Heritage Trust is honoured to commemorate its legacy with a provincial plaque.' — John Ecker, Chair, Ontario Heritage Trust The plaque text reads as follows: GUELPH BRITISH METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH A testament to the resilience of the Black community, the Guelph British Methodist Episcopal (BME) Church was established in the 1850s by freedom seekers and free Blacks. Many had resided in Wellington County since the 1820s, moving from the Queen's Bush area to the Essex–Nottingham neighbourhood of Guelph's welcoming English Methodist community. The growing congregation raised funds to purchase land in 1869 and built a wooden chapel here in 1870. In 1880, they laid the cornerstone and began construction of this limestone chapel. By 1881, Guelph's Black population numbered 107; the majority resided near the church. Throughout its history, this church played a key role as a meeting place for the Black community, fulfilling the spiritual and social needs of the congregation, providing a safe haven and representing a symbol of freedom. Over the years, ministers included Junius Roberts, Samuel R. Drake, Solomon Lucas and Mabel 'Addie' Aylestock — the first female BME minister. In 1975, the church closed due to declining attendance yet reopened from 1994-2009. In 2012, the Guelph Black Heritage Society purchased the church, which continues to service the broader community, while honouring the church's heritage. It is an important symbol of the history of the Black Methodist tradition and long history of Black settlement in Ontario. The plaque is now permanently installed in front of the church, today known as Heritage Hall, and is available for public viewing. Learn moreFind out more about the Ontario Heritage Trust and the Provincial Plaque Program. Stay connected Follow the Ontario Heritage Trust on Facebook, X, Bluesky, Instagram, LinkedIn and YouTube. Subscribe to the Heritage Matters … more! e-newsletter. #ONheritage About the Ontario Heritage TrustThe Trust is committed to preserving our cultural and natural heritage and ensuring its continued relevance for future generations. We are working towards an Ontario where heritage is not only preserved and valued, but is celebrated, enjoyed and used as a source of inspiration. The Trust will be a beacon in an Ontario where heritage is preserved, protected and promoted in ways that are sources of pride for all Ontarians.
Cision Canada
15-07-2025
- General
- Cision Canada
New provincial plaque commemorates the Guelph British Methodist Episcopal Church Français
GUELPH, ON, July 15, 2025 /CNW/ - The Ontario Heritage Trust, alongside the Guelph Black Heritage Society, has unveiled a new provincial plaque to the Guelph British Methodist Episcopal (BME) Church. This new provincial plaque tells the story of this building and how it fulfilled the spiritual and social needs of its congregation and Guelph's historical Black community. It was a meeting place, a safe haven and a symbol of freedom. People of African descent have resided in Guelph and Wellington County since the area was settled in the late 1820s. Black families in Upper Canada established homesteads, worked in a range of occupations and developed institutions of community life. In Guelph, the first Black congregation was formed in the 1850s. By the time of Confederation, the Black community had grown such that church services, once held in the private homes of worshippers, required a new public space. A wooden chapel was built in 1870, and the cornerstone of this limestone structure was laid in 1880. The BME Church became the centre of Guelph's Black community. Along with religious services, the church hosted programs and events that provided support and social opportunities that helped to teach life skills and literacy. Its story represents the resilience, drive and vision of Guelph's Black community and encompasses the long history of Black settlement in Guelph, in Wellington County and in Ontario. "This new provincial plaque to the British Methodist Episcopal Church, a cherished cultural landmark, is a tribute to the voices that history tried to silence. By preserving and celebrating our shared heritage, we ensure that future generations understand the struggles and triumphs that shaped our community." — Denise Francis, Guelph Black Heritage Society "The Guelph British Methodist Episcopal Church stands as a powerful symbol of perseverance, faith and community. This new provincial plaque pays tribute to those who built a place of refuge, belonging and hope in the face of adversity," said Graham McGregor, Minister of Citizenship and Multiculturalism. "As we commemorate this historic site, we commend the Ontario Heritage Trust for its ongoing efforts to preserve our shared heritage and recognize the vital contributions of Ontario's Black communities." "The Guelph British Methodist Episcopal Church stands as a testament to the enduring strength of Ontario's Black communities. For generations, it was more than a place of worship — it was a cornerstone of civic and spiritual life. The Ontario Heritage Trust is honoured to commemorate its legacy with a provincial plaque." — John Ecker, Chair, Ontario Heritage Trust The plaque text reads as follows: A testament to the resilience of the Black community, the Guelph British Methodist Episcopal (BME) Church was established in the 1850s by freedom seekers and free Blacks. Many had resided in Wellington County since the 1820s, moving from the Queen's Bush area to the Essex-Nottingham neighbourhood of Guelph's welcoming English Methodist community. The growing congregation raised funds to purchase land in 1869 and built a wooden chapel here in 1870. In 1880, they laid the cornerstone and began construction of this limestone chapel. By 1881, Guelph's Black population numbered 107; the majority resided near the church. Throughout its history, this church played a key role as a meeting place for the Black community, fulfilling the spiritual and social needs of the congregation, providing a safe haven and representing a symbol of freedom. Over the years, ministers included Junius Roberts, Samuel R. Drake, Solomon Lucas and Mabel "Addie" Aylestock — the first female BME minister. In 1975, the church closed due to declining attendance yet reopened from 1994-2009. In 2012, the Guelph Black Heritage Society purchased the church, which continues to service the broader community, while honouring the church's heritage. It is an important symbol of the history of the Black Methodist tradition and long history of Black settlement in Ontario. The plaque is now permanently installed in front of the church, today known as Heritage Hall, and is available for public viewing. Learn more Find out more about the Ontario Heritage Trust and the Provincial Plaque Program. About the Ontario Heritage Trust The Trust is committed to preserving our cultural and natural heritage and ensuring its continued relevance for future generations. We are working towards an Ontario where heritage is not only preserved and valued, but is celebrated, enjoyed and used as a source of inspiration. The Trust will be a beacon in an Ontario where heritage is preserved, protected and promoted in ways that are sources of pride for all Ontarians. SOURCE Ontario Heritage Trust
Cision Canada
29-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Cision Canada
Celebrate Ontario at an Ontario Heritage Trust site this summer Français
TORONTO, May 29, 2025 /CNW/ - Discover Ontario's heritage by exploring an Ontario Heritage Trust site as part of your summer adventures! The Trust offers museums, natural sites and programs to help uncover local gems, explore the past and connect with your community and province. The Trust operates two of Ontario's many intriguing museums and both are now open for the 2025 season — the Josiah Henson Museum of African Canadian History in Dresden and Fulford Place in Brockville. The Josiah Henson Museum shares the stories of people of African descent and their contributions to Canadian culture and society. It is located at the historical home of famed freedom-seeker Josiah Henson. Fulford Place is a grand mansion, built between 1899 and 1901, offering a rare glimpse of the luxurious lifestyle of another era. In Toronto, you can take a tour of the Elgin and Winter Garden Theatres, the last operating double decker theatres in the world and a National Historic Site. If getting out into nature is more your speed, the Cheltenham Badlands site is also open for the season. This out-of-this-world landscape, formed at the bottom of an ancient sea 450 million years ago, is located just outside of the Greater Toronto Area. today to explore one of Southern Ontario's most iconic and unusual natural heritage landmarks. And thanks to the Trust, admission to the Josiah Henson Museum, Fulford Place and the Cheltenham Badlands is completely free on Ontario Day, this Sunday June 1! This special occasion is an opportunity to remember, celebrate and educate future generations about the significant roles that Ontario and Ontarians have played, and continue to play, in Canada. As always, Doors Open Ontario continues to offer free access to historical treasures in communities provincewide. Take a weekend adventure with the whole family to Doors Open Whitchurch Stouffville on June 7, peer behind the scenes in our nation's capital at Doors Open Ottawa on June 7 and 8 or discover some charming Ontario small towns at Doors Open Loyalist Township on June 14. After a short break following Doors Open Owen Sound on June 21, Doors Open Ontario starts up again in early August with 22 more events to come through the end of October! Plan your adventure by visiting About the Ontario Heritage Trust The Trust is committed to preserving our cultural and natural heritage and ensuring its continued relevance for future generations. We are working toward an Ontario where heritage is not only preserved and valued, but is celebrated, enjoyed and used as a source of inspiration. The Trust will be a beacon in an Ontario where heritage is preserved, protected and promoted in ways that are sources of pride for all Ontarians.
Yahoo
29-05-2025
- General
- Yahoo
Celebrate Ontario at an Ontario Heritage Trust site this summer
TORONTO, May 29, 2025 /CNW/ - Discover Ontario's heritage by exploring an Ontario Heritage Trust site as part of your summer adventures! The Trust offers museums, natural sites and programs to help uncover local gems, explore the past and connect with your community and province. The Trust operates two of Ontario's many intriguing museums and both are now open for the 2025 season — the Josiah Henson Museum of African Canadian History in Dresden and Fulford Place in Brockville. The Josiah Henson Museum shares the stories of people of African descent and their contributions to Canadian culture and society. It is located at the historical home of famed freedom-seeker Josiah Henson. Fulford Place is a grand mansion, built between 1899 and 1901, offering a rare glimpse of the luxurious lifestyle of another era. In Toronto, you can take a tour of the Elgin and Winter Garden Theatres, the last operating double decker theatres in the world and a National Historic Site. If getting out into nature is more your speed, the Cheltenham Badlands site is also open for the season. This out-of-this-world landscape, formed at the bottom of an ancient sea 450 million years ago, is located just outside of the Greater Toronto Area. today to explore one of Southern Ontario's most iconic and unusual natural heritage landmarks. And thanks to the Trust, admission to the Josiah Henson Museum, Fulford Place and the Cheltenham Badlands is completely free on Ontario Day, this Sunday June 1! This special occasion is an opportunity to remember, celebrate and educate future generations about the significant roles that Ontario and Ontarians have played, and continue to play, in Canada. As always, Doors Open Ontario continues to offer free access to historical treasures in communities provincewide. Take a weekend adventure with the whole family to Doors Open Whitchurch Stouffville on June 7, peer behind the scenes in our nation's capital at Doors Open Ottawa on June 7 and 8 or discover some charming Ontario small towns at Doors Open Loyalist Township on June 14. After a short break following Doors Open Owen Sound on June 21, Doors Open Ontario starts up again in early August with 22 more events to come through the end of October! Plan your adventure by visiting Stay connected Follow the Ontario Heritage Trust on Facebook, X, Bluesky, Instagram, LinkedIn and YouTube. Subscribe to the Heritage Matters ... more! e-newsletter. #ONheritage About the Ontario Heritage Trust The Trust is committed to preserving our cultural and natural heritage and ensuring its continued relevance for future generations. We are working toward an Ontario where heritage is not only preserved and valued, but is celebrated, enjoyed and used as a source of inspiration. The Trust will be a beacon in an Ontario where heritage is preserved, protected and promoted in ways that are sources of pride for all Ontarians. SOURCE Ontario Heritage Trust View original content to download multimedia: Sign in to access your portfolio
Hamilton Spectator
17-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Hamilton Spectator
Hundreds visit historic Brantford aircraft factory during Doors Open
Over 500 people visited the site of the former Cockshutt Moulded Aircraft factory during the Doors Open Along the Grand event on Saturday, May 10, 2025. Doors Open Along the Grand is presented in partnership with Doors Open Ontario, an annual program of the Ontario Heritage Trust. Every year, visitors to Doors Open events gain rare access to buildings and spaces that are typically closed to the public or to sites that normally charge admission. This year, 32 municipalities throughout the province took part in the program, and for the first time ever, the City of Brantford, the County of Brant and Six Nations of the Grand River, came together to present Doors Open Along the Grand. During the one-day event, residents and out-of-town visitors alike were given free access to explore 17 heritage buildings and sites across all three communities, including the former Cockshutt Moulded Aircraft factory. Located in the Eagle Place neighbourhood, the Cockshutt Plow Company first built the 148 Mohawk St. facility during the Second World War. At the time, the aircraft division supplied critical military aircraft parts, and the building was specifically constructed to produce airplane fuselages and other components. Hosted by Vincenzo Capotorto (the building's current owner), the Canadian Industrial Heritage Centre (CIHC) and Brant Theatre Workshops, the event featured a host of interpretive displays, historical artifacts, old newspaper clippings, an old documentary film and a reading of the play, 'The Footlocker,' which was written by Brantford's own Vincent Ball. Rob Adlam, a volunteer with the CIHC, said the event was a great opportunity for locals to learn a bit about the building they so frequently drive by. 'The building was built back in 1942 but the Cockshutt Moulded Aircraft division didn't start operating until January of 1943. Following the end of the Second World War, military contracts were canceled, so aircraft production obviously ceased, and it was converted to harvester combine production from the end of the war, until April 1985 when it closed,' he said. 'Having grown up in Brantford and being the fifth generation working in industry in Brantford, there's a lot of history hiding in plain sight. A lot of people drive by this place and have no idea what it is. That's nothing against them, it's just because it's gone uncelebrated, uninterpreted and left to the dust pile of history. We've had former White Farm Equipment employees here today talking about their experiences in this building and those are real people. They're not dusty artifacts, they made their living here and made a difference with innovation… they put Branford on the map.' While the facility was originally known for building various parts for several military aircrafts, the Cockshutt Moulded Aircraft Division's over 6,000 employees (many of whom were women) primarily created the fuselages of two British airplanes, the Avro Anson training aircraft and the de Havilland Mosquito bomber. 'They produced over 600 planes and by the end of the war, they were producing the Mosquito, which was sort of Canada's wonder weapon,' said Peter Muir, CIHC board member and Artistic Director of Brant Theatre Workshops. 'It was the fastest plane in the allied arsenal and it was quite feared by the Germans.' While there were plenty of interesting treasures on display, Tony Cockshutt, a descendent of the Cockshutt family and CIHC board member, said that his favourite artifact of the day was actually the building itself. 'For me, it's the top of the superstructure which is all wooden,' he said. 'Because it was built during the war, the steel presumably all went to manufacturing wartime equipment and so the building has these huge wooden beams. Given that the building is over 80 years old, it's still in great condition, plus, there's these beautiful windows up at the top there, which provide just a lot of great natural light.' While Adlam said he completely agreed with Cockshutt, he said that one particularly interesting artifact was a section of an exhaust manifold for an Avro Anson made right in Brantford with the Cockshutt tag still on it. 'It actually came to us from a flight training school in Quill Lake, Saskatchewan, and so the fact that it's come home to Brantford where it belongs is particularly gratifying,' said Adlam. 'These exhaust manifolds were manufactured for various planes, the Anson being one of them, and you can actually see the original tag is still on it with the parts numbers and when it was made, and it says here 'manufactured by the Cockshutt Plow Company in Brantford Ontario.' Melissa Jones, one of the many Brantford residents who attended the event, said that she had no idea the history behind the building. 'I honestly thought this was just another factory building, I had no idea it was built to specifically help with the war,' she said. 'There's so many cool details all throughout the building like the wooden beams and the track that runs the length of the floor which was used to help move parts from one section to the next; it's really something. I'm originally from Sarnia and so this whole Doors Open event has just been a great opportunity to learn about a few of the places in the community.' Kimberly De Jong's reporting is funded by the Canadian government through its Local Journalism Initiative. The funding allows her to report rural and agricultural stories from Blandford-Blenheim and Brant County. Reach her at .
