80 for 80: Celebrating Eighty Years of the Architectural Conservancy of Ontario

Michigan Central Railway Bridge during construction

Toronto, November 11, 2013 – The Architectural Conservancy of Ontario (ACO) is celebrating anniversary with the publication of a book, “80 for 80: Celebrating Eighty Years of the its 80th Architectural Conservancy of Ontario”. The illustrated book documents eighty among the hundreds of buildings and structures across Ontario that ACO has had a hand in saving since it rescued one building, the Barnum House, in 1933. Its founding mission was “To preserve, for the benefit of the people of Ontario, buildings and structures.”

     ACO St. Thomas-Elgin contributed an article on our efforts to raise awareness of the Michigan Central Kettle Creek Bridge. You may order a copy by  phoning (519) 633-3694.

The book is a fascinating compendium of heritage architecture and history, ranging from modest homes built before Canada’s confederation to an endangered mid-Century modern chapel. It includes commercial block, residential buildings, heritage cemetery, bridges, and cultural heritage landscapes. The stories included detail the creative ways that ACO’s branches and volunteers have found to challenge unsympathetic development and to rescue buildings at risk. Through advocacy and education, research and gentle persuasion, the branches have hosted meetings, workshops, art exhibits and conferences and have attended council meetings to speak up for endangered properties. Over eighty years, ACO members have built the case for heritage preservation in communities across the Province.

As stated recently in an Architectural Conservancy of Ontario newsletter (ACORN in a Nutshell), “Volunteers have no pockets, only passion and deep caring for the community they love.” There is little public funding available for heritage protection and heritage volunteers have stepped up to shape their communities. These volunteers have dedicated numerous hours of their time to initiatives to save buildings that are as unique as the buildings themselves.

This book was launched at the Architectural Conservancy of Ontario’s Annual Awards Ceremony on November 8, 2013 at the Arts and Letters Club in Toronto. The book will cost $30 and you can preorder it at http://www.arconserv.ca. It will be printed and mailed out just in time for the holidays, making it the perfect gift for the history or heritage lover on your list.

ACO St. Thomas-Elgin contributed an article on our efforts to raise awareness of the Michigan Central Kettle Creek Bridge. You may order a copy by  phoning 519 633 3694, and save the $11 shipping charge as long as you order before Dec. 9.

For more information, please contact:

Kayla Jonas Galvin
Book Committee Chair
[email protected]

Architectural Conservancy of Ontario
10 Adelaide E, Suite 403
Toronto, ON M5C 1J3
(416) 367-8075