Heritage Cambridge

Sustained by the drive and devotion of community-minded volunteers, Heritage Cambridge is in its fifth decade of advocating for heritage conservation.

In 1970, Central School in Galt, and the following year the Gore Insurance Company, were demolished without any consideration for their history or unique architecture. Alarmed at the loss, a small group of citizens under the leadership of Pat Rosebrugh advocated for the preservation of the unique character of the community. What began as a handful of concerned individuals grew to become a visionary organization of volunteers, championing the preservation of the rich stock of built and natural heritage in the southern part of Waterloo Region.

The organization’s first major coup was saving Preston School which faced the wrecking ball in 1974. Heritage Cambridge’s leadership resulted in the retention and conversion of the school into senior citizens’ apartments.

In the following decades, Heritage Cambridge, among many activities, bought and protected McDougall Cottage, including a unique interior frieze painted by a brother of one of the original owners; published heritage walking and driving tour booklets; hosted annual house tours; advocated for Heritage Conservation Districts, including Main Street, Dickson Hill and Blair; bought and restored the provincially significant Sheave Tower in Blair; and provided a mould to recreate the period street lamps in older parts of the city.

The effect of constant advocacy and education has resulted in enlightened heritage policies enacted by local governments and the saving of a number of public and private buildings which define our community. There are still losses but also a growing appreciation of the rich history which has been preserved.

Originally called the Galt Architectural Conservancy when it formed in 1974, Heritage Cambridge, as it came to be known, is now a branch of the Architectural Conservancy of Ontario.