On October 17 at the Art Gallery in Toronto’s historic Distillery District, the Architectural Conservancy of Ontario (ACO) celebrated its 18th annual Heritage Awards, honouring leaders, projects and initiatives for their outstanding contributions to heritage conservation in Ontario.
This year, nominations were received in 13 categories from nine communities across the province.
The ACO is composed of professional architects, designers, and heritage experts who volunteer their skills and advocacy for the preservation of heritage buildings for future generations to enjoy.
Over nine decades of ACO history, the non-government group has saved hundreds of structures in Ontario and increased public awareness of the cultural, economic, and environmental benefits of preservation over demolition.
During its annual Heritage Awards ceremonies, ACO leaders recognize the work of groups committed to preserving historic community assets through their own research, restoration and craftsmanship. Previous award-winning sites have included rejuvenated schools, chapels, theatres, and other structures across the province.
This year’s ceremony held at the Art Gallery featured 33 nominees across eleven award categories.
The Marine Heritage Society (MHS) of Saugeen Shores was one of the recipients when it received the Peter Stokes Restoration Award for small-scale projects. Peter Stokes (1926 – 2013) was one of Canada’s most notable restoration architects, with a lasting influence seen in preserved buildings in Upper Canada Village, Ottawa’s capital region, Niagara-on-the-Lake, and other locations across Canada.
Among those attending the award ceremony on behalf of the MHS were Board members Deb Kaufman, Vicki Tomori, and Chair Wayne Kaufman, who thanked ACO leaders and explained the effort of the restoration to all attendees. Kaufman said that, “It was a privilege for MHS volunteers to work on the restoration and we are honoured the ACO recognizes the Range Light as a beacon of community cooperation for other groups follow.”
Fundraising efforts that faced challenges during the pandemic lockdowns, included online events such as a virtual jazz concert. The generosity of local citizens, businesses, service clubs, and the town helped meet the financial goal. Additionally, firms like ‘Seaman and Sons Builders’ and ‘Good Impressions Woodworking’ contributed their time and expertise. ‘Building Knowledge Canada’ also provided advice on waterproofing and ventilation techniques to enhance resilience against the harsher weather of Lake Huron.
The MHS was nominated several months ago by the Municipal Heritage Committee of Saugeen Shores. Committee Chair Cheryl Grace pointed out that, “While the Range Light restoration was considered a small- scale project by the judging standards, it required a big-time effort to fundraise and repair the beacon. The town is grateful to the Marine Heritage Society for leading the community effort and to the ACO for recognizing this important landmark.”
The front Range Light is one of the most photographed lake icons, branding Bruce County internationally as a tourist and marine history destination. It is documented in the MHS-authored book Southampton’s Watchful Beacons and, due to its steadfast presence since 1903, was designated a historic site under the Heritage Lighthouse Protection Act.
Deb Crawford, Chair of ACO, said that “The Peter Stokes Restoration Award recognizes that exemplary restoration of a heritage structure in accordance with best practices and policies for conservation in Ontario. Thanks to the research and dedication of the members of the Marine Heritage Society, the Front Range Light will light the way for mariners for years to come.”
To view the presentation and history of the Range Light and Restoration …CLICK HERE.
For more on the little Range Light … CLICK HERE.
