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PLN 28-22
Report to Executive Committee Report Number: PLN 28-22 Date: June 6, 2022 From: Kyle Bentley Director, City Development & CBO Subject: Heritage Permit HP 01-22 - Demolition of former Whitevale Blacksmith Shop 405 Whitevale Road - File: A-3300-047 Recommendation: 1. That the Heritage Permit Application HP 01/22, to demolish the former Whitevale Blacksmith Shop, be approved, subject the following conditions: a) that a demolition plan is submitted to the satisfaction of the Director, City Development & CBO, including notes for salvage and storage of a selection of metal tiles, nails, ring fasteners (metals) and available wood materials; and b) that an appropriate location for storage of materials is provided to the satisfaction of the Director, City Development & CBO; 2. That staff take necessary steps to salvage wood, metal, or other materials to be preserved at the Pickering Village Museum, as part of a collection, or in Whitevale as display, or plaque; and 3. That the appropriate City officials and staff be authorized to take the necessary actions to implement Council’s decision. Executive Summary: A Heritage Permit has been submitted to demolish the former Whitevale Blacksmith Shop, located at Whitevale Park, municipally known as 405 Whitevale Road. The Park is located within the Whitevale Heritage Conservation District. The reason for demolition is that the structure is severely deteriorated and structurally not stable, as identified in a Structural Condition Assessment prepared in 2018 (see Structural Condition Assessment, Attachment #4) A Documentation and Salvage Plan, prepared by a qualified heritage consultant, was also submitted (see Documentation & Salvage Plan, Attachment #5). The building, while not usable, contains evidence of blacksmith work, such as nails, metal fasteners, metal tiles, and more. The full documentation provides a deeper understanding of the historical background, and architectural features, for archival purposes. Further, it labels and documents items for possible salvage and display in the future. Report PLN 28-22 June 6, 2022 Subject: Heritage Permit HP 01/22 Demolition of former Whitevale Blacksmith Shop Page 2 While the City of Pickering Heritage Delegation By-law allows the Director, City Development & CBO to grant minor heritage permits, any requests for demolition or removal of a building within a Heritage Conservation District must be approved or denied by Council, in consultation with its Municipal Heritage Committee. The Heritage Permit was brought forward to the Heritage Pickering Advisory Committee for consideration. The Committee recommended approval of the request to demolish the Blacksmith Shop, with conditions to ensure efforts would be made to salvage materials. Staff recommend that the demolition permit be approved, with careful consideration to salvage and store items from the building for future display, commemoration or exhibition. While demolition is the last resort, the current building poses a safety hazard to the public. The full documentation of the building, professional photographs, materials salvage, and an accurate historical timeline, allow the story of blacksmithing in Whitevale to continue to be told. Financial Implications: Demolition costs will be funded from account 504100-C10320.1705 (WVCC Picnic Shelter), which has $54,404.42 remaining available for this purpose. Discussion: 1. Background The subject lands are located on the south side of Whitevale Road, west of Duffins Creek, within Whitevale Park (see Location Map, Attachment #1). The park is owned by the City of Pickering and has an area of approximately 1.59 hectares. The Whitevale Park forms part of the Whitevale Heritage Conservation District (HCD), designated under Part V of the Ontario Heritage Act by By-law 4074/92. The Whitevale Community Centre, Mary Christian House, a picnic shelter, a parking lot with access to the Seaton Hiking Trail, and the former Blacksmith Shop, currently occupy the park (see Air Photo Map, Attachment #2). The former Blacksmith Shop is not identified in the Whitevale HCD Guide as either a historic or non-historic building in the District. The Whitevale HCD Study, completed by Unterman McPhail Heritage Resource Consultants (1989), indicates the structure was used by Norman Miller as a blacksmith's shop until the mid-1900s. It is possible that James Miller, father of Norman Miller, who was listed as occupying Lot 32, Concession 4 in the 1864 assessment rolls, also used this structure as his blacksmith shop. Half of this shop was destroyed by fire in the early 1900s. The building is presently owned by the City of Pickering and is now derelict. The City of Pickering Heritage Delegation By-law 7651/18 does not permit the Director, City Development & CBO to grant a Heritage Permit for demolition or removal of a building that is part of a Heritage Conservation District. Therefore, as required by the Ontario Heritage Act, the status of this heritage permit application is to be decided by Council, in consultation with its Municipal Heritage Committee. Report PLN 28-22 June 6, 2022 Subject: Heritage Permit HP 01/22 Demolition of former Whitevale Blacksmith Shop Page 3 1.1 Heritage Permit Application A Heritage Permit Application was received by the City Development Department in February 2022 (see Heritage Permit Application, Attachment #3). The City proposes to demolish the former Blacksmith Shop, given that the structure has significantly deteriorated beyond repair. W here possible, City staff will salvage wood and metal, to be used in future museum collections or on City property in Whitevale. The City’s Operations Department has committed to materials salvage, as recommended in a Documentation & Salvage Plan, prepared by Branch Architecture. Current options being explored by staff include: • preserving a collection of the metal tiles and other metal hardware from the exterior of the Blacksmith Shop at the Pickering Museum Village for use in future exhibits; • incorporating the materials in a display created when future repairs are expected at the Whitevale Arts and Cultural Centre in 2022; and • including in the demolition contract the requirement to salvage materials from the demolition, to be turned over to the City, subject to the availability of suitable storage. 1.2 Structural Condition Assessment A Structural Condition Assessment was prepared and submitted by Barry Bryan Associates, dated February 2018, with the Heritage Permit application (see Structural Condition Assessment, Attachment #4). Main observations from the report include: • severe deterioration of the wood roof decking; • lack of structural foundation or floor slab below the wood-frame structure, resulting in heaving of the structure, and damage to the structural supporting elements above; • wood beams supporting the rafters experiencing significant rotting at several locations; and • wood beams appear to be in poor condition. The report concluded that the existing building is severely deteriorated and structurally not stable. The deterioration is a result of prolonged exposure to moisture, insects, and limited maintenance. Demolition is recommended, with selective salvage of the original building components of historical significance. Such artifacts may be archived, or included in the construction of a replacement structure. 1.3 Documentation and Salvage Plan A Documentation and Salvage Plan was prepared and submitted by a qualified heritage consulting and architectural firm, Branch Architecture, dated January 2022 (see Documentation & Salvage Plan, Attachment #5). The report provides a full historical summary, physical description, photographs, and elevation plans. The report also reviews potential materials and recommended opportunities for salvage. Report PLN 28-22 June 6, 2022 Subject: Heritage Permit HP 01/22 Demolition of former Whitevale Blacksmith Shop Page 4 Additional historical information was provided by the heritage consultant. The Miller family settled in Pickering in the 1860s, where James Miller was employed as a blacksmith. Norman, their son, was born in Whitevale in 1869, and purchased a blacksmith business in 1900 from Benjamin Ellison. Norman moved in with his family residing in the old Miller home west of the bridge in 1924, which is the current location of the blacksmith shop. Norman Miller also served as the first librarian of Whitevale Public Library until 1955. The roof of the building collapsed due to snow in 1945. It is generally understood that the Blacksmith Shop was relocated when Whitevale Road was widened. The report includes possible materials for salvage, including: • section of weathered girt with several ring fasteners along the east wall; • an area of the west wall covered in pressed metal tiles; • boards covered in a large number of nails from the mid-19th to early 20th centuries (tapered square nails, cut nails, and circular wire cut types); • a ring fastener at the floor; • simple metal chimney stack; and • large door openings; shelving. Salvage options, record photographs, drawings, and floor plans were also provided. Branch Architecture recommends the following salvage options: Wood elements: wood boards that are not at grade, floorboards, or exterior planks are salvageable for reuse. These would be useful in undertaking repairs or restoration work at other City-owned heritage buildings. Metal elements: as many of the metal elements found were handmade in response to an immediate need, they represent an authentic expression of the local blacksmith’s trade. 1.4 The Ontario Heritage Act Section 42(1.4) of the Ontario Heritage Act states that no owner of property designated under Part V (part of a Heritage Conservation District) shall demolish or remove a building or structure on the property unless the owner obtains a permit from the municipality. Within 90 days after receiving an application (or a time agreed upon by the applicant and council), the council, after consultation with its municipal heritage committee, may consent to the application, consent to the application subject to such terms and conditions as may be specified by the council, or refuse the application. If the council fails to notify the owner of its decision within the 90 day time period, council shall be deemed to have consented to the application. Report PLN 28-22 June 6, 2022 Subject: Heritage Permit HP 01/22 Demolition of former Whitevale Blacksmith Shop Page 5 2. Analysis 2.1 Heritage Pickering Advisory Committee The heritage permit application was presented to the Heritage Pickering Advisory Committee (Heritage Pickering) on two occasions. On April 21, 2022, Heritage Pickering met virtually, but not all staff could be present due to technical issues. Heritage Pickering raised the following concerns and issues with regards to demolishing the Blacksmith Shop: • did not agree that the structural issues were sufficient reason to permit demolition; • that the City has not explored all options, such as determining how much it would cost to rehabilitate the structure; • that the City should explore options outside of the municipality to give the buildings to individuals or companies who may be interested in salvage of materials, or the building as a whole; and • would like to see salvage of materials and commemoration of the site by way of plaque/storyboard, marking the foundation in the ground as an example. Subsequently, the Committee recommended that the Heritage Permit application be refused. The matter was brought forward again to a special meeting on May 12, 2022. At this meeting, the Manager, Facilities Capital Projects, was present and was able to address Heritage Pickering’s concerns, including those from the meeting prior. Staff provided the following additional information at this second meeting: • a response letter to the Committee’s concerns (see Memo to Heritage Pickering, Attachment #6); • findings of the Structural Condition Assessment conducted in 2018, noting severe structural deterioration; • that the City offered the Whitevale District Residents Association a two-year window of opportunity to prepare a business plan to ensure longevity of the structure, but received no submissions; • the need to address safety concerns as the structure continues to deteriorate; and • the opportunity to salvage some structural material for potential reuse. Heritage Pickering passed the following motion: That the Heritage Pickering Advisory Committee decision from April 21, 2022 pertaining to HP 01/22, 405 Whitevale Road be amended to endorse the City staff recommendations as follows: Heritage Pickering Advisory Committee recommends that Heritage Permit Application HP 01/22 be approved subject to the following conditions: Report PLN 28-22 June 6, 2022 Subject: Heritage Permit HP 01/22 Demolition of former Whitevale Blacksmith Shop Page 6 1. That a demolition plan is submitted to the satisfaction of the Director, City Development & CBO, including notes for salvage and storage of a selection of metal tiles, nails, ring fasteners (metals) and available wood materials; and 2. That an appropriate location for storage of materials is provided to the satisfaction of the Director, City Development & CBO. 2.2 Staff Analysis The Blacksmith Shop is not listed as a building with or without historical significance in the Whitevale HCD Guidelines. However, it is within a property included in the Whitevale HCD, and it has been a part of the fabric and story of Whitevale. Photographs included in the report show that the building was in poor repair as far back as 1989. While structural integrity is not a defining factor of cultural heritage significance, the open building and roof pose a risk to public safety. Demolition is only considered as a last resort. In times where demolition is proposed, best practices encourage proper documentation of the building, and where possible, salvage of materials or other commemorative plans. At the request of City Development staff, the applicant has provided full documentation of the structure, and filled in missing historical information, for archival purposes. Salvage of materials will be possible either on-site, or through the Pickering Museum Village. The City also reached out to the Whitevale District Residents Association (WDRA) in 2018, stating that the building was intended to be demolished, based on its condition and providing them with an opportunity to present a business case for the restoration and reuse of the structure. Over three years have passed and no business case has been provided. The Whitevale Heritage Conservation District guide provides guiding principles, and the following are applicable: Section 6.1.1 The heritage buildings described in this guide are to be preserved. Adaptive re-use is encouraged. The demolition of these buildings is strongly discouraged. Section 6.1.2 Maintenance repair and restoration of heritage buildings are encouraged. Section 6.1.6 Documented evidence of original features, such as historical pictures and physical samples, should form the basis for constructing replacement parts. Borrowing of features from other buildings is to be avoided. Report PLN 28-22 June 6, 2022 Subject: Heritage Permit HP 01/22 Demolition of former Whitevale Blacksmith Shop Page 7 The City of Pickering Official Plan, Chapter 8, Cultural Heritage, states that City Council, in consultation with its Municipal Heritage Committee, shall discourage or prevent the demolition or inappropriate alteration of a heritage resource, but where demolition or inappropriate alteration is unavoidable: (i) consider the acquisition and conservation of the resource; and (ii) if acquisition is not possible, conduct a thorough review and documentation of the resource for archival purposes. 3. Conclusion The former Blacksmith Shop has deteriorated due to long term lack of repair and maintenance, and poses a risk to public safety. This structure remains a reminder of Whitevale’s first residents who served their community, and passed the business through generations. Staff recommend that the demolition permit application be approved, with careful consideration to salvage and store items from the building for future display, commemoration, or exhibit. While demolition is the last resort, the current building poses a safety hazard to the public. The full documentation of the building, professional photographs, the salvage of materials, and an accurate historical timeline, allow the story of blacksmithing in Whitevale to continue to be told. Attachments: 1. Location Map 2. Air Photo Map 3. Heritage Permit Application HP 01/22 4. Structural Condition Assessment, prepared by Barry Bryan Associates, dated February 2018 5. Documentation & Salvage Plan, prepared by Branch Architecture, dated January 2022 6. Memo to Heritage Pickering, prepared by Manager, Facilities Capital Projects Report PLN 28-22 June 6, 2022 Subject: Heritage Permit HP 01/22 Demolition of former Whitevale Blacksmith Shop Page 8 Prepared By: Original Signed By Elizabeth Martelluzzi, MCIP, RPP Senior Planner, Development Review & Heritage Original Signed By Nilesh Surti, MCIP, RPP Manager, Development Review & Urban Design Approved/Endorsed By: Original Signed By Catherine Rose, MCIP, RPP Chief Planner Original Signed By Kyle Bentley, P. Eng. Director, City Development & CBO EM:ld Recommended for the consideration of Pickering City Council Original Signed By Marisa Carpino, M.A. Chief Administrative Officer Attachment #1 to Report #PLN 28-22 Whitevale Road Churchwi n S t reet G l a d s t one Street Mill St re e t Fa c t o r y S t r e e t Al t o n a R o a d WhitevalePark 1:4,000 SCALE: © The Corporation of the City of Pickering Produced (in part) under license from: © Queens Printer, Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources. All rights reserved.;© Her Majesty the Queen in Right of Canada, Department of Natural Resources. All rights reserved.; © Teranet Enterprises Inc. and its suppliers all rights reserved.; © Municipal Property Assessment Corporation and its suppliers all rights reserved.; City DevelopmentDepartment Location MapFile: Municipal Address: HP 01-22 THIS IS NOT A PLAN OF SURVEY. Date: Mar. 14, 2022405 Whitevale Road SubjectLands L:\PLANNING\01-MapFiles\Other\Heritage\HP01-22_405WhitevaleRd_LocationMap.mxd Whitevale Heritage District Boundary By r o n S t r e e t Applicant:City of Pickering Attachment #2 to Report #PLN 28-22 Whitevale Road 1:1,000 SCALE: © The Corporation of the City of Pickering Produced (in part) under license from: © Queens Printer, Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources. All rights reserved.;© Her Majesty the Queen in Right of Canada, Department of Natural Resources. All rights reserved.; © Teranet Enterprises Inc. and its suppliers all rights reserved.; © Municipal Property Assessment Corporation and its suppliers all rights reserved.; City DevelopmentDepartment Air Photo Map Municipal Address:405 Whitevale Road THIS IS NOT A PLAN OF SURVEY. Date: Mar. 14, 2022 File:HP 01-22 BlacksmithShop Applicant:City of Pickering Attachment #3 to Report #PLN 28-22 Application for Heritage Permit In accordance with Sections 33 and 42 of the Ontario Heritage Act, a Heritage Permit is required for proposed alterations, additions or demolition to property designated individually under Part IV, Section 29 of the Ontario Heritage Act or proposed new construction, changes, additions or demolition to a property located in a Heritage Conservation District designated under Part V of the Ontario Heritage Act. Date Filed Application Number *Required field First Name *Last Name * Street Address *Unit City *Province *Postal Code * Primary Phone *Ext.Alternate Phone Ext. Email Address * Are you an agent working on behalf of the Applicant/Registered Owner?* Is applicant different from Registered Owner * First Name *Last Name * Street Address *Unit City *Province *Postal Code * Primary Phone *Ext.Alternate Phone Ext. The application number will be assigned by the City of Pickering Part 1: Applicant/Agent Joseph Earle 1955 Clements Road Pickering On L1W 4C2 A1A 1A1 905.420.4660 999.999.9999 3226 905.706.2833 jearle@pickering.ca Yes No Yes No Part 2: Registered Owner City of Pickering City of Pickering One the Esplanade Pickering On L1V 6K7 A1A 1A1 905.420.4660 999.999.9999 Email Address * How is the property designated?* Street Address *Unit City *Province *Postal Code * Lot Number Concession Number Registered Plan Number Description of work to be undertaken (check all that apply)* Full description of proposed work, reasons for undertaking the works and description of how the proposal is consistent with the Part IV Individual Designation By-law or Part V Heritage Conservation District Guidelines. (This may also be submitted as an attachment in part 5 of this form. If attached, indicate below.)* Have you consulted with City Development staff regarding this proposal?* Existing total floor area (meters squared)*Proposed total floor area (meters squared)* Existing use of subject property *Proposed use of subject property * Please attach drawings of the proposed construction. Drawings must be to scale and indicate the existing building and proposed additions, including: a. A site plan showing location of proposed works, with dimensions. b. Overall dimensions of proposal on an elevation drawing. c. Specific sizes of building elements (signs, windows, awnings, etc.). d. Detail information including trim, siding, mouldings, etc. jearle@pickering.ca Part 3: Property Information Individual designation (Part IV) Heritage District Designation (Part V) 405 Whitevale Road Whitevale On L0H 1M0 A1A 1A1 405 Part 4: Proposed Work Alterations to building/property Additions to building/property New construction Demolition (1,000 characters max) The proposed work at Whitevale Park Blacksmith shop is the complete demolition and removal of the building due to its derelict state. A report compiles in 2018 by BBA for the City of Pickering (Attached) details that "the existing building structure is severely deteriorated and structurally not stable". They go on to recommend that a demotion procedure be developed to selectively salvage original building components of historical significance". At the Request of the Whitevale District Residents Association (WDRA), a window of time was provided for them to present a business case for restoration and use of the structure. Three years have passed and no business case has been provided. Any opportunity to salvage materials has passed. The sturcture must now be fully demolished and removed from the site in order to eliminate a potential hazard to the public. Yes No 29.33 0 Unused/Park Parkland/Community centre Part 5: Construction Drawings, Sketch Plans, Scale Drawings e. Materials to be used. Please attach these below or bring them to Pickering City Hall at One The Esplanade, Pickering, ON L1V 6K7, 905.420.4611. Upload Drawings and cover letter Other Information You may provide other written information or documents supporting your proposal for the City's consideration. Photographs Photographs of the building including general photos of the property, the streetscape in which the property is located, the facing streetscape, and if the property is located at an intersection, all four corners. Photos of the specific areas that may be affected by the proposed change or alteration assist the City with the review of the application. Professional Assistance Although it is not a requirement to obtain professional assistance in the preparation of this information, the applicant may wish to seek such assistance from an architect, architectural technologist, preservation specialist, or others familiar with the unique requirements of designated heritage buildings. Ontario Building Code and By-laws This application relates to heritage approval only. It is not a building permit application. It is the applicant's responsibility to apply for and obtain a building permit prior to undertaking any construction. Other Applications Do you have any concurrent applications (i.e., Committee of Adjustment, Building Permit, Site Plan, Zoning By- law Amendment, Official Plan Amendment)?* If yes, please list. Full name of Owner *Full name of Applicant or Authorized Agent * Signature of Owner *Signature of Applicant, or Authorized Agent * Date * Notice of Collection: Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. Personal information is collected under the authority of the Planning Act, RSO. 1990 as amended, and will be used to assist in making a decision on this matter. All names, addresses, opinions and comments will be made available for public disclosure. Any questions related to the collection of this information should be directed to the City Clerk, One The Esplanade, Pickering, ON L1V 6K7, 905.420.4611. 17204 Blacksmith Report FINAL 2018-02-13.pdf 1.32MB DWG - Whitevale BS Shop - East and West Elevations.pdf 294.7KB DWG - Whitevale BS Shop - North and South Elevations.pdf 294.6KB Maximum upload is 5 PDF files, 10 mb each. Part 6: Important Information Yes No Building Permit for demolition Part 7: Authorization City of Pickering Joseph Earle 24-Sep-21 Alternate formats available upon request at 905.683.7575. CDD 0901-10/19 Rev. 19/01/04 Attachment #4 to Report #PLN 28-22 Structural Condition Assessment for the WHITEVALE PARK BLACKSMITH SHOP The City of Pickering BBA PROJECT NO. 17204 FEBRUARY 13, 2018 Structural Condition Assessment for the WHITEVALE PARK BLACKSMITH SHOP BBA PROJECT 17204 TABLE OF CONTENTS INTRODUCTION ..................................................................................................................................................... 1 GENERAL BUILDING DESCRIPTION AND HISTORIC SIGNIFICANCE ........................................................................... 2 OBSERVATIONS...................................................................................................................................................... 3 CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS .............................................................................................................. 4 APPENDIX PHOTOGRAPHS Structural Condition Assessment for the WHITEVALE PARK BLACKSMITH SHOP BBA PROJECT 17204 Barry Bryan Associates 1 | Page February 13, 2018 INTRODUCTION Barry Bryan Associates (BBA), Architects, Engineers, Project Managers were engaged by The City of Pickering to complete a structural condition assessment of the timber framed auxiliary building located within the Whitevale Community Park in Pickering. The building is considered a historically significant building and is part of the Whitevale Heritage Conservation District. BBA conducted an initial site visit on November 21, 2017. The purpose of the site review was to review the existing condition of the structural components, identify any areas of structural concern and provide recommendations on any remedial repairs and/or replacements. The building was not inspected for hazardous materials. There were no reference drawings available for the existing building and site at the time of the inspection. Further, our report is based on visual observations made on site on the date of the review. We did not undertake any destructive or intrusive testing. Structural Condition Assessment for the WHITEVALE PARK BLACKSMITH SHOP BBA PROJECT 17204 Barry Bryan Associates 2 | Page February 13, 2018 GENERAL BUILDING DESCRIPTION AND HISTORIC SIGNIFICANCE The original building consists of timber frame construction and was likely constructed as a part of the Whitevale Community Centre (originally the Miller House). The Miller House was originally constructed between 1825 and 1835. The building is a single storey structure with approximately 300 square feet. The timber structure was originally constructed as the Norman Miller Blacksmith shop and is located at the north side of the Whitevale Community Centre, adjacent to the restored Whitevale Bridge. The building is no longer used as a blacksmith shop and appears to have been abandoned for several years. The original building structure generally consists of exposed heavy timber and wood rafters supported on wood beams and posts. The ground floor structure consisted of wood decking on grade. The basic roof structure consists of a tin roof which is supported on wood plank decking. The roof deck spans between rough cut 4”x4” heavy timber rafters spanning north/south which are spaced at approximately 4’-0” centre to centre. The rafters are complete with lateral struts at the ridge and are notched at the perimeter timber beams. The perimeter beams span a maximum of 8’-0” between rough cut timber posts and diagonal bracing. We observed the timber posts terminating to a perimeter wood grade beam. The building is complete with a gable roof which is supported on perimeter timber walls. Board and batten siding partially remained on the perimeter of the building. Structural Condition Assessment for the WHITEVALE PARK BLACKSMITH SHOP BBA PROJECT 17204 Barry Bryan Associates 3 | Page February 13, 2018 OBSERVATIONS BBA did not enter the existing building as the building due to potential health and safety hazards. The building structure has been partially hoarded to prevent access by the general public. Our review was completed from safe accessible areas at the exterior of the building structure. Our observations include: • Severe deterioration of the wood roof decking was observed throughout the building structure allowing water infiltration into the building (Photos 001, 002). The deterioration appeared to be a result of the advanced deterioration of the tin roof above and continuous exposure to the elements. A tarp enclosure was secured to the top of the timber structure to prevent excessive water infiltration through the roof structure, however, the tarp presently appears to be in poor condition. • Severe water staining was noted at several locations on the underside of the wood roof decking, rafters, beams and posts (Photos 003, 004). This condition is typical for timber members exposed to consistent moist/damp conditions. The water/moisture appeared to have infiltrated through the deteriorated roofing membrane into the building interior. • The roof structure appeared to have been previously reinforced with lateral struts at several locations (Photo 005). The timber reinforcement appeared to be in good condition. • The timber structure was observed to be situated on concrete masonry block units at several locations along the perimeter of the building (Photos 006, 007). • The post for the timber structure appeared to be situated on a wood grade beam. There is no structural foundation or floor slab below the wood structure. Several areas of the wood floor decking appeared to be displaced and in poor condition (Photo 008). The absence of the foundations and excessive water/moisture infiltration into the building has resulted in the heaving of the structure and damage to the structural supporting elements above. • It was observed that a tarp enclosure was previously secured to the top of the exterior walls to protect the building from excessive water/moisture infiltration but has now since been cut/damaged, fully exposing the interior of the building structure to the elements (Photo 009, 010). The excessive water/moisture infiltration has resulted in the significant deterioration of the structural supporting members. • The tin roof was buckled and bowed in many areas allowing probable moisture infiltration into the structure (Photo 011) • The wood beams supporting the rafters appeared to be experiencing significant deterioration and rotting at several locations along its span (Photo 012). The wood beams appeared to be in poor condition. This is likely a result of the continuous exposure to moisture and condensation below the roof. • The wood soffit and fascia is severely deteriorated due to persistent exposure to weather (Photo 013). Structural Condition Assessment for the WHITEVALE PARK BLACKSMITH SHOP BBA PROJECT 17204 APPENDIX PHOTOGRAPHS Structural Condition Assessment for the WHITEVALE PARK BLACKSMITH SHOP BBA PROJECT 17204 Photo 001 Deteriorated Wood Deck Photo 002 Deteriorated Wood Deck Photo 003 Water Staining Photo 004 Water Staining Structural Condition Assessment for the WHITEVALE PARK BLACKSMITH SHOP BBA PROJECT 17204 Photo 005 Reinforced Roof Structure Photo 006 Masonry Block Units at Grade Photo 007 Masonry Block Units at Grade Photo 008 Deteriorated Wood Floor Deck Structural Condition Assessment for the WHITEVALE PARK BLACKSMITH SHOP BBA PROJECT 17204 Photo 009 Damaged Tarp Enclosure Photo 010 Damaged Tarp Enclosure Photo 011 Damaged Tin Roof Photo 012 Deteriorated Beam Structural Condition Assessment for the WHITEVALE PARK BLACKSMITH SHOP BBA PROJECT 17204 Photo 013 Deteriorated Wood Soffit and Fascia Attachment #5 to Report #PLN 28-22 BLACKSMITH SHOP: DOCUMENTATION + SALVAGE PLAN WHITEVALE PARK PICKERING, ONTARIO Cover Image: Blacksmith Shop, 2021. (Branch Architecture, BA) PREPARED FOR: Joseph Earle Acting, Coordinator, Facilities Capital Projects City of Pickering One The Esplanade Pickering, ON L1V 6K7 T: 905.420.4660 ext.3226 E: jearle@pickering.ca PREPARED BY: Branch Architecture 2335 County Road 10 Picton, ON K0K 2T0 E: lreid@branch-architecture.com T: (613) 827-5806 ISSUED: December 17, 2021 DRAFT January 21, 2022 iDOCUMENTATION + SALVAGE PLAN CONTENTS 1 INTRODUCTION 1 2 HISTORICAL SUMMARY 3 3 BUILDING DESCRIPTION 9 4 SALVAGE OPTIONS 10 Appendix 1: Record Photographs Appendix 2: Record Drawings ii BLACKSMITH SHOP, WHITEVALE PARK PROJECT NORTH 1. Map showing location of Blacksmith Shop within Whitevale Park, 2017. (City of Pickering aerial) Blacksmith Shop Whitevale R o a d 2. Blacksmith Shop within Whitevale Park. (Google streetview) Blacksmith Shop 1DOCUMENTATION + SALVAGE PLAN 1 INTRODUCTION Branch Architecture was retained by the City of Pickering to provide a written and visual record of the former Blacksmith Shop at Whitevale Park, and to advise on the viability of salvaging building elements for reuse or interpretative purposes. The City of Pickering intends to demolish the former Blacksmith Shop at the Whitevale Park. This decision was informed by the Structural Condition Assessment of the building by Barry Bryan Associates (February 2018). The assessment (based on a visual review of the structure) determined that “the existing building structure is severely deteriorated and structural not stable” as a result of prolonged expo- sure to moisture, insects and limited maintenance. The report recommended that the City develop a demolition procedure that included salvaging select building components of historical significance. Branch Architecture visited the site on November 18, 2021. This visit included a visual review of the building, both interior and exterior. This work was completed with respect to the Ontario Heritage Tool Kit and the Parks Canada Standards and Guidelines for the Conservation of Historic Places in Canada as well as other charters and guidelines that exemplify heritage best practice. 2 BLACKSMITH SHOP, WHITEVALE PARK 3. Part of Ontario County Map by George R. Tremaine, 1860. (University of Toronto) 4. Part of the Village of Whitevale map showing select buildings and the lot subdivision plan, 1877. (Illustrated Historical Atlas of Pickering Township) 3DOCUMENTATION + SALVAGE PLAN Whitevale Park, where the former Blacksmith Shop resides, forms part of the Whitevale Heritage Conservation District (HCD) and is protected under Part V of the Ontario Heritage Act under by-law 4074/92 dated June 7, 1993. The park is located on the south side of Whitevale Road, directly west of the creek. According to the Background Report of the Hamlet of Whitevale Heritage Conservation District Study by Unterman McPhail Heritage Resource Consultants (August 1989), the building was constructed in the 1860s. The Study provides the following description for the property: Used by Norman Miller as a blacksmith’s shop until the mid 1900s, this building is now derelict. It is possible that James Miller, father of Norman Miller, who was listed as occupying Lot 32, Concession 4 in the 1864 assess- ment rolls also used this structure as his blacksmith shop. Half of this shop was destroyed by fire in the early 1900s. The building is presently owned by the Town of Pickering. The building itself does not appear on the 1860 or 1877 historical maps shown on the opposite page. The 1860 map indicates that the property the building rests on today was owned by T.P. White. James Miller was born in Scotland in 1828. In 1855, Miller and Robina (Robenna) Traill Craigie were married. The couple must have immigrated soon after their marriage as their first child, William, was born in Markham in 1856. Five years later, they were living in Pickering in a 1 1/2 storey frame house.1 He was employed as a blacksmith. Their children included William, James, John, Robina, Anna and Norman Louis.2 3 By 1871, James was no longer listed in the census as he had died in 1870. Norman Louis Miller was born in Whitevale on October 9, 1869. By 1891, Miller (then 20 years old) was working as a blacksmith. At that time he was living with his mother Robina (a widow) and siblings William, James, Robina and Anna.4 Of note, the family was listed next to Benjamin Ellison; Ellison was one of two local black- smiths listed in the 1898-1899 Eastern Ontario Gazetteer and Directory. 1 Library and Archives Canada; Ottawa, Ontario, Canada; Census Returns For 1861; Roll: C-1057 2 Year: 1871; Census Place: Pickering, Ontario South, Ontario; Roll: C-9973; Page: 52 3 Year: 1881; Census Place: Pickering, Ontario South, Ontario; Roll: C_13244; Page: 62; Family No: 307 4 Year: 1891; Census Place: Pickering, Ontario West, Ontario, Canada; Roll: T-6358; Family No: 31 2 HISTORICAL SUMMARY 4 BLACKSMITH SHOP, WHITEVALE PARK 5. Sketch of the Village of Whitevale showing select buildings, 1877. (Illustrated Historical Atlas of Pickering Township ) 6. Looking east along Whitevale Road, 1912. (Pickering Archives) 5DOCUMENTATION + SALVAGE PLAN Norman Miller married Lilly Cordelia Buckler on December 30, 1896.5 They had several children together including Annie, Arthur, Florence, Alma and Elsie. He continued to work as a blacksmith in Whitevale.6 7 8 In 1900, Miller purchased the blacksmithing business of Benjamin Ellison.9 In the fall of 1924, The Pickering News reported that Norman Miller had vacated his premises on the east hill, and had moved in with his family residing in the old Miller home west of the bridge.10 This description aligns with the current location of the blacksmith shop. A few months later, in January of 1925, The Pickering News welcomed a new black- smith to Whitevale: They have purchased the property recently vacant by Norman Miller and Mr. Burgess and sons will carry on the business of general blacksmithing at the old stand.11 According to The Township of Pickering Public Library history, Miller was also the Whitevale Public Library’s first librarian. The library was established in 1925 and, “Mr. Norman Miller, the local blacksmith was appointed librarian and served in this capacity till 1955.”12 On Friday, February 16, 1945, The Pickering News published the following in the Whitevale column: The roof of Norman Miller’s blacksmith shop collapsed on Saturday evening under the terrific weight of the snow. It appears to be a complete loss. Fortunately, Mr. Miller was absent at the time.13 Miller died on September 3, 1957, and is buried in the Whitevale Cemetery. It is understood that the Blacksmith Shop was relocated when Whitevale Road was widened. 5 Ontario marriage certificate. 6 Year: 1901; Census Place: Pickering, Ontario (West/Ouest), Ontario; Page: 3; Family No: 31 7 Year: 1911; Census Place: 6 - Pickering, Ontario South, Ontario; Page: 4; Family No: 52 8 Reference Number: RG 31; Folder Number: 75; Census Place: 75, Ontario South, Ontario; Page Number: 10. This polling division included Whitevale (lots 25-35 in the 4th concession and lots 27-35 in the 5th concession). 9 The Pickering News, Vol. XX, Friday, November 2, 1900, No. 3, p.1. 10 The Pickering News, Vol. XLIV, Friday, October 31, 1924,No. 8, p.1. 11 The Pickering News, Vol. XLIV, Friday, January 30, 1925, No. 21, p.5. 12 The Township of Pickering Public Library by Moyra R. Whiteford, p. 36. 13 The Pickering News, Vol. LXIV, Friday, February 16, 1945, No. 26, p.5. 6 BLACKSMITH SHOP, WHITEVALE PARK 7. Photos of the Whitevale “Blacksmith Shop”, 1970. (A Rural Ontario History, Pickering Archives) 7DOCUMENTATION + SALVAGE PLAN 8. Blacksmith Shop as viewed from the south-west, c. 1989. (The Hamlet of Whitevale HCD Study) 9. “Norman Miller Blacksmith Shop”, 1989. (Pickering Archives) 8 BLACKSMITH SHOP, WHITEVALE PARK 7' - 3 1/2" Sk-015 2 3 419 ' - 1 " 5' - 1 0 1 / 8 " 6' - 1 0 5 / 8 " 5' - 8 1 / 4 " 16' - 0" N Scale1/4" = 1'-0" 11/30/21 11:56:51 AM Interior Elevs Sk-011/4" = 1'-0"101 Main 1/4" = 1'-0"2 North Int 1/4" = 1'-0"3 East Int 1/4" = 1'-0"4 South Int 1/4" = 1'-0"5 West Int 10. Rendered interior elevations, not to scale. (Branch Architecture) 9DOCUMENTATION + SALVAGE PLAN 3 BUILDING DESCRIPTION The former Blacksmith Shop (now vacant) is located along the north edge of Whitevale Park adjacent to Whitevale Road and the bridge. The building is roughly 16 ft. x 19 ft. with the short side facing north. The building does not have a proper foundation but rather the floor structure rests on several concrete blocks at grade. Along the north elevation, the sill plate is partially concealed by earth. The structure is a simple timber frame building. The heavy timber frame, secondary timbers (girts and braces), floor joists and notched rafters are generally consistent in size, type and configuration. The primary structural elements (posts and beams) range in size and include 4” x 6”, 6” x 6” and 8” x 6” members. The secondary struc- tural elements and cross braces are also 4” x 4”. The primary structural elements are joined using pegged mortise and tendon connections. The timbers do not appear to have been salvaged from another structure. The floor is made up of two layers of 1 1/2” thick wood boards, approximately 12” wide. The exterior is clad in 1” thick wood planks up to 18” in width and set in a board and batten pattern (where intact) and pressed metal tiles (on the west side only). The roof displays pressed metal panels. As it is today, the building is a unique example of a timber frame Blacksmith Shop in the hamlet. The building displays a weathered appearance due to its age, expo- sure to the elements, and the impact of its long-standing use as a blacksmith shop. Upon close inspection of the interior, there many charming details and custom pieces that are likely related to its former use. These include: a weather girt with several ring fasteners along the east wall; an area covered in pressed metal tiles along the west wall; boards covered in a large number of nails from the mid-19th and early 20th centuries (tapered square nails, cut nails, and circular wire cut types); a ring fastener at the floor; simple metal chimney stack; large door open- ings; shelving; etc. 10 BLACKSMITH SHOP, WHITEVALE PARK 4 SALVAGE OPTIONS The former Blacksmith Shop presents a few opportunities for reuse and interpre- tation specific to the wood, pressed metal tiles and metal hardware. 1. Wood elements - Salvage for future repairs Due to the robustness of the construction and the fact that the building rests on concrete blocks (allowing for ventilation beneath), the wood timbers and boards largely appear to be in sound condition. Wood elements located adjacent to grade or directly below roof leaks display rot or deterioration related to moisture, however, many of the above grade timbers, floor boards and exterior wood planks (cladding) are salvageable for reuse. Given the age of the building and the associated quality and sizing of the wood elements - true size structural elements, thick floor boards and exterior cladding - these are good candidates for salvage. These would be useful in undertaking repairs or restoration work at other City owned heritage buildings. It is often diffi- cult to find good matches in wood species, size, quality, texture and natural wear. 2. Metal elements - Salvage for interest / display While the building has been stripped of much of its original hardware, examples of nails, metal rings and pressed metal tiles remain. As many of these elements were likely handmade in response to an immediate need, they represent an authentic expression of the local blacksmith’s trade. Samples of the following could be collected for a future display at the Miller House at Whitevale Park: • a piece of wood board (18” x 18”) that displays a large number and variety of historic nails; • a section of the weathered rail or girt with metal rings (3 to 4 feet in length); and • a few intact samples of the pressed metal tiles. Further, in the interest of diverting demolition material from landfill, it is recom- mended that if the City is not interested in salvaging these items for reuse that a historic building salvage company or local heritage contractor be invited to remove sound building elements for reuse as part of the demolition process. 11DOCUMENTATION + SALVAGE PLAN Appendix 1: Record Photographs 1.As viewed looking north-east from within Whitevale Park. Context 12 BLACKSMITH SHOP, WHITEVALE PARK 2. As viewed looking east along Whitevale Road. 3. As viewed looking north from vegetation near the creek and within Whitevale Park. 13DOCUMENTATION + SALVAGE PLAN 4. North elevation. 5. East elevation. Exterior Elevations 14 BLACKSMITH SHOP, WHITEVALE PARK 6. South elevation. 7. West elevation. 15DOCUMENTATION + SALVAGE PLAN 8. North interior elevation. 9. Shelving at corner. Interiors with details 10. Pegged mortise and tendon joints. 16 BLACKSMITH SHOP, WHITEVALE PARK 11. East interior elevation. 12. Wood blocking (former shelf support?)13. Weathered or shaped girt (middle rail). 17DOCUMENTATION + SALVAGE PLAN 14. South interior elevation. 15. Metal rings at girt (middle rail).16. Joint connections at middle rail. 18 BLACKSMITH SHOP, WHITEVALE PARK 17. West interior elevation. 18. Knee brace fastened to heavily pegged timber.19. Door threshold. 19DOCUMENTATION + SALVAGE PLAN 20. Looking west at roof structure. 21. Looking east at roof structure. 20 BLACKSMITH SHOP, WHITEVALE PARK 22. Perspective view from the north-west. 23. Perspective view from the south-west. Perspectives 21DOCUMENTATION + SALVAGE PLAN 24. West elevation, floor structure.25. West elevation, vertical boards attached to structure with wood dowels Building Details 26. South elevation, floor structure. 22 BLACKSMITH SHOP, WHITEVALE PARK 27. South elevation, sample window opening. 28. Typical window sill.29. Typical window / door header. 23DOCUMENTATION + SALVAGE PLAN 30. Eaves detail.31. Metal shingle roof and chimney 32. Pressed metal tile. 33. Nail heads. 24 BLACKSMITH SHOP, WHITEVALE PARK Appendix 2: Record Drawings 19 ' - 1 " O . D . 5' - 1 0 1 / 8 " op e n i n g 6' - 1 0 5 / 8 " 5' - 8 1 / 4 " 16' - 0" O.D. N 4x6 post 8x6 post 8x6 post 4x4 post 8x6 post7.75x64x5.5 4x4 post 4x4 post opening 4' - 1 3/4" opening 2' - 2 1/4" opening 5' - 7 1/2" 7' - 8 1/2"7' - 7 1/2" 9' - 0 1 / 2 " 9' - 4 1 / 2 " 2' - 2 3/4" roof line above Scale1/4" = 1'-0"12/17/21 12:01:56 PM Floor Plan405 Whitevale Road, Pickering Whitevale Blacksmith Shop Sk-0121-02-02 4x4 rafters, typ 2x4 collar ties, typ 6x6 beam open open4x4 girt 4x4 brace 6x6 beam 1x4 sill 9' - 1 1 / 2 " 14 ' - 2 1 / 4 " metal tiles 4x4 girt 4x4 brace 6x6 beam open Scale1/4" = 1'-0"12/17/21 12:01:56 PM Interior Elevations405 Whitevale Road, Pickering Whitevale Blacksmith Shop Sk-0221-02-02 1/4" = 1'-0"1 North Int 1/4" = 1'-0"2 East Int open openopen open 4x4 girt open 6x6 beam 9' - 1 1 / 2 " Scale1/4" = 1'-0"12/17/21 12:01:56 PM Interior Elevations405 Whitevale Road, Pickering Whitevale Blacksmith Shop Sk-0321-02-02 1/4" = 1'-0"1 South Int 1/4" = 1'-0"2 West Int Attachment #6 to Report #PLN 28-22 Memo To: Elizabeth Martelluzzi May 5, 2022 Senior Planner, Development Review & Heritage From: Vince Plouffe Manager, Facilities Capital Projects Copy: Director, Community Services Director, City Development Director, Operations Manager, Facilities Maintenance Manager, Development Review & Urban Design Coordinator, Park Capital Assets Subject: Whitevale Park -Blacksmith Shop Demolition File: O-8320 The following responses are offered to comments and questions raised at the April 21, 2022 Heritage Advisory Committee meeting regarding the proposed demolition of the derelict blacksmith shop structure located on the same property as the Whitevale Community Centre at 405 Whitevale Road. 1.Why not fix it? A lease agreement exists between the City and Whitevale District Residents Association (WDRA) for the operation and cleaning of the Whitevale Community Centre. Capital repairs and infrastructure maintenance remain the responsibility of the City. When the structural report prepared by Barry Bryan Associates was received in 2018, the City met with senior representatives of the WDRA to review what could be done. The City was not prepared to invest funds to restore or replace a fully deteriorated structure, preferring to prioritize resources to maintain the Whitevale Community Centre, replacing the adjacent picnic shelter and complete repairs to the Whitevale Arts and Cultural Centre. WDRA committed to providing a proposal to the City within two years, to include a proposed scope of work and funding to support it. No proposal has been received. It has now been four years and the structure has deteriorated even further, to an extent that constitutes a potential public hazard. 2.Why not do more with it? There is little to nothing left of the building that can reasonably be salvaged. Any effort to repurpose it would require a full replacement of the existing structure. Given the extent of the damage, any attempt to do more would begin by removing the existing materials. May 5, 2022 Page 2 of 2 Whitevale Park – Blacksmith Shop Demolition 3. Why not have it deconstructed rather than demolished? Most of the wood is completely rotten and the tin roof is heavily corroded. As identified in the original demolition submission, the City intends to salvage some of the materials, to be transferred to the Pickering Museum Village for future display and commemoration. It is unlikely that more than a few individual boards and roof panels would be re-usable in manner that would be sustainable beyond the short term, if at all. They are beyond end of serviceable life. 4. Why not save more of it? Simply put: there is nothing more to save. The structure was in very poor condition when the original structural assessment and review was completed in 2018. Four years of additional exposure to the elements has only worsened its deterioration. 5. Whitevale Community has historically been allowed to maintain pieces of heritage infrastructure and may have interest in participating in preserving it. The practice of community ‘work bees’ to undertake building repair projects was discontinued in 2014 due to liability concerns and potential conflicts with the City’s collective agreement with CUPE union staff, specifically pertaining to Facilities Maintenance. As noted in #1, above, WDRA were provided with ample opportunity to propose and fund a solution, but no proposal received. The City remains open to any such proposals, but cannot allow a potential public safety hazard to remain in place while awaiting a submission. I will gladly meet with the Heritage Advisory Committee, at their convenience, in order to address these or any other questions in greater detail. The City has every intention of respecting its own local history. Unfortunately, this particular structure was already beyond the point of salvage before this conversation even began, and now constitutes a concern for public safety that can no longer be deferred. VP:-