A New Era for the Bishop’s House of Glengarry
The Bishop’s House of Glengarry, once threatened with demolition, is now poised for a new era. With the support of passionate advocates and funding partners, this historical gem is being restored to its former glory—and beyond—becoming a vibrant cultural center for the community.
A Historic Landmark Reclaimed
Nestled in the heart of St. Raphael’s, Ontario, the Bishop’s House of Glengarry is a remarkable link to the province’s past. Built in 1808 as the home of Rev. Alexander Macdonell, Ontario’s first bishop, it later became a center for education, hosting the province’s first college and, later, the esteemed Iona Academy. For generations, it stood as a pillar of learning and community life.
By 2015, however, the future of this historic landmark was uncertain. Years of neglect had left the building in critical condition, and the specter of demolition loomed. Yet, a dedicated group of individuals had spent over a decade fighting to save the Bishop’s House. Since 2004, the Glengarry Fencibles Trust worked tirelessly to preserve and revitalize the building. Through persistent fundraising, advocacy, and public outreach, they garnered the support needed to secure its future.
Their efforts came to fruition in 2015 when the Trust successfully acquired the building. In 2016, they officially took possession, embarking on a journey of restoration and renewal. Thanks to the vital support of partners like the SDG Regional Incentive Grant, the Bishop’s House is being transformed, ensuring this historic treasure remains a vibrant part of the community for generations to come.
The Bishop’s House of Glengarry offers a unique venue for events such as wedding receptions, book launches, picnics, and Summer Sunday concerts. Since opening to the public in 2023, it has welcomed visitors to explore the history of Rev. Alexander Macdonell and the early days of Ontario, while hosting a variety of community-driven events.
Since taking possession in 2016, the Glengarry Fencibles Trust has been dedicated to restoring and enhancing the property. The yard has been cleared of overgrown trees and shrubs, improving both its aesthetic appeal and accessibility. With support from partners such as the SDG Regional Incentives Grant, significant upgrades to the building have been completed, including a new roof, a mansard roof replacement, new doors, and the addition of a new veranda. Accessibility improvements, such as updated parking spaces and the extension of the existing sidewalk, have further enhanced the site's inclusivity. These upgrades have all contributed to making the property more welcoming for all visitors.
Currently, only 1,000 square feet of the 10,000-square-foot building is accessible to the public. However, the Trust plans to continue its restoration efforts, gradually expanding access to more areas of the building. With ongoing support, the Bishop’s House will continue to grow as a key historical and cultural site, offering a space for future generations to connect with Ontario’s past.
If you’re interested in visiting the Bishop’s House or attending one of their upcoming events, you can contact the Glengarry Fencibles Trust at info@bishopshouse.ca
For more information, visit their website at https://bishopshouse.ca/