On Monday, September 8, Township of North Glengarry council voted to start the heritage designation process for two local buildings. The Alexandria Train Station and the Glengarry County Archives were recommended.
The move comes as the township works to ensure non-designated properties are properly assessed and preserved, in line with updates to the Ontario Heritage Act in 2024.
Director of Community Services Stephanie MacRae said the Arts, Culture and Heritage Committee (ACHC) met throughout the year to discuss which properties could be added to the registry. Both buildings were recommended for designation.
Five additional properties are currently being investigated as potential heritage sites following further review.
MacRae said the township expects minimal costs, mainly for Ontario Land Registry documentation and advertising.
The Alexandria Train Station, located at 45 McDougald Street East, holds both historical and architectural value for its simple design, brick construction, and sparing use of materials. Built between 1916 and 1917, it reflects the Grand Trunk Railway’s response to World War I transportation needs.
The Glengarry County Archives, located at 28 Kenyon Street East in Alexandria, is historically significant as it was one of the first constructed buildings in Alexandria. Over the years, the building has been used as a private residence, school, public health facility, and meeting place for the Knights of Columbus.
Built in 1822 as the first home of Colonel Angus Macdonell, the property exemplifies late Georgian architecture.
Council unanimously supported the motion without further discussion.
