HomeMy WebLinkAbout2024"Prepared for the North Pickering Land Exchange Team
Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing
Planning and Development Division
Prepared by:
Andre Scheinman
Heritage Preservation Consultant
Novemeber, 2004."
"TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION/SUMMARY OF FINDINGS
BUILT HERITAGE ASSESSMENT REPORTS:
Level of Significance
615 Whitevale Road (76*) Regional 10
750 Whitevale Road (72) Regional 15
825 Whitevale Road (69) Local 22
940 Whitevale Road (11) Regional 27
1050 Whitevale Road (10) Local 34
1125 Whitevale Road (18) Local 38
1130 Whitevale Road (8) Regional 43
1200 Whitevale Road (7) Local 49
1255 Whitevale Road (17) Regional 53
1390 Whitevale Road (6) Regional 58
1450 Whitevale Road (5) Local 64
1690 Whitevale Road (2) Local 69
575 Highway 7(47) Local 76
815 Highway 7(42) Regional 80
1015 Highway 7(40) Local 86
1335 Highway 7(35) Regional 90
2630 Brock Road (62) Local 95
2935 Brock Road (64) Regional 100
3440 Brock Road (60) Local 107
3215 Sideline 28 (73) Regional 112
3250 Sideline 28 (74) Regional 118
3185 Sideline 26 (66) Regional 124
3190 Mulberry Lane (20) Local 130
1075 Taunton Road (25) Local 134
1130 Taunton Road (26) Local 138
*Map locator number based on 1994 mapping of Built Heritage Resources Seaton
Cultural Heritage Resources Assessment (SCHRA'94)
APPENDICES:
Appendix 1: ORC Cultural Heritage Process
Appendix 2: Provincial Criteria
Appendix 3: Historic Maps
Appendix 4: Woodruff-Mackenzie Report (Unterman McPhail & Associates)
Acknowledgements: John Sabean, Heritage Pickering
"
"INTRODUCTION Background:
In 1993-1994 a study was undertaken under the auspices of the Provincial government of the day
to assess the cultural heritage resources of the area of north Pickering that has come to be
known, over the last quarter century, as Seaton. That study considered a wide range of cultural
resources, including cultural heritage landscapes, archaeological sites and built heritage.
With regard to the built heritage component of the study over 75 properties were surveyed in
the field, where possible subjected to some limited essential research, and evaluated in terms
of their heritage value (Please see below for further discussion of evaluation issues both then
and now). The results were mapped to better understand the pattern and concentration of
valuable structures and their inter¬relationship with other important elements, both cultural and
natural, in order to inform responsible future planning for the area, considered imminent at the
time. As well the survey provided an understanding of the typical vernacular built-form(s) of the
area and its evolution throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries.
Ten years later the development/preservation of the area is again of concern spawning a range
of inter-related research and planning initiatives. This study, the further assessment of 25
built heritage sites originally surveyed in 1994, is one strand of that process.
The original examination was, essentially, a 'windshield survey'. This further assessment allowed
for a deeper level of both investigation and research building on the earlier work and hence,
the results have greater authority and reliability, critical at this point in ensuring responsible
planning for the area.
Process:
25 of the properties that had been assessed as Category 'A' or Category 'B' level heritage
sites through the 1994 assessment were chosen by the Province for further examination and
evaluation. This time official access to the site itself was provided, including license to examine
the interior which is actually quite important in the proper assessment of age, special features
and overall integrity of heritage fabric.
In parallel with site examination and photography, documentary research was conducted,
revisiting in greater depth many of the sources for the earlier work (as well as a number of
new sources) but also enabled by the tighter focus to work more with primary sources
including the Pickering Township Papers (a miscellany of early land documents arranged by
Lot and Concession), assessment rolls, personal and agricultural census, land abstracts,
historic maps and special collections such as the Andrew Glen papers. As well, in order to
provide a true assessment of the significance of some of the area pioneers and early settlers
Loyalist claims and musters; War of 1812 musters and Mackenzie Rebellion sources were
checked and did provide some useful, if generally peripheral, information.
It must be noted however that with limited time/budget primary sources could still only be
examined to the level necessary for properly undertaking this particular assignment
"
"and the research should not be mistaken for a comprehensive historic thesis on each property.
Working with vernacular properties (as opposed to professionally designed structures of higher
profile) information regarding both the buildings and owners is hard won mostly from land and tax
records and historic maps/surveys. There are no architectural drawings of these structures,
few accessible historic photos and little in the way of reliable biographies of their owners and/or
builders.
Still, the level of site investigation and research undertaken for this assignment certainly provided
information that allowed for a much more comprehensive view of a number of the properties
(typically those with less obvious attributes and less local lore) and the subsequent
re-assessment of their heritage status.
Evaluation
The 25 properties were actually evaluated (re-evaluated from the 1994 perspective) three times.
They were examined individually according to the formal ORC/MCL criteria (appended) to
establish their status as a heritage resource. They were then reviewed against the recently
developed Provincial Criteria (appended) to see if any qualified for that level of consideration.
Finally the level of their heritage status was identified as either: Provincial; Regional or Local
based on the evaluation worksheets, general research and consideration of the appropriate
jurisdictional influence/profile of each property.
It should be noted that though the ORC/MCL criteria was only just being formulated in 1994
the model on which it was ultimately based, originally developed by Harold Kalman,
was already being used in a number of jurisdictions. For the 1994 assessment this model
was considered but was felt not to be responsive enough to vernacular buildings to be used
without modification. Hence a modified evaluation system was developed that was meant to
address more particularly the consideration of rural farmsteads.
For this assignment the ORC/MCL system was used, in order that the evaluation criteria be
consistent with the many ORC managed properties examined since the adoption of the Kalman
(Commonwealth) model after 1994. It still must be pointed out that that system works best in
dealing with the more formal institutional structures which comprise the largest (or at least the
highest profile) segment of the ORC managed building stock and continues to have some
deficiencies in regard to more modest, vernacular structures.
The concept of Provincial heritage status is useful but again the responsible assessment of
vernacular structures under the existing criteria is made difficult by the lack of a comprehensive
Province wide inventory (though in the process of development) that allows for consideration of
comparables under such heading as ""thefirst, best, or last"" of a given type. The evaluation of
formal structures is difficult enough in this regard but for a rural farmstead, even where
manifesting some prototypical or seemingly unique characteristics, so much more so.
While the good researcher/evaluator will always be aware of, and attempt to examine,
comparables and there are long standing inventories
"
"such as the Canadian Inventory of Historic Buildings that can be searched, it is still hard,
in many instances, to be sure that the particular farmhouse etc. under discussion is worthy of
Provincial Interest for its stylistic and/or construction features without exhaustive study
(beyond the level of typical budgets involving the examination of vernacular structures).
In order to deal with this a useful process might be - where the 'singularity' of a structure is
suspected (clearly unique at the Regional level etc.) but initially uncertain - to identify it as a
candidate for further Provincial consideration. These candidate sites would then be listed and
eventually subject to a detailed further study of Province-wide comparables possibly resulting in
the declaration of Provincial Interest.
Summary of Findings/Results
In general the final results of this more detailed evaluation process were similar to those of 1994
in that all the structures reviewed were re-confirmed as heritage resources. However the ability to
go on to the property, examine building interiors and to delve more deeply into property records
provided the information base for revising and/or expanding the reports on a number of structures
and as a result, their evaluation. In some cases, as with the William Turner House
(3250 Sideline 28) and the James White House (750 Whitevale Road) this resulted in raising the
heritage status of the properties, while in others, often where research supplanted local lore, such
as in the case of 1690 Whitevale Road, lowered grades resulted.
Two properties were given serious consideration for Provincial Significance - 2935 Brock Road,
'Stonecroft' on the basis of its direct association with Elizabeth and Robin Mackenzie, the former
a pioneer of herb nurseries and the latter an acclaimed visual artist (as well as the remarkable
qualities of the site itself); and the former school, 3215 Sideline 28 as a prototypical example of
the Greek revival version of the Hodgins' model rural school. However in the final analysis it was
felt that the sphere of influence of the Mackenzies could not yet be authoritatively appraised and,
with regard to the former school, that there were other examples in more pristine condition,
though this was indeed an excellent example.
One property was seen to be a potential candidate for consideration as a National Historic Site.
Paradoxically, though the house at 1690 Whitevale could not be justified as the home of
Thomas Hubbard, its association with Andrew Glen and the founding of the CCF. Party
should be considered a serious rationale for national recognition.
Sadly several of the properties which were occupied and well maintained when visited in
1994 - 3190 Mulberry Lane, 1075 Taunton Road and 1050 Whitevale Road were found to be
derelict and deteriorating. In the course of this study 1075 Taunton was razed. As well,
1255 Whitevale Road (Tool House) derelict but considered restorable in 1994 was found to
have suffered a serious fire and, open to the weather had deteriorated to a ruinous state.
Over all, including the properties described above, no properties were found to be of Provincial
Significance, 12 properties were considered Regionally Significant and 13 of
"
"Local Significance. (See the Table of Contents for a 'quick view' of status of
individual properties). Of these jurisdictional levels the definition of the Provincial and Local
levels is relatively clear, reflecting the boundaries of political entities, while the Regional level is
less so. Here it has been defined as within Durham Region but from the Third Concession north
as the settlement of the 'fronts' of these communities typically differed so significantly from that of
their hinterlands. Thus it was considered most appropriate to compare this selected group of
north Pickering structures against their hinterland counterparts in terms of age, style and
construction technology etc.
In terms of geographic distribution, most notable is the concentration of Regionally Significant
properties extending west between Sideline 26 and the village of Whitevale. This grouping has
been referred to as the 'gateway to Whitevale' in a number of the evaluation reports.
While this study focused on the assessment of individual structures it must be emphasized,
as in earlier studies, that the greatest heritage value of the area appears to extend beyond
individual properties residing rather in the high concentration of quality heritage buildings and
their relatively intact traditional relationship with the surrounding landscape, most clearly along
Whitevale Road, but also at Highway 7. In essence much of the area can be viewed as a cultural
heritage landscape (chl) with particular integrity along Whitevale Road. (Indeed the term cultural
heritage landscape is used informally in this evaluation under the Streetscape/Landscape criteria
component to describe the role of certain properties in the context of the broader area.)
Overview of Pickering Township Settlement History (Euro-Canadian)
While Pickering Township was surveyed at the same time as adjacent areas and, as elsewhere,
land grants were given before 1800 to United Empire Loyalists and British Officers/Soldiers,
settlement in Pickering moved at a much slower pace than either Scarborough or Markham.
This was due to the fact that most of the grantees did not themselves settle on the land but rather
held it in absentia for speculative purposes or sold it to other speculators. Absentee landlords
such as Major Smith, Major Aeneas Shaw and Chief Justice Elmsley and their heirs released
little of their large holdings until the 1830's1 when substantial profits could be made.
Thus 'more of the first settlers in Pickering took reserved lots on lease and actually settled on
them than was usual.'2 At a Town Meeting of Whitby and Pickering householders held in 1803,
of the ten individuals from Pickering most were leasing lots.3
Michelle Greenwald, The Historical Complexities of Pickering, Markham. Scarborough and
Uxbridge. Ontario Ministry of Intergovernmental Affairs: North Pickering Community Development
Project, 1973. p.62.
RDHP Conservation Report. Ontario Department of Planning and Development, Conservation
Branch, 1956.
"
"Though there was some scattered settlement in the south before 1830, in a reversal of the
usual pattern permanent settlement actually occurred more quickly in the north.
Indeed Concession IX had a number of permanent settlers as early as 1808.
Early settlers in that area included Alem Marr, Abraham Stouffer, Issac Wismer,
Christian Saefert and Joshua Wixon.4
Within the Seaton lands, as currently defined, there were isolated pockets of early settlement
and a number of these first settlers and their families continued to play a significant role in the
area thoughout the 19th century. In Concession VI this would include James W. Sharrard and
Thomas Matthews, U.E.L. while in Concession V Thomas Hubbard (Lot 19), and John Major
U.E.L.,(originally Lot 18) were settled prior to 1820. In Concession IV James Lamoreaux was
on Lot 23 by 1810.
From Assesment Returns made by the clerk of the Home District to the Legislative Assembly it is
known that by 1825 Pickering Township had:
7 two storey houses of frame, brick or stone
(with a total of 20 hearths between them)
9 houses of dressed log.
8 frame dwellings of less than two storeys.
Given that the population at this time was placed at about 760 souls it has been postulated that
there must have been approximately 125 round log structures in Pickering at that time.
By 1842 Nathaniel Hastings (1828), Asher Willson (c.1815), William Sleigh (1825),
Aaron Albright (c.1830) William Turner (1842), Hugh Pugh (1842) and others had settled on the
land and it was finally taking on the appearance of a settlement landscape rather than a few
isolated clearings in the wilderness. Within the Township as a whole population had jumped to
3752 by 1842, reflecting in part that land held so long out of circulation was finally becoming
available.
Due to the unusual nature of early land ownership, where property was held for speculation for so
long and then sold off much later in the most lucrative manner possible, as well as to the limited
financial capabilities of the purchasers, typical lot size was smaller than normal for the Province
with ownership of a half or quarter lot as typical.
Perhaps the relatively large number of Mackenzie supporters from Pickering Township
(and Seaton in particular) is partly explained by the frustration felt over the land dealings
Greenwald, Historical Complexities of Pickering... 4 Ibid.
"
"of those Family Compact affiliated speculators. As well the yeoman of the area,
being generally small landhoders, did not see their interests being served by a
government so influenced by the the wealthy few. Among the rebels then were
the Matthews boys, one of whom , Peter, would be later hanged for treason;
William Bentley, George Yeomans, Samuel Brillingers, Andrew Hubbard,
John Pride Phillips, Patrick Simpson, George Spencer, John and
Johnathan Stephens, Simpson and Samuel Bentley, William Barclay, Thomas Sharrard and
Asher Willson. The feelings engendered in Pickering by the 1837 Rebellion smouldered
long after the actual events occasionally affecting relationships between neighbours.
Settlement within the Seaton area seems to have first focused around what is now Brock Road,
i.e. Lots 18 and 19 and its junction with Concession Lines V and VI and was even then the major
north-south artery of the young Township. The stage coach route eventually came up Brock Road
and west along Concession VI.5 It was due to its position as a transportation crossroads that
Brougham began to become a local commercial centre. By 1877 Brougham had three hotels to
service the travelling public.
Likewise Thompson's Hotel established c.1830 at the northeast corner of the crossroads
between the 5th Line and Brock Road became a key place of meeting first for the Town officials
and later, in the days leading up to the Mackenzie Rebellion, the politically discontented.
The hotel has survived in local lore in the naming of the area as Thompson's Corners.
John Major U.E.L., originally settled on Lot 18, Concession V and was named area assessor in
1803. By the 1820's he had moved west settling on Lot 26, Concession V and Lot 29,
Concession IV and shortly thereafter established a sawmill on Lot 32 Concession V on the
banks of West Duffin Creek. This mill became the focus for a community which came to be
known as Majorville and later Whitevale. A detailed account of the development of Whitevale is
provided in the Whitevale Heritage Conservation District Study Background Report
(Unterman McPhail Cuming Shearer, 1989) and need not be reprised here. Suffice it to say that
following the purchase of the Major Mill by Ira White and the construction a decade later of a flour
mill by his son T.P. White the location became attractive to settlement and over the next ten years
became a bustling community. It was the base for a wide range of industries, tradesmen,
artisans and shopkeepers serving the Village itself but also the surrounding area. However with
the destruction by fire of the planing, woolen and grist mills over the last quarter of the 19th
century Whitevale's growth was curtailed.
By mid-century the children of the pioneer settlers such as Willson, Hastings, and Major
were seeking land in the area and moving into the remaining undeveloped lots
or, in a number of cases, enlarging or rebuilding the original homestead.
This sometimes involved the actual severing of lots for the children. By 1861 the
population had doubled and the Seaton area could be considered to be settled.
5 R.D.H.P. Valley Conservation Report
"
"In general lots to the north of the Concession roads were settled earlier than those to
the south it being more desirable for the house front to be both road and
south facing particularly as elevation dropped off to the south.
As Sidelines were opened houses would be built toward the middle of the lot.
Some chose to orientate their dwelling to the Sideline and others maintained a
South-facing front.
"
"Location/Description
Lot: 29 Concession: IV
Description: South side of Whitevale Rd.
Municipal #: 615 Whitevale Road (#76 in SCHRA '94 and map)
Property Type: Farmstead
Historical Background
John Major was one of the hinterland pioneers of Pickering Township. Having originally
emigrated from Ireland with his two brothers he apparently settled in Vermont and,
at the outbreak of the Revolutionary War, relocated to Nova Scotia with his wife Margaret
Reynolds . He is listed in the muster of the 84th Regiment of the Loyalist Corps7 during that war,
likely the 2nd Battalion, which was raised mainly from Prince Edward Island and Nova Scotia as
part of the Northeastern Department. That battalion was given a whole township in Nova Scotia
for settlement after the war. However Major seems to have accepted the grant of Lot 18,
Con. V Pickering Township .
He is noted in the earliest surviving record of Township Officers in 1803 for Pickering/Whitby
indicating that he may have arrived in the area prior to the turn of the 19th century.
The 1822 meeting of Pickering Township officials was convened at his house .
The relocation of his family to the lots in close proximity to West Duffin's Creek and his
establishment of a sawmill on Lot 32, Con 5 in the 1820's 10was a catalyst to settlement
which resulted in the growth of the hamlet which became known as Majorville and later
Whitevale. By the 1820's Major, a soldier in the Revolutionary War, would have probably been in
his 60's with adult children. A Thomas Major, likely John Major's son, a soldier in the 3 rd York
Flank Company, was seriously wounded at Queenston Heights in 1812 ('he lost the calf of his leg')
and was entered for pension"". John Major's daughter, Hannah, married Peter Matthews one of
only two Mackenzie rebels to be hanged as a traitor as a result of the failed rebellion. Generally
speaking his offspring, with those of a few other early families were the basis of a stable
community in the area throughout the 19th century.
This property, associated with the Major family since the 1820's, was part of the original land
grant to Sarah Playter. It was the home of John Major's son, Henry, and his family, throughout the
19th century. The 1851 census records Henry's one storey frame house while the 1861 census
indicates a dwelling of frame and stone likely referring to the stone kitchen 'tail'. It would thus
appear that the stone portion of the house was built between
6 William R. Wood, Past Years in Pickering (Toronto: William Biggs, 1911.) p.263
7 Mary B. Fryer and Lt.-Col. W. A. Smy, Index to the Rolls of the Provincial (Loyalist) Corps
( Toronto: Dunedin Press, 1981.)
8 Michelle Greenwald, 'Complexities in the Settlement of Pickering... Township
9 Ontario County Atlas, 1877. 10Wood, Past Years...
11 William Gray, Soldiers of the King: The Upper Canada Militia 1812-1815
(Erin: Boston Mills Press, 1995) pp.131, 268.
"
"1851 and 1861. Henry donated the land on Lot 28 for the Whitevale Cemetery. In the late 19th
century the property was owned by Albert Edward Major, Henry's son, who raised Shetland
ponies on the property .
Architectural Description
The site currently consists of the timber frame main house, stone kitchen, frame 'summer kitchen',
later rear garage/shed and two frame barns. The small early barn/carriage shed close to the
house was being shored along the south elevation when visited. It appears to be quite early and
may be contemporary to the main section of the house.
The house may be the earliest dwelling of some pretension to be found in the Study Area.
While relatively simple with its long, (literally) 'low profile' it is a surviving early timber frame
structure in the prototypical Palladian mode of five bays centered on the main entrance.
The main entrance is composed of transom, sidelights with paneled dado around the paneled
door. A later portico now covers the rectangular door transom. The 12/12 windows
(the only such windows within the study area) with louvered shutters intact, the narrow wood siding
which finishes to beaded cornerboards and the moulded cornice return are all consistent with
early frame construction. The elliptically arched window at the west elevation would have been
added later.
The kitchen 'tail' constructed of granite fieldstone also has small pane double hung sash,
somewhat unusual for the c. 1855 construction date though possibly recycled from an earlier
frame kitchen. It has, as well, a large cooking hearth (much renovated) also somewhat surprising
for the documented period of construction. The summer kitchen with 2/2 segmentally arched
window openings would appear to date from the late 19th century while the current side verandah
is closer to 1920 in stylistic treatment with short wood columns on stone piers.
While much of the interior has been subject to poor quality renovation a number of original
elements do remain -some casings, some sections of baseboard, several original doors while no
doubt other elements remain beneath later finishes.
Setting
The house retains its open front yard with views to the North. As it is just to the west of the
Whitevale cemetery, and with its strong association with the Major family, the property is
informally considered part of the Whitevale Historic District.
Past Years.... P. 195
"
"Evaluation (to be read in conjunction with Evaluation Worksheet) Consideration of Provincial
Significance:
As evaluated under the existing criteria this property is not considered to be of Provincial
Significance.
Statement of Significance:
The Henry Major property, while not deemed to be of Provincial Significance, is considered to be
of high Regional Significance for the following reasons:
• Its close (John Major may have actually resided here at some point) association with one of
the most (if not the most) important pioneers of Pickering Township, John Major, who, with his
children, was responsible for the establishment of the milling hamlet which initially carried the
Major name and eventually became Whitevale and whose expanding family formed the basis of
the community throughout the 19th century;
• As one of the earliest surviving timber frame dwellings in the area, particularly in the more
formal five bay/centre hall mode.
• As a particularly good example of the typical domestic hierarchy of main house, kitchen tail
and summer kitchen constructed over several stylistic periods spanning 100 years.
• Along with the School is an essential component of the 'gateway to Whitevale'.
Character-defining elements:
• The original 12/12 pane double hung window sash with shutters;
• The five bay facade and main entrance with transom and sidelights;
• The narrow wood siding with beaded comerboards, moulded and returned cornice;
• The rubble granite stonework with voussoired arches of the kitchen;
Integrity
• Much of the heritage integrity of the interior has been lost due to inappropriate and low quality
renovations/repairs.
• The bases of the heavy timber posts and the sill are subject to decay and carpenter ants.
However remedies attempted to date, such as encasing the base of the wall in concrete,
have only exacerbated the problem.
• The very significant existing 12/12 window sash may be under threat due to the well
intentioned but somewhat misguided ORC window replacement program.
"
"EVALUATION WORSHEET FOR BUILDINGS AND STRUCTURES
Building Identification:
Address: 615 Whitevale Road
Criterion Grade (Circle One) Reasons
DESIGN
1. Style / Visual Appeal
2. Construction/ Technology
3. Arch. /Designer/ Builder
E VG G F/P
E VG G F/P
E VG G F/P
Though simple, very early example
of 5 bay frame.
Very early timber frame structure.
Unknown
HISTORY
4. Association / Pattern
5. Age
VG
VG
F/P Direct association with the Major
family, pioneers & influential settlers.
F/P Between the oldest date & l/8th point*
CONTEXT
6. Landmark / Character
7. Streetscape / Landscape
E VG G F/P Has considerable community
significance.
E VG G F/P Is part of 'gateway' to Whitevale.
INTEGRITY
8. Alterations
E VG G F/P Changes are reversible
Tabulation
In order for a building or structure to qualify as a heritage resource , it must receive the
following grades:
• Excellent in any one criterion, other than Integrity: OR
• Very Good in any two criteria, with at least one each from any two of Design,
History and Context; OR
• Good (or better) in any four criteria, with at least one each from any two of Design,
History and Context.
• If it receives Fair or Poor for Integrity, then it must receive at least one more Good than
stated above.
Statement of Heritage Significance:
If a building or structure qualifies as a heritage resource, then a Statement of Heritage
Significance will be prepared, summarizing descriptively the positive characteristics noted
above. As evaluated above this building is a Heritage Resource.
"
"Fig. 1: West elevation -original section and stone 'tail'
Fig. 2: Original carriage shed stabilized with shoring."
"Location/Description
Lot: 28 Concession: V
Description: North side of Whitevale Rd. (#72 in SCHRA '94and map)
Municipal #: 750 Whitevale Road
Property Type: Farmstead
Historical Background
James White (no relation to Truman White) apparently emigrated from London, England in 1832
and, after renting 100 acres on Lot 18, Con V for five years, purchased and settled permanently
on this lot13. The Whites remained on the property for generations including James son, William
(born 1823), and grandson, Albert. Another son, also James White, married Elizabeth Pugh and
farmed across the road14. In 1864, the area school, which had, since 1842, been situated on the
neighbouring Sleigh farm was relocated to the southwest corner of the White's property15.
The 1851 census finds James White Sr., then 76, still living in the original log house.
It would appear then that the existing stone house was built by his son William upon coming into
ownership of the property following his father's death in 18561 . It was certainly constructed prior
to 1861 when it was recorded in the census.
Architectural Description
Built by 1861 this fine stone dwelling combines elements of the earlier Nathaniel Hastings House
and of the contemporary Samuel Major House, as well as several decorative flourishes of its own.
Along with those other two it is one of the three structures within the Study Area to have a five bay
stone facade, transom/sidelights at the main entrance and centre hall plan. Like the Major House
it has large stone voussoirs at the window arches of the front and ground storey of the end walls
but at the rear and gables the openings are arched in brick as at the Hastings House. Roughly
squared, larger units have also been selected to emphasize the quoins. The building has a
'double' front appearance with three bays arranged symmetrically at the rear. The brick end
chimneys, moulded cornice with returns and 6/6 windows survive.
Of special note is the treatment of the east gable where units with large amounts of white quartz
have been set at the gable centre with a contrasting background of dark striated gneiss units.
Whether this treatment is original is difficult to say but it is a very unusual to see that level and
kind of decorative treatment in a vernacular structure of this period.
13 William R. Wood, Past Years in Pickering (Toronto: William Biggs, 1911), p.308.
14 Ibid.
15 Ibid, p. 171
16 Ibid, p.308
"
"Interior
Much of the heritage fabric of the interior, including window and door casings, panelled dado
treatment beneath the parlour windows, baseboards remains intact, except within the kitchen
area. Most notable is the main stair balustrade in hardwood, with the 'knob newel' typical of a
number of the early dwellings of some pretension.
Outbuildings
One small carriage shed/barn remains, which currently houses free range chickens. Setting
The house is almost concealed by the mature shrubbery of the lane. The yard, with its surviving
shade trees and remaining perennial beds, remains consistent with the heritage appearance of
the site. Fields extend beyond the rear yard.
Evaluation (to be read in conjunction with Evaluation Worksheet) Consideration of Provincial
Significance
While an important site in the context of its Region it does not meet the existing criteria for
Provincial Heritage status. (See Provincial Criteria)
Statement of Significance:
The James White property is considered to be of Regional Significance for the following reasons:
• Its direct association with James White, one of the early settlers of the area, and his
family who remained on the land until well into the 20th century.
• The quality of the domestic vernacular construction, particularly the unusual
integration of several masonry techniques/materials within the classic five bay, side
gable form including the large stone voussoirs of the facade openings; the brick
arches at the rear and gable openings and the decorative pattern of dark and light
stones created at the east gable.
• The extent of surviving fabric including: main entrance treatment; 6/6 windows;
brick end chimneys; moulded and returned cornice; interior main stair balustrade;
parlour woodwork.
• While not currently readily visible from the road it is another key component of the
heritage 'gateway' to Whitevale.
"
"Character-defining features
• The roughly coursed granite rubble with voussoired arches in stone at the front and
brick at the rear;
• The pattern of white and dark striated stone at the east gable;
• The main entrance treatment with transom and sidelights;
• The moulded and returned cornice;
• The double hung multi-pane wood sash;
• The large centre hall with main stair balustrade and 'knob' newel.
Integrity
As stated above the building retains its historic detail and remains in relatively good condition.
"
"EVALUATION WORSHEET FOR BUILDINGS AND STRUCTURES
Building Identification:
Address: 750 Whitevale Road (The James White Property)
Criterion_________________Grade (Circle One)_______
Reasons
DESIGN
1. Style / Visual Appeal
2. Construction/ Technology
3. Arch. /Designer / Builder
E VG G F/P Good example of 5 bay stone dwelling
with transom/sidelights @ entrance.
E VG G F/P Unique integration of masonry
techniques/materials.
E VG G F/P Unknown.
HISTORY
4. Association / Pattern
5. Age
CONTEXT
6. Landmark / Character
7. Streetscape / Landscape
INTEGRITY
8. Alterations
* of age range for surviving structures in the area. Tabulation
In order for a building or structure to qualify as a heritage resource, it must receive the following
grades:
• Excellent in any one criterion, other than Integrity: OR
• Very Good in any two criteria, with at least one each from any two of Design, History and
Context; OR
• Good (or better) in any four criteria, with at least one each from any two of Design, History
and Context.
• If it receives Fair or Poor for Integrity, then it must receive at least one more Good than
stated above.
Statement of Heritage Significance
If a building or structure qualifies as a heritage resource, then a Statement of Heritage
Significance will be prepared, summarizing descriptively the positive characteristics noted above.
Based on the above evaluation this building is considered to be a Heritage Resource.
E VG G F/P Close association with J. White & family important early
settlers & core component of 19lh C. community. E VG G F/P
Built between l/8th and % point*
E VG G F/P Though important it is not well seen from the road.
E VG G F/P Key component of heritage corridor Part of the 'gateway' to
Whitevale
E VG G F/P Very close to original condition.
"
"Fig. 1: Front Elevation
Fig. 2: Rear maintains symmetry"
"Fig. 3: East elevation
Fig. 4: Decorative gable stonework"
"Fig. 5: Panelled window surround/shutters
Fig. 6: Newel cup detail - 'knob' type"
"Location/Description
Lot: 27 Concession: IV
Description: south side of Whitevale Rd. (#69 in SCHRA '94 and map) Municipal #:
825 Whitevale Road Property Type: Farmstead
Historical Background
This lot was originally part of the extensive land base of Clergy Reserves in Pickering Township.
However by an Order in Council August 6, 1816 it was leased to Levy Von Kleek17. Along with
Phillip Staats (who leased Lot 20 Con. IV in 1817) and several others Von Kleek seems to have
been part of an early influx of Dutch settlers18. In 1829 Asa Matthews sought to purchase the
property from the Crown19.
By 1853 seventy acres of the eastern half of the property was owned by Thomas Stephenson20
and prior to 1860 a 1 1/2 storey frame dwelling"" was constructed on the lot. The house must
have been of some pretension as it is noted as 'The Grange' on the Tremaine Map of that year ,
one of only a few properties in the area to have a sobriquet. The Stevenson family maintained
ownership until the latter part of the 19th century when it was purchased by the Pughs whose
original homestead was just across the Sideline.
Architectural Description
It would appear that 'The Grange', built c.1855, remains at the core of the existing building.
Stephenson sited his dwelling to take advantage of the natural slope to the rear that allowed the
southern half of the cellar to be above grade and probably functioned as the kitchen.
Thus seen from the rear the building is an imposing three full storeys. There have likely been two
major building campaigns since the construction of the original house. The first, c.l 875,
raised the building to full two-storey height and the second, in the late 19th century, added the
substantial western wing.
The original section is essentially a cube volume under a medium hipped roof. The heavy timber
frame is clad in clapboards that finish to beaded corner boards. It is built on a foundation of
squared granite fieldstone regularly coursed where exposed at the rear. The main decorative
treatment is the pilastered door surround with an unusual, and somewhat crude, entablature.
The 6/6 windows also have a small entablature. The finest feature is the front door with
two-arched panels (now filled with obscure glass) above two rectangular panels in the Italianate
mode, though here perhaps associated with the c.l875 renovations.
17 Pickering Township Papers, OA
18 Michelle Greenwald, 'The Historical Complexities of Pickering-Markham-Scarborough-
Uxbridge
19 Pickering Township Papers
20 Assessment Rolls, 1853
21 Personal Census, 1861
"
"The addition too is built on a granite fieldstone foundation and is clad in the shiplap siding so
popular toward the end of the 19th century. The windows here are typically 2/2.
Substantial 19th century trim and flooring remain in the interior but largely reflect the late century
renovation.
Setting
The front yard, with huge shade tree, is intact and the viewshed to the south is expansive.
Evaluation (to be read in conjunction with Evaluation Worksheet)
Consideration of Provincial Significance:
The property is not considered to be of Provincial Significance as determined through the
existing criteria for Provincial Heritage status.(see Provincial Criteria)
Statement of Significance:
The Stephenson/Pugh property is considered to be of Local Significance for the following
reasons:
• The property has a long associative history dating back pre-1820 to Von Kleek's leasehold;
• The core of the structure is quite early and the additions/renovations represent later
architectural periods in their own right;
• The use of grade to allow a 'walk-in' cellar kitchen within the granite stone foundation
creating essentially a three storey structure. The mass and height of the structure make it
prominent along the roadway.
Character-defining elements
• The pilastered main entrance surround and fine Italianate arch-panelled door;
• The wood clapboard siding and beaded cornerboard of the original structure and the wood
shiplap siding of the addition;
• The 6/6 windows of the original section;
• The rear entrance to the cellar through the stone foundation at grade with its associated
verandah.
• The general mass and height of the building.
Integrity
The building itself is thus far little changed from its early 20th century form.
"
"EVALUATION WORSHEET FOR BUILDINGS AND STRUCTURES
Building Identification:
Address: 825 Whitevale Road (The Stephenson Property)
Criterion_________________Grade (Circle One)______
Reasons
DESIGN
1. Style / Visual Appeal
2. Construction/ Technology
3. Arch. /Designer / Builder
E VG G F/P Relatively few of this type
(full 2 storey frame) in area.
E VG G F/P Building to the slope is a notable
feature.
E VG G F/P Unknown
HISTORY
4. Association / Pattern
5. Age
CONTEXT
6. Landmark / Character E VG G F/P
7. Streetscape / Landscape E VG G F/P
INTEGRITY
8. Alterations E VG G F/P
Its size and mass make it conspicuous along Whitevale Road. Component of cultural heritage
landscape.
Relatively unchanged.
*of the age range of existing buildings in the area.
Tabulation
In order for a building or structure to qualify as a heritage resource, it must receive the following
grades:
• Excellent in any one criterion, other than Integrity: OR
• Very Good in any two criteria, with at least one each from any two of Design, History and
Context; OR
• Good (or better) in any four criteria, with at least one each from any two of Design, History
and Context.
• If it receives Fair or Poor for Integrity, then it must receive at least one more Good than
stated above.
Statement of Heritage Significance
If a building or structure qualifies as a heritage resource, then a Statement of Heritage
Significance will be prepared, summarizing descriptively the positive characteristics noted
above. Based on the above this building is a Heritage Resource.
E VG G F/P The property is associated with a succession of
notable occupants
from Von Kleek to Pugh.
E VG G F/P The core building built between 1/8 and lA point*
(possibly earlier)
"
"Fig. 1: Front with original section to east
Fig. 2: Main entrance"
"Fig. 2: View from southeast - Cellar entrance at grade
Fig. 4: Typ. Interior with wainscot"
"Location/Description
Lot: 26 Concession V
Description: North side of Whitevale Rd..(#l 1 in SCHRA '94 and map) Municipal #:
940 Whitevale Road Property Type: Farmstead
Historical Background
John Major was one of the hinterland pioneers of Pickering Township. Having originally
emigrated from Ireland with his two brothers, he apparently settled in Vermont and, at the
outbreak of the Revolutionary War, relocated to Nova Scotia with his wife Margaret Reynolds22.
He is listed in the muster of the 84th Regiment of the Loyalist Corps23 during that war, likely the
2nd Battalion, which was raised mainly from Prince Edward Island and Nova Scotia as part of the
Northeastern Department. That battalion was given a whole township in Nova Scotia for
settlement after the war. However Major seems to have accepted the grant of Lot 18,
Con. V Pickering Township24.
He is noted in the earliest surviving record of Township Officers in 1803 for Pickering/Whitby
indicating that he may have arrived in the area prior to the turn of the 19th century. The 1822
meeting of Pickering Township officials was convened at his house and continued there until
1825. The relocation of his family to the lots in close proximity to West Duffin's Creek and his
establishment of a sawmill on Lot 32, Con 5 in the 1820's 26 was a catalyst to settlement that
resulted in the growth of the hamlet which became known as Majorville and later Whitevale.
By the 1820's, Major, a soldier in the Revolutionary War, would have probably been in his 60's
with adult children. A Thomas Major, possibly John Major's son, a soldier in the 3rd York Flank
Company, was seriously wounded at Queenston Heights in 1812 ('he lost the calf of his leg')
and was entered for pension27. John Major's daughter, Hannah, married Peter Matthews one
of only two Mackenzie rebels to be hanged as a traitor as a result of the failed rebellion. Generally
speaking his offspring, with those of a few other early families (Hubbards, Willsons) were the
basis of a stable community in the area throughout the 19th century.
The site of the fine stone house often associated with John Major in local lore was actually
purchased by his son Samuel in 1828-28. It is likely that a frame dwelling sufficed into the mid
19th century at which point the property was owned by Samuel's son, William. William is noted as
owning 300 acres on Lots 25 and 26 in the Agricultural census of 1851. He is not noted in the
personal property census for that year but a portion
22 William R. Wood, Past Years in Pickering (Toronto: William Biggs, 1911.) p.263
23 Mary B. Fryer and Lt.-Col. W. A. Smy, Index to the Rolls of the Provincial (Loyalist) Corps
( Toronto: Dunedin Press, 1981.)
24 Michelle Greenwald, 'Complexities in the Settlement of Pickering... Township
25 Ontario County Atlas, 1877. 26Wood, Past Years...
27 William Gray, Soldiers of the King: The Upper Canada Militia 1812-1815
(Erin: Boston Mills Press, 1995) pp. 131,268.
28 Land Abstracts, W.R.O.
"
"of that census is now missing. The Tremaine Map of 1860 shows only one residence on the
property and that faces the 6l Concession (Highway 7). However between 1858 and 1861 his
property assessment greatly increases and the 1861 census records his ownership of a 1 1/2
storey stone house. While a number of features of the fine stone dwelling, notably the cooking
hearth, are suggestive of an earlier date the only available documentary evidence indicates c.
1860 construction. The property remained in Major family possession for a century when it was
sold to Newton Robinson.
Architectural Description
The site is now comprised of: the coursed fieldstone 1 1/2 storey main house; 1 1/2 storey
summer kitchen addition; 1 storey stone woodshed; remnants of stone ancillary structures
which includes a stone outhouse once connected to the house with a board and batten
'breezeway'. Within the last ten years a timber frame carriage shed and a barn complex
which exhibited a high level of timber joinery were lost. Prior to that a major barn had been
destroyed due to wind and snow loading. A new garage has been built on the site.
A five bay composition with end chimneys and pedimented centre gable the facade features a
gothicized version of a Palladian window (compare McKinley House, West Flamborough) with
'lancet bar tracery' muntins. This feature is set over the main with its rectangular transom and
narrow sidelights around an extremely fine heavily moulded single panel door. Windows are
typically 6/6 square headed sash with voussoired flat arches above. The moulded cornice
remains in place and is returned at the gables. A verandah was added at the inside corner
between the main house and summer kitchen.
Interior
This house is one of the few in the Study area with a large centre hall and open stair. The
interior has been little altered from its 19th century treatment and is essentially Greek Revival
in ethos. Original pine flooring, window/door surrounds, main stair balustrade and baseboards
remain largely intact. The panelled window treatment in the main rooms is of high quality and
includes triple raised and fielded panels below the windows. The drawing room fireplace features
a pilastered architrave with elliptical and circular motifs in relief.
The original kitchen tail retains the large cooking hearth with its simply pilastered surround
(though possibly later) still in place. The summer kitchen appears to have also been a food
production area, as hooks, apparently for hanging meat, remain at the ceiling.
Setting
Despite the loss of original outbuildings and the removal of a major tree (it was becoming a
threat to the building due to die off) the house is still set in a yard characterized by mature
trees/plantings with hedgerows/windrows defining property boundaries and fields to the north.
With its location and its association with the Major family it has been considered the 'gateway' to
Whitevale.
"
"Evaluation (to be read in association with EvaluationWorksheet) Consideration of Provincial
Significance:
While an important site in the context of its Region it does not meet the existing criteria for
Provincial Heritage status. (See Provincial Criteria)
Statement of Significance:
The William Major property, while not deemed to be of Provincial Significance, is considered to
be of high Regional Significance for the following reasons:
• Its association with one of the most (if not the most) important pioneers of Pickering Township,
John Major, who, with his children, was responsible for the establishment of the milling hamlet
which initially carried the Major name and eventually became Whitevale and whose expanding
family formed the basis of the community throughout the 19th century;
• The quality of the domestic architecture incorporating features such as the gothicized
Palladian Window set in the centre gable, not typically found in the region and the particularly
high level of craftsmanship exhibited by the exterior stonework and interior joinery including:
window and door treatments; fireplace surrounds; and stair balustrade;
• The unusual extent of surviving heritage fabric throughout the main house, kitchen 'tail' and
summer kitchen;
• As a particularly good example of the typical domestic hierarchy of main house, kitchen tail
and summer kitchen.
• Both its form and associations make it a key landmark along Whitevale Road and a
gateway to the village itself.
Character-defining elements:
• The coursed rubble granite stonework with voussoired arches;
• The centre bay of the facade including the gothicized Palladian window in the centre gable
and the fine single panel main door with transom and sidelights;
• The moulded and returned cornice;
• The original multi-pane double hung window sash;
• The fireplaces and fireplace surrounds with associated corbelled chimney tops;
• The door and window casings including the panelled dado at the windows of the
main room;
• The large centre hall with main stair balustrade;
• The stone out-house/garden shed
Integrity
As noted above the building retains its historic detail and remains in good condition in part
due to having the same occupant over the last approximately 25 years.
"
"Criterion Grade (Circle One) Reasons DESIGN
1. Style / Visual Appeal E VG G F/P
Very good example of a common form.
2. Construction/ Technology E VG G F/P
Fine granite fieldstone construction and interior features
3. Arch. /Designer / Builder E VG G F/P
Designer/Builder unknown
HISTORY
4. Association / Pattern E VG G F/P
2nd generation of Major family pioneers and central to the 19th C. community 5. Age E VG G F/P Built between earliest regional date and the one-quarter point.
CONTEXT
6. Landmark / Character E VG G F/P
Is of considerable significance to the community.
7. Streetscape / Landscape E VG G F/P
Of particular importance in establishing dominant character of area
INTEGRITY
8. Alterations E VG G F/P
Exterior remain s essentially unchanged.
EVALUATION WORSHEET FOR BUILDINGS AND STRUCTURES
Building Identification:
Address: 940 Whitevale Road (Samuel Major House)
Tabulation
In order for a building or structure to qualify as a heritage resource,
it must receive the following grades:
• Excellent in any one criterion, other than Integrity: OR
• Very Good in any two criteria, with at least one each from any two of Design, History and
Context; OR
• Good (or better) in any four criteria, with at least one each from any two of Design, History
and Context.
• If it receives Fair or Poor for Integrity, then it must receive at least one more Good than
stated above.
Statement of Heritage Significance
If a building or structure qualifies as a heritage resource, then a Statement of Heritage
Significance will be prepared, summarizing descriptively the positive characteristics noted.
As evaluated above this building is an important heritage resource.
"
"Fig. 1: Front Elevation
Fig. 2: View from northeast"
"Fig. 3: Gothicized Palladian window
Fig. 4: Original single-panel front door."
"Fig. 5: Parlour fireplace
Fig. 6: Stone outbuilding"
"Location/Description
Lot: 25 Concession: V
Description: N.W. corner of Whitevale Rd. and Sideline 24. (#10 in SCHRA '94 & map)
Municipal #: 1050 Whitevale Road Property Type: Farmstead
Historical Background
29
Aaron Albright received this property from the Crown in 1852 but as early as 1828 John Albright
(Aaron's father) had requested the opportunity to purchase this lot, originally set aside as part of
the Clergy Reserve30. Even before that, in 1822, he is recorded as being involved in Pickering
Township affairs31. At some point between those dates Albright did apparently 'squat' and build
on the property for in his will, dated April 24, 1838, he leaves his house and barns to his wife32.
In 1851 Aaron Albright was living in a log house33 on the property and farming 100 acres34.
The 1861 census confirms Albright's continued presence in a log house. Thus the existing brick
dwelling was built sometime after 1861, but likely, from the physical/stylistic evidence
(explored below) within a decade of that date. The Albright family remained on the property until
well into the 20' century.
Architectural Description
The dichromatic, 1 1/2 storey, three bay centre gable structure embodies well the transition
occurring at that time from 'classical' to gothic motifs which gave rise to the form/style that has
become known as the 'Ontario Cottage'. Typically a symmetrical, three bay, side gable structure
with rectangular door and window openings is topped with a more steeply pitched centre gable
which, functionally, serves to light the upper hall and stairwell. Here the center gable originally
enclosed a lancet window with 'bar tracery muntins in the upper sash and was surmounted with a
finial. The quality of the brickwork is notable, including: the English bond coursing; the manner in
which this is manipulated at the dichromatic stringcourse and the buff brick corner and window
quoining. Even the stonework of the foundation, composed of relatively large, squared stones,
exhibits concern for the aesthetic effect.
Interior
Substantial heritage fabric remains including window surrounds with panelled dado,
door surrounds and baseboards. Unfortunately serious damage is occurring due to roof leaks
(see below).
Land Abstracts
30 Pickering Township Papers (OA)
31 County Atlas, 1877
32 Letter in Pickering Township Papers
33 Personal Census, 1851
34 Agricultural Census, 1851
"
"Outbuildings/Setting
A large gambrel barn with ridge ventilators, in relatively good condition, remains on site.
The site context of the building with regard to lane, fencing and fields remains intact though
neglected.
Evaluation/Integrity (to be read with Evaluation Worksheet) Consideration of Provincial
Significance:
As reviewed against the existing criteria for the determining of Provincial Interest this property
cannot be considered of Provincial heritage status (See Provincial Criteria).
Statement of significance:
This property is considered to be of Local Significance for the following reasons:
• The association of the property with area pioneer John Albright and the house with his son,
Aaron;
• The dichromatic patterning and English bond coursing of the brickwork;
• The typical three bay form with center gable and 'Gothic' window opening.
• As a component of the mid 19th century roadscape.
Character-defining features:
• English bond coursing (also incorporated into dichromatic frieze);
• Dichromatic treatment with quoins, and window arches accented with buff brick;
• Gothic (pointed arch) window opening at centre gable;
• Panelled window surrounds at interior.
Heritage Under Threat
When visited 10 years ago this building was tenanted and considered an 'A' Category structure
though the sidelights and transom of the main entrance had been 'bricked in' sometime previous
to that. However since that time the building has become derelict. The fine 6/6 wood window
sash and, more significantly, the pointed arch sash with bar tracery have been removed from the
building and replaced with vinyl units which bear no resemblance to the original sash.
Of greater concern is the longstanding neglect of a roof leak that has allowed the roof structure
and portions of the interior to be seriously damaged, a condition that appears to be ongoing and
has not yet been addressed. This building is certainly, at minimum, of Local Significance,
and both the decision-making with regard to window replacement and the neglect leading to its
denigration are extremely unfortunate.
"
"EVALUATION WORSHEET FOR BUILDINGS AND STRUCTURES
Building Identification:
Address: 1050 Whitevale Road
Criterion_______________Grade (Circle One)
Reasons
DESIGN
1. Style / Visual Appeal
2. Construction/ Technology
3. Arch. /Designer / Builder
E VG G F/P
E VG G F/P
E VG G F/P
Good example of dichromatic brick/ center gable
Good example of relatively rare English bond coursing Unknown.
HISTORY
4. Association / Pattern 5. Age E
E VG VG G G F/P
F/P Property assoc. with area pioneer J. Albright & house with descendants Between l/8th
& % point*
CONTEXT
6. Landmark / Character E VG G F/P Familiar along roadway.
7. Streetscape / Landscape landscape. E VG G F/P A component of the cultural
heritage
INTEGRITY
8. Alterations E VG G F/P Loss of some key features but character generally
still intact. Seriously threatened by deferred maintenance
*for age range of surviving buildings in the area.
Tabulation
In order for a building or structure to qualify as a heritage resource , it must receive the following
grades:
• Excellent in any one criterion, other than Integrity: OR
• Very Good in any two criteria, with at least one each from any two of Design, History and
Context; OR
• Good (or better) in any four criteria, with at least one each from any two of Design, History
and Context.
• If it receives Fair or Poor for Integrity, then it must receive at least one more Good than
stated above.
Statement of Heritage Significance
If a building or structure qualifies as a heritage resource, then a Statement of Heritage
Significance will be prepared, summarizing descriptively the positive characteristics
noted above. As evaluated above this building is a Heritage Resource
"
"Fig. 1: View from southeast
Fig. 2: Large gambrel barn"
"Location/Description
Lot: 24 Concession: IV
Description: South side of Whitevale Rd. (#18 in SCHRA '94 and map) Municipal #:
1125 Whitevale Road Property Type: Farmstead
Historical Background
King's College held on to this property until 1845 when it was sold to William Splatt.
For several years it was owned by Edward Major who, in 1850, sold it to Samuel Smith35.
Both the census of 1851 and the assessment rolls of 1853 indicate that it was being farmed
by William Stephenson at that time. This must have been on a lease arrangement as
Stephenson never shows up on title. Sometime between 1853 and 1860 Smith decided to
settle on his property and built a house there. This frame structure must have been of some
pretension as it is designated as ""Bellevue"" on the 1860 Tremaine Map, one of only a
few properties to be treated in this landmark manner on that document. The wonderful views,
still present to the south, were no doubt the inspiration for the name. In 1867 it was purchased
by John Tool and it remained in the Tool family until 1921. Whether the original Bellevue was
destroyed by fire or simply demolished to make way for the current late 19f century structure is
unknown.
Architectural Description
The property is still being farmed by long-term occupants and thus, along with the substantial
brick house and brick kitchen ""tail"", there are two working barns and a number of sheds still
on the property. There is also a concrete silo (without its roof) that has the typical decorative
patterning at its upper third.
This large (2 1/2 storey) red brick farmhouse would date toward the end of the 19th century.
It is Queen Anne style in design with some Richarsonian Romanesque influences
(window arches), both styles that are associated with c.1885 and later in this area.
The Tools seemed to have had an affinity for picturesque and somewhat more self-conscious
styling. (See Lot 23, Con. IV) The complex plan, roofed with cross gables and hips, relatively
steeply pitched, are typical Queen Anne features. The brick patterning in the arches of the front
gable section are skilfully executed. The walling may well be brick veneer. A porch/balcony is
missing at the front hip that would have relieved the severity of the large expanse of plain brick
walling. The large, arched windows have a border of obscured coloured glass.
33 Land Abstracts
"
"Interior
A great deal of interior heritage fabric remains including door, window sash and their casings,
base and most notably the substantial main stair balustrade. A number of the doors and other
woodwork have been ""grained"".
Outbuildings
As noted above there are two major surviving barns, both are banked barns with one located at
the commencement of the fields and the other at the farmyard. The silo is located by the field barn.
Setting
The heritage setting is very much intact with relationship between house, lane, domestic yard,
farm yard and fields relatively unchanged from the turn of the 20th century. The broad, open
viewshed that gave rise to the moniker of Smith's original house, i.e. Bellevue, can still also be
appreciated.
Evaluation (to be read in conjunction with Evaluation Worksheet) Consideration of Provincial
Significance:
As reviewed against the existing criteria this property is not considered of Provincial
Significance, (see Provincial Criteria)
Statement of Significance:
This site is considered to be of Local Significance for the following reasons:
• It is a relatively intact example of the Queen Anne architectural stye applied to a farmhouse,
a relatively rare treatment in the immediate area;
• The extent of surviving heritage fabric both interior and exterior;
• The property retains its century old relationship between elements (largely because it has
remained a working farm) house; lane; yard; barns; fields.
Character-defining elements:
• The complex Queen Anne plan form and roof arrangement;
• The large Romanesque arched windows with coloured glass margins;
• The decorative brick features of the facade(s) (north and east elevations are both treated as
facades in this design);
• The main stair balustrade and grained interior woodwork.
"
"Integrity
Generally the building and site remain relatively intact. The field barn has lost most of its
gable boards.
Fig. 1: Facade
Fig. 2: Rear of kitchen 'tail'"
"EVALUATION WORSHEET FOR BUILDINGS AND STRUCTURES
Building Identification:
Address: 1125 Whitevale Road
Criterion_______________Grade (Circle One)_____________Reasons
DESIGN
1. Style / Visual Appeal
2. Construction/ Technology
3. Arch. /Designer / Builder
E VG G F/P
E VG G F/P
E VG G F/P
Few examples of Queen Anne style in Study area & a good example Richardsonian Romanesue
arches with coloured glass relatively unusual Unknown
HISTORY
4. Association / Pattern
5. Age E E VG G G F/P F/P Associated with the influential Tool family.
Built between 'A & '/•> point*
CONTEXT
6. Landmark / Character 7. Streetscape / Landscape E E VG
VG G G F/P F/P With size & unusual style conspicuous & familiar structure in area.
Compatible with dominant character of area.
INTEGRITY
8. Alterations E VG G F/P Relatively minor changes.
: of age range for surviving buildings in the area.
Tabulation
In order for a building or structure to qualify as a heritage resource , it must receive the following
grades:
• Excellent in any one criterion, other than Integrity: OR
• Very Good in any two criteria, with at least one each from any two of Design, History and
Context; OR
• Good (or better) in any four criteria, with at least one each from any two of Design, History
and Context.
• If it receives Fair or Poor for Integrity, then it must receive at least one more Good than
stated above.
Statement of Heritage Significance
If a building or structure qualifies as a heritage resource, then a Statement of Heritage
Significance will be prepared, summarizing descriptively the positive characteristics noted above.
As evaluated above this property is a Heritage Resource.
"
"Fig. 3: Arched window with coloured glass
Fig. 4: Barns and sheds from the south"
"Location/Identification
Lot: 24 Concession V
Description: North side of Whitevale Rd. (#8 in SCHRA '94 and map) Municipal #:
1130 Whitevale Road Property Type: Farmstead
Historical Background
Nathaniel Hastings, apparently of U.E.L. parentage, came to Pickering c.1828 from York and
settled on Lot 24, Concession V36, though he is not registered as owner until 183337.
This lot was originally part of the extensive lands granted by the Crown to Isabella Hill, one of the
absentee landlords. Between 1828 and 1832 she sold off most of her property along the
Concession to Amos Griswold38.
This house was the only house within the Study area recorded in the 1851 census as being of
stone. The Hasting family retained possession of the property for over 100 years. His son John
eventually built a residence of brick and stone on Lot 20, a property that Nathaniel had long
owned. That property also remained in the Hastings family well into the 20th century. On both the
1860 and 1877 maps a church is shown as occupying the southwest corner of the Nathaniel
Hastings property but there is now no above ground evidence of this structure and surprisingly
little community record or memory of it.
Architectural Description
The buildings on the property include the 1 lA storey stone house; the one storey stone kitchen
'tail' with verandah; the frame summer kitchen; frame woodshed and English barn.
One of the large barns has been lost over the last decade.
The stone house which Hastings had built c. 1835-40 is a fine late example of the vernacular
adaption of Anglo-Palladian (Georgian) motifs. It is one of the few five bay residences
built this early in the area, with the main door flanked by two windows on either side.
The stonework, though of granite fieldstone (as opposed to quarried cut stone) is skillfully
handled with courses of larger stones interspersed with the generally smaller material for visual
effect as well as structural strength, particularly at the quoins and around the windows.
The window and door arches are executed in red brick an agreeable accent to the stone
background, as well as being an easier material to work into an arch form.
The arches at the facade are complex rowlock arches i.e. composed of several brick courses.
The main entrance features a rectangular small pane transom and unusual 2A length sidelights to
either side of the 6 panel door. The medium pitch side gable roof with moulded, returned eave
with wood frieze are further 'Georgian' attributes of the exterior. A chimney
36 William R. Wood, Past Years in Pickering (Toronto: William Biggs, 1911) p.248
37 Land Abstracts
38 Ibid.
"
"remains at the west end and there would originally have been a chimney on the east end as well.
Unfortunately the original windows have been replaced.
The long linear extension of the rear of the house into service areas from kitchen 'tail' to summer
kitchen to woodshed and possibly commode has been preserved. The kitchen appears to have
been built contemporaneous to the house, or soon after, sharing the same rubble stone with brick
voussoir detailing. A verandah was created at the east side of the kitchen with the extension of
the roof line supported by wood columns set on stone piers, a c.l920 treatment also found at the
Henry Major House.
Interior
The house retains its centre hall plan and much of its very early interior fabric.
The parlour fireplace surround with scalloped mouldings at the pilasters is particularly notable
and very much in keeping with the assumed period of construction. Panelled window embrasures,
base and flooring remain in place. The box of an early rimlock is still present at the front door.
The main stair balustrade and newel may be the earliest example of the type associated with
several of the pre-1850 'prestigious' homes in the area including the William Turner House.
Outbuildings
One large English Barn on raised foundation remains on the property another having been lost
over the past decade. The existing barn appears to be quite early exhibiting the classic form and
timber joinery of mid 19th century barn building. Unfortunately it too is deteriorating with the ramp
beginning to cave in.
Setting
In general the traditional relationship between house, yard, barn and fields is still in place.
However the area around the barn is now overgrown and sections of the yard have taken on an
unkempt appearance.
Evaluation (to be read in conjunction with Evaluation Worksheet) Consideration of Provincial
Significance:
Despite its high ranking and relative importance within the Study Area the property does not
meet the current criteria for Provincial Interest, (see Provincial Criteria)
Statement of Significance:
While not of Provincial Significance the Nathaniel Hastings House is considered to be of high
Regional Significance for the following reasons:
"
"• Its direct and long-standing association with Nathaniel Hastings, U.E.L.
an influential early settler in the area;
• It is a particularly early (the earliest within the Study Area) and ambitious example of
vernacular stone house construction in the area especially distinguished by the use of brick at
the window and door arches;
• The five bay 'Georgian' form of the main house and the series of rear extensions is
prototypical;
• It retains a high degree of early interior fabric most notably the parlour fireplace surround and,
the earliest example within the Study area of the knob newel, which has become recognized as
the characteristic early balustrade detail for prestigious homes in the area.
• As a landmark and picturesque element in northwest views from Whitevale Road.
Character - defining elements:
• The five bay 'Palladian' form of the main section with linear extension to the rear;
• The granite fieldstone construction with red brick door and window arches;
• The main entrance with transom and 3/4 length (as viewed from the exterior) sidelights;
• The pilastered fireplace surround in the parlour;
• The main stair balustrade and newels, panelled window surrounds, baseboard. Dorrs and
door casings
Integrity
The loss of original windows is unfortunate but otherwise much of the heritage fabric remains,
including much of the interior. However it is under threat and gradual attrition by neglect and low
quality repairs/maintenance. Of particular concern currently is the condition of the roof which
appears about ready to fail and allow moisture to penetrate the historic interior.
Fig 1: Front elevation
"
"EVALUATION WORSHEET FOR BUILDINGS AND STRUCTURES
Building Identification:
Address: 1130 Whitevale Road (Nathaniel Hastings House)
Criterion Grade (Circle One) ______Reasons
DESIGN
1. Style / Visual Appeal E VG G F/P Excellent & early example of
5 bay stone structure.
2. Construction/ Technology E VG G F/P Excellent & early stone structure
with brick arches
3. Arch. /Designer / Builder E VG G F/P Unknown
HISTORY
4. Association / Pattern E VG G F/P Direct, long standing assoc. with
N.Hastings, influential early settler
5. Age E VG G F/P Between earliest & l/8th point*
CONTEXT
6. Landmark / Character
7. Streetscape / Landscape
INTEGRITY
8. Alterations
* for the age range of buildings in the area.
Tabulation
In order for a building or structure to qualify as a heritage resource , it must receive the following
grades:
• Excellent in any one criterion, other than Integrity: OR
• Very Good in any two criteria, with at least one each from any two of Design, History and
Context; OR
• Good (or better) in any four criteria, with at least one each from any two of Design, History
and Context.
• If it receives Fair or Poor for Integrity, then it must receive at least one more Good than
stated above.
Statement of Heritage Significance
If a building or structure qualifies as a heritage resource, then a Statement of Heritage
Significance will be prepared, summarizing descriptively the positive characteristics noted above.
As evaluated above the property is an important Heritage Resource.
E VG G F/P Very familiar, particularly as viewed from southeast
E VG G F/P Important component of Cultural Heritage Landscape
E VG G F/P Windows have been changed but overall character very
much intact.
"
"Fig. 2: View from southeast
Fig. 3: Parlour fireplace surround"
"Fig. 4: Early 'knob' newel
Fig. 5: Barn interior"
"Location/Identification
Lot: 23 (W1/2) Concession: V
Description: North side of Whitevale Road. (#7 in SCHRA '94 and map)
Municipal#: 1200 Whitevale Road
Property Type: Farmstead
Historical Background
The property is one of a number of lots that Amos Griswold purchased from Isabella Hill in
1831.39 Thomas Truman appears to have been farming that 50 acres in 185140 and 185341.
The West 1/2 of the lot, on which the building sits, is shown as being occupied by William
Davidson in 186042.
A house is indicated on that property in the 1877 County Atlas map and may well have been
constructed by W. Brignal, noted as being on the lot at that time. By 1895 it was in the hands of
John Tool (a descendant of the first John Tool), and in 190243 was sold by Tool to Joseph
Carter44.
Architectural Description
The house is an extremely exuberant multi-gabled, double-fronted dichromatic brick structure that
generally combines a well-orchestrated combination of architectural elements. Buff brick is used
to 'pick out' the quoins and the round arches above the windows that also feature a projecting
header top course and projecting arch springing. At the upper level these arches include
red brick as well. The original semi-circular wood sash remains at the windows.
A pinwheel design, as at the Pugh House, embellishes the peak of the front centre gable.
The stringcourse is formed of the cusped motif found in many of the local brick buildings.
The gables are all finished in finely executed gingerbread with ball and drop pendants.
The finials are missing. The flared hipped roof verandah is typical of the period as is the
associated verandah fretwork and chamfered columns. The other major element of the facade is
the bay window. The building is constructed on a coursed granite foundation that contrasts well
with the brick. The stretcher bond brickwork suggests the possibility of the exterior wall being
veneer (brick on frame) rather than solid brick.
A more simply detailed kitchen 'tail' extends to the rear.
The building retains important aspects of its original interior including the plaster medallion,
cornice and early lighting fixture at the parlour and beaded wainscot, moulded base and casings
throughout.
39 Land Abstracts
40 Census
41 Assessment Rolls
42 Tremaine's Map of the County of Ontario, Upper Canada, 1860.
43 Goad's Map of the Township of Pickering, 1895.
44 Land Abstracts
"
"Setting
The house retains its original relationship to lane and yard. Vestiges of original fencing can be
seen at the property perimeter.
Evaluation (to be read in conjunction with Evaluation Worksheet) Consideration of Provincial
Significance
As reviewed against the criteria required for Provincial Interest this property is not considered to
be of Provincial heritage status.
Statement of Significance:
The building is considered to be of Local Significance for the following reasons:
• It is a very good example of the potential exuberance of form and material of later Victorian
residences;
• It is an excellent example of the skilful handling of decorative brickwork;
• Its decorative and multi-gabled appearance and its setting close to the road contribute to the
scenic ambiance of Whitevale Road.
Character- defining elements:
• The multi-gabled building form with projecting bay and semi-circular window and door
openings;
• The decorative designs formed in buff brick particularly the 'pinwheel design' and cusped
stringcourse;
• The coursed granite foundation;
• The verandah with flared roof;
• The original wood semi-circular window sash;
• The plaster medallion in the parlour.
Integrity
The metal chimney at the west elevation does somewhat denigrate the heritage appearance of
the building. There is some damage to brickwork at the northeast corner of the building; minor
settlement at the southwest corner (probably due to the proximity of the rain water leader) and
some decay at the base of the verandah posts.
"
"EVALUATION WORSHEET FOR BUILDINGS AND STRUCTURES
Building Identification:
Address: 1200 Whitevale Road
Criterion Grade (Circle One)
Reasons
DESIGN
1. Style / Visual Appeal
2. Construction/ Technology
3. Arch. /Designer / Builder
E VG G F/P
E VG G F/P
E VG G F/P
Very good example of late Victorian vernacular.
Well executed dichromatic brickwork including 'pinwheeP gable motif Unknown.
HISTORY
4. Association / Pattern 5. Age E
E VG VG G G F/P
F/P Importance of owners has not been established. Between 1/8 & % point*
CONTEXT
6. Landmark / Character 7. Streetscape / Landscape E E VG VG G G F/P F/P
Multi-gable form, patterned brick make this prominent along Whitevale Rd. Important
component of Cultural Heritage Landscape
INTEGRITY
8. Alterations E VG G F/P Changes are minor and reversible
• of the age range of surviving buildings in the area.
Tabulation
In order for a building or structure to qualify as a heritage resource , it must receive the following
grades:
• Excellent in any one criterion, other than Integrity: OR
• Very Good in any two criteria, with at least one each from any two of Design, History and
Context; OR
• Good (or belter) in any four criteria, with at least one each from any two of Design,
History and Context.
• If it receives Fair or Poor for Integrity, then it must receive at least one more Good than
stated above.
Statement of Heritage Significance
If a building or structure qualifies as a heritage resource, then a Statement of Heritage
Significance will be prepared, summarizing descriptively the positive characteristics noted
above. As evaluated above this property is a Heritage Resource.
"
"Fig. 1: Intact'Period' interior
Fig. 2: View from southwest"
"Location/Description
Lot: 23 Concession: IV
Description: South side of Whitevale Rd. (# 17 in SCHRA '94 and map) Municipal #:
1255 Whitevale Road Property Type: Former farmstead
Historical Background
Though the current house on the property is a modern bungalow, down the drive, now almost
completely hidden by shrubbery and ruined by fire and rain, is the relatively early dwelling of
John Tool. Originally a crown grant to Mathew Howell in 1809 it was sold within a year to James
Lamoreaux. John Tool purchased the property from William Splatt in l854.45
While local lore suggests that Tool actually occupied the lot by 1830 and constructed this house
prior to 1850 this is not borne out by the documentary record. Indeed Splatt is still assessed for
the Lot in 1853 and the Agricultural Census of 1851 puts Tool still on Lot 19, Con.I while the
Personal census of that year records his house as being of log and frame. However both his
ownership of Lot 23, Con. IV and his house are recorded on the Tremaine Map of 1860 and in
the census of 1861 he is listed with a 114 storey stone house, the building in question.
This corroboration of data confirms that the house was built between 1854 and 1859.
The property remained in Tool ownership until well into the 20th century.
Architectural Description
Tool's House is of architectural interest. Unfortunately neglect and vandalism have,
over the last ten years, left it in a ruinous state. It was a prototypical cottage ornee
(also called a Regency Cottage) and one of only two in the Study area
(the other being Stonecroft). Set well back from the road, sited for its wonderful view to the East
it is a 1V4 storey stone structure with hipped roof designed to be finished in roughcast. The stone
is typically relatively small fieldstone which always was intended to be coated. The roughcast is
still intact in a number of areas particularly at the front where protected by the later enclosed
verandah. The wood window lintels scored for stucco are a further indication of this design intent.
The roof is a low hip with a wide eave for both picturesque effect and to protect the stucco.
The wide soffit is carried by lookouts' cut to the bracketed form often used in pergola members.
The exposed lath of the interior is hand split and the building was heated with stoves,
with one set in the centre hall. Windows are set in splayed embrasures. .
(Compare to Otterburn, Kingston)
Later in the century the verandah area was enclosed and treated as interior space,
no doubt much required but changing the whole design of the structure as entry now occurred at
the side rather than the front. At that time a cellar stair was placed adjacent to the original front
door. At some point a cistern was located in the section of cellar created under the verandah.
45 Land Abstracts
"
"Outbuildings
Two barns remain in close proximity to the old house: an English hay barn which could be
contemporaneous with the house and a large gambrel roofed stock and feed barn which carries
the datestone 1927 but also probably built by the Tool family.
Very close to the middle of the full lot, close to where Ganaisekiagoon Creek runs between the
properties an old English barn was visited in 1994 but not during this recent site visit.
It appeared to date from the J. Tool period, featuring exceptional timber framing and care in the
adzing of the barn timbers.
Setting
Given the state of the house a discussion of its site context is really not applicable. However,
fine views to the south are still to be had from a number of points on the property.
Evaluation/Integrity (to be read in conjunction with Evaluation Worksheet) Consideration of
Provincial Significance:
Considered under the existing Provincial criteria this building is not of Provincial heritage status,
(see Provincial Criteria.
Statement of Significance/Heritage Lost:
While not considered Provincially Significant, were it not for its severely deteriorated state it
would be considered Regionally Significant for the following reasons:
• One of only a few existing cottage ornee influenced houses in the area and one of even fewer
which are finished in roughcast over stone;
• As a particularly good example of a cottage ornee dwelling featuring: a hipped roof with wide
bracketed overhang; picturesque siting on the Lot; deliberately 'rustic' roughcast on stone finish;
unadorned window and door treatments.
Given the buildings current state it is recommended that it be thoroughly photographically
documented as soon as possible, and, if reconstruction is impractical, the ruins of the structure
be appropriately commemorated with a plaque and/or other suitable means.
"
"EVALUATION WORSHEET FOR BUILDINGS AND STRUCTURES
Building Identification:
Address: 1255 Whitevale Road
Criterion_________________Grade (Circle One)
Reasons
DESIGN
1. Style / Visual Appeal
2. Construction/ Technology
3. Arch. /Designer / Builder
E VG G F/P Prior to ruin was good example
of regionally unusual cottage omee.
E VG G F/P Prior to ruin was very good example
example of stucco on stone
E VG G F/P Unknown
HISTORY
4. Association / Pattern
5. Age
E VG G F/P Long association with Tool family
E VG G F/P Between l/8th & % point*
CONTEXT
6. Landmark / Character
7. Streetscape / Landscape
E VG G F/P Lost in shrubbery
E VG G F/P Not a visible component.
INTEGRITY
8. Alterations
*of the age range for surviving buildings in the area.
Tabulation
In order for a building or structure to qualify as a heritage resource, it must receive the following
grades:
• Excellent in any one criterion, other than Integrity: OR
• Very Good in any two criteria, with at least one each from any two of Design, History and
Context; OR
• Good (or better) in any four criteria, with at least one each from any two of Design,
History and Context.
• If it receives Fair or Poor for Integrity, then it must receive at least one more Good than
stated above.
Statement of Heritage Significance
If a building or structure qualifies as a heritage resource, then a Statement of Heritage
Significance will be prepared, summarizing descriptively the positive characteristics noted above.
As evaluated above, its ruinous condition notwithstanding, the property is a Heritage Resource.
E VG G F/P In a ruinous state
"
"Fig. 1: Surviving section within porch
Fig. 2: Door with wall of roughcast stucco"
"Fig. 3: State of ruin at interior
Fig. 4: English barn possibly contemporaneous with house."
"Location/Identification
Lot: 22 Concession: V
Description: North side Whitevale Rd. (#6 in SCHRA '94 and map) Municipal #:
1390 Whitevale Road Property Type: Farmstead
Historical Background
Asher Willson, born in Connecticut in 1788, and his friend Amos Griswold, both married
daughters of the Loyalist Casper Stotts. Originally settling in Brockville
(then known as Elizabethtown) both families journeyed to the Pickering area.
While Asher acted as a witness on two Pickering Township deeds in 181746 ,
and shows up in Township records as early as 1821 as a Township Officer47,
his place of residence is unknown until his purchase of part of Lot 22 Concession V from his
old friend Griswold in 183248. Griswold had purchased Lot 22, 23, 24 Con. V from Isabella Hill,
the original Crown grantee.49 Asher Willson was a founding member of the Christian Church in
Brougham in 1824 and by 1828 was the Church moderator50. He and his family came to own a
number of properties along Concession V. Willson was firmly on the side of Mackenzie in the
Rebellion of 1837 and was arrested , along with sons Joseph and William in December, 1837 .
Only Asher's son, Joseph, is listed in the Agricultural Census of 1851 (Asher was already 63
years old) farming both Lot 21 and 22. Asher conveyed part of Lot 22 to his son in 1853 and
Joseph is assessed for that property that year with Asher assessed for Lot 21. The personal
census of 1851 shows Asher, a widower, with an extended family that included Joseph, Asher's
other children spouses and grandchildren and ""bonded girl"" Hannah Major in a VA storey frame
house presumably on one of these properties. By 1861 Joseph is recorded as living in a 1 1/2
storey stone house, undoubtedly the subject building. Thus, despite aspects of the building that
appear to be pre-1850 the date of construction of the existing house would seem to be between
1851 and 1861, during the period of Joseph's ownership. The property remained in Willson
ownership until the late 19th century.
Architectural Description
The 1 1/2 storey 3 bay structure is architecturally unusual in the area because of its 'catslide'
('saltbox') roof. Not generally seen in Ontario (typically associated with New England) it is
particularly unusual in a stone structure. It appears that the extended rear end was a slightly later
expansion of the original structure as the stonework is different and there seems to be a subtle
change in the pitch of the roof. The stonework of the facade is particularly fine with
46 Willson Genealogy (unpub. Pickering Library), compiled by Douglas Willson.
47 Illustrated Atlas of the County of Ontario, (Toronto: J.H. Beers and Company, 1877)
48 Land Abstracts
49 Ibid
50 William R. Wood , Past Years in Pickering (Toronto: William Biggs, 1911.)
51 Willson Genealogy, Pg.20
"
"the hard granite fieldstone cut and regularly coursed. The voussoirs of the arches have been
carefully cut as well. At the other elevations the stonework is roughly coursed rubble.
The 6/6 window and the moulded and returned eaves are also notable features.
Interior
Much of the interior woodwork is intact including the moulded base and casings of the 'parlour',
and the wood dado below the windows. The typical door features two long panels which is
associated with the Greek revival notions of the period. The second storey is reached by an
enclosed stair from the kitchen.
Outbuildings
A gambrel roofed hay barn and carriage shed remain on the property as well as a smaller
outbuilding which still is wood shingled. The gambrel probably indicates a turn of the century
renovation.
Ruins
A stone foundation of a barn with joist pockets still visible remains on this lot. Evaluation
(to be read in conjunction with the Evaluation Worksheet) Consideration of Provincial
Significance:
The 'catslide' (also Saltbox) form is relatively unusual in Ontario, particularly in a stone structure.
However under the existing Provincial Criteria this building does not qualify as ""the first"" or
""the last"". Only a detailed study of comparables would be able to conclusively determine if it
were the ""best"" but this seems unlikely particularly with the loss of its original window sash,
(see Provincial Criteria)
Statement f Significance:
Though not of Provincial Significance the Joseph Willson House is considered to be of high
Regional Significance for the following reasons:
• Its direct association with one of the foremost pioneering families of the area;
• Its unusual 'Catslide' form and roofline, extremely rare in a stone house even beyond the
Region. A particularly good example of this vernacular form.;
• Its unusual form and proximity to the road make it a landmark along the Whitevale corridor.
• The particularly high quality of the stonework of the facade.
"
"Character-defining elements:
• The unusual roof pitch/building form;
• The high quality of the stonework, particularly the coursed ashlar treatment of the facade;
• The wood cornice and cornice returns;
• The wood dado treatment of the window surrounds at the interior.
Integrity
Unfortunately most of the window sash has been replaced within the last ten years with a vinyl
product. Though there has been an attempt to give the impression of the original light divisions
with 'snap-in' muntins this is not an effective substitute. There are two metal 'Selkirk chimneys' at
the rear of the building.
Fig.l: Main Door
"
"EVALUATION WORSHEET FOR BUILDINGS AND STRUCTURES
Building Identification:
Address: 1390 Whitevale Road (Joseph Willson House)
Criterion_______________Grade (Circle One)
Reasons
DESIGN
1. Style / Visual Appeal
2. Construction/ Technology
3. Arch. /Designer / Builder
E VG G F/P
E VG G F/P
E VG G F/P
Vernacular form unusual for
this area.
High quality of stonework
especially at facade
Unknown
HISTORY
4. Association / Pattern E VG G
5. Age E VG G
F/P Direct association with Asher Willson
House built by son Joseph. F/P Between 1/8 & lA point*
CONTEXT
6. Landmark / Character
7. Streetscape / Landscape
E VG G F/P Unusual form & high road visibility.
E VG G F/P Key component of Cultural
Heritage Landscape
INTEGRITY
8. Alterations
• for age range of surviving buildings in area. Tabulation
In order for a building or structure to qualify as a heritage resource , it must receive the following
grades:
• Excellent in any one criterion, other than Integrity: OR
• Very Good in any two criteria, with at least one each from any two of Design, History and
Context; OR
• Good (or better) in any four criteria, with at least one each from any two of Design, History
and Context.
• If it receives Fair or Poor for Integrity, then it must receive at least one more Good than
stated above.
Statement of Heritage Significance
If a building or structure qualifies as a heritage resource, then a Statement of Heritage
Significance will be prepared, summarizing descriptively the positive characteristics noted
above. As evaluated above this property is a Heritage Resource.
E VG G F/P Loss of original sash but overall character intact.
"
"Fig. 2: Catslide roofline (West elevation)
Fig. 3: Front Elevation"
Fig. 4: Barn on property
"Location/Identification
Lot: 21 Concession: V
Description: North side of Whitevale Rd. (#5 in SCHRA '94 and map)
Municipal #: 1450 Whitevale Road
Property Type: Farmstead
Historical Background
Asher Willson, born in Connecticut in 1788, and his friend Amos Griswold, both married
daughters of the Loyalist, Casper Stotts. Originally settling in Brockville
(then known as Elizabethtown) both families journeyed to the Pickering area.
While Asher shows up in Pickering Township records as early as 1815, and acted as a
witness on two deeds in 181752, the record of his presence on the Fifth begins with the purchase
of part of Lot 22, Concession V from his old friend Griswold in 183253. In 1848 he purchased the
adjacent Lot (21) from King's College, the original grantee. Asher Willson was a founding
member of the Christian Church in Brougham in 1824 and by 1828 was the Church moderator54.
He and his family came to own a number of properties along Concession V. Asher Willson was
firmly on the side of Mackenzie in the Rebellion of 1837 and was arrested, along with his sons
Joseph and William in December, 183755.
Only Asher's son, Joseph, is listed in the Agricultural Census of 1851 (Asher was already 63
years old) farming both Lot 21 and 22. Asher conveyed part of Lot 22 to his son in 1853 and
Joseph is assessed for that property that year with Asher assessed for Lot 21. The personal
census of 1851 shows Asher, a widower, with an extended family that included Joseph, Asher's
other children, spouses and grandchildren and ""bonded girl"" Hannah Major in a 1 1/2 storey
frame house presumably on one of these properties. In 1857 Asher Willson sold Lot 21 to
Francis Linton. Of interest is that Linton is recorded as having a log house in the 1861 census.
Whether this refers to the house on this lot, or another dwelling possessed by Linton could not be
discerned with absolute certainty (a Moses Linton is assessed for a log house in 1851) but is
very likely.
Architectural Description
This farm complex is comprised of: main house and kitchen tail, sheds, two 'English' barns and
the remains of a silo made unusual by the lovely pattern picked out at the upper section of the
concrete. There are two 'permanent' trailers set up as an offices down the lane from the house.
The house is in the side gabled, three bay form with end chimneys, low pitched roof and kitchen
'tail which was very popular in the area in all building materials. Though it could not be verified on
site it would appear that this structure may well be Francis Linton's log house. It is 'close-boarded'
finishing to cornerboards, a cladding which was a distinctive
52
Willson Genealogy (unpub. Pickering Library)
53 Land Abstracts
54
William R. Wood, Past Years in Pickering (Toronto: William Biggs, 1911.) 55 Willson Genealogy.
Pg. 20
"
"feature of the area. The 2/2 windows would have replaced earlier smaller sash.
Unfortunately little original detailing appears to remain in the interior.
Outbuildings/Setting
The trailer(s) detract from a setting which is otherwise quite intact with farm lane, windrow,
gently rolling fields around the barn and silo remains. An unusual fence at the yard/lane junction
features leaf finials on the otherwise plain wire.
Evaluation (To be read in conjunction with Evaluation Worksheet)
Based on the documentary evidence it is assumed that the house is a log structure, constructed
by Francis Linton between 1857 and 1861 though this could not be absolutely verified on site.
Consideration of Provincial Significance:
This property is not considered to be of Provincial Significance as reviewed against the current
criteria for establishing Provincial heritage status, (see Provincial criteria).
Statement of Significance:
The building, while not considered of Provincial or Regional Significance, is considered to be of
Local Significance for the following reasons:
• As a good example of the simple symmetrical three bay, side gabled structure with kitchen
'tail' typical of local farmhouses, finished in a tongue and groove board with cornerboards;
• As one of the relatively few remaining log structures left in the area.
• Many of the traditional elements/relationships of the farmstead remain, including the long lane
to the barn, windrow, silo remains and relatively unusual c.1930 wire fence with maple leaf motif.
Character-defining elements:
• As noted above the general form, roof line and symmetrical three bay treatment of the facade;
• The exterior cladding of narrow wood tongue and groove boards, horizontally applied and the
associated beaded edge cornerboards.
Integrity
The exterior of the building remains largely intact. The interior features have been removed or
concealed behind later finishes. The setting is compromised by the presence of the two,
large trailers. The main barn has a large section of boarding missing at the gable that is
causing decay to the timber frame
"
"EVALUATION WORSHEET FOR BUILDINGS AND STRUCTURES
Building Identification:
Address: 1450 Whitevale Road (Linton House)
Criterion__________ Grade (Circle One)
HISTORY
4. Association / Pattern
5. Age
Reasons
DESIGN
1. Style / Visual Appeal E VG G F/P Good example of typ. vernacular
form.
2. Construction/ Technology E VG G F/P Relatively few log structures survive.
3. Arch. /Designer / Builder E VG G F/P Unknown.
CONTEXT
6. Landmark / Character
7. Streetscape / Landscape
E VG G F/P Familiar structure along Whitevale
Road.
E VG G F/P A component of the Cultural
Heritage Landscape.
INTEGRITY
8. Alterations
*of age range for surviving buildings in area.
Tabulation
In order for a building or structure to qualify as a heritage resource , it must receive the following
grades:
• Excellent in any one criterion, other than Integrity: OR
• Very Good in any two criteria, with at least one each from any two of Design, History and
Context; OR
• Good (or better) in any four criteria, with at least one each from any two of Design, History
and Context.
• If it receives Fair or Poor for Integrity, then it must receive at least one more Good than
stated above.
Statement of Heritage Significance
If a building or structure qualifies as a heritage resource, then a Statement of Heritage
Significance will be prepared, summarizing descriptively the positive characteristics noted above.
As evaluated above this property is a Heritage Resource.
E VG G F/P Property association with Asher Willson; House with
Francis Linton E VG G F/P Between 1/8 & 'A point*
E VG G F/P Changes to house exterior are relatively
"
"Fig. 1: Front elevation
Fig. 2: Site context (from northwest)"
"Fig. 3: Barn
Fig. 4: Barn framing"
"Location/Identification
Lot: 19 Concession: V
Description: North side of Whitevale Rd. (#2 in SCHRA '94 and map) Municipal #:
1690 Whitevale Road Property Type: Farmstead
Historical Background
It is speculated that Thomas Hubbard arrived in Pickering Township just before the turn of the
19th century56. By about 1807 Hubbard seems to have settled on Lot 19, Concession V though
he did not assume ownership from Henry Smith (Crown Grant 1797) until 182157. Born in 17595 ,
Hubbard was recognized as a U.E.L.59 It is possible that he was part of the Hubbard family of
Stamford Connecticut who made a claim in 1787 for losses suffered in the American Revolution .
Though Thomas was not a party in that claim the names of James and Issac figure prominently,
names that Thomas also gave to his sons.
Thomas and his family (he had three sets of children) had a major impact on the community in
terms of its social, religious and political life. He was the first Township Clerk in 181161 and
donated land for the first area school which was built and operated by the Hubbards, Matthews,
Sharrards and Willsons62. His son Andrew was a private in the 2nd Flank Company of the 3r
York Militia and received a General Service Medal for the successful siege of Detroit63 during
the War of 1812. Local folklore suggests that the timber for the reconstruction of Fort York after
the War of 1812 came from the Hubbard property but this could not be substantiated at this time
though his grandson George is listed as a timber agent64 in 1861 and may have been carrying
on a family business. The Hubbards were founders of the influential Christian Church of Brougham.
Hubbard and his sons were members of the Brougham Reformers (Mackenzie sympathizers)
who met for rallies and strategy sessions at the neighbouring Thompson's Inn leading up to the
1837 Rebellion.
In 1846 Thomas conveyed this property to his son James 5 and in 1850 James sold off the south
quarter of the lot (where the house is located) to Archibald C. Thompson, brother of
56 William R. Wood, Past Years in Pickering (Toronto: William Biggs, 1911.)
57 Inst.#4020
58 Past Years... Wood refers to his death in 1853 at 94 years of age.p.253
59 Ibid.
60 Second Report of the Bureau of Archives :Loyalist Claims (Toronto: Legislative Assembly,
1905)pp.223,1195
61 Illustrated Atlas of the County of Ontario, (Toronto: J.H. Beers and Company, 1877)
62 D. Willson Genealogical Research (unpub. Pickering Library)
63William Gray, Soldiers of the King: Upper Canada Militia 1812-1815 (Erin: Boston Mills Press,
1995)p.l32
64 1861 Personal Census
65 Inst. #26834
"
"William Thompson66, the 2nd generation owner of Thompson's Inn just across the Brock Road.
It is probably this ownership of property on either side of Brock Road that led locals to refer to the
crossroads as Thompson's Corners. The remainder of the lot was conveyed to James' brother
Issac in 1857.
Of particular interest with regard to these mid 19th century transactions is that the Tremaine Map
of 1860 does not show a house on the southern 50 acres of the lot. While this could be a
cartographical error it is consistent with the fact that in the 1853 assessment William Thompson
(Archibald's brother who seems to have taken over as Innkeeper from his father Andrew
Thompson) is assessed less for those 50 acres than for the 1 acre containing his Inn/ house on
Lot 18. In the 1851 census William Thompson is only recorded with one building, presumably the
Inn, and there is no record of a building for Archibald Thompson. However in 1861 Archibald
Thompson is recorded as having a log house. It would appear then that the building long
assumed to be c.1840 and relate directly to the Hubbards, may, in fact, have been built by
Archibald Thompson (also a member of an important family) c.1860. This is also consistent with
aspects of the construction and finishes noted during the site visit and discussed below.
This however is not inconsistent with the possibility that a very early building belonging to the
Thomas Hubbard family, erected shortly after their arrival, may well have originally occupied this
site but had been demolished by that time.
The building's association with the family of Andrew Thompson is also worthy of note.
Thompson's Inn, situated just across the Brock Road was a key landmark in the area throughout
the 19th Century. Town meetings were held there from ""1835 and for many years after.
""67 Of particular note was its role as the local meeting place for Mackenzie supporters in the
time leading up to the Mackenzie Rebellion68. Thus Andrew Thompson can be seen as a key
figure in the affairs of that period. In 1841 ""Mr. Thompson, the tavern keeper"" is called the
""township Librarian"" and 'took charge of the Township books.'69
Through the later 19th century the land may have been leased several times as different names
show up on title than appear on the 1877 and 1895 maps. However there is a reconvergence of
mapping and title c. 1900 with the ownership of the property by the Bignall family who conveyed
the land to Andrew Glen in 1923.70
Andrew Glen was a writer, pacifist, socialist, theosophist and outdoorsman who chose to leave
Toronto for the quieter life of Pickering and lived on the property until expropriation.
In the First World War he had been a conscientious objector. In 1918 he joined the Theosophical
Society (which counted Lawren Harris of the Group of Seven among its members) and became
secretary of the Social Reconstruction Group. He became the president of the Labour Party of
Toronto in 1921. J.S. Woodsworth and Scott Nearing were
66 Inst 38150
67 Atlas of Ontario County, 1877.
68 Michelle Greenwald, 'The Historical Complexities of Pickering-Markham-Scarborough-
Uxbridge' (Ontario Ministry of Intergovernmental Affairs: North Pickering Project,
September 1973.)
69
Atlas of Ontario County
70 Inst. #16305
"
"among those who attended the Labour 'Forum' meetings. Relocated out of Toronto to the
property he called Glenbrook Farm he remained politically active while writing articles about
country life for the Toronto Daily Star.71
On June 26, 1932 he hosted a conference of socialists at the farm including J.S. Woodsworth
that passed a resolution on that day - asking Woodsworth to form a national socialist conference.
Woodsworth did so, but in the west later that year, and thus the Co¬operative Commonwealth
Federation Party (CCF.) was born. Glen ran as a CCF. candidate in 1935 but was unsuccessful.
He eventually became disillusioned with leftist politics and turned quite reactionary to the extent
that he was identified with the Nazi Party at the outbreak of WWII and his papers seized by the
RCMP72. His wife, Dorothy was an artist, who took inspiration from, and documented the North
Pickering landscape. The McLaughlin Gallery presented a retrospective of her work in 1970.73
Architectural Description
The site currently is comprised of the original gable roofed 1 lA storey residence with a large rear
addition with gables perpendicular to the original and a further shed roofed addition to the rear; a
frame outhouse notable for its three holes including a child's seat; and a relatively early heavy
timber frame barn.
As noted above the 1 Vi storey main section has come to be associated with Thomas Hubbard
in local lore and assigned a construction date of 1840 or earlier. However the documentary
evidence, and site inspection observations tend to support c.1860 - during the Archibald
Thompson era.
The absence of fireplaces (or evidence in the form of chimney foundations that they were ever
present), with chimneys set instead on wood brackets at the 2nd floor, suggest this later date.
The flat nature of the window and door trim and the 1/1/ window sash all appear to be more
recent changes associated perhaps with the construction of the first rear addition, possibly early
in the 20th century (as it is constructed on a concrete foundation). At this time too the stone
foundation of the original section was underpinned. The simple treatment of the stair at the rear
corner with pencil post balustrade is a surviving original feature of note however, and its
placement at the rear corner 'winding' at the two walls, is typical of log construction.
The building was found to be covered in asbestos siding in 1994 and has recently been reclad in
aluminium siding.
71 Introduction to the Andrew Glen Papers, Queen's University Archives (QA)
72 Ibid
73 John Sabean, ' Dorothy and Andrew Glen', Pathmaster V.2 #4, 1999.
"
"Outbuilding
The heavy timber frame English barn is in relatively good condition and may be generally
contemporaneous with the house.
Setting
The building retains its picturesque setting despite its proximity to Brock Road. The house itself
sits on a slight knoll, with the land dropping off to the west into Urfe Creek and is surrounded by
mature trees, and well tended gardens.
Evaluation: (to be read in conjunction with Evaluation Worksheet) Consideration of Provincial
Significance:
Despite the long-standing association of the Hubbard family with this lot, it does not appear that
the current building was erected by that important clan. However it is associated with the
Thompson family, another key family in the development of the area and, along with the Hubbards,
very strong supporters of Mackenzie (though the current building post dates that era).
The house however can be confirmed as the historic meeting place of the group which,
out of that meeting, went on to form the CCF., the pre-cursor to the National Democratic Party.
On that level it is a site with a legitimate claim to National Historic Site status. It is not
however, given the existing criteria for Provincial Interest, a site of Provincial Significance
(see Provincial Criteria).
Statement of Significance:
However, within the parameters of the Evaluation it is considered to be a site of Regional
Significance for the following reasons:
• The association of the property (though seemingly not the house) with Thomas Hubbard,
Pickering pioneer and central to the early development of the community;
• Its association with the Thompson family, influential in the development and political life of the
area;
• Its association with Andrew and Dorothy Glen - Andrew, a writer and political thinker of some
note (and notoriety); and Dorothy, an artist who took both inspiration from, and documented,
the regional landscape.
• As one of the few remaining log residences in the area.
Character-defining elements;
• Simple three bay side gabled form of the main section;
• Log construction;
• Corner stair with simple pencil post balustrade;
"
"• Setting as the interface of the domestic landscape with the adjacent Urfe Creek system;
• Quality of timber framing of surviving barn.
Integrity
The house has been re-sided and most of the window sash also replaced in a synthetic material.
However the form of the original section and its relationship to other aspects of the site
(creek, lane, barn) remains intact.
Fig I. Typical heavy timber barn framing.
"
"EVALUATION WORSHEET FOR BUILDINGS AND STRUCTURES
Building Identification:
Address: 1690 Whitevale Road (Thompson-Glen House)
Criterion Grade (Circle One) Reasons
DESIGN
1. Style / Visual Appeal
2. Construction/ Technology 3. Arch. /Designer / Builder E
E E VG
VG
VG G
G G F/P
F/P F/P Good example of typ. vernacular form. Relatively few log structures survive.
Unknown.
HISTORY
4. Association / Pattern 5. Age E
E VG VG G G F/P F/P Direct association with Andrew Glen also the
Thompson family Between 1/8 & 1/4 point*
CONTEXT
6. Landmark / Character 7. Streetscape / Landscape E E VG VG G G F/P F/P
Strongly associated in local lore with Thomas Hubbard Represents the typ. vernacular houseform
of area
INTEGRITY
8. Alterations E VG G F/P Despite changes overall character is still maintained.
*of the age range of remaining structures in the area.
Tabulation
In order for a building or structure to qualify as a heritage resource , it must receive the following
grades:
• Excellent in any one criterion, other than Integrity: OR
• Very Good in any two criteria, with at least one each from any two of Design, History and
Context; OR
• Good (or better) in any four criteria, with at least one each from any two of Design, History
and Context.
• If it receives Fair or Poor for Integrity, then it must receive at least one more Good than
stated above.
Statement of Heritage Significance
If a building or structure qualifies as a heritage resource, then a Statement of Heritage
Significance will be prepared, summarizing descriptively the positive characteristics noted
above. As evaluated above the property is a Heritage Resource.
"
"Fig. 2: Thompson-Glen House, front elevation
Fig. 3: Pencil post balustrade @ 2nd Floor"
"Location/Description
Lot: 30 Concession: V
Description: south side of Highway 7 (#47 in SCHRA '94 and map) Municipal #:
575 Highway 7 Property Type: Farmstead
Historical Background
•v74
The Vardon family came from New Brunswick and settled on this lot c.1842 , in close proximity to
the Turners, also originally from that province. In 1853 Thomas Vardon is assessed for the north
quarter and had probably erected the existing frame house by that time. It is shown on the 1860
Tremaine Map. Also depicted on the lot is a schoolhouse at the crossroads corner with North
Road (formerly Sideline 30). With the Church just to the east across the 6th Concession the area
seems to have been a nascent crossroads community node known as Brunswick Hill.75
By 1877 the property is in the hands of D. Brown, the Vardons having built to the south along the
Sideline. The school also had been relocated by this time. At the turn of the 20th century the
property was owned by the Milnes and remained in Milne family possession until c.l 970.
Architectural Description
The house with kitchen 'tail' and an early heavy timber-framed, raised English Barn remain on the
property.
The extant house is very much a prototypical Gothic Revival cottage as promoted by A.J.
Downing in the mid 19th century. Here it is likely the result of a renovation to the original house
c.l865, introducing the character-defining, projecting steep-gabled centre bay to an otherwise
typical side gabled frame dwelling. This feature, with thin scrolling, pendant and finial at the gable
as well as the board and batten cladding of the whole structure combine to convey the
picturesque appearance associated with the style. Unfortunately the overall appearance has
been denigrated by recent alterations, including several significant changes since 1994.
(See Integrity below.) The kitchen 'tail' forms an 'L' with the main structure and the roofline
appears to have been raised in the mid 20th century.
Interior window and door trim, areas of base and some original flooring remain within the house.
74William R. Wood. Past Years in Pickering (Toronto: William Biggs, 1911.)
75 Tremaine's Map of the County of Ontario (Toronto: George C. Tremaine, 1860.)
"
"Outbuildings
The heavy timber framed English hay barn appears to be reasonably sound and may be
contemporaneous with the house.
Setting
The historic relationship between lane, house, yard, windrows and barn remain intact.
There are several mature trees which remain around the house.
Evaluation (to be read in conjunction with Evaluation worksheet) Consideration of Provincial
Significance:
The property does not meet the existing criteria for Provincial Heritage status.
(See Provincial Criteria)
Statement of Significance:
This property is considered to be of Local Significance for the following reasons:
• Its relatively early Gothic Revival exterior treatment which follows quite closely the
A.J. Downing prototype as characterized by the steep gabled centre bay and board and batten
siding;
• Its association with the Vardon family, relatively early settlers who established a school on
their property in the mid 19th century;
• It is an important component of the heritage roadscape.
Character-defining elements:
• The board and batten exterior finish;
• The projecting steep-gabled centre bay of the facade with arched gable window;
• The scrollwork gingerbread, finial and pendant woodwork at the gables.
Integrity
The facade has been compromised by the modern addition of a shed roofed, front porch and a
metal chimney which extends up the east elevation of the structure both added since 1972.
In the last 10 years the heritage character of the building has been further denigrated by: the
replacement of the original windows with a sash type which does not replicate the historic light
configuration; the loss of one corbelled chimney and the corbelled cap of the other.
The setting however still remains intact.
"
"EVALUATION WORSHEET FOR BUILDINGS AND STRUCTURES
Building Identification:
Address: 575 Highway 7 (Thomas Vardon House)
Criterion Grade (Circle One)
Reasons
DESIGN
1. Style/ Visual Appeal
2. Construction/ Technology
3. Arch. /Designer / Builder
E VG G F/P
E VG G F/P
E VG G F/P
This is a good and relatively early
Gothic Revival cottage for area.
The projecting center bay is a noteable
feature.
Not known but definitely derives from
Downing influenced pattern book.
HISTORY
4. Association / Pattern E VG G F/P
5. Age E VG G F/P
The Vardons were early settlers & school was established on property. Likely built between the
eighth point and quarter point*
CONTEXT
6. Landmark / Character
7. Streetscape / Landscape
E VG G F/P A familiar structure along the Highway.
E VG G F/P A component of the cultural
heritage landscape.
INTEGRITY
8. Alterations
• For age range of surviving structures in the area. Tabulation
In order for a building or structure to qualify as a heritage resource, it must receive the following
grades:
• Excellent in any one criterion, other than Integrity: OR
• Very Good in any two criteria, with at least one each from any two of Design, History and
Context; OR
• Good (or better) in any four criteria, with at least one each from any two of Design,
History and Context.
• If it receives Fair or Poor for Integrity, then it must receive at least one more Good than
stated above.
Statement of Heritage Significance
If a building or structure qualifies as a heritage resource, then a Statement of Heritage
Significance will be prepared, summarizing descriptively the positive characteristics noted
above. As evaluated above this building is a heritage resource.
E VG G F/P Significant loss of character due to recent window and
chimney changes and earlier porch addition.
"
"Fig. 1: Facade affected by change of sash
Fig. 2: West elevation & site context"
"Location/Description
Lot: 27 Concession: V
Description: South of # 7
Municipal #: 815 Highway 7 (#42 in SCHRA '94 and map)
Property Type:_____Farmstead_______________________________________________
Historical Background
J. Percy is assessed for the north quarter of Lot 27 in 1853 and may already have had a house
there (he is noted as a Householder as well as a Freeholder.) A house is depicted in its current
position on the on the 1860 map. The Percys retained ownership until late in the 19th century
when it became the property of C. Bevrell. The Major family held the property for the first decades
of the 20th century. It was then purchased by the Malcolms who retained ownership until
expropriation and still live on the property. Family lore has it that they have been on the property
since 1901, perhaps originally as tenants, as their actual assumption of ownership is later.
Architectural Description
The site is comprised of the brick house and kitchen tail with side verandah and two large
gambrel barns with attached silos.
The three bay side gabled dwelling appears to be one of the earliest brick homes in the area and
one of the few patterned brick residences to remain ungothicized and retain its modest,
classical symmetry. Constructed in fine English bond on a granite fieldstone foundation,
it is an early example of the dichromatic brickwork that will come to characterize the region.
The buff brick picks out the composite flat arches over the windows and doors at the front; the
quoins; and water table and is used to delineate a cross pattern below the eave which appears
as a frieze. The building retains its 6/6 windows and central entrance with transom and sidelights
with panels below. The entrance treatment is wider than is typical in the Study area.
(It is very similar in treatment to the neighbouring Thomas Middleton House Lot 28, Con. VI,
as rendered in the 1877 Atlas). A large proportion of the original moulded cornice remains in
place and is returned at the eaves. The east elevation has been fully stuccoed in the relatively
recent past. The corbelled brick end chimneys
The kitchen 'tail' is also constructed in brick, though in common bond, and has a flared side
verandah with the curved rafters exposed.
Interior
The building has a large proportion of surviving original features including: fireplaces with simple
pilastered surrounds; door and window casings including floor to ceiling window architrave with
panelled dado at the parlour; baseboard and wide pine flooring and the main stair balustrade
with knob type newel typical of the other early buildings of some pretension reviewed in this Study
(Hastings House; Turner House).
"
"Outbuildings
Two large banked gambrel barns, each with an adjacent silo remain on the property.
The east silo is concrete (c.1900) while the west is wood, and relatively early. It is likely that the
gambrel roof on the west barn is a later renovation as the timber framing appears to be mid-19th
century. The floor of the livestock level of the west barn, most often simply earth, is finished here
with brick pavers.
Setting
The original elements - the house, domestic yard, barns, lane and fields and their
inter¬relationship remain intact with the farm still being worked.
Evaluation (to be read in conjunction with Evaluation Worksheet): Consideration of Provincial
Significance:
As reviewed under the existing criteria the property is not of Provincial Significance,
(see Provincial Criteria)
Statement of Significance:
The Percy property is considered to be of Regional Significance for the following reasons:
• One of the earliest brick structures in the area retaining original exterior form;
• Quality of the brickwork including: English bond coursing and dichromatic treatment of arches,
quoins and patterned stringcourse;
• Extent of surviving features both exterior and interior including: main entrance treatment with
transom and sidelights; moulded exterior cornice; corbelled chimney caps; 6/6 window sash;
fireplaces and surrounds; main stair balustrade with early knob capped newel; interior door and
window trim and built-in corner cupboard.
Character-defining features:
• Three-bay side gable form;
• English bond brickwork and dichromatic treatment of arches, quoins and patterned
stringcourse of the main section;
• Main entrance treatment with transom and sidelights; moulded exterior cornice; corbelled
chimney caps; 6/6 window sash; main stair balustrade with early knob capped newel; interior
door and window trim and built-in corner cupboard; fireplaces and surrounds;
• Flared roof of kitchen verandah;
• Quality of surviving barns including paver flooring.
"
"Integrity
While the stuccoing of the full east wall, no doubt due to perceived structural problems,
and the serious settlement of the southwest corner of the kitchen, diminish and/or threaten the
commemorative integrity of the building it still retains many features both interior and exterior
(see above) which are now missing from other comparable dwellings in the area.
As noted above the relationship of traditional farmstead elements remains intact and its
agricultural tradition remains unbroken.
Fig. 1 Balustrade with knob newel
"
"EVALUATION WORSHEET FOR BUILDINGS AND STRUCTURES
Building Identification: Address: 815 Highway 7
Criterion
Grade (Circle One)
Reasons
DESIGN
1. Style / Visual Appeal E VG
2. Construction/ Technology E VG
3. Arch. /Designer / Builder E VG
HISTORY
4. Association / Pattern E VG
5. Age E VG
G F/P Few 'ungothicized' examples remain.
G F/P Very early dichromatic, English bond
G F/P Unknown
G F/P Association with early settler Percy.
G F/P Between oldest & l/8lh point*
CONTEXT
6. Landmark / Character
7. Streetscape / Landscape
E VG G F/P Familiar presence along Highway.
E VG G F/P Important component of heritage
roadscape.
INTEGRITY
8. Alterations
*of the age range for surviving buildings in the area.
Tabulation
In order for a building or structure to qualify as a heritage resource , it must receive the following
grades:
• Excellent in any one criterion, other than Integrity: OR
• Very Good in any two criteria, with at least one each from any two of Design, History and
Context; OR
• Good (or better) in any four criteria, with at least one each from any two of Design, History
and Context.
• If it receives Fair or Poor for Integrity, then it must receive at least one more Good than
stated above.
Statement of Heritage Significance
If a building or structure qualifies as a heritage resource, then a Statement of Heritage
Significance will be prepared, summarizing descriptively the positive characteristics noted
above. As evaluated above this building is a Heritage Resource.
E VG G F/P Stuccoing of east wall (likely for structural reasons)
but overall character intact.
"
"FIg. 2: Fireplace surround
Fig. 3: Front elevation"
"Fig. 4: East elevation has been stuccoed.
Fig. 5: Remains of wood silo"
"Location/Description
Lot: 25 Concession: V
Description: South side of #7.
Municipal #: 1015 Highway 7 *Please see below for note re: SCHRA '94 status
Property Type:_____Farmstead_______________________________________________
Historical Background
In the 1851 Agricultural Census William Major is shown as holding this lot. However Thomas
Hood is assessed for the 100 acres in 1853 suggesting a leasehold. By 1860 it is in the
possession of Moses Gamble7 , who, in 1861, is noted as living in a VA storey frame dwelling
on this lot77. In 1877, the north quarter of the lot, upon which the subject brick house stands,
was owned by A. Percy with John Grieg the owner of the 'middle quarter'78. Grieg's house was
accessed from the Sideroad. By c.1920 Grieg was the owner of the full lot79.
Architectural Description
The site currently includes: a three bay brick centre-gabled 1 Vi storey house with frame kitchen
tail; a gambrel-roofed barn; small shed and trailer.
This dichromatic, patterned brick structure features a relatively unusual ogee arch type at its
openings. The patterning with buff and red is used at the arch voussoirs and to form a
string¬course of cusped design. This design is actually picked up in the bargeboard of the centre
gable. The centre gable is also articulated with finial and pendant though the former has been lost.
There is a bevelled brick water table. The windows themselves are segmentally arched 2/2 wood
sash obscured with aluminium storms.
The brickwork is laid up in stretcher bond which suggests that it may be a brick veneer applied to
Moses Gamble's original c.1861 frame house. The bricking of the building (which would have also
included renovation to window openings etc.) or the rebuilding in brick seems likely to have
occurred c. 1875.
Outbuildings/Setting
A gambrel roofed banked barn is located close to the house up the tree lined drive. Split cedar
rail fencing is still in place on the property. The house sits on the brow of a knoll and is surrounded
by trees to the point of being overgrown. However a notable stand of mature conifers remain to
the west of the house.
76
Tremaine's Map of the County of Ontario, Upper Canada, 1860
77 Personal Census, 1851
78Illustrated Atlas of the County of Ontario (Toronto: J.H. Beers & Co., 1877)
79 Map of Pickering Township, c.1917. (Toronto: Map * Advertising Co. Ltd.)
"
"Evaluation (to be read in conjunction with Evaluation Worksheet) Consideration of Provincial
Significance:
Under the existing criteria this property is not considered to be of Provincial Significance.
Statement of Significance:
The building is considered to be of Local Significance for the following reasons:
• It is a good example of the typical dichromatic patterned brickwork
(likely over the original frame dwelling) undertaken in the last third of the 19th century in the area with a locally unusual treatment of the window openings in the form of an ogee derived arch.
• It's significant corner location on rise though now overgrown.
Character-defining features:
• The typical three bay side gable with centre-gable form;
• The dichromatic patterned brickwork particularly the ogee-derived window arches.
• The original segmentally arched window sash and eave fretwork.
Integrity
The site remains relatively intact though in need of some attention and paining of yard
vegetation.
* Please note that in the SCHRA '94 Study the site was designated as #39 in the text and
#40 on the map. In
order to be consistent with the map it should be cross-referenced as #40.
Fig. I: Lane and banked barn
"
"EVALUATION WORSHEET FOR BUILDINGS AND STRUCTURES
Building Identification: Address: 1015 Highway 7
Criterion
Grade (Circle One)
Reasons
DESIGN
1. Style / Visual Appeal E VG
2. Construction/ Technology E VG
3. Arch. /Designer / Builder E VG
HISTORY
4. Association / Pattern E VG
5. Age E VG
G F/P Good example of typical form.
G F/P Dichromatic brick with unusual
window arches. G F/P Unknown.
G F/P Associations of minor importance.
G F/P Built between the l/8'h & 'A point*
CONTEXT
6. Landmark / Character
7. Streetscape / Landscape
E VG G F/P Corner lot suggests past prominence.
E VG G F/P Component of heritage roadscape.
INTEGRITY
8. Alterations
• of age range of surviving buildings in the area. Assumes veneering of original frame house.
Tabulation
In order for a building or structure to qualify as a heritage resource , it must receive the following
grades:
• Excellent in any one criterion, other than Integrity: OR
• Very Good in any two criteria, with at least one each from any two of Design, History and
Context; OR
• Good (or better) in any four criteria, with at least one each from any two of Design, History
and Context.
• If it receives Fair or Poor for Integrity, then it must receive at least one more Good than
stated above.
Statement of Heritage Significance
If a building or structure qualifies as a heritage resource, then a Statement of Heritage
Significance will be prepared, summarizing descriptively the positive characteristics noted
above. As evaluated above this property is a Heritage Resource.
E VG G F/P Relatively minor changes.
"
"Fig. 2: Front through dense shrubbery
Fig. 3: West elevation with summer kitchen"
"Location/Description
Lot: 22 Concession V
Description: South side of #7. (#35 in SCHRA '94 and map) Municipal #: 1335 Highway 7
Property Type: Farmstead
Historical Background
In 1851 John Pride Phillips is shown as having 60 acres of his 100 acre lot80 under cultivation
and is living in a 1 1/2 storey log house . By 1861 Phillips had built the frame structure that
survives today82. As a young man Phillips had marched with the Brougham Mackenzie
supporters83. His family remained on the property until well into the 20th century.
Architectural Description
The existing house appears to be the early side gabled frame structure (originally constructed
between 1851 and 1861) renovated c.1890 to include the almost Richardsonian Romanesque
front window arches. Of interest is the asymmetrical treatment of the facade which must reflect a
particular issue of the construction or plan. Also of note is that the top plate extends well into the
interior indicating that the construction may actually be plank wall as at the Brougham Central
Hotel (now at the Pickering Museum Village). Exposed riven lath and reciprocally sawn floor
joists are further confirmation that this is the pre-1860 building.
The main section of the building is clad in narrow tongue and groove boards set vertically with the
large rear addition (originally ""kitchen tail"") finished in board and batten. The attenuated
treatment of the colonettes around the main entrance and the entablature appear to pre-date the
window renovation, being closer stylistically to the era of original construction. However the
rectangular transom one would expect from the surround treatment appears to have been infilled
and the original panelled front door modified with glazing. The combination of these elements
makes for a singular appearance. The current typical 2/2 window treatment is part of the late 19th
century renovation. One remaining 6 pane sash was noted relegated to the rear elevation.
While recent occupants have done some interior refinishing there are areas of historic detailing
remain exposed.
80 Agricultural Census, 1851
81 Personal Census, 1851
82 Personal Census, 1861
83 Michelle Greenwald , 'The Historical Complexities of Pickering-Markham-Scarborough-
Uxbridge' (Ontario Ministry of Intergovernmental Affairs: North Pickering Project, September,
1973.)
"
"Outbuildings /Setting
A 19th century small barn/carriage shed remains at the rear of the property. The yard/lane/house
relationship remains unchanged. The property is well treed with conifers screening it to the east.
A picket fence defines the front yard
Evaluation: (to be read in conjunction with Evaluation Worksheet) Consideration of Provincial
Significance:
As reviewed under the current criteria this property is not considered to be of Provincial
Significance. (See Provincial Criteria)
Statement of Significance:
This site is considered to be of Regional Significance for the following reasons:
• Its association with John Pride Phillips, a noted Mackenzie rebel, whose family occupied
this property for over 150 years;
• For the vernacular form of the main section, combining regionally typical aspects such as its
side-gabled three bay facade finished in vertical boards with eccentric aspects such as the
asymmetrical placement of the front door.
• Though small, due to its distinctive facade, it is a landmark along Highway 7.
Note: If plank wall or plank infilled frame construction can be confirmed this would also be
Regionally notable.
Character-defining elements:
• The narrow vertical board finish of the original section;
• The attenuated colonettes and the entablature which constitute the front door surround;
• The asymmetrical variation on the three bay facade.
• Though a later renovation, the 'Romanesque' arched windows of the facade.
Integrity
Despite changes to the boarding of the ""tail"" (now batten on plywood) the building generally
retains its historic appearance, itself largely a product of late 19th century notions.
"
"EVALUATION WORSHEET FOR BUILDINGS AND STRUCTURES
Building Identification: Address: 1335 Highway 7
Criterion
Grade (Circle One)
Reasons
DESIGN
1. Style / Visual Appeal
2. Construction/ Technology
3. Arch. /Designer / Builder
E VG G F/P
E VG G F/P
E VG G F/P
Unique variation of typ. form
Strong possibility of plank wall
structure*
Unknown
HISTORY
4. Association / Pattern E VG G F/P Association with J.P.Phillips
early settler & Mackenzie ally
5. Age E VG G F/P Between l/8th & lA point **
CONTEXT
6. Landmark / Character E VG G F/P Particular conspicuous due to unusual
facade & visibility from road.
7. Streetscape / Landscape E VG G F/P Important to maintaining character
of
area
INTEGRITY
8. Alterations E VG G F/P Changes are minor & reversible.
*Evidence indicates plank wall construction but only removal of exterior or interior
finishes/cladding could confirm. **of age for surviving buildings in the area.
Tabulation
In order for a building or structure to qualify as a heritage resource , it must receive the following
grades:
• Excellent in any one criterion, other than Integrity: OR
• Very Good in any two criteria, with at least one each from any two of Design, History and
Context; OR
• Good (or better) in any four criteria, with at least one each from any two of Design,
History and Context.
• If it receives Fair or Poor for Integrity, then it must receive at least one more Good than
stated above.
Statement of Heritage Significance:
If a building or structure qualifies as a heritage resource, then a Statement of Heritage
Significance will be prepared, summarizing descriptively the positive characteristics noted
above. Based on the above evaluation this building is a Heritage Resource.
"
"Fig. 1: Front elevation
Fig. 2: View from southwest"
"Fig. 3: Door detail. Note attenuation of pilasters & entablature
Fig. 4: Top plate extends into interior. (Often an indicator of plank wall)"
"Location/Description
Lot 19 Concession III
Description: Mid-lot west side of Brock Road Municipal #: 2360 Brock Road
(#62 in SCHRA '94 and map) Property Type: Former farmstead
Historical Background
Originally part of the extensive Pickering land grants to Mary Elmsley in 1798, by the mid-19th
century it was in the possession of William Cowan, who himself amassed substantial holdings,
including parts of neighbouring Lots 17 and 18, and the south half of Lot 21 in Concession IV84.
Despite several 'early' features incorporated in the building the documentary evidence suggests
that it was built between 1861 and 1877. By the latter date it is shown on the County Atlas Map as
part of the 33 acre property of J. Kennedy but in 189585 it was again in the Cowan family
suggesting the possibility that Kennedy was leasing the property.
Architectural Description
The three bay side gabled brick structure shares key features with several of the other earlier
brick dwellings being studied including, the general form already described with center hall plan,
English bond coursing, composite buff rowlock arches over door and window openings, the use
of buff brick to accent quoins and to create a cross patterned stringcourse/frieze and a main
entrance treatment featuring a rectangular transom and sidelights. More unusual is the
continuation of buff brick detailing up the gables and the inclusion of arhed lights in the sidelights
and transom. The building retains its brick kitchen 'tail' laid up in common bond that extends into
a frame section, likely originally the summer kitchen/wood shed. The building also retains its brick
chimneys, though with tops simplified, and the kitchen fireplace is still exposed. At some point in
the latter half of the 20th century two gable dormers were added to the front and a shed dormer
to the rear to bring more light into the 2nd storey. Several of the original windows have been
replaced but some 6/6 sash still remains.
Interior
Along with the fireplace, substantial heritage fabric remains including window and door surrounds,
flooring and baseboards though many wall surfaces have been covered in 'rec-room' grade
paneling. The main balustrade is a notable feature, the newel and baluster form more refined
than the typical early treatment described elsewhere.
Land Abstracts 85 Map of the Township of Pickering, (Toronto: Chas. E. Goad Civil Engineers,
1895.)
"
"Setting
The mature trees and perennial plantings of the front yard still provide an appropriate heritage
context when viewed from Brock Road.
Evaluation (to be read in conjunction with Evaluation Worksheet) Consideration of Provincial
Significance:
This property is not considered to meet the existing criteria for Provincial Heritage status.
(See Provincial Criteria.)
Statement of Significance:
The Cowan-Kennedy property is considered to be of Local Significance for the
following reasons:
• As a good example of the three-bay, side gable dichromatic brick dwelling featuring English
bond coursing with buff brick accents and patterning.
• The locally unusual incorporation of arched windows at the sidelights;
• The extent of surviving fabric both interior and exterior including brick chimneys, kitchen
fireplace, main stair balustrade, door and window casings, main entrance treatment.
• As a good example of the domestic hierarchy of main house, kitchen, summer
kitchen/woodshed.
• Key remaining heritage element along this stretch of Brock Road.
Character-defining elements:
• English bond brickwork with buff brick quoins, arches, frieze/stringcourse, gable decoration;
• Main entrance treatment featuring rectangular transom and arched sidelights;
• The kitchen fireplace and surround;
• The main stair balustrade with newel.
Integrity
Changes to the historic fabric, such as the addition of dormers, simplifying of brick chimney
tops and the use of paneling at the interior, are, thus far, of a relatively minor nature.
"
"EVALUATION WORSHEET FOR BUILDINGS AND STRUCTURES
Building Identification:
Address: 2360 Brock Road (Cowan-Kennedy House)
Criterion _________Grade (Circle One) Reasons
DESIGN
1. Style / Visual Appeal E VG G F/P Is a good example of the 3 bay
dichromatic brick dwelling.
2. Construction/ Technology E VG G F/P Relatively few examples of
English bond in area; also arched
sidelight windows are locally unusual.
3. Arch. /Designer / Builder E VG G F/P Unknown.
HISTORY
4. Association / Pattern E VG G F/P Property has long association
with Cowan family.
5. Age E VG G F/P Built between the 1/8 and the % point*
CONTEXT
6. Landmark / Character E VG G F/P Familiar structure of the Brock Road
roadscape.
7. Streetscape / Landscape E VG G F/P Would become important in
retaining
heritage context in this changing area.
INTEGRITY
8. Alterations E VG G F/P Changes are relatively minor and
reversible.
*for age range of surviving buildings in the area.
Tabulation
In order for a building or structure to qualify as a heritage resource , it must receive the following
grades:
• Excellent in any one criterion, other than Integrity: OR
• Very Good in any two criteria, with at least one each from any two of Design, History and
Context; OR
• Good (or better) in any four criteria, with at least one each from any two of Design,
History and Context.
• If it receives Fair or Poor for Integrity, then it must receive at least one more Good than
stated above.
Statement of Heritage Significance
If a building or structure qualifies as a heritage resource, then a Statement of Heritage
Significance will be prepared, summarizing descriptively the positive characteristics noted
above. As evaluated above the property is a Heritage Resource.
"
"Fig. 1: Facade
Fig. 2: Note buff decoration extends up gable"
"Fig. 3: Main entrance treatment with arched lights
Fig. 4: Kitchen fireplace"
"Location/Description
Lot: 18 Concession: IV
Description: East side of Brock Rd.i#64 in SCHRA' 94 and map) Municipal #: 2935
Brock Road Property Type: Farmstead
Current Heritage Status: Designated under Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act, Town
of Pickering By-Law #5966-62
Historical Background/Architectural Description
Note: In 1999 this property was the subject of a relatively detailed Study undertaken by Unterman
McPhail Associates with the assistance of John Sabean, Heritage Pickering, in preparation for
the property being designated by the municipality. Rather than attempting to paraphrase or
summarize that work here the full Report has been appended (Appendix 4) allowing the focus
here to be on the evaluation of the property.
Evaluation (to be read in conjunction with the Evaluation Worksheet) Consideration of Provincial
Significance
The Stonecroft property is remarkable in many respects and its true heritage value perhaps can
only be properly appreciated by considering the integration and accumulation of these layers.
This layering includes: the existing built heritage and its siting in the landscape; the extraordinary
topography and associated hydrological features; flora and fauna; scenic qualities including
views and viewsheds and the direct associations with early and influential settler Hawkins
Woodruff, the artist Robin Mackenzie and his mother, the herbalist/gardener,
Elizabeth Mackenzie. This confluence of significant aspects suggests that its highest value may
most appropriately be recognized as a cultural heritage landscape. However that consideration is
beyond the scope of this assignment.
In evaluating the qualities of the site in light of the recently established criteria/indicators for
Provincial Interest with regard to Built Heritage, the case for Provincial Interest rests on the level
of importance assigned to the site's association with the artist, Robin Mackenzie and his mother,
Elizabeth Mackenzie, and the herb garden and nursery she established there. Given that Robin
has just passed away and his mother's death is also relatively recent it is difficult to definitively
assess their respective legacies nor has that assessment been undertaken to date.
To authoritatively do so would require detailed Study and access to the opinion of acknowledged
and reliable experts in both areas.
Robin was certainly an acclaimed and innovative artist with works in many major collections
including the Art Gallery of Ontario and the National Gallery of Canada. He showed regularly at
the well-known Carmen Lamanna Gallery in Toronto and helped found
"
"the McLaughlin Gallery in Oshawa. Robin continually acknowledged that the Stonecroft
landscape was the inspiration for much of his work. He can be seen, like his contemporary
Paterson Ewen, to have extended the Canadian pre-occupation with landscape/wilderness into
the modernist idiom. Likewise he can be viewed as a precursor to artists such as the
internationally acclaimed Andy Goldsworthy, whose works are often photographs of transient
assemblages of natural materials in the landscape.
Elizabeth Mackenzie's extensive herb garden and nursery in the Stonecroft side yard,
which began with her interest in cooking, is considered by many to be Ontario's first.
The unique walkways and arbours that formed part of the garden design have been well
documented as have many of the rare and heirloom varieties which she stocked.
These are important achievements in which the site itself is integral. There is already a local
group formed which is dedicated to the preservation of the site and the interpretation/
commemoration of its many aspects including the restoration of the herb garden.
6'
Notwithstanding the above, it is felt that at this time, given the current criteria, it is premature to
assess the site as being of Provincial Significance. However, further detailed assessment of the
importance of Robin Mackenzie and Elizabeth Mackenzie should be carried out to establish
authoritatively the appropriate level of significance which their association conveys to the site.
Statement of Significance:
The property is considered to be of high Regional Significance for the following reasons:
• Its direct association with Hawkins Woodruff, a relatively early settler (his father Noahdiah and
grandfather Hawkins were Pickering pioneers). Hawkins also appears to have been the actual
builder of Stonecroftwith his initials ""HW"" incised into the cornerstone;
• Its direct association with the acclaimed artist Robin Mackenzie, raised on the property and
whose art was inspired by its landscape; and his mother Elizabeth Mackenzie who established
what may have been the first herb garden/nursery in Ontario on the property. (See also above.)
• As a good example of the regionally rare Regency Cottage, with hipped roof, carefully crafted
granite walls and picturesque siting at the brow of the knoll;
• The integrity and scenic qualities of the building's site context including linkages to domestic
yard, barn, drives, paths, plantings and shade trees as well as major topographic features such
as the forested hill and the gully pond.
"
"Character-defining elements
• General form of original structure including hipped roof, three-bay front with low eave and
central chimney;
• The stone wall treatment(s) at both the original house and additions but particularly the
original facade;
• Both the Woodruff and the Mackenzie datestones;
• The original 6/6 wood sash fenestration, remaining early louvered shutters and the original
simple Georgian main entrance.
Integrity
Overall the main site features (house, barn, yard, paths, lane, highland woodlot, gully pond) and
their inter-relationship remain intact. However the recent loss of the roof over the eastmost
addition (purported to have been used for a cottage textile industry in the later 19th century)
is of great concern as deterioration of the stone is advancing exponentially wit the loss of
weather protection. As well a new oil tank has been placed at the original front of the building
seriously denigrating the appearance of that elevation.
"
"EVALUATION WORSHEET FOR BUILDINGS AND STRUCTURES
Building Identification:
Address: 2935 Brock Road (Stonecroft/Woodruff-Mackenzie House)
Criterion_________________Grade (Circle One)______________Reasons
DESIGN
1. Style / Visual Appeal
2. Construction/ Technology
3. Arch. /Designer / Builder
*for the age of surviving structures in the area.
Tabulation
In order for a building or structure to qualify as a heritage resource , it must receive the following
grades:
• Excellent in any one criterion, other than Integrity: OR
• Very Good in any two criteria, with at least one each from any two of Design, History and
Context; OR
• Good (or better) in any four criteria, with at least one each from any two of Design, History
and Context.
• If it receives Fair or Poor for Integrity, then it must receive at least one more Good than
stated above.
Statement of Heritage Significance
If a building or structure qualifies as a heritage resource, then a Statement of Heritage
Significance will be prepared, summarizing descriptively the positive characteristics noted above.
As determined from the above evaluation the site is an important Heritage Resource.
1. Style / Visual Appeal E VG G F/P Good example of
relatively rare Regency Cottage style 2. Construction/ Technology E VG G
F/P Relatively early & very good example in local stone with stone additions 3.
Arch./Designer / Builder E VG G F/P
Hawkins Woodruff constructed for himself
HISTORY
4. Association / Pattern E VG G F/P Strong association
with Railway; Hawkins Woodruff; Elizabeth Mackenzie; Robin Mackenzie 5. Age
E VG G F/P Between lA & 1/8 point*
CONTEXT
6. Landmark / Character E ' VG G F/P Siting at brow of
knoll
7. Streetscape / Landscape E VG G F/P Extraordinary
landscape within area
INTEGRITY
8. Alterations E VG G F/P Changes are minor in
nature.
"
"Fig. 1: Original three-bay front
Fig. 2: South elevation - entrance at original 'tail'"
"Fig. 3: Loss of roof @ 'industrial tail'
Fig. 4: Initials of original builder Hawkins Woodruff."
"Fig. 5: Inscription of restorer Allan McKenzie
Fig. 6: Barn"
"Location/Identification
Lot: 19 Concession: V
Description: Mid-lot, west side of Brock Road.
Municipal #: 3440 Brock Road (#60 in SCHRA '94 and map)
Property Type: Farmstead
Historical Background
It is speculated that Thomas Hubbard arrived in Pickering Township just before the turn of the
19th century86. By about 1807 Thomas Hubbard, seems to have settled on Lot 19, Concession
V though he did not assume ownership from Henry Smith (Crown Grant 1797) until 182187.
Born in 175988, Hubbard was recognized as a U.E.L.89 It is possible that he was part of the
Hubbard family of Stamford Connecticut who made a claim in 1787 for losses suffered in the
American Revolution90. Though Thomas was not a party in that claim the names of James and
Issac figure prominently, names that Thomas also gave to his sons.
Thomas and his family (he had three sets of children) had a major impact on the community in
terms of its social, religious and political life. He was the first Township Clerk in 181191 and
donated land for the first area school which was built and operated by the Hubbards, Matthews,
Sharrards and Willsons92. His son Andrew was a private in the 2nd Flank Company of the 3rd
York Militia and received a General Service Medal for the successful siege of Detroit93 during
the War of 1812. Local folklore suggests that the timber for the reconstruction of Fort York after
the War of 1812 came from the Hubbard property but this could not be substantiated at this time
though his grandson George is listed as a timber agent94 in 1861 and may have been carrying
on a family business. The Hubbards were founders of the influential Christian Church of
Brougham. Hubbard and his sons were members of the Brougham Reformers (Mackenzie
sympathizers) who met for rallies and strategy sessions at the neighbouring Thompson's Inn
leading up to the 1837 Rebellion.
Despite the long association with the Hubbard family, this mid-Lot parcel is shown as being in
the possession of J. Connor in 1860 and it does not appear to have been built upon at that time.
The house was constructed prior to 1877 however as it is indicated on the Atlas Map and the
property is again listed in the Hubbard family, specifically Mrs. T.C. Hubbard, possibly Thomas'
widow (he was married three times.) By c.1920 the Bayles family assumed ownership and a
descendant still occupies the property to this day.
William R. Wood, Past Years in Pickering (Toronto: William Biggs, 1911.)
86
87 Inst.#4020
88 Past Years. ..Wood refers to his death in 1853 at 94 years of age.
89 Ibid.
90 Second Report of the Bureau of Archives: Loyalist Claims (Toronto: Legislative Assembly,
1905) pp. 223,1195.
91 Illistrated tlas of the County of Ontario, (Toronto: J.H. Beers and Company, 1877)
92 D. Willson Genealogical Research (unpub. Pickering Library)
93 William Gray, Soldiers of the King: Upper Canada militia 1812-1815 (Erin: Boston Mills
Press, 1995) p.132
94 1861 Personal Census
"
"Architectural Description
The site currently is comprised of the original gable roofed 1 lA storey residence, single storey
kitchen tail and a large, gambrel barn.
The 'T' plan framed dwelling is typical of c. 1870 construction. With a front verandah at the inside
corner, a center gable piercing the eave of the side-gabled section of the facade it has 2/2/
windows and is clad in weatherboard. Of note is the arched window of the centre gable
(now mostly infilled), with an arched window as well on the first storey of the gable end portion of
the facade. Decoration is concentrated at the verandah with turned posts, brackets and pendants
and at the eaves, though obscured by gutters except at the centre gable.
Much of the interior original fabric remains. Outbuilding
The gambrel barn apparently replaced the original English barn in the early years of Bayle
ownership (pre-1930) and is in relatively good condition. It incorporates timbers from the original
barn and rests on a stone foundation.
Setting
The property is still being worked which provides a sense of authenticity /continuity to the historic
relationship between elements - house, barn, yard- on the property. This is in stark contrast to its
general location, directly adjacent to the entry ramp to Highway 407.
Evaluation: (to be read in conjunction with Evaluation Worksheet) Consideration of Provincial
Significance
This property does not meet the existing criteria for Provincial Heritage status.
(See Provincial Criteria)
Statement of Significance:
The Hubbard/Bayles property is considered to be of Local Significance for the following
reasons:
• Its long-standing association with the pioneer Hubbard family and possibly built as the home
for Thomas Hubbard's widow c. 1870.
• As a good example of the typical frame vernacular of the area c. 1870 featuring a 'T'
plan with verandah at the inside corner.
Character-defining elements:
• The 'T' plan form with verandah at inside corner.
"
"• The centre gable with arched window breaking the eave of the side gabled section of the
facade.
• The surviving moulding details at the centre gable;
• The decorative wood work and turned posts at the verandah;
• The original 2/2 window sash except at the arched window;
• The large gambrel barn.
Integrity
The site remains a working farm which, coupled with the current occupant's family having been on
this land since 1923, confers authenticity/continuity on the inter-related elements. Much of the
heritage fabric remains intact though the interior is extremely unkempt. Obviously,
the looming presence of Highway 407, is an almost absurdly stark contrast to the property itself.
Fig. I: Front - note infill at center gable window
"
"EVALUATION WORSHEET FOR BUILDINGS AND STRUCTURES
Building Identification:
Address: 3440 Brock Road (The Hubbard/Bayles Property)
Criterion Grade (Circle One)______Reasons
DESIGN
1. Style / Visual Appeal 2. Construction/ Technology 3. Arch. /Designer / Builder E
E E VG VG VG G
G G F/P F/P F/P Good example of typical c. 1870 vernacular form. Generally exhibits typical
construction practise/detailing of period. Unknown.
HISTORY
4. Association / Pattern
5. Age E E VG VG G
G F/P F/P Association with Hubbard family though a later/lesser Hubbard site.
Built between the quarter and half points *
CONTEXT
6. Landmark / Character E VG G F/P A typical late 19th C .farmstead
7. Streetscape / Landscape
INTEGRITY
8. Alterations E E VG VG G
G F/P F/P A component of the cultural heritage landscape
The building/property is little changed but its environment has changed drastically.
*for the age range of surviving buildings. Tabulation
In order for a building or structure to qualify as a heritage resource , it must receive the following
grades:
• Excellent in any one criterion, other than Integrity: OR
• Very Good in any two criteria, with at least one each from any two of Design, History and
Context; OR
• Good (or better) in any four criteria, with at least one each from any two of Design,
History and Context.
• If it receives Fair or Poor for Integrity, then it must receive at least one more Good than
stated above.
Statement of Heritage Significance
If a building or structure qualifies as a heritage resource, then a Statement of Heritage
Significance will be prepared, summarizing descriptively the positive characteristics noted
qqqqqqqqabove. As evaluated above the building is considered to be a heritage resource.
"
"Fig. 2: Large banked barn c. 1920
Fig. 3: Carriage shed. Note Mr. Bayles, living heritage"
"Location/Description
Lot: 28 Concession: IV
Description: North side of Whitevale Rd. (#73 in SCHRA '94 and map) Municipal #: 3215
Sideline 28 Property Type: Former school.
Historical Background
This Greek Revival School Building served School Section #8 (Whitevale) for over a hundred
years from the time of its construction in 1864-65. The earlier school, constructed in 1842,
was built on the Sleigh property, one lot to the east. It may well have been a log structure that had
fallen into disrepair as in 1864 the current site, the southwest corner of William White's lot was
chosen and the building erected by T.P. White (no relation to William) at a cost of $l,900.0095.
Its crossroads location was another advantage over the original site.
After being declared redundant the building was saved from demolition by its being purchased,
restored and renovated as a private home by the current occupants who bought the building in
1968 only to be expropriated in 1972.
Architectural Description
The building is a fine example of Greek Revival architecture applied to a rural school conforming
closely to the prototype developed by J.G. Hodgins in his guidelines for school buildings in Upper
Canada (1859). The gable end, with its heavily moulded pediment, fronts on to Whitevale Road.
A datestone is incorporated into the pediment. Constructed in red brick with buff brick accents,
of material apparently from the Hubbard kilns on Brock Road, the school is composed of as a
series of niches defined by the raised frieze, pilasters and water table. The buff brick is used as
well above the window arches, 'flat' arches on the facade and segmental on the longitudinal
elevations. The windows themselves are large double hung 9/9 units, paired in the rectangular
openings at the facade. The east and west openings at the front were the original entrances.
The doors were moved to their current position just after World War II.
This change was accompanied by the infilling of the windows at the first two bays of the east
and west elevations. A graceful louvered wood cupola remains atop the ridge. The size of the
windows and the ventilating cupola all relate to the recommendations regarding light,
and ventilation associated with Hodgins enlightened proscription for a healthy learning
environment. Many student names and dates have been incised into the relatively soft brick.
At some point the whole of the east wall was stuccoed.
95
William R. Wood, Past Years in Pickering (Toronto: William Biggs, 1911.) p.171
"
"Interior
While the interior has been renovated for use as a private home it has been done so with great
respect for its former use preserving and revealing such items as original plaster cornice,
chalkboards and coat rails. The fine heavy timber king-post truss roof structure remains
unchanged.
Setting
The front yard is well tended and again appears to reflect Hodgkins recommendations regarding
the benefits of shade trees around the building. Perennial beds have been developed and/or
resuscitated and the central concrete walk, dating from 1911 is still in place.
Evaluation (to be read in conjunction with Evaluation Worksheet) Consideration of Provincial
Significance:
The former school was carefully considered for Provincial Significance under two criteria:
• Part of a common type now no longer common;
• A built resource that has special or sentimental value in the community.
However in the final analysis it was deemed that the type had not been made sufficiently rare nor
was sufficiently intact to receive Provincial recognition nor could it be argued that it was treasured
by the community (though perhaps it should be). With regard to the latter this is in part due to the
loss, through expropriation, of the organic community that would have had a significant
attachment to the building. However that community itself almost allowed the demolition of the
building just prior to expropriation, the building (and its deep, associative history) being saved,
in fact, by a couple from 'outside'.
However while not considered to be of Provincial Significance it is considered to be of high
Regional Significance for the following reasons:
• It was the educational and social focus of the community for over 100 years where the
education of the youth of generations of Majorville (Whitevale) and region took place;
• It is a fine example of Greek Revival architecture applied to a rural school particularly the
manner in which the gable is treated as a pediment and the use of buff brick in relief to create
niches for the windows;
• Its close manifestation of the principles for school architecture and for the establishment of a
healthy learning environment articulated by Hodgins in his mid-19th century treatise including:
general harmony and symmetry in design;
"
"large windows for appropriate light; ventilating cupola to ensure fresh air; and a yard shaded
(and the wind broken) with mature trees.
• It is a key landmark on the eastern approach to Whitevale.
Character-defining Elements:
• 'Temple' front with heavily moulded pediment;
• Use of buff brick in relief to define the window niches and in the window arches;
• The original large, double hung 9/9 window sash;
• The historic graffiti incised into the brick;
• The remnant plaster cornice at the interior;
• The king-post truss roof structure;
• The tree-line d walk.
Integrity
The building has been carefully preserved and maintained by the current occupants who
purchased it just prior to expropriation. The infilling of the windows for two bays to either side of t
he facade occurred just after WW II and the later stuccoing of the east elevation, presumably due
to brick deterioration, while certainly lessening the purity of the original architectural expression,
do not substantially obscure it.
Fig. 1: Facade. Note dates tone & cupola.
"
"EVALUATION WORSHEET FOR BUILDINGS AND STRUCTURES
Building Identification:
Address: 3215 Sideline 28 (The School - School Section #8))
Criterion_________________Grade (Circle One)______________Reasons
DESIGN
1. Style / Visual Appeal
2. Construction/ Technology
3. Arch. /Designer / Builder
E VG G F/P Good example of relatively rare type.
Closely reflects Hodgkin's principles
E VG G F/P Relatively early example & has
fine cupola.
E VG G F/P Based on Hodgkin's prototypes.
HISTORY
4. Association / Pattern
5. Age E E VG VG G G F/P F/P Key element in community for 100 years.
Opportunity for interpretation. Built between the l/8th & % points*
CONTEXT
6. Landmark / Character E VG G F/P Community landmark.
7. Streetscape / Landscape E VG G F/P Cornerstone component of
cultural heritage landscape.
INTEGRITY
8. Alterations E VG G F/P Despite the infilling and stuccoing the overall character
is still intact.
*of age range for surviving building in area.
Tabulation
receive the following
grades:
• Excellent in any one criterion, other than Integrity: OR
• Very Good in any two criteria, with at least one each from any two of Design, History and
Context; OR
• Good (or better) in any four criteria, with at least one each from any two of Design, History
and Context.
• If it receives Fair or Poor for Integrity, then it must receive at least one more Good than
stated above.
Statement of Heritage Significance
If a building or structure qualifies as a heritage resource, then a Statement of Heritage
Significance will be prepared, summarizing descriptively the positive characteristics noted
above. From the above evaluation it has been determined that the building is a Heritage
Resource.
"
"Fig. 2: View from northwest
Fig. 3: Tree-lined c. 1911 path & plantings"
"Fig. 4: Vestige of plaster cornice
Fig. 5: Chalkboards remain in place."
"Location/Description
Lot: 29 Concession: V
Description: West side of Sideline 28. (#74 in SCHRA '94 and map)
Municipal #: 3250 Sideline 28
Property Type: Farmstead
Historical Background
William Turner arrived in Pickering Township from New Brunswick 96 in 1841 and settled west of
Sideline 28. His descendants remained on the property until just after WW II. He was apparently
descended from Loyalists9 , possibly from Richard Turner , a soldier in the 84th Foot Regiment,
which was raised in the Maritimes, but this has not been confirmed. Turner, a licensed Baptist
preacher99, was very much involved in the development of the Baptist Church in the north of
Pickering Township.
In the 1851 census his house is classed as being of frame and stone. This is of interest as the
stone portion of the house is not readily visible today having been almost completely covered at
some point by the verandah skirting. Turner must have arrived in Pickering with some ready
capital as he seems to have quite quickly, by the standards of the day, built a relatively substantial
dwelling.
Architectural Description
The current house is the result of a series of building campaigns and includes: the main house
(the original ""stone and frame"" dwelling) with a major frame addition to the west with roofline
perpendicular to the original building.
Turner sited his house to take advantage of the change in grade to the northwest. Thus while the
eastern section of the original building had only one storey above grade, the western section
provided two storeys with an exterior door at grade. That section of the interior was treated as an
important interior space and fitted out accordingly. Much of this detail remains extant around later
mechanical and electrical interventions. The area appears to have been the kitchen with large a
cooking hearth but trimmed with a pilastered wood surround and mantel albeit relatively simple.
The wood wainscot, chair rail, base, door casings and wall plaster remain in place.
Most impressive however is the wood panelled window embrasure and the heavy 2nd floor joists,
finely planed and with beaded edges indicating clearly that they were always intended to be
exposed.
96 Michelle Greenwald, 'The Historical Complexities of Pickering-Markham-Scarborough-
Uxbride' (Ontario Ministry of Intergovernmental Affairs: North Pickering Project, September 1973.)
p.63.
97 William R. Wood, Past Years in Pickering (Toronto: William Biggs, 1911.) p.304.
98 Loyalist Lineages of Canada (Toronto: U.E.L. Association of Canada, Toronto Branch, 1991.)
99 Past Years... p.304
"
Semon '04 Built Xerimue Assessment 119
Indeed a substantial amount of original detailing remains throughout the home including
front door treatment, window and door casings, base and chair rail and wide pine
pounds. The design of the main stair balustrade, particularly the newel posts, is common
to a number of the earliest buildings (pre -1050) included in the Study.
The centre gable a the faeade may well have been added later (though still early) as well
m the verandah which originally had a hipped mofw indicated in a historic photograph
m the possession of the Pickering Public Library. The design of the verandah would have
still allowed access to Ne ground floor.
The huge western addition, shiplap sided with 1lt windows appears to be a product of
c. 1880 consvuction.aod occurred the floor space of the house substsbtially.
Setting
While the original outbuildings have disappeared Ne drive lined with mature trees, the front
domestic yard giving way to flat& with views nor m the south still provide the appmpriam
context for this historic house.
Evaluation: (to be read in co jonmlea with Evaluation Worksheet)
Consideration of Provincial Significance:
As reviewed under the existing arteria this property is not considered to be of Provincial
heritage stems. (see Provincial Criteria)
Statement of Signillcanee:
While not considered Provincially Signalman the William Tomer House is considered
Regionally Significant for Ne following reasons:
•
Its association with early settler and Baptist preacher William Turner.
• It is a particularly goad example of the use of siting in pre -1850 vernacular
containment in that it retains the derailing which clearly demonstrates the walkout
cellar kitchen az a finished space including: the raised stone foundation; planed and
beaded 2'n floor beams, hundred out cooking heats etc. The fudshed floor beams
and kitchen licensee mantel are quite rare in the area
• It generally remins a high level of interior and exterior heritage winning including a
weVbalunrade design that is typical of the pre -1850 treument in the more
prestigious homes of that period
Clmracrer-def Nne elemenu:
• The narrow clapboard and beaded comer boards of Ne anginal house;
• The exposed stone f dation at the west ofthe original budding;
• The centre gable and verandah though likely added somewhat later;
Senfon 'Oq Built Hanoinse Aarrissiment 120
• The feawres ofd the original kitchen including: the former cooking hearth trimmer[
with a pilastered wood surround and mantel; the panelled embmmm ravine original
window: the base, wood wainscot and chair mil; the planed and beaded edged floor
joins.
• Generally the extent primmer period detail rhroughoulthe building.
•
The context' of mature plantings/nees; nee -lined drive and unobstructed viewsmie
to the spurn.
Integrity
Both interior and exterior remain quite intact including the early and now ram fmmres noted
above. Thesite context also retains linearity except for the loss clitoris.
Fig. b Front elevation undperinnlol bads
Seaton 104 Built Heribee Assessment 111
EVALUATION WORSHEET FOR BUILDINGS AND STRUCTURES
Building mammemmn;
Add,o,: Jzso Sideline xg
Crittenden Grade (Circle One) Reasons
DESIGN
I. Style l Visual Appeal E VO G El Good &early examplml'me
3. Cmmmm",f Temloq E VG G IT Stands
Gonly(eons mw grim mm
3,ArtM1. Neeipm/BuiWtt E VG G PIP GnGaun
HISTORY
<. Sweet lelpn/Pane, 5 VG G FT Dotondoned m th early/inaonlxl
nihil William
5. AIP & VG G I'd Bolwevn o Well dale J: dw plot'
CONTEXT
6. feodmlk l Channel E VG G FT Impart", bin mlmively ooneeoled
oin
]. Snreeer, l Laron E G FT Impmbm element;, CulmN Hminge
LaMinpe
INTEGRITY
g. Shown", E VG G EP C1,E.rt minor& Womble
•,fW made int tomimglawkingn inthomc,
Tabulation
la cone, role builJmgmfYmanue m gwlifyas 11,111,91 nsourte, itmenrexive the 11110 inggmdn'.
• Ewahmmmry onemn'rion. otFenM1m lnlgrity. OR
"Cmdm my on, oneen,lwilt at lea"an, ooh Gam my two of)oigy Hinery and Caney: OR
Goof doe Mu w,o,y four ntana, with a, kiln one ,S Som any two of Coign. Hinoor and Context.
• If reanvc Fab,Paor for l,egnty, tho, must ,Mw at lean ane nwte 41a,1 dune,W UWve.
Statement fHer ee SigmLca
If abuilding or oneduan goolineem a bane, knowme, Wm a Statement of Herimge Significance will be
inclt,ed, summarizing d«ri;Avely flue pwitive calonediond fled above. As evaluated all dais
Wilding is a Heritage Resource.
Seaton '048oilt Heritage Assess a 112
Pig West elevano,&finereev„n_,i ._e'
Fig): Origin 'cellar' krchenfireplace
Seaton '048'hH 'ra A rent 124
Loention/UMeriation
Lot 26 Concession: 4 (N66 in SCHRA'94&nom)
Description: Southwest comer of Whilevale Rd. and Sideline 26.
Municipal d: 3185 Sideline 26
Property Tremitted- "Pennythank"
Historical Background
Hugh Pugh was bore at Wales in 1777 and immigrated to Canada in 1842 five years after
his oldest son (also Hugh Pugh) and settled on his Iott00. By 1851 Pugh had constructed a 1
'S storey, frame dwellings', though the land itself was being worked by his son Thomason
He was a deacon of Ne Claremont Baptist Church for many years and, in 1864, at 87 years
of age helped to found the Majorviue (Whitevale) Baptist ChUmb"O . Many of his twelve
children who survived to adulthood continued 0 live in the area, with two daughters
marrying two of the some of his neighbour, James White104. Between 1851 and 1861, a stone
dwelling was constructed of granite fieldstone 00 and, c.1880 the large muti-gabled brick
section was added as Ne new bom. The family remanded on Ne property until
expropriation.
Architectural Description
The house represents an interesting progression in the fortunes/ spatial needs ofthe Pugh
family. The large c.1880 brick addition was constructed to the north end of Ne c. 1860
stone when and, with its several gables, lumbering bay windows, dicluomatic brickwork
and equally exuberant decorative woodwork named a sulking appearance toward
Whitevale Road. Whether the brick section, which actually appears to be brick veneer,
incorporates any of the original frame dwelling could not be confirmed.
At the time of the brick addition, significant renovations were undertaken at the stone
wing in well including the shifting of door and window openings of the west elevation
and the addition of the centre gable breaking the cave. It is possible that the cave line
itself was raised at that time.
The original stone work is ofrouiddy coursed rubble, incorporating quite a number of
small units but with larger stones as voussoks over the openings. The brick addition Is of
stretcher bond red brick with the `water moble' above the granite foundation. strmgctaoms
and the distinctive `pinwheel' gable detonation `picked out' in Ne buff brill_ It is a
°° William it Wood mar Years in Pokerme (Tomnw: WiIIiam Biggs.1911) P.2E9
0, 1851 Ceram'
Assessmentmilb
Put Years ...p 95
01 Ibis. p.284
"S 1861 Penmal Cacaos antler Thomas Pulm we mhented tM homestead
Seaton '04 Built Herimee Assessmenr 1125
particularly fine example of dichromatic pattemed brickwork As noted the window
openings we semi -circular on the Whinvale facade, while segmentally arched along the
Sideline.
Interior
Much of the historic %line remains intact in the interior. The most notable features are
the doom the panels of which typically have deliberately exaggerated graining. A fine
main stair balusaade with seem newel also remains.
Outbuildings
It appears that only one carriage shed remains from the complex ofbams that would have
been typical of this multi-generationd farmstead.
Selling
The front and side yards, with mature shade trees, remnant orchard and extended lawn
still create a timeless bucolic impression. However the over yard las been simply used for
the'smmge' of a wide range of items including trailers for large trampon trucks.
Evaluation to be read in conjunction with Evaluation Worksheet)
Consideration of Provincial Significance:
While an important site in the context of its Region it does not meet the existing criteria
for Provincial benmge status. (see Provincial Criteria)
Statement or Significance:
The Hugh Pugh Property is considered to be of Regional Sib ificance for the following
wroms
• Its association with one of the most influential settlers m the area, a key figure in
the religious life of the community, whose Rrogeny were a key element of
regional community fabric well into the 20 century;
• The quality of the domestic architecture, incorporating gables, projecting bays,
didvomatic brick panems and highly articulated 'gingerbread' ;
• The particularly clew evidence of the evolution of the dwelling from a relatively
modest (though for its date in the wea also quite ambitious) stone home to
substantial late Victorian link veneer edifice.
• It is a landmark at the crossroads arta a'gateway' to the village ofWhitevale.
Seat�Built Heritage Asocou erne 126
Character -defining elements:
• The original granite wing;
• Patlemed brickwork of the main section especially the 'pinwheel' gable
decoction;
• The semi-circu lar arches o f the window openings of the Whirevalc Road facade;
• The stepped out bay window at the northeast,
• The interior doors with grained panels.
Integrity
Though suffering somewhat from deferred maintenance the building retains most of its
significant heritage fabric otter than the windows, unfortunately replaced within the last
ten years.
Fig]: Brick standing
Seaton '04 Built HerilaeAssessment
127
EVALUATION WORSHEET FOR BUILDINGS AND STRUCTURES
Handing Idenllfrnlion:
Address: 3185 Sideline 26
EVG
Criterion Grade (Circle One)
Rezaons
FN
Clue asmcimion with waylinammial
DESIGN
I. SpI< I Vianal Appeal E Vol G ET
Fine vmw[uIM laic Viebnan M1one
obNcrtdaoi by lobby, bays
S sea
Rchrommie hd[kwoh
E. CamumaioNT lonolegy, EVG O TIP
Very geed eallazpwousupalevolWIUMW W&
PIP
an
pamu
from+I 10 Viet:
I. ArtM1. Neviymrl9u11tler E VG G U
Unknown
HISTORY
9. Aua[imiM l percent
EVG
G
FN
Clue asmcimion with waylinammial
sealer Hugh Wgh and Samily.
S sea
E
VG
G
PIP
SWASMtionbuilt Vlwaen l lg ,'A
pamu
CONTEXT
6. WWmarV character
E
VG
G
FR
Aconcwus as MASS
itlemidahl[mu[nrtm V1,MO1c
Roel.
y. SlmeruMlIndent
E
VG
G
EN
Key comer at Sri
in omealWiWinB
VenGRITY
8. Alumina,
E
M
G
FT
Minoralrruiavlr+atlow), proof
mme[hlmnry an
`Ier as, mage Of swe"y Wading, in Golan.
Tabulation
In utler for o building N nNeum m yuVir N a ancient M!"Woo it meet attire the Radia ug Flari
• PmlleN In vry onmtirdaq oderllun lNegiry'.OR
ervGmdln ony moyboom with,c tun lent
oM1 Ione fo uytwo My,
IfI n ion, Hh tlCnnd Counsel Geyer
it mmilrz l orgy fcm nimigwilhanle must Iran" Fuel
tet t ne OMGi od nhmry utl eas,
• Ifit remivu Fu4ar Pmrfw lnle@ipaha itmustrt¢ivamhml ere mole Gaa/mmrm¢tl c6cv[.
Seaton Y)G Built Herfinee assess nett 138
If a madin a 3tmi gnaliFlaa I,rai resource, Ivan a Surtm� of Heritage Siin,fiC a will M
Praised, summoning hzcriptilancersIM positive che'ac tunics rotes shave, AS evaluated above this
building is a Heritage Resource.
Fig 1: Original stone sectfon— Note.shi of openings.
Ffg 3: Acorn newel
Semon '04Bnilt Heritaee Ass ssment 119
Fig 4AmenmalM graining
Fig 5: View from SiAeroaA
Seaton '04Built HerilazeAsseationenr 130
Locadrmllascriotion
Lot: 21 Concession N
Dusaripdon: West side of Mulberry Lmie(#20 in SCHRA'94 arm map)
Municipal #: 3190 Mulberry lane
Property Type: Fmmstead
Historical Background
William Witter had clean:d 15 acres of this 50 acre parcel by 1851146 and is noted on the
property on the Tmmeire 1860 map though no building is shown. By 1877 it is in rhe
ownership of J.B. Bink and a house, in its present location, is shown. Ir remains in Burk
ownership through the Lou of the 20a century. It appears the home was mmtmaed by
the Burks between 1860 and 1877.
Architectural Description
The house has a three bay front with a centre gable and sanicimular window at the centre
gable assisting the lighting of the second storey. Sided now, it was originally roughcast. The
mugh cast finish is still visible within the front and side porches.
t Apparently a frame house the wall section was actually described by former occupant and
owner Par Kea in 19ot Goin exterior to interior as "stucco on lath on tuning, on I" board,
3" of gout. I' board and lath and plater.' This sconds very much Wee she Burks utilized an
archaic form of clay/mud infill in theh walls relemd to daubing. Though not stated by Ms.
Keir, it is assumed that Nat there is a limber fiatne associated with this imfflL It is passible
however that an unfired mud brick was utilized m the structure rather Nen as simply an
infill.
As is typical in the area for modal f rhouses entry by the front door leads directly into the
main
room. The Gent rooms have high baseboards. Access to thc second floor is by a wide
and nicely derailed enclmed stair There is a large main hall at the second storey which
appears to have included a sewing area by the gable. The kitchen suns across the back of the
structure. The house retains a dumbwaiter incorpomsed into a buffetoudeboard by the Burks.
There is an original Tiffany lamp and a number of original ger futures which have been
electrified.
Outbuildings-
! The main Bonk Bam has been lost or the Inst fifiem years and the Carriage Shed, possibly
contemporaneous with the house ( which still contained a buggy in 1904) is in danger of
failing
101 A®iculnral Census, test
Seaton 'O49ai@!lerimse Assessment 131
Setting
The selling of the house, down a tree lined lane and within a small yard surrounded by fields
is unchanged. The property itself contains a number of naval attributes and elements of
ure ercifugical interest. Wide, expansive views can be had from the wooded hillside on the
property. The shore of fake Iroquois apparently came up to the south edge of the lot Rare
orchids are m be found in the woodlot, where two pure springs one.
fusion broads and summers have been found on the property
Nate: Two modem bungalows are located on what was part of the original property.
EvaluafioallnteariN (to he mad in conjunction with evaluation Worksheet)
Consideration of Provincial Significance:
As reviewed under the current criteria this property is not considered Potentially
Significant, (see Provincial Criteria)
Statement of Significance:
Even in i¢ current state the building can still be considered as being of Local
Significance for the following reasons.
• It is a good example of the typical 'Ontario cottage' form and may conmin wall
construction techniques (to be confirmed) that are, locally, relatively are.
• It is the fial structure of the sidemod with fine views to the southwest from the
property.
Heritage Under Threat
When first visits in 1994, the building was occupied by the former owner and was being
well maintained _ It now is derelict While the budding Is still essentially furca missing
min water leaders (runts), leaking gutters and the loss of verandah rooting will soon cause
the level of deterioration to exponentially increase. As well vandalism remains a concern.
Season '04 Built Hn(taae Assessment 132
EVALUATION WORSHEET FOR BUILDINGS.N'D STRUCTURES
Building Identification
Address: 3190 Mulberry Lane
Crihtion Grade (Circle One) Reasons
OFSwry
L Rod, I vieuil Appeal E VG C F? find ewnpR of Off barterer
good,
f. CanSNxtiod TCM1mlogy E VG G F? Goal onegle of magomn rescue
k poteible unusual wall emstmotim.
3. ArtM1. Neugo"I Bunker E VG G H£ Unknown
HISTORY
O. o,oummn l Rlttm E VG G FT TH, vert, vend, mid l 9^ Mie,
madam,
S. Ago E VG G for Between llC"@w polnl•
CONTEXT
6.lmdnwk/Clarifier E VG C ET fvnlliv slNaNrc ofde, sideeoffi
]. Sneempe/Imdscap, E VG G FT A eomponew of are Cultural lien,ayc
lnndamp,
INTEGRITY
9, Ahamwo, E ve G FT Ceapne,nms=rov.val snot
lout. Thostenmlyboolid,rdin
*of lime range for surviving building in the area
Tabakoim
In mhr fm a budIcing or moveire to qualify as abenms, remne, it man rsem the toIlowng juvem
£ea eatfir in any oro enktiov OM+dean lntamr. OR
un Gadd In my two mterv, with at emo far Me Romany two of Oaign Ill aM Context OR
uo In„b+nm in my four uhmw, with u levet one mob win my twnnfHoop. H,WO and Care” .
• Il it rtuaues Fair'as, Paw, N, Imorriry. same smut rta,w at beat me none Lund that ernW aoaw.
lidgemeed of Notation sen ficames
Ifo Ell or nitrate qunwesin a heritage temutce, then a Smlevlent of Heritage Sigrovisce will be
prept s nnwrzing droprouvely @e Positive camemt<vties noted above. As evalnaded above Nis
properly is a Heritage Resource.
Semen '04 Ball iferiraee Asse ren' 133
mg]: Fronindehlem, verandah. Note missing verandah roofing.
J
Fig, 1: Remaining small horn on property
Seaton '04 Built Herha eAssessment 134
Location/Descriusion
Lot: 25 Concession III
Description: South side of Taunton Rd(#25in SCHRA'94 and map)
Municipallo I075Taunton Road
Historical Background
Onginally a Clergy Reserve property, William Ashton petitioned for its purchase hl 1830.
At that time it was assessed by Francis Legs as being worth 15 shillingeacre due in its
"steep bardcc" (presumably at the rear of the Tragedy)"'. But IaM records show that
William Itmedfoat received the patent in 1839. Proudfoot sold the north half to Thomas
Hdkson in18551 a (and in 1861 the remainder ofthe lot.) A house is shown on the pro�edy
on the 18(aTreadme map. The property was Purchased by Hedy Westgate in 1873" and
on the 1877 maQ 10 two houses are shown. It was sold by Westgate's widow to Rotten
Reesor in 19071'. The Reesors were an extremely important family in We region, spreading
out tram Markham into Scarborough as well as Picketing.
Architectural Description
The existing house on the property apparently dazes from 1927 and was one of the fur local
homes to be built with a concrete foundation and to have services built in. It is an interesting
Edwardian composition combwng a clapbomdd home structure, Colonial Revival save for
its coupled and tripartite (east elevation) windows with a'Cmflsman' enclosed front parch
of stone cobbles and brick. The use of cobblestones with rd brick ecants is used as well at
the boundary Tiers where they are concrete capped with a cast pineapple mon[ (Apparently
these piece have been moved back with the shrinking of the font yard due to the widening
of Taunton Road). This pier type shows up ekewhere in the arms-
While
renWhile the existing house was certainly built by the Reesor family the 1994 interview with
long time resident Alf Bayes indicated that Robed R«sor's house was now "a ruin down
the lane".
OutbuildingslSetring
There are no remaining heritage hams and outbuildings from previous occupations though
several were still in place in 1994. A mark extending from the drive leads dawn to a wide
section of West Duflms Creek. The views to the south hour the site are excellent. The fields
are currently being worked.
int RGI -C-IV, OA
u8 LOM Roomtic time 3190
"or lbld, Irvoko03
no 111ubmmdAI f tim Covey Of0' (Tomtno'. 1.H. Been and Company, 1877.)
111 Ibid. label 1251
Searan'04 Buie Herim eAscessmenr 135
Evaluation (to be read In conjunction with Evaluation Worksheet)
Consideration of Provincial Significance:
As reviewed against the existing criteria this property is not of Provincial Significance.
(See Provincial Cutting)
Statement of Significance:
The building is considered to be of Local Significance for the following reasons:
• Its into but direct association with the regionally maintain Rewor hardly,
• For its`Craflsmmi style porch incobbles and red brick;
• As an early local example ofthe use ofpoured concrete for residential foundstions.
Characterdefining elements
• Thccubbledporch;
• Theconcretefoundalion.
Integrity— Heritage Lost
Below is the original statement regarding this building formulated in early October 2004:
Thi, building is now urwccopied. While that for it remains
runable condition
deterioration will soon exponentially increase unless vigilenceregarding moisture
penetration and/or varddicm is d.
mainraine
This structure has now been destroyed by Ne! If it is determined that this building
cannot he saved it should be comprehensively recorded in photographs prior to
dcmnlifion.
Seattm'04 Built Iferimee Assessment 136
EVALUATION WORSHEET FOR BUILDINGS
AND STRUCTURES
Building Identification:
Address: IPli Taunton Read
E
VG
S.
Criterion Grade
(CircleOne)
7, socame I i Mmape
Denatures
VG
_
Rt
DESIGN
INTEGRITY
L Se,11 VGm1dA ppwl E
VG [.
FR
ll1,15ue1hyhnJ Ulstylef
3. Contractor, Technology, E
VG Q'
FT
and, community by wbblenon, pow
e
Uro ovW
as care macrzre 6uuAtim
3. Mh Neeiwnl EailJer E
VG O
+H[
umi
HISTORY
<. Associmlon I Proem E VG S FT Long smell lot gut home man Macau
Dorm Resw asmnlNlon witn ne,N
x Arc E VG G FT Boost, the V. B the v pninle
CONTEXT
6, InawkIC11mm,
E
VG
S.
FT
Eemilimormamre'mmw,
7, socame I i Mmape
E
VG
_
Rt
Coomble wit n=amonsoon
INTEGRITY
g. Alteration
F
VG
O
NP
e
Uro ovW
IO_
•a f age range for ace, mag and aiuy wlbe aea
TnbWaam
In oder fora bu,1dwg orabwru¢ to yualind, wagon wagon, in may wave 0c viloving goes
• Em/tem in any one memalu, othr than outlines OR
• ryGnWmany mn anwimoast, at lost me yen from any Iwo of 0¢ige Hiwry and Carter; OR
Gassy an, belerl do any f..crime vilh at loan one mcb fiom our coca atDaigm History and Contet
Ifil a ... vea Frei, or Faw fa Contrary, to, It mu't waive at lean me mare GtMthm,ta tlmnve.
Statement of Heritage Significance
If a building or swcnve qualifies as a hedtage ree, then a Statement of Heritage
Significance will be prepared, summarizing descriptively the positive <haracmnslics noted
above. As evaluated above this ptopeny is a Heritage Resource.
6'emen84li ill iier 1 iJ
f a
Fig.2: Viewjromnorfhemr(Augu 2004)
Seaton '04 Built Heriwee Assessment 138
LocatioNDescriotion
Lot: 24 Connection: IV
Description: North side ofTaumon Rd. (#26 in SCILFA'94 and roup)
Municipal q: I I IO Taunton Road
Property Type: Farmstead
Historical Background
Ongins lfy granted to King's College in 1828 it was sold to Robert Smith in the mid I9'"
century " . The Icnkm family are shoam on the South quaver ofthe Int by 1860 l but oWy
received title to it in 1889. The house was probably built between 1860 and I8]] when it is
shown on the County Atlas map.
Architectural Description
When it was visited th 1994 it was still the home with ed dimes related by marriage to
the Leukins. A brief interview was been in with a Alfred Hayes whose mother was s
undergone
then in his ants. who had been bora on the arm. Apparently the house has
seMeone , significant evolution. The curtest tivee bay cense gabled tion[ with its
segnenmlly, emhed 22 windows was addedin the section which a now the 'tail' h m last
quarter west
19th century. (Note the as windows). The open
t a was much smaller
as the west portion of the mil sermon was originallyeoval on open verandah e. was enclosed to
recce additional scow as pert of the major aimed of desmans and above. The current even -
catchier
uvular f t edcportico9 with its fomul heavy tamed columns and its fieldstone amps would
have been added c1930.
Outbuildingsl5etdng
In 1994 it was stated mat'Ybe domestic yard, the barnyard and the associated fences and
outbuilding combine to present a picture of a much came for place, thoughtfully developed
over u long period of serf Nhile these elements remain in plane there has been much less
are given the property since its'cemary' occupants have delmrted. However the elements
do remain. The nee Imed drive leads pot the house and pergola part the back yard with its
frome caboose suit in plane to the mrmymd divided from the domestic yard by a codon
fence. The famtyard is fenced as a'eoaeytal' from the fields beyond. The large bank ham
with fieldstone stable storey is to be east and remiss threshing/wimtowing doors. Attached
Mid rocked into the ramp is a more recent milk house of decorative concrete black. Whet
officers to be a large poultry house is to the north.
14 cane Abstracts
13 Twrani We Map arthe County or Ceara (Toronto '.ac. Treonine, 1860)
Seaton 1#4fluilt Heritage Assessment 139
Evaluation (to be read in conjunction with Evaluation Worksheet)
Consideration of Provincial Significance:
As reviewed under the existing interim this property is not considered to be of Provincial
Significance. (Sec Provincial Criteria)
Statement of Significance:
The Ladkmrf(ayes site is considered to be of Local significance for the following reasons:
It is a good local example of a `century farm with built dements and a domestic
landscape which have evolved over date;
• Its long association with m imponmt loml Eunily.
• Has high mad visibility helping to retain connection in past.
Character-defmdng elements
The form of the house including the centre-gabled front section grafted on to the
original structure including an area that was originally an exterior porch;
• The original GIG wood window sash remaining at the `Tail' and the later segmentally
arched M wood window sash. add front door treatment
The lege bank bam and milk house.
Integrity
The`buegnry' of the site has suffered since the depaning ofdre Kayes badly within the last
ten years. Non-farming tenants with no history on the land cannot be expected to maintain
the standards of a family with over 150 years of investment in it. However the roof retinues
imminent replacement and the waedwork needs painting or will begin to decay.
Seaton '04Built Nerim• Assessment
140
EVALUATION WORSHEET FOR BUILDINGS AND STRUCTURES
Building meutlB[atimmi
Matter: 1130 Taunton
Road (La's nlKayes Houu)
Criterion
Gad
(Circle One)
Reasons
DESIGN
I. style/Visual Appeal
E
VG G
F?
GwJ [wmFb o(rommun qp[
E. CuniwelioNTVAnokgy
E
VG G
F?
Very Emdeumple often. Same
I. Arth./Deailow, I BniNn
E
vG G
Ep
Unknown
HISTORY
J. Asu[mion:PIRM
E
Vf G
FR
lans,m ua, die[[I n
with mien oa[mmry ssmeam
5. Age
E
VG G
FIP
B[W[en l/B°&Rp"t.
CONTEXT
6 Eardmv4/Ch1m[a[
E
vG O
EM
Punialvly complcuw 6rmnmd
road] an earn
T. Sueetanoe,i ndssape
E
vG G
FR
Htlp mean mme tense atteun•
Immodway.
INTEGRITY
a Mundane
E
VC O
F/V
CMngamemiamlyminm.
•nfag[ ruse lar wom's humus m me amt
Tabulnllan
S, ed, W a holding orauueraw m filiXu I tilde,m1mm,.q real native the fainting grades
Eral(ent an any am dOr Ran lmalt OR
ry Gao, any ,,,et with in lm =11 hominy wo of Dealer, History and Cama: OR
6iod(tr&IN,) in any four mam, mith at dean one tod' Son any two of Dmigw. History and comet
• Ifrratetmbe, or elw far treat thm it not rtttrve at one oort G,,i Nml shove.
Statement ofHa¢[Sian Fa
If a building or Ynuctum qualifies in a hat tesceree. @m a Smkmenl of Heritage Sigtifwtce will be
prepared, maintaining descriptively the posave ebuodrieli[Y noted above. As evaluated above Bids
building is a Herimge Resource.
SeatonMI
Fig L Front Elevation
F, J- N'e..t eletanmi
Seaton '04 Haile Herimee Assessment 142
ate, -A
Fig3: Bank n.vieh milk hmae.
Fi84:
Chicken houre
1345805
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