Heritage Committee Approves Urgent Roof Replacement for Secord House

UPDATE: The Niagara-on-the-Lake heritage committee has just approved a crucial permit for Hummel Properties Inc. to replace the deteriorating roof of the historic David Secord House located at 46 Paxton Ln. This decision, announced during the committee meeting on October 1, 2023, signifies immediate action to preserve a key piece of local history.

Jennifer Vida, director of development at Hummel Properties, revealed that the project aims to install a new metal roof featuring skylights, enhancing the home’s natural light. Alongside the roof replacement, additional immediate upgrades will include restoring the outer wall plaster, reclaiming chimney materials, and stabilizing the northeast wall, which presents structural issues. Vida emphasized the urgency, stating, “The plan is to complete the new roof before the end of the year.”

The historical significance of the Secord House cannot be overstated. Built in 1799 by Major David Secord, the house has deep roots in the community and is one of the few surviving structures predating the War of 1812. During this conflict, Laura Secord famously rested at the house while on her perilous journey to alert British forces of an impending American attack.

In a statement, co-owner of 2M Architects, Lou Marcantonio, noted the necessity of the skylights: “The current windows do not give enough light. If you want to live there, you need more light.” Plans also include converting the space into a functional living area, complete with a kitchen, bedrooms, and a bathroom.

The property, acquired in 2010 for $950,000, is currently owned by a numbered company based in Toronto. The structure was designated as a heritage building in 2015, and Hummel Properties is actively pursuing a land severance for future developments, which may include residential housing.

Members of the heritage committee expressed support for Hummel’s restoration efforts. Alexander Topps praised the proposal, calling it “quite wonderful news.” Former committee member Brian Marshall, an advocate for the Secord House’s preservation, highlighted its importance, stating, “The Secords are part of our history. They are locally important, provincially important, and nationally important.”

Marshall urged Hummel to utilize historically accurate materials in the restoration, insisting that a proper execution will transform the Secord House into “a vital and unique piece of history” for future generations.

As the project moves forward, community members are eagerly watching this restoration unfold. The urgency of this development reflects not only a commitment to preserving the region’s heritage but also a deep connection to the important stories that shape its identity.

Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as the restoration of the David Secord House progresses.