Learn About Burlington's History in February During Heritage Month
*Please see below a media release issued by the City of Burlington.Burlington, Ont. — Jan. 21, 2020 — The City of Burlington’s Heritage Month Committee has been busy planning another exciting Heritage Month, beginning Feb. 1. Residents are invited to learn more about the events and issues that have shaped Burlington and Canada by attending the informative sessions planned throughout the month.Topics and events will include Black history, First Nations, Freeman Station, Burlington architecture, discussions, meetings, preservations, stories and more. The full calendar listings are at burlington.ca/burlheritage, bpl.on.ca and burlington.ca/calendar.
"Heritage Month offers us the opportunity to learn about Burlington's diverse cultural and built heritage. Thanks to all civic and volunteer groups who contributed to this year's events; with a special thanks to Martha Hemphill of the United Empire Loyalists Association for her leaderhsip." — Howard Bohan, Chair of Heritage Burlington
A kick-off event is planned for Saturday, Feb. 1 that will feature highlights of the 175-year history of Knox Presbyterian Church. Seating for this event is limited, so please RSVP to arabellagore@gmail.com by this Saturday (Jan. 25).
Event Date: Saturday, Feb. 1, 2020
Time: 10:30 a.m.
Location: Knox Presbyterian Church, 461 Elizabeth St.
The Origins of Burlington’s Knox Presbyterian ChurchThe land for Knox Presbyterian Church was donated by Martha and Andrew Gage in 1845 in what was then known as Wellington Square and a small, wooden-frame church was erected at the corner of Elizabeth and James streets. By 1876, the small church was bursting at the seams and the decision was made that a larger church was needed. And so, just three years after Burlington was incorporated as a village, the cornerstone was laid for a new church building. The original church, today known as the Bell Tower Room, still stands, surviving as one of the oldest buildings in Burlington. While the Bell Tower Room is unique, there are important elements of the 1876 building including the stained-glass windows in the sanctuary which were a gift from John Waldie, an elder and leading politician of his era.MAYOR MEED WARD'S TAKE:As we become a 21st century city, it's important we continue to share and re-tell the stories of our past. There are great lessons to be learned. I think people will be amazed at how rich Burlington's history is, if they aren't already aware. It is all valuable and deserves our attention.LINKS:
--*Posted by John Bkila, Mayor's Media and Digital Communications Specialist.