Celebrating Heritage: Municipal Heritage Plaques Honour Historic Landmarks
During last night's Committee of the Whole meeting, Richmond Municipal Council recognized two municipal heritage landmarks: St. John’s Anglican Church in Arichat and St. Patrick’s Church in Whiteside, by presenting municipal heritage plaques.
St. John’s Anglican Church, founded in 1828, stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of faith and community. Rebuilt in 1895 to replace the original structure, the church underwent a remarkable transformation in recent years. After being deconsecrated in 2014, it remained silent and vacant until the Friends of St. John's Arichat Society stepped in. Their dedication and vision sparked a revival, leading to the transformation of this historical gem into the St. John's Centre for the Arts in 2018.Now, under the stewardship of the Society, this cultural hub not only preserves the architectural heritage of the former church but also provides a space for artistic expression and community engagement.
Similarly, in Whiteside, St. Patrick’s Church has been a cornerstone of the community since its founding in 1865. Despite facing adversity, including a devastating fire that led to the construction of the current building in 1919, the church has remained a beacon of faith and cultural significance. Situated along the picturesque waterfront, it holds a special place in the hearts of residents not only in Whiteside but also in neighboring communities such as Walkerville, Evanston, and Lower River.
These plaques signify the importance of preserving heritage, which is essential for upholding our history, nurturing our sense of identity, and promoting cultural appreciation. Heritage preservation establishes a link to our past, sparks creativity, and strenghens community ties. By protecting landmarks and traditions, we honor the legacy of our ancestors and enrich the cultural landscape for future generations.
For More Information
For more information about the Friends of St. John’s Arichat Society and the St. Patrick’s Church Preservation Society, visit their respective websites. (Friends of St. John’s , St. Patrick’s Church Preservation Society)
Photos
Top Left (listed left to right): Warden Amanda Mombourquette, Marg Herman, Phylis Frost, Cameron Frost, Jason Landgon, Deputy Warden Shawn Samson
Top Right (listed left to right): Warden Amanda Mombourquette, Brenda White, Councillor Melanie Sampson
Bottom Left: Oval plaque with the words Registered Heritage Property, St. John’s Anglican Church, Built in 1895, Municipality of the County of Richmond
Bottom Right: Oval plaque with the words Registered Heritage Property, St. Patrick's Church, Built in 1919, Municipality of the County of Richmond