Heritage Properties

Kavelman's Store/ New Dundee Emporium

Description of Historic Place

The Emporium is located at 169 Front Street, on the east side of Front Street, south of Main Street, in the Village of New Dundee, now the Township of Wilmot. The store is a two-storey yellow-brick and stucco over rubble stone, that was constructed in 1887.
The property was designated, by the Township of Wilmot, in 1985, for its historical or architectural value or interest, under Part IV of the Ontario Heritage act (By-law 85-59).

Heritage Value

The Emporium has continuously served the community as a store for over 100 years. It was built in 1887, with a rear addition in 1888, by a prominent New Dundee resident, Gottlieb Bettschen. Gottlieb was the son of the first Reeve of Wilmot Township, Jacob Bettschen. Gottlieb was also the first vintner to introduce Concord and Delaware grapes to the area and the organizer of the Farmers' Institute of South Waterloo and New Dundee Library association. Gottlieb purchased several lots on Front Street, in 1886, but found the street to be very narrow. To compensate, he altered the plan to indicate a set back of twelve feet. This included the block designed for the Emporium. The block was known as the Jubilee Block, as the year of construction marked the 50th anniversary of Queen Victoria's reign.

Even though Gottlieb owned the Emporium until 1915, he never ran the store. He leased the space to several tenants over the years. The first operator was J.U. Clemens, a prominent merchant, both in New Dundee and Berlin (Kitchener). The most prominent tenant, Jacob Kavelman, eventually became the owner of the store in 1915 and operated it until 1974. Kavelman, a fire chief, librarian and a member of the Musical Society Band, converted the upstairs into living quarters in 1921.

The Emporium is one of the best examples of the Victorian mercantile architecture in both the Township of Wilmot and the Region of Waterloo. It features a boomtown front with a prominent cornice, and intricate brick work on the façade. Typical of this style it features a brick façade of symmetrical design with eight bays. The second-storey consists of eight segmented arched windows and the first-storey consists of a total of eight alternating fixed single-sash windows and doors. The façade's first-storey has a veranda running its entire length. The other three elevations of the Emporium were constructed using rubble stone, stuccoed and engraved with a diamond pattern, and feature at least one door on the first-storey.

Character-Defining Elements

Character defining elements that contribute to the heritage value of the Emporium include its:

• situation on Gottlieb Bettschen's plan for the Jubilee block
• continuous use as a local store for over 100 years
• yellow and white brick construction of the façade in stretcher bond
• north, south and east elevations stucco over rubble stone construction
• symmetrical façade
• boxed cornice, with a frieze of dentils and eave brackets
• alternating single-sash, fixed, four glazed panel windows and plain architraves with embrasure doors, four of each, on the first-storey of the façade
• eight segmented arched double hung windows on the second storey of the façade
• double, two-panel door and three single four panel doors on façade
• corner brick pilaster on the west elevation which arches into the corbelling detail of the frieze
• veranda running along the façade's first-storey
• entrance doors on each elevation

Livingston Home - Castle Kilbride National Historic Site

Castle Kilbride, located at 60 Snyder's Road West, is situated on the north side of Snyder's Road West in the heart of the former Village of Baden, now the Township of Wilmot. The property consists of a two-storey brick residence that was constructed in 1877, a heart-shaped circular drive and an outdoor privy.
The property was designated by the Township of Wilmot in 1985 for its heritage value under Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act (By-law 85-62).

Heritage Value

Castle Kilbride is associated with the most prominent family of the Village of Baden, the Livingstons. Built by James Livingston in 1877, Castle Kilbride was named after his birthplace in Scotland, East Kilbride.

James Livingston made a significant contribution to the economic development of the Township of Wilmot and beyond. Coming to Canada at age 18 in 1856, James took up farming and soon after worked at a flax mill in the Village of Conestogo, in the County of Waterloo. In 1864, James and his brother, John, established the firm J and J Livingston and by 1867 they operated a flax mill, in Baden. By 1872, they were operating a linseed oil mill and within five years they expanded and were running mills in six nearby villages. The Baden linseed oil mill was the largest of its kind in Canada and James, arguably the most successful resident of Wilmot, became known as the "Flax and Oil King of Canada". After John's death, in 1895, James established the Livingston Linseed Oil Company, expanding his holdings across Ontario and the United States. The Company operated under the direction of the Livingston family until the late 1940s.

James also established ownership of several banks and had an influential political career. He served as the Reeve of Wilmot Township, from 1878 to 1882, was elected as a Member of the Provincial Parliament, in 1878, and was elected as a Member of the House of Commons, in Ottawa, in 1882.

Castle Kilbride was the residence of the Livingston family for over 100 years. Today, it stands as a testament to the entrepreneurial drive of the Livingstons and the industrial and economic history of the Township.
Castle Kilbride is a rare jewel within the Township of Wilmot. Built in the Italianate style, the two-storey residence was constructed using a centre-hall plan with three major sections: the main house and two wings. Typical of the Italianate style, the residence features a tall belvedere, which crowns the hipped roof, a centre gable, wide overhanging eaves, with paired bracketing and a symmetrical façade. The one-storey rear wing is accented by single brackets and a boxed cornice, with a frieze beneath. Of note are the two projecting bays on the façade and the two-storey verandah, on the east elevation, of the first wing. In addition, the two-door outdoor privy, which was once situated to the rear of the residence but moved to its west side, features the same Italianate detailing as the main residence. The residence now features a rear addition that houses the Township's administrative offices.
The modest detailing of the Italianate exterior is in stark contrast to the opulent Victorian detailing of the interior. The residence has 15 rooms, of which many have original gas and electric light fixtures, imported Venetian marble fireplaces, custom made furniture and interior artistry. Many of the wall paintings are in the "trompe l'oeil" style, which are paintings with a three dimensional appearance. The library is considered to be the gem of Castle Kilbride. It features the earliest, most elaborate and detailed mouldings, patterns and murals. The murals are by H. Schasstein, the artist who was responsible for the majority of the interior artistry. Castle Kilbride has been described as "one of the finest surviving dated examples of wall painting in a domestic residence", in Canada.

Castle Kilbride dominates the landscape, with its grand construction on a very large lot, facing Snyder's Road West, which is unusual for the small town-centre streetscape. The gated entrance leads to a landscaped heart-shaped circular drive that visually directs the focus to Castle Kilbride. Its majestic and prominent appearance provides a terminating north view on Mill Street and is an impressive landmark for the Village of Baden, now the Township of Wilmot.

Character-Defining Elements

Character defining elements that contribute to the heritage value of Castle Kilbride include its:

• centre-hall plan with three sections, including main house, first wing and rear wing
• two-storey New Hamburg Brick and Tile construction
• fieldstone foundation
• four single-stack brick chimneys on the main section of the house, as well as a chimney on the back wall of the first wing
• belvedere crowning the hipped roof with a centre gable
• symmetrical and balanced façade design
• open porch with a solid rail, supported by turned posts on wood piers with round-headed mouldings, and rope turn posts with Corinthian capitals on similar piers
• wide overhanging eaves with paired bracketing and cornices
• two-storey projecting bays on the façade with frieze and paired brackets
• second-storey six-bay centrally paired windows
• two-storey verandah on the east elevation of the first wing supported by turned posts with brackets
• single brackets and boxed cornice with frieze beneath, on the rear wing, which features a door and a window
• west elevation which is the same as the east main house elevation
• two-door outdoor privy, west of the main residence, featuring quoining, frieze and bracketing details
• fifteen principle rooms, many including gas and electric light fixtures, Venetian marble fireplaces, and interior cherry wood folding shutters
• intricate mouldings, patterns and murals painted by H. Schasstein
• custom made furniture, such as a desk and bookcase set in the library, which was made by Krug's in the nearby City of Kitchener
• "trompe l'oeil" style paintings giving a three dimensional appearance
• second-storey hallway ceiling paintings and domed skylight, one of which is the original stained glass
• situation on a large and wide lot facing Snyder's Road West, which is not uniform to the surrounding streetscape
• heart-shaped circular drive
• terminating north view from Mill Street.

Scott/Schneider Home

Description of Historic Place

The William J. Scott House, located at 3332 Bleams Road, is situated on the northwest corner of Bleams and Nafziger Roads, in the Village of New Hamburg, now the Township of Wilmot. The property consists of a servant's house, a smokehouse, landscaped grounds, a pond and a one-and-a-half-storey stone residence, that was constructed in 1858.
The property was designated by the Township of Wilmot in 1986 for its heritage value under Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act (By-law 86-17).

Heritage Value

The William J. Scott House was constructed, in 1858, by William James Scott, for whom it is named. William James Scott was one of New Hamburg's most important citizens and a founding pioneer of the area. Scott arrived in the New Hamburg area, in 1838, from Aberdeen, Scotland and, over the course of 30 years, held many prominent positions within the village, township and province. These positions included; his appointment as Common School Commissioner, in 1843; first Postmaster, in 1851; Township Councillor, in 1851; first Village Planner; and Township Reeve, in 1853; and Member of Provincial Parliament, in 1858. Scott's most noteworthy accomplishment was his appointment to the House of Lords, the United Kingdom's upper house of Parliament, at which time the title of Lord Campfield was bestowed upon him.

The William J. Scott House is a fine example of stone Scottish Gothic architecture. Characteristic of the Scottish Gothic style, the façade of the residence displays two dominant side gables, which feature identical bays and small double attic windows, in the peaks. A smaller central gable and three Palladian windows divided by limestone mullions is situated below. The recessed central wall, situated between the two dominant gables, creates a modified H-plan, for the house. A central, two-sash, casement window framed by two blind bays is located on the first-storey, of the house, above which, is a partial bellcast overhang. The decorative bargeboard and lancet windows are also reflective of the Gothic style, and the double four panel arched door features sidelights and a lancet glazed transom. The appearance of this residence is very similar to that of the Waterlot, Scott's first residence, located at 17 Huron Street, which was designed with similar Scottish and metropolitan influences. The William J. Scott House is situated atop a hill overlooking Bleams Road, which gives the residence a monumental presence. In addition, the property features two smaller buildings, behind the house, one which was used as a servant's quarters and the other as a smokehouse. Both buildings contribute to the rural feel of the estate. The small pond, situated to the front of the house and near the road, and the landscaped grounds, along with the residence, make the entire property a true jewel, within the rural landscape.

Character-Defining Elements

Character defining elements that contribute to the heritage value of the William J. Scott House include its:

• ashlar and rubble fieldstone construction
• modified H floor plan
• recessed centre wall
• two dominant side gables featuring identical bays
• small double attic windows in the peaks
• small central gable with pointed-arched bay
• gothic windows divided by limestone mullions within the small central gable
• three Palladian windows divided by limestone mullions on the façade
• two-sash casement windows on the first-storey façade
• partial bellcast overhang above the first-storey
• decorative bargeboard
• lancet windows
• double four-panel lancet arched door with sidelights and lancet glazed transom
• situation atop a hill overlooking the road
• location, scale and massing of the servant's house and smokehouse
• landscaped grounds, including the pond

Scott/Merner/Kirkpatrick Home/ Waterlot

Description of Historic Place

The Waterlot, located at 17 Huron Street, is situated on the west side of Huron Street, backing onto the Nith River, in the village of New Hamburg, now the Township of Wilmot. The property consists of a one-and-a-half-storey Flemish bond brick residence that was constructed in 1847.
The property was designated by the Township of Wilmot in 1987 for its heritage value and interest under Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act (By-law 87-58).

Heritage Value

Located within the heart of New Hamburg's downtown area, the Waterlot, now a restaurant and inn, backs onto the banks of the Nith River. The magnificent building together with the river creates a picturesque landscape not typically found in a downtown area.

The Waterlot is associated with two prominent New Hamburg citizens and has served the community in various capacities for well over 150 years. The Waterlot building was originally constructed in 1847 as a residence for William James Scott, a founding pioneer of the Township of Wilmot. Scott arrived in the New Hamburg area in 1838 from Aberdeen, Scotland and over the course of 30 years held many prominent positions within the village, township and province. These positions included his appointment as Common School Commissioner in 1843, first Postmaster in 1851, Township Councillor in 1851, first Village Planner and Township Reeve in 1853 and Member of Provincial Parliament in 1858. Scott's most noteworthy accomplishment was his appointment to the House of Lords, the United Kingdom's upper house of Parliament, at which time the title Lord Campfield was bestowed upon him. Another significant owner of the Waterlot was Samuel Merner, a Village Reeve and local Member of Parliament who would be appointed as a Senator by Sir John A. MacDonald in 1887.

The Waterlot, constructed of Flemish bond brick, is a fine example of an opulent local residence built in the Gothic Revival style of architecture with Italianate influences. Typical of the Gothic Revival style, the facade features a double gable and decorative details such as bargeboard and moulding above the windows. Also of note is the semi-elliptical doorway, with rectangular sidelights and an arched transom above. The design and quality of materials used in this home were not typical of the time, however, and were considered metropolitan in taste.

Character-Defining Elements

Character defining elements that contribute to the heritage value of the Waterlot include its:

• Flemish bond brick construction
• double front gable on facade
• decorative bargeboard
• flat-head single sash windows with decorative brackets on facade
• semi-elliptical entranceway with rectangular sidelights and arched transom
• Italianate cupola including a mansard roof, flat top, iron cresting, louvered dormers, radiating voussoirs and paired corner brackets.
• situation within the heart of downtown New Hamburg
• orientation to the Nith River

Hamilton Bank Building

Description of Historic Place

The Hamilton Bank Building is located at 98 Peel Street, on the west side and at the intersection of Peel, Wilmot, Huron and Seyler Streets in the Village of New Hamburg, now the Township of Wilmot. The two-storey brick and stone building was constructed in 1905.
The property was designated, by the Township of Wilmot, in 1987, for its historic and architectural value and interest, under Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act (By-law 87-59).

Heritage Value

The Hamilton Bank Building was constructed, in 1905, by Benjamin Spahr. It functioned as the New Hamburg branch of the Bank of Hamilton until 1913. The building was sold and used for many different purposes, including a jewellery store, a mortgage corporation and an insurance agency. While compact, the building has a remarkable presence on the street and has contributed to the economic activity and commerce in New Hamburg for over 100 years.

The Hamilton Bank Building is a rare example of Beaux Arts architecture. The rarity of the building lies in the fact that the Beaux arts style is typically reserved for large public buildings with an imposing presence, whereas the Hamilton Bank Building is quite small and compact. Characteristic of the Beaux arts style, the building exhibits a flat roofline with a stone balustrade and stone piers at the corners, a stepped cornice with a dentil frieze and an elongated arch with a decorative stone moulding on the façade. Also of note are the semi-circular transom window, within the arch, and the recessed door and window with plain wooden mouldings on the façade.

The interior of the Hamilton Bank Building is also impressive. The original bank floor plan has remained unchanged and all of the old bank fixtures, including the vault, doors and counters are intact. The patterned floor, interior woodwork and decorative plasterwork are also noteworthy.

Blue Moon Hotel

Description of Historic Place

The Blue Moon, located at 1677 Snyder's Road East, is situated on the southeast corner of Snyder's Road East and Notre Dame Drive, in the Village of Petersburg, now the Township of Wilmot. The property consists of a two-storey brick inn that was constructed circa 1855.
The property was designated by the Township of Wilmot for its heritage value and interest under Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act (By-law 88-46).

Heritage Value

In 1824, the Canada Company bought land to establish a highway, linking Guelph to Goderich. That highway, which became known as Huron Road, because it linked its travellers to Lake Huron, was constructed from Guelph to Preston, then through Strasburg, Haysville and Stratford, and on to Goderich. As a result of the construction of Huron Road, a number of inns and taverns sprang up throughout Southwestern Ontario, to meet the needs of travellers.

One, such inn, was the Blue Moon, erected circa 1855, by John Ernst, in the Village of Petersburg. In addition to being the inn's founder and proprietor, Ernst was actively involved in the political and social life of Petersburg and Wilmot Township. During his lifetime, Ernst held the positions of first Postmaster of Petersburg, in 1840, Chairman of the Wilmot Township Board of Commissioners, in 1843, Councillor with the Wellington District Council, from 1842 to 1850, Township Deputy Reeve, in 1850 and Township Reeve, from 1851 to 1853, and 1857 to 1859, among other significant posts.

Another significant owner of the Blue Moon was Frederick Holwell. Holwell bought the Blue Moon from Ernst, who was experiencing a period of financial hardship. Ernst's financial difficulties were, partly, attributed to the arrival of the Grand Trunk Railway, which resulted in a reduction of traffic on the Huron Road. Holwell was also actively involved in the community. In addition to serving as Township auditor, from 1878 to 1883, Holwell also served as Township Reeve, from 1883 to 1889, Waterloo County Warden, in 1888, and Township Clerk and Treasurer, in 1900.
The Blue Moon has been in continuous use for over 150 years, and continues to reflect the evolution of the social and commercial life, of the rural community, of the Village of St. Petersburg.

The Blue Moon has a large rectangular plan that is reminiscent of Georgian architecture. The inn exhibits a balanced composition and a gabled roof, and is almost symmetrical, in design. The façade, which faces onto Snyder's Road, features four original entrances, a brick chimney and 15 double-hung 8 over 8 windows. The simplicity of the Blue Moon's design and materials reflects the functional nature of the building, and the time period in which it was constructed.

The Blue Moon building was enlarged by an extension to the west, in 1866. It was constructed by local resident, John Martini. The materials and design of the extension were in keeping with the design and materials of the original building. Similarities can be seen between the Blue Moon Inn and Martini's own home, the nearby Martini House, which was constructed in 1866, and is also a heritage property. Another addition to the Blue Moon was made in 1951. Throughout, all of the additions, the structure's original integrity has been maintained.

Christner/ Rudy House

Description of Historic Place

The Christner House, located at 1379 Christner Road, is situated on the south side of Christner Road, north of the Village of New Hamburg, between Wilmot-Easthope Road and the Village of Luxemburg, in the Township of Wilmot. The two-and-a-half-storey, rubble stone farmhouse was constructed in 1857, along with various outbuildings.
The property was designated, by the Township of Wilmot, in 1989, for its historic and architectural value and interest, under Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act (By-law 89-65).

Heritage Value

The Christner House is situated immediately adjacent to the Hostetler House, which was designated as a heritage property by the Township of Wilmot at the same time as the Christner House. The Christner House and its outbuildings are an excellent example of an early pioneer farmstead and its proximity to the Hostetler house contributes greatly to the historic rural atmosphere of the Township.

The Christner family was one of the earliest families to settle in the area. John Christner was an early Dutch pioneer from Pennsylvania who, along with his eldest son Christian, settled the farm, at 1379 Christner Road, in circa 1840. The Christner family came from Alsace, Germany, before immigrating to the United States and later to Wilmot Township.

The Christner House is a fine example of a Georgian farmhouse and was constructed of rubble stone. Built in 1857, it is composed of a three-bay façade with a central entrance, two bays on the side elevations and a side-gabled roof. The central front includes a pedimented architrave. The one-and-a-half-storey rear addition is constructed of rubble stone and fieldstone. It includes a side porch that spans the length of the addition. The outbuildings on the Christner House property include a brick smokehouse, a belfry, a bread oven, and a fireplace.

Character-Defining Elements

Character defining elements that contribute to the heritage value of the Christner House include its:

• proximity to the Hostetler house
• its location in the rural area of the Township
• its outbuildings including a brick smokehouse, a belfry, a bread oven, and a fireplace
• fieldstone and course rubble construction of north façade, east and west elevations, including stonework and corner stones
• porch, architrave and posts of the façade
• 8 over 12 double hung windows on the façade, east and west elevations
• double-hung windows on the first-storey façade and elevations
• window lugsills and voussoirs

Hostetler/ Ritz House

Description of Historic Place

The Hostetler House is located at 1145 Christner Road, on the south side of Christner Road, north of the Village of New Hamburg, between Wilmot-Easthope Road and the Village of Luxemburg, now the Township of Wilmot. The two-and-a-half-storey limestone farmhouse was constructed in 1860, as well as various outbuildings.
The property was designated, by the Township of Wilmot, in 1989, for its historic and architectural value and interest, under Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act (By-law 89-66).

Heritage Value

The outbuildings surrounding the Hostetler House provide an important insight into how an early pioneering farm operated. These buildings include a brick smokehouse, a brick summer kitchen, and a woodshed. The Hostetler House and property is situated immediately adjacent to another pioneer farmstead, the Christner House. These two properties contribute greatly to the historic rural landscape of the Township.

The Hostetler House is associated with Moses Hostetler, a pioneer of the North Wilmot district and an advocate for education. It was upon Hostetler's request that a school was established, to serve the community's children, in the mid-19th century. Moses' son Levi was also a well-known local resident. He became treasurer of New Hamburg in 1919 and was also the manager of the New Hamburg Telephone exchange from 1924 until 1936.
The Hostetler House is a fine example of a Georgian farmhouse constructed with cut stone. A local craftsman, Hyacinth Roth, who was known for his fine cut stone designs, built the house in 1860. Typical of Georgian Farmhouses in Wilmot Township, the house is constructed of irregularly coursed and cut granite fieldstone. The detailed cut limestone quoins, lintels and sills off set the darker granite. The first-storey of the five-bay façade features a central door flanked by two double-hung windows and covered with a portico supported by fluted Doric columns and featuring a decorated frieze. The second-storey has five double-hung windows and a limestone date stone that sits above the central window.

Character-Defining Elements

Character defining elements that contribute to the heritage value of the Hostetler house include its:

• 1860 date stone above the central window of the north elevation
• distinctive fine-cut stone design of German builder, Hyacinth Roth
• five-bay façade
• north and west elevations constructed of cut and coursed irregular granite fieldstone
• double-hung windows on the north and west elevations
• limestone quoins, and cut limestone lintels and sills
• gable roof
• front portico with fluted Doric columns and decorated frieze
• brick smokehouse
• brick summer kitchen
• woodshed
• proximity to the Christner House
• siting in a rural area

St. Agatha Roman Catholic School/ Shantz Country Cupboard

Description of Historic Place

The Shantz Country Cupboard is located at 1828 Notre Dame Road, on the southwest corner of Erbs Road and Notre Dame Road, in the Village of St. Agatha, now the Township of Wilmot. The two-storey fieldstone building was constructed in 1854.
The property was designated, by the Township of Wilmot, in 1990, for its historical and architectural value and interest, under Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act (By-law 90-14).

Heritage Value

The Shantz Country Cupboard building was originally constructed as the St. Agatha Catholic School, which was the first Roman Catholic school in Wilmot Township. It helped to establish St. Agatha as the centre of Catholicism in Waterloo County. The stone building, constructed in 1854, under the direction of Reverend Father Rupert Ebner, replaced an earlier wooden school building on the same property. It served as a school until 1875, when a new school was erected in conjunction with the orphanage. It continued to be used by the church for meetings, for some time.

The Shantz Country Cupboard is a fine example of the Georgian style of architecture. It's fieldstone construction features a symmetrical three-bay façade and two-bay side elevations. Characteristic of this style are the central entranceway and gable roof. The windows on the first-storey have stone voussoirs and the attic windows on the side elevation are square with plain surrounds.

A wide stone wall, attached to the building, separates the adjoining graveyard. It extends along the entire south boundary of the lot, for a distance of 178 feet.

Character-Defining Elements

Character defining elements that contribute to the heritage value of the Shantz Country Cupboard include its:

• fieldstone construction
• symmetrical three-bay façade, including central entranceway, and two-bay side elevations
• gabled roof
• symmetrically placed windows on the façade including stone voussoirs on the first-storey windows
• square attic windows including plain surrounds
• chimney on the west elevation
• stone wall on the south boundary of the lot

Bettschen/ Hallman/ Reier House

Description of Historic Place

The Bettschen/ Hallman/ Reier House is located at 1522 Bethel Road in the Village of New Dundee, now the Township of Wilmot. The property consists of a two-storey farm home.
The property was designated by the Township of Wilmot for its heritage value and interest under Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act (By-law 90-15).

Character-Defining Elements

Character defining elements that contribute to the heritage value of the Bettschen/ Hallaman/ Reier House include its:

• only the west, south and east sides of the residence
• the windows with stone arches of radiating voussoirs and plan lug sills
• recessed main entrance door with pilaster sides, paneled embrasure, transom and sidelights
• the attic window with pointed arch and lancet glazing
• the elaborate bargeboard which has drops at the corner and gable peaks
• built-in china cabinet situated on the north wall of the dining room

Doctor's House

Description of Historic Place

The Doctor's House is located at 27 Mill Street and is situated, on the southeast corner of Mill and Main Streets, in the Village of New Dundee, now the Township of Wilmot. The one-and-a-half-storey board and batten house was constructed in 1850.
The property was designated, by the Township of Wilmot, in 1991, for its historical and architectural value or interest, under Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act (By-law 91-21).

Heritage Value

The Doctor's House faces the alder Creek Reservoir, and the house, together with the lake and the grounds create a picturesque view.

The Doctor's House was constructed as a mill house, in 1850, by Frederick Millar who, along with his brother John Millar, is credited with founding the Village of New Dundee. John purchased the property on which the village is now located from the Canada Land Company, in 1830. In 1846, he sold a portion of this land to Frederick, who laid out the plan for the village. Frederick constructed the mill house to accommodate his grist mill. The mill would eventually become Ontario's first full roller process mill, in 1880, after being sold to E.W.B Snider, the founder of Ontario Hydro.
Later, the mill house served as the headquarters for village doctors and became widely known as the Doctor's House. Some of the doctors including Dr. Neil Morrison, Dr. Lorne Stauffer, and Dr. L.E Ritz, were local citizens.

The Doctor's House is a rare local example of board and batten construction. The house, which features Gothic details, is one-and-a-half-storey in height and has a cruciform floor plan, with several gable projections. The bay windows on the façade are 2 over 5 and feature plain trim. Typical of the Gothic style the steep gable and shingled roof is finished with boxed cornices and plain friezes. The windows on the upper-storey are glazed in lancet arches. The entrance porch has plain posts and a bell-cast roof that completes the picturesque appearance of the well detailed Doctor's House.

Character-Defining Elements

Character defining elements that contribute to the heritage value of the Doctor's House include its:

• situation on land originally owned by John and Frederick Miller
• frame construction on a stone foundation
• board and batten exterior
• cruciform floor plan
• steep cross gable with shingles
• boxed cornices and plain friezes
• glazed lancet upper-storey windows
• entrance porch with a bell-cast roof and plain posts
• attached shed with a segmented arched door
• 2 over 5 bay windows with plain trims and slip sills
• unique eyebrow window on the front façade
• siting on the southern edge of the alder Creek Reservoir

Wagler Property

Description of Historic Place

The Wagler Property, located at 1138 Snyder's Road West, is situated on the north side of Snyder's Road West, east of Nafziger Road and the Nith River in the Village of Baden, now the Township of Woolwich. The property consists of a two-storey stone residence that was constructed in 1857, along with six outbuildings, including a barn, a drive shed, a wash house, a bake house, a wood shed and a building containing a water tank, all which date back to 1900 or earlier.

The property was designated, by the Township of Wilmot, in 1992 for its heritage value and interest, under Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act (By-law 92-102).

Heritage Value

The Wagler Property, with its stone farmhouse, wooden windmill and many outbuildings, is representative of farmsteads of old in Wilmot Township.

The Wagler Property was originally settled by Joseph Lichti, a pioneer settler, who arrived in the Wilmot area from Alsace, France in 1825. Joseph Lichti sold 50 acres of the land to his niece, Maria Lichti and her husband Joseph Zehr in 1850. Zehr went on to build the stone residence that sits on the property today as well as the other buildings on the estate. The Wagler Property was sold by Joseph Zehr to his son-in-law, Christian Wagler, in 1890, and it has remained in the Wagler family.

The Wagler Property residence, constructed in 1857, is a fine example of a stone Georgian farmhouse. Characteristic of this style, the house is constructed of fieldstone and exhibits symmetry in its design. Another feature of this farmhouse is the stuccoed verandah which spans the length of the façade. Also of note are the 8 over 12 windows and the two stone chimneys.

Character-Defining Elements

Character defining elements that contribute to the heritage value of the Wagler Property include its:

• two-storey stone residence
• fieldstone and stucco construction of the farmhouse
• rectangular floor plan
• symmetrical design
• stucco verandah which spans the length of the façade
• two stone chimneys
• 8 over 12 windows
• outbuildings, including the barn, the drive shed, the wash house, the bake house, the wood shed, the building containing a water tank and the wooden windmill above the well
• siting of the buildings on the property

Gingerich/Knight Property

Description of Historic Place

The Gingerich Property, located at 1 Shadybrook Court, is situated on the southeast corner of Shadybrook Street and Shadybrook Court, west of Mannheim Road, in the Village of Mannheim, now the Township of Wilmot. The one-and-a-half-storey stone residence was constructed in circa 1863.
The property was designated, by the Township of Wilmot in 1993, for its historic and architectural value and interest, under Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act (By-law 93-32).

Heritage Value

The Gingerich Property, juxtaposed with the surrounding newer development, offers a perspective into the early life of the Village of Mannheim and presents a clear reminder of that past.

The home on the Gingerich Property was constructed in circa 1863 by Peter Gingerich, a Mennonite born in Upper Canada. Records indicate that the Gingerich family began farming on the property as early as 1851, when Peter's father, Jacob S. Gingerich, worked the land. Peter gained proprietorship of the land, on which a sawmill was also situated, in 1858, when he purchased it from Samuel Bricker.
The stone Mennonite Georgian residence situated on the Gingerich Property features a layout and orientation typical of Mennonite stone house construction practices. The residence is one of only a few bank houses, houses which are built into a hill, in Wilmot Township. The house has a rectangular plan, a medium gabled roof and is symmetrical. The four-bay façade is oriented to face the south, which looks onto Shadybrook Court, with a fully exposed stone basement. The five-bay rear elevation is oriented to the north and looks onto Shadybrook Street. Another element characteristic of the Mennonite Georgian style is the large verandah which spans two-storeys of the rear façade and is constructed of plaster.

The small, rectangular wing attached to the west elevation of the house features slightly different stone work which exhibits a lesser quality of workmanship than the main portion. This is thought to have been the original building on the property, with the larger portion of the house being added later. Nonetheless, the west wing features rooflines, fascia, soffit and cornice returns which match the style of the main building, as well as a brick chimney.

Character-Defining Elements

Character defining elements that contribute to the heritage value of the Gingerich Property include its:

• stone construction
• symmetrical features
• rectangular plan
• orientation on the property, with the façade to the south and rear elevation to the north
• exposed stone basement on the south façade
• two-storey verandah and plaster construction on south façade
• medium gable roof with wood shingles, wood soffit and boxed plain cornice returns
• five-bay north rear elevation, four-bay south façade
• flat, rectangular 6 over 6 windows including stone surrounds and voussoirs and wood sills
• original windows on east elevation
• six-panel wooden doors with plain wood paneled embrasure, wood lintel and stone sills on façade and rear elevation
• restored brick chimneys on east and west elevation
• rooflines, fascia, soffit and cornice returns on the west wing which match those of the main building
• window and door location on the exposed basement
• siting within a newer development

Killer/ Koch/ Clarke House

Description of Historic Place

The Henry Killer Farmstead is located at 2541 Nafziger Road, on the east side of Nafziger Road, south of Carmel-Koch Road, and north of Wilby Road, in the Village of New Hamburg, now the Township of Wilmot. The two-storey cut fieldstone farmhouse was constructed in 1860, as well as a smokehouse, barn, and driving shed.
The property was designated, by the Township of Wilmot, in 1995, for its historical and architectural value and interest, under Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act (By-law 95-33).

Heritage Value

The Henry Killer Farmstead, with its fieldstone farmhouse, smokehouse, driving shed, and barn, is representative of settler farmsteads, in the picturesque rural landscape, of the village of New Hamburg.

The Henry Killer Farmstead is a well preserved pioneer farmstead that dates to the early history of the Township of Wilmot. The property was originally purchased by Henry Killer, in 1854, from The Canada Company. Killer, who was a recent arrival from Hessen, Germany, constructed the farmhouse, in 1860, for his family of four. In 1880, Henry sold the property to his son, John Killer, who farmed the land until he sold it to George a. Koch, in 1900. George continued to use the land for agricultural purposes and the property stayed within the Koch family for three more generations, the last being Nelson H. Koch.

The Henry Killer farmhouse is a fine example of a Georgian style farmhouse. It is constructed of cut fieldstone, random on the north and east elevation but coursed on the south and west elevation. Typical of this style it has a five-bay façade and three-bay rear elevation. All the corners have cut limestone quoins. The roof has a medium pitched gable and the eaves, soffit and frieze are plain. The front door has six panels and is centrally located with a very wide flat transom with multiple sidelights. There is a buff-brick summer kitchen addition, on the rear elevation, that was probably built shortly after the main house was constructed. Attached to the summer kitchen on the east side is a board and batten addition that served as a wood shed.

Character-Defining Elements

Character defining elements that contribute to the heritage value of the Henry Killer Farmstead include its:

• site layout to include, fields, farmhouse, smokehouse, drive shed and barn
• scale and massing of the accessory buildings including the smokehouse, driving shed, and barn
• rough fieldstone construction, tin roof, brick floor and open arched fireplace of the smokehouse
• stone foundation and hex symbol of the barn
• board and batten construction of the drive shed
• farmhouse with its:
• date stone with carved name "Henry Killer" and date 1860
• cut fieldstone and plaster construction
• rectangular floor plan
• five-bay façade
• three-bay rear elevation
• cut limestone corner quoins
• six panel centre façade front door
• buff-brick summer kitchen attachment

Martini/ Hauck/ Curtis House

Description of Historic Place

The Martini House is located at 1634 Snyder's Road East, on the north side of Snyder's Road East, in the Village of Petersburg, now the Township of Wilmot. The two-storey red-brick farmhouse was constructed in 1866.
The property was designated, by the Township of Wilmot, in 1997, for its historical or architectural value or interest, under Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act (By-law 97-26).

Heritage Value

The Martini House is situated on a part of the original German Block property that was settled by German immigrants in circa 1830. It was built in 1866 by a Petersburg area pioneer, local farmer and builder, John Martini, during the early settlement and development period of the Village of Petersburg. Martini built it in the same style and materials and during the same period as the nearby Blue Moon Hotel addition, located at 1677 Snyder's Road East. The farmhouse became known as the Hauck House and the Curtis House after its ownership by the Hauck family, and later the Curtis family.

The Martini House is a fine example of a farmhouse built in Wilmot Township in the Georgian style. The typically symmetrical Georgian house has a five-bay façade. The central bay is recessed with sidelights and a blind transom on the first-storey. The second-storey windows have flat voussoirs and sills. The west and east two-and-a-half storey elevations are identical, featuring a flushed central chimney and double hung six over six windows. Typical of Waterloo County style farmhouses it has a painted and plastered front porch. The rear of the house features a frame wing that is thought to be original to the construction. Of note is the four-panel Greek Revival style front door that has an original heavy door latch that is locked by a skeleton key and is very similar in design to the one found at the Blue Moon Hotel.

Character-Defining Elements

Character defining elements that contribute to the heritage value of the Martini House include its:

• situation within the original Germ Block property that was settled by German immigrants in circa 1830
• rectangular plan
• local red-brick common bond triple thickness construction
• side gable roof with chimneys on the east and west elevations
• verandah along the façade including four square decorative posts
• front porch painted and plastered in the typical Waterloo County farmhouse style ;
• five-bay façade including central bay recessed with sidelights and blind transom on the first-storey façade
• double-hung windows with flat voussoir arches and sills on the second-storey
• front Greek Revival style door entrance featuring the original heavy door latch that is locked by a skeleton key
• identical west and east two-and-a-half storey elevations featuring two small square attic windows
• 6 over 6 east and west elevation windows that are double hung with vertical joint brick arches and sills
• rear frame wing

Zoeller/ Wagner House

Description of Historic Place

Zoeller House, located at 2791 Bleams Road East, is situated on the south side of Bleams Road East, north of Witmer Road and west of Wilmot Centre Road, in the Village of New Hamburg, now the Township of Wilmot. Zoeller House is a two-storey residence, that was constructed in 1873.
The property was designated by the Township of Wilmot, in 1997, for its heritage value or interest, under Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act (By-law 97-27).

Heritage Value

The prominent Zoeller family lived in Wilmot Township and for over 130 years four generations of the Zoeller family lived in the Zoeller House. Originally the property was a part of the German Block, in the Township of Wilmot, which was settled by Amish pioneers. A crown patent to the land was given to Ulrich Geiger, an ordained minister, in 1834. Geiger cleared the land and built a log house, which is now covered with brick. It is still located on the property. By 1852 Geiger was married to a Zoeller and through this relationship he sold the land to Valentine Zoeller. Valentine farmed the land for 20 years before selling it to his son Henry, who built the main house, in 1873. Henry, who was the first of the Zoeller politicians, was educated in Wilmot Centre and elected to the council of Wilmot Township, in 1896. In 1901, he was elected Reeve and served until 1910, which was the longest term in that office in the history of the Township. Henry in turn sold his estate to his son Valentine Zoeller, who followed in his father's footsteps as a Township Councillor from 1919 until 1924. He was also a Deputy Reeve and County Councillor until 1928 when he became Reeve, a position he held until 1932. The property came into the hands of Austin Zoeller, Valentine's son, in 1955, who upheld the family tradition of public service by serving as Councillor for a year on the Wilmot Township Council.

The Zoeller House is a fine example of the Gothic/Picturesque style of architecture and is also notable for its excellent brick work. The house is two-storeys in height with a three bay facade. Its picturesque qualities are exemplified by its triple front gables with pointed arch bays. Of note is the brick frieze made of projecting yellow-brick with red-brick cross-shaped indents that follow a horizontal course below the gables. The Gothic windows have projecting yellow-brick frames, which is common to all the windows. The walls are red-brick in a modified Flemish bond, with a pattern of one row of Flemish to each three of stretcher bond. There are yellow-bricks at intervals along the walls with cross-shaped indents. At the corners there are projecting yellow-brick quoining as well as a plinth. The eave line is a boxed cornice, with plain frieze, and the three gables have bargeboard and finials. The east and west elevations are identical and the house has a fieldstone foundation.

Character-Defining Elements

Character defining elements that contribute to the heritage value of the Zoeller House include its:

• date stone reading "H. Zoeller 1873" located at the peak of the centre bay projection of the north elevation
• situation on land owned by four generations of the Zoeller family
• situation on part of the German Block that was settled by Amish pioneers.
• construction using local bricks from the Adamson and Cole Brickyard
• three gables on the north facade
• boxed cornice with plain frieze on the eave line
• bargeboard and finials on the three front gables
• horizontal brick frieze below the gables
• yellow-brick framing on all the Gothic windows
• modified Flemish bond on north facade
• projecting yellow-brick quoining and plinth
• cross-shaped indents in the yellow and red-brick
• flat arch bay windows with voussoir heads on the east and west elevation
• original chimney on the west side of the roof
• fieldstone foundation

EJ's Restaurant & Tavern/ Baden Hotel

Description of Historic Place

The Baden Hotel, located at 39 Snyder's Road West, is situated on a triangular piece of land bounded by Snyder's Road West, Mill Street and the Railway Tracks, in the Village of Baden, now the Township of Wilmot. The property consists of a two-and-a-half-storey buff brick hotel that was constructed in 1874.

The property was designated by the Township of Wilmot in 2002 for its heritage value under Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act (By-law 2003-03).

Heritage Value

The Baden Hotel is one of the oldest operating taverns in Canada. The land on which the Baden Hotel is located was purchased by Christoph Kraus from Jacob Beck, the village planner and founder, in 1858. Kraus originally built a frame hotel, which was replaced by the current hotel, in 1874.
The centrally-located Baden Hotel is located on the main street, in the Village of Baden, and is adjacent to the Grand Trunk Railway Station. As a result of their close proximity, the Baden Hotel provided the public a place to wait for the arrival and departure of the trains. The commercial life of the community was centred around the Baden Hotel. As train travel decreased the hotel served as the first bus depot in the village.

The Baden Hotel's location on the village's main street also served to make the hotel the centre of social activities. Band practices, community dances, weddings and meetings were frequently held at the hotel. Baden's politicians often ate here after their meetings and also treated voters after successes on Nomination Day.

The Baden Hotel is a unique example of the Georgian style of architecture. It is constructed of buff brick, laid in common bond, with a fieldstone foundation. It is two-and-a-half-storeys in height. Its unique features include a cut corner entrance and walls that are oriented to the angles of the streets. Typical of the Georgian style, it features east and west elevations, with three bays and a gable end, with a lancet window in the peak. The west elevation, which faces the Railway Station, acted as the main entrance during the peak of railway transportation. The north elevation, fronting on to Snyder's Road West, now the front façade, is symmetrical, with seven bays. Most of the windows have 6 over 6 double hung sashes. All of the bay windows have lug sills and are surmounted by radiating brick voussoirs.

Character-Defining Elements

Character defining elements that contribute to the heritage value of the Baden Hotel include its:

• carved date stone which reads "Christoph Kraus, July 22 1874" on the northwest elevation
• proximity to the Railway station
• location on the village's main street
• buff brick, common bond, construction including its wall orientation parallel to the angled streets
• fieldstone foundation
• symmetrical elevations
• 6 over 6 double hung windows
• bay windows including lug sills and radiating brick voussoirs
• gable roofline including lancet windows on the east and west elevations
• balcony on second floor of the west elevation
• boxed corner plain frieze soffit and fascia
• cut corner entrance on the west elevation

New Dundee Bandshell

Description of Historic Place

The New Dundee Bandshell is located in the New Dundee Community Park (Block a, Concession 3, Part Lot 5, Part Lot 6 on the corner of Bridge and Main Streets, New Dundee). The property consists of a community park and a bandshell.
The property was designated by the Township of Wilmot in 2008 for its heritage value under Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act (By-law 2008-27).

Heritage Value

The Bandshell was built in 1944 by local tradespersons. Albert Feiderlein was put in charge of the buildings Ed Krehler helped, as he was a carpenter. These two men toiled diligently and almost single handedly erected it during the years 1944-45. For his work, Albert received about $200. Much credit is dues these men for their devoted service.

The official opening of the New Dundee Bandshell took place on Thursday May 24, 1945. At that time, Queen Victoria's birthday was celebrated on May 24, and on the Monday preceding the date as is the present custom.

Over the years, this lovely bandshell has provided the citizens of New Dundee with a perfect venue for many celebrations. The Bandshell was a place where the community gathered for many functions which included music concerts, stage performances and outdoor church functions by the local citizens. It is still a major part of the park for the annual Victoria Day celebrations.

Character-Defining Elements

Character defining elements that contribute to the heritage value of the New Dundee Bandshell include its:

• wooden structure, square in shape with a wide, open, semi-circular front facing west
• foundation includes rock finish cinder blocks, covering an area of 28 feet square with a platform 28 feet wide and 18 feet deep
• it includes two large dressing rooms at the rear and a finished basement
• the asphalt shingle roof would appear to be a 3-sided medium hip shape that is joined at the top by a horizontal ridge: the pitch rises thirty-five to fifty-five degrees.
• a chimney is located offset to the right of the building
• an exterior set of steps on the right front of the building leads to the stage front

New Hamburg Grandstand (an honourable mention)

Description of Historic Place

The New Hamburg Grandstand is located in Norm S. Hill Park, New Hamburg Block 5E, F & G. Part Lot 8. The property consists of a community park, baseball diamonds, horse race track, community centre and arena and grandstand.

On December 4, 2006 Wilmot Council adopted a by-law to
designate the Grandstand based on a recommendation from the Heritage Wilmot Advisory Committee for its heritage value under Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act (By-law 2006-70).  While the application to designate was in process, just weeks later on January 8, 2007, the New Hamburg Grandstand was consumed by fire overnight. Despite a concerted attempt by the Wilmot Township fire fighters fought to save the heritage landmark, the structure was damaged beyond repair. For the community, the loss was devastating.

Within a few months Wilmot Council approved plans to rebuild the Grandstand on April 23, 2007 and ground was broken in June of 2008. Following a year-long project, this Grandstand
was completed and officially opened on September 13, 2009

Heritage Value

In 1874 the village of New Hamburg purchased 17 acres of land from Absolom Shade for a show ground and park. This became the new home for the Wilmot agricultural Society's Fall Fair.

In 1886, the New Hamburg council received a petition signed by many individuals to set aside a portion of the park for a half-mile racetrack. This track was laid out opposite of the current track. The first annual race meet was held on the 9th and 10th of September, 1886.

In 1894, a new half track was built in the configuration of the current track. The first race meet on the new track was held on august 15th and 16th, 1894. A new grandstand was being built to accommodate 600-800 people.

In 1911, a Park Commission was appointed with the intention to improve and beautify the village's park near the skating rink as well as the grandstand. The decision was made to remove the old grandstand and build a new one.

In 1923 a fire on the 19th of august destroyed the grandstand. The decision was made to remove the old grandstand and build a new one.

In 1926 a concrete swimming pool, 30 feet by 60 feet was built between the Grandstand and Jacob Street. A small log cabin was built to provide kitchen facilities for campers. It still stands today.

In 1947 the Grandstand was demolished to make way for a new one. The swimming pool was also removed by never replaced although plans were made to construct a new 50 x 100 foot pool. The grandstand was not completed until 1948 when the roof was finished. The seating was used for 1947 Derby races.

The Grandstand once again succumbed to the destruction of fire in 2006. The Township rebuilt the Grandstand to exact specifications of the 1947 Grandstand, but used more durable materials and added modern washrooms and kitchen facilities beneath.

The Grandstand in the park has served as a focal point for a variety of activities for over one hundred years. The building has accommodated crowds of local residents and out-of-town visitors to sporting, cultural and recreational activities in the park. Some of the more prominent events include the Canadian Pacing Derby, the New Hamburg Fall Fair, the annual band tattoo and, more recently, the Mennonite Relief Sale and Moparfest.

Character-Defining Elements

Character defining elements that contribute to the heritage value of the New Hamburg Grandstand include its:

• importance in defining the character of Wilmot
• ability to maintain a focal point in the park for well over 100 years: it has remained physically, functionally and historically linked to its surrounds
• metal structure with open face and pitched roof
• foundation includes pieces from the 1924 Grandstand
• it includes large kitchen areas and bathrooms in the basement
• sets of towered steps along the front face

Merner/Shantz/Erwin Home

Description of Historic Place

Located on the north-west side of Huron Street, the Merner-Shantz-Erwin house is at 274 Huron Street in the town of New Hamburg, Plan Smith, Lot 3. The property was designated by the Township of Wilmot in 2012 for its heritage value under Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act(Bylaw # 2012-05) that was passed on January 16, 2012.

Heritage Value

This home has a direct association with Samuel Merner, a prominent businessman in the town of New Hamburg and throughout Waterloo County. The original deeds for the property show that he owned the property and built the house about 1875.

Merner was born in Kien, Canton of Bern, Switzerland on January 9, 1823 and immigrated to Upper Canada with his family in 1837, settling in what would become Waterloo County. His father, Jakob Muerner, located his farm on Bleams Road, about two miles east of the village of Hamburg. Samuel stayed on the farm for one year and then was apprenticed to a blacksmith in Preston (Cambridge). He became a journeyman blacksmith in 1840 and four years later established his own shop in Hamburg. He expanded it to make wagons and carriages. The business was sold to his brother Frederick in 1856, by which time Samuel had accumulated sufficient capital to establish a foundry in New Hamburg, as the village had become known, and another in Waterloo. As did many Germans of the time, Samuel anglicized his surname.

In 1857 he became a member of the council of the newly incorporated village of New Hamburg. He was appointed a Justice of the Peace in 1862, in which year he provided financing for the purchase of the Canadisches Volksblatt, the local German newspaper. As he accumulated public offices, serving as Councillor for Waterloo County in 1866, Reeve of New Hamburg (1873-78) and Warden of Waterloo County (1878), his business interests prospered. Though the foundries were turned over to his sons in 1873, he still owned two large farms, a major flour mill and another structure in New Hamburg, and two large buildings in Berlin, where he was associated with William Simpson's furniture company. He was a founding director of the Economical Fire Insurance Company and a director of several other businesses, including the Preston Furniture Company, the John Hoodless Furniture Warehouse in Hamilton, the Dominion Life assurance Company, and the Canadian Manufacturing Company, which had taken over the Simpson firm. It was said by the Canadian Parliamentary Companion that "all Swiss people emigrating to the Western Province [Ontario)" were directed to Merner.

In 1878 he stood for election to the Ontario legislature as a Conservative in the Waterloo South by-election. He lost, but later that year he was elected to the House of Commons for Waterloo South, defeating well-known Liberal James Young. New Hamburg's first English newspaper, the New Hamburg Independent, helped Merner's cause by having his supporters create the publication as a campaign newspaper. At the next general election, in 1882, he was defeated by James Livingston, a business competitor from nearby Baden. Prime Minister Sir John a. Macdonald appointed Merner to the Senate on the 12th, January 1887.

Merner was very much the dominant personality in the life of New Hamburg in the 1870s and 1880s. In 1898, he moved to Berlin and took up residence in the Brunswick Hotel, which he owned.

The Berlin News-Record noted his death with the headline "Vital spark passes." "Honest Sam" Merner had little impact on national politics but, like so many public figures of the time, he significantly affected the community in which he lived.

Character-Defining Elements

The house is a 1 1/2 storey Gothic Revival salmon coloured brick 3 bay house.

Front, South Façade

The first floor consists of a centre door with a newer six panes over six panes window on either side of the door.

The front porch is an open one and square columns and finely detailed arches support the roof. The Gothic double window is a very attractive feature of this house. The Gothic gable is framed by looped gingerbread trim.

West Façade

This façade is 2 bays deep. The windows in the upper storey are slightly segmentally arched. The windows on the first floor are straight across. The windows are newer six panes over six panes. A tail on the rear of the house joins onto the main west wall. There is a small window under the eaves in the second storey where the tail begins.

East Façade

This façade is also two bays deep. The windows in the upper storey are slightly segmentally arched. The windows on the first floor are straight across. The windows are newer six panes over six panes. The tail of the house is inset on this side. There is a new porch built into the ell formed by the rear wall of the main house and the sidewall of the tail. The east wall of the tail has a door and a window in it. The window is a newer nine panes over nine panes.

Back, North Façade

The rear wall of the house has two windows in the upper storey and only one in the centre of the wall in the lower storey. All three windows are slightly segmentally arched and are replacement windows. The lower window is nine over nine panes.

Livingston Presbyterian Church

Located on the north-west side of Beck Street, Livingston Presbyterian Church at 44 Beck Street in the town of Baden, Plan 627, Lot 97 was designated by the Township of Wilmot under Part lV of the Ontario Heritage Act for its heritage value (By-law No. 2015-26).

Heritage Value

Livingston Presbyterian Church was built in 1894/95 by the initiative and generosity of businessman, James Livingston. The history of the church has remained entwined with that of the Livingston family and the community of Baden for over a century. 

James Livingston was a prominent businessman in Baden and owner of a home he called Castle Kilbride, now a national historic site. He and his family were instrumental in the business and social growth of the village of Baden.

Born in East Kilbride, Scotland in 1838, James moved to Canada with his brother in 1854. After many years of farming for others, they established their own business - the J&J Livingston Linseed Oil Company in 1864, which was later renamed The Dominion Linseed Oil Company of Canada. The business expanded into Manitoba, Quebec, Michigan and New York with Baden remaining its headquarters. With the cultivation of flax and the manufacturing of linseed oil as primary business, James was referred to as the "Flax and Oil King of Canada."

Livingston was a loyal Presbyterian and was instrumental in establishing English language Presbyterian services in a predominately German-speaking Baden. Although Presbyterian services were first conducted c.1889 in New Dundee, the Baden congregation formed about 1890. In 1895, the donation of land, building of the church and significant funding was provided by James Livingston. Over fifty congregational members made pledges which totaled over $1400.00 for the building, with the balance owing paid by Livingston. Jonas Knechtel was hired as the architect. Construction started in 1894 with Ernst Albert being the contractor and builder. Suitably named, Livingston Presbyterian Church opened its doors in 1895 at a total cost of $2,180.00.

Of interest and in addition to establishing the church, James also initiated the development of the Baden Mechanics Institute, Baden Band and the Masonic Lodge for Baden. He was also very involved in politics. He served as Reeve of Wilmot Township, a Member of the Legislative assembly for Waterloo South, and the Liberal Member of Parliament in the government of Wilfrid Laurier.

James served as Chairman of the Board of Managers of the church for twenty-four years. He died in 1920 and in his Last Will and Testament he left a trust account of $3,000 for the church.

The second generation of Livingstons (John Peter, known as "J.P.") had memorial stained glass windows installed in 1927 showcasing the "Burning Bush," a symbol of the Presbyterian Church. In 1928, two memorial stained glass windows were installed in memory of his parents James and Louise Livingston followed in 1931 by two more commemorating J.P.'s siblings and in-laws. J.P. would continue his father's vision for the church and in 1935, he spearheaded an addition onto the church. Alterations at the rear of the church expanded the interior to accommodate space for a new organ and increased membership. The addition also included some elaborate stained glass windows. A dedication of the opening of the new building on May 12, 1935 also included the dedication of a new pipe organ built by the Woodstock Pipe Organ Builders. The following year, J.P. donated land for a popular church camp which was well attended. His wife, Mrs. J.P. Livingston, was very involved in the Sunday school at Livingston Church and was one of 854 delegates from North America registered (along with her daughter Laura Louise) to attend the World's Sunday School association Convention in Oslo, Norway in 1936. A few years later, Laura Livingston passed away. She had been the church organist for over forty years and was the Ladies aid President for five years. A bronze plaque in the Ladies aid room, along with her photo, commemorates her dedication to the church. A memorial service for Laura was held by her husband and daughter on October 6, 1940, with a Moderator from the Presbyterian Church in Canada in attendance. A memorial painting of da Vinci's Last Supper interpreted by one of London, Ontario's most talented turn-of-the-century painters, Edward R. Glen, was unveiled.

The third and fourth generations of the Livingston family (now Veitch) continued what James first began in 1890. Following in the footsteps of her mother, Laura Louise was heavily involved in the Ladies aid and was organist for many years at the church. All three of her children were confirmed at Livingston Presbyterian Church, attended Sunday School and sang in the choir. In May of 1990 at the One Hundredth anniversary Celebration of the church, a new electric piano was dedicated in memory of the late Laura Louise Livingston Veitch. The piano was financed by Mr. Harris Veitch to replace the 1935 organ that was in disrepair. Four generations of the Livingston family have been intimately involved with the church. There have been over 125 years of a pastoral connection between the church and Livingston family. This church is clearly intertwined with the Livingston legacy.

Contextual Value

This church was built in 1894/95 and, except for an addition in 1935, has remained unaltered for over a century. The church was, and continues today to be the only Presbyterian church built in Wilmot Township. It is an historical landmark in the centre of Baden and has provided a spiritual and social centre for its members and community.

Physical Value

Livingston Presbyterian Church is a representative example of a religious building with Gothic Revival styling. Gothic Revival designs are recognized by the use of pointed arches, buttresses, and varied window types. This style diminished after the 1930s, a fact which adds to the architectural importance of the church.

Character-Defining Elements

South Façade - Beck Street

The building is rectangular, constructed of yellow brick with a left side tower and an entrance projection that contains a central door with a small single arched window on the left and a matching pair of arched windows on the right. The entrance projection has a shed roof. The main wall behind the entrance has a medium gable ending at corner parapets resting on pilasters. In the gable, there is lattice-like brickwork and below is a round window with vertical bricks that surround an elaborate stained glass window of the "Burning Bush" with the Presbyterian motto.

The tower is four sided and is three stories tall. There is a pointed arch window with brick soldier on the first floor, a flat topped window on the second floor and a pair of pointed arched belfry louvers on the third floor. There are a series of string courses on the tower and a fairly elaborate cornice with a dentil frieze. The top of the tower has a decorative metal weather vane. The roofed part is asphalt shingle.

West Side - Mill Street

Between the corner tower and the transept are four pointed arch windows with brick soldier courses. There is a string course at the level of the windows where the arch terminates and another string course at the level of the sills. After the transept are two arched windows with brick soldier courses. The transept on this side has a wall projection that extends above the roof.

There is an entrance door on the lower level framed by brick soldier courses. Above the door is a cement date stone inscribed "Livingston Presbyterian Church 1890-1934". Above this date stone are three pointed arch windows with the central one taller than the other two on either side.

East Side

There are four pointed arched windows on this side similar to the ones on the west side. There is an enclosed wood frame entrance porch between the second and third windows. The rear section of this part has three pointed arched windows in the upper part of the building and three straight topped windows below that. There are two small Gothic windows on either side of the entrance.

North Side - Rear

This façade has a medium gable with what was once a brick chimney on the left hand side. There is a small rectangular louver in the peak of the gable and three pointed arched windows with the center window being taller than the side windows.

Windows

The window shapes vary. Many of them feature coloured or stained glass. In November, 1928 memorial windows for the east side of the church were ordered by John ("J.P.") Livingston. Known as "Christ Blessing Children" and "The Boy Jesus," they were in memory of his parents James and Louise Livingston. Cost was $350.00. In April 1927, a pair of stained glass windows was ordered by J. P. Livingston for each side of the choir loft. He also ordered a south Rose window with a richly painted glass treatment of "The Burning Bush" - the Presbyterian symbol. Total cost was $2000.00. In 1930-31, two more stained glass memorial windows were ordered by J.P. and his wife Laura. One was for J. P. Livingston's siblings and the other was for his wife's parents, the Holwells.

Other Notable Features

Organ

An organ was purchased from The Woodstock Organ Company in 1935 at a cost of $4440.00. It is believed to be one of the best church organs in the area.

Church Pews

The church pews are Gothic style, curved and made of Black ash. They were originally purchased from The Globe Furniture Company in 1895 for $275.

Painting

On October 6, 1940, Edward Glen's interpretation of da Vinci's "The Last Supper" was unveiled and dedicated by J. P. and daughter, Laura Louise Livingston in loving memory of his wife and her mother, Laura Livingston. Edward Glen was a notable painter from London, Ontario.

Baptismal Font

A baptismal font was donated in memory of James and Louise Livingston and Frederick and Barbara Holwell, April 27, 1930 by their granddaughter, Laura Louise Livingston.

Masonic Lodge Hall

James Livingston was a Charter Member of Wilmot Lodge No. 318, constituted at Baden in July 1874. He rose to the rank of the 33rd Degree of the Scottish Rite in 1887, the highest rank of the Masonic Lodge. This Lodge initially used a room in The Baden Hotel, but in 1951, it moved to a room at the rear of the Presbyterian Church and eventually relocated to second storey. The Lodge still holds its regular meetings in this room, decorated with furnishings over one hundred years old. The two chandeliers were purchased in 1888 for $24.60 and were converted from oil to electricity in 1966. A lodge seal was purchased in 1874 for $9.00 and is still being used.

St. James Lutheran Church

Heritage Wilmot last designation was St. James Lutheran Church in Baden under the Part IV Ontario Heritage Act.  The designation celebration took place Sunday November 3, 2019. 

For more background information on the church please view the St. James Lutheran Church History document.