Celebrating the Township of Woolwich’s Heritage During Heritage Week

Woolwich, ON – The Ontario Heritage Trust and municipalities across Ontario will come together to celebrate Heritage Week from February 17-23, 2025. In the Township of Woolwich, this annual observance provides an opportunity to reflect on and honour the rich cultural and architectural heritage that has shaped our community.

With twelve heritage designations registered under the Ontario Heritage Act, Woolwich’s historic sites stand as enduring testaments to the craftsmanship, traditions, and institutions that foster a strong sense of identity and belonging. These landmarks span from the Gore Park Bandstand in Elmira (built in 1892) to the former Township Hall in Conestoga (built in 1888) and the St. Boniface Catholic School in Maryhill (built in 1898).

Among these treasured sites, the former Township Hall in Elmira, commonly known as the Clock Tower, has played a pivotal role in the community. Once home to an early post office and township hall, the building now houses commercial spaces, and its legacy lives on - each day, the tower’s bells chime across Elmire, echoing past into the present.

A particular point of pride in Woolwich is Ontario’s only covered bridge, located in West Montrose. Built-in 1881 by John and Benjamin Bear, the 198-foot-long kissing bridge continues to captivate thousands of visitors annually. Originally covered to protect its wooden frame and floor from the elements, the bridge has become a beloved landmark, symbolizing both romance and resilience.

Beyond its designated heritage properties, Woolwich is also home to several ghost communities - once-thriving settlements where stagecoaches, trains, and farm stands connected early settlers. Though these communities have transformed over time, their stories remain an essential chapter of our shared history.

“The Heritage Committee wishes to draw attention to and encourage residents to celebrate the rich history of our community"; said Mayor Sandy Shantz.  “Woolwich Township is blessed that our heritage properties are being celebrated and their stories passed on to the next generations.”

​​While Woolwich Township is made up of several distinct communities, what unites us is our collective appreciation for heritage buildings, fine craftsmanship, cultural institutions, and the iconic Kissing Bridge. This Heritage Week, we invite everyone to rediscover the landmarks that define our past and continue to shape our future.

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Media contacts:

Rae Ann Bauman, Corporate Communications
Phone: 519-669-6021
Email: rbauman@woolwich.ca

Learn more: www.woolwich.ca/heritage