I’m excited to announce a new community-led project in Hamilton’s Ward 3: the Landsdale Neighbourhood Inventory! This is one of the first projects for our new non-profit that’s grown out of the Friends of St. Giles, with a broader focus on reuse and our built environment.
As a Landsdale resident and as chair of this new organization, I was proud to introduce the project at the September meeting of the Hamilton Municipal Heritage Committee. (View my slides here, or watch the meeting video below.)
Our project team includes:
- Dr. Sarah Sheehan, community project lead
- Stefan Spolnik, volunteer coordinator
- Alissa Golden, City of Hamilton liaison
- Our wonderful volunteers!
This community-led inventory work is guided by staff and aligns with the City of Hamilton’s Built Heritage Inventory Strategy. More information can be found at hamilton.ca/heritageinventory.
Despite having a fascinating history and wealth of historic buildings — reusable resources that are an important part of our built environment — Landsdale currently includes only 3 protected heritage properties. There are also 2 properties on the Register: the Rebel’s Rock building (537 King St. E.) and the former Pearl Company (16 Steven St.). We’re happy to report that the former Pearl Company building is being given new life as affordable housing: a great example of how adaptive reuse plays an important role in supporting equity and sustainability.
Through this inventory, we’re excited to celebrate the stories, buildings, and streetscapes of this downtown neighbourhood.
With thanks to Alissa Golden, Stefan Spolnik, and everyone who’s supported or volunteered with the project so far.
Lead photo: Brian Kowalewicz.
Sarah Sheehan 