Old St. Thomas Church 200th Anniversary COMMEMORATIVE GUIDE
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Page 3.....................Greetings from the President Page 4.....................Greetings from Governor General Mary Simon, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau Lieutenant Governor of Ontario Edith Dumont, Premier of Ontario Doug Ford Page 5.....................Greetings from The Right Reverend Todd Townshend Bishop of Huron, and City of St. Thomas Mayor Joe Preston Page 6.....................Historic Karn Organ Restored Pages 8 and 9.........The History of the Old St. Thomas Church Page 10...................Our Historic Bell Page 11...................Calendar of Events in Celebration of our 200th Anniversary Page 12...................Celebrating History Through Art: The Old St. Thomas Church Exhibition Page 13...................A Look at our Upcoming Book Page 14...................Our Special June Service and the Summer Concert Series Page 15...................Celebrating our Past, Exploring our Future Pages 16 and 17.....The Old St. Thomas Church Restoration and Maintenance Trust Pages 18 and 19 ....The Old St. Thomas Church Cemetery
Congratulations on reaching your 200th anniversary! It’s an incredible achievement that speaks volumes about your unwavering dedication to faith and community. Here’s to two centuries of making a difference in St. Thomas.
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OLD ST. THOMAS CHURCH 200th ANNIVERSARY GUIDE
The Old St. Thomas Church Restoration & Maintenance Trust Bicentennial Celebration President’s Thoughts by Gail Ballard
Two Hundred years! The Bicentennial! What an incredible milestone for the charming Old St. Thomas Church and Cemetery. I have had the privilege to have been involved with the continued restoration and care for over 25 years through the efforts of the Old St. Thomas Church Restoration & Maintenance Trust’s Board. As a child, I visited the picturesque
legacy of this historic setting is both engaging and memorable to those who work to preserve the site and to those who visit from around the world. The Old Church we enjoy today represents the commitment and vision of thousands of hands that have been devoted stewards of her. It is a remarkable accomplishment that two centuries later, these grounds can still be enjoyed and shared through summer tours, an evening concert, a carol singing or a quiet green space of peace and reflection. The Old Church represents the celebration of our ancestor’s commitment to faith and a bright future for those who ventured to settle the new land of Upper Canada. Please come and celebrate the beauty, tranquillity, and story of the site as we celebrate and commemorate this amazing year in the Old St. Thomas Church’s history.
grounds, learning of my roots and visiting the resting place of my great, great, great grandparents Richard and Martha Gilbert, who immigrated from Devonshire, England, in 1831, settling 400 acres of virgin Carolinian woodland in North Yarmouth. I am blessed to have had such a personal connection. The
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OLD ST. THOMAS CHURCH 200th ANNIVERSARY GUIDE
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OLD ST. THOMAS CHURCH 200th ANNIVERSARY GUIDE
The Diocese of Huron THE ANGLICAN CHURCH OF CANADA The Right Reverend Todd Townshend Bishop of Huron Diocese of Huron THE ANGLICAN CHURCH OF CANADA The Right Reverend Todd Townshend Bishop of Huron May 5, 2024 The Sixth Sunday of Easter
OFFICE OF THE MAYOR t. 519.631.1680 ext. 4131 f. 519.631.9970 545 Talbot St., P.O. Box 520, City Hall St. Thomas, Ontario, N5P 3V7
Grace and Peace be with you.
Dear members of The Old St. Thomas Church,
May 5, 2024 The Sixth Sunday of Easter Since its completion in 1824, the St. Thomas Anglican Church has been a landmark in St. Thomas. Predating the foundation of the Diocese of Huron, it is amongst the oldest buildings in the Diocese. Now known as Old St. Thomas’, it remains a consecrated Chapel of Ease where occasional services are held in addition to the other civic and community gatherings appropriate to this heritage site. Grace and Peace be with you. Since its completion in 1824, the St. Thomas Anglican Church has been a landmark in St. Thomas. Predating the foundation of the Diocese of Huron, it is amongst the oldest buildings in the Diocese. Now known as Old St. Thomas’, it remains a consecrated Chapel of Ease where occasional services are held in addition to the other civic and community gatherings appropriate to this heritage site. I extend my episcopal blessing to all associated with Old St. Thomas’ and to those who continue to care for this important and historic structure. May it long stand as a testament to the Christian faith of its builders and all of us who have come after them. Warmest congratulations on this 200 th anniversary! In Christ, I extend my episcopal blessing to all associated with Old St. Thomas’ and to those who continue to care for this important and historic structure. May it long stand as a testament to the Christian faith of its builders and all of us who have come after them. Warmest congratulations on this 200 th anniversary!
On behalf of City Council and the residents of St. Thomas, I would like to extend my warmest and sincerest congratulations to the members of The Old St. Thomas Church on the joyous occasion of its 200 th anniversary. This remarkable milestone is a testament to the enduring legacy, faith, and community spirit that have characterized The Old St. Thomas church throughout its rich history. For two centuries, this church has stood as a symbol of unwavering devotion to serving others, and has been a beacon of hope, compassion, and spiritual guidance for our community. It has also witnessed and nurtured countless moments of joy, solace, and inspiration for generations of families who have called St. Thomas their home. I extend my heartfelt well wishes to all the members, past and present, who have committed themselves to upholding these values and who have contributed to this church ’ s growth and impact. As you celebrate this bicentennial, may you continue to be blessed with strength, unity and prosperity, and may The Old St. Thomas Church remain a pillar of faith and a source of comfort and support for many years to come.
The Right Reverend Todd Townshend Bishop of Huron
In Christ,
Sincerely,
The Right Reverend Todd Townshend Bishop of Huron
Mayor Joe Preston
The Incorporated Synod of the Diocese of Huron | Huron Church House, 190 Queens Ave., London Ontario N6A 6H7 Phone: (519) 434-6893 Ext. 223 or 1-800-919-1115 (ON) | Fax: (519) 673-4151 | E-mail: BishopTodd@huron.anglican.ca
The Incorporated Synod of the Diocese of Huron | Huron Church House, 190 Queens Ave., London Ontario N6A 6H7 Phone: (519) 434-6893 Ext. 223 or 1-800-919-1115 (ON) | Fax: (519) 673-4151 | E-mail: BishopTodd@huron.anglican.ca
Drive through the years and honk for joy—it’s your 200th anniversary! Two hundred years of sizzling success deserves an extra-large side of congratulations!
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OLD ST. THOMAS CHURCH 200th ANNIVERSARY GUIDE
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Historic Karn Organ Is Restored in Time for Old St. Thomas Church’s Bicentennial by Heather Jackson The Old St. Thomas Church houses an 1889 D.W. Karn Organ on its balcony. This instrument, crafted by the renowned D.W. Karn Piano & Organ Company of Woodstock, Ontario, is one of two organs in the church but not the original. The original organ was transferred to St. John’s in London Township in 1877 and was later destroyed. The Karn organ was donated to the church in 1968 by Edith Topfner in memory of her late husband, Josef Topfner, the church’s former caretaker. D.W. Karn’s company was a major player in the Canadian music industry, and it was noted for its high-quality pianos and organs. Karn himself was also a prominent civic figure, serving as Woodstock’s mayor in 1889 and running for Parliament. Designed as a dual-purpose instrument suited to parlour and church use, the Karn organ had fallen into disrepair, with cracked bellows, worn leathers and felts, and clogged reeds. It had been largely silent since before the COVID-19 pandemic.
Jantzi offered to restore the organ free of charge in honour of the church’s 200th anniversary. The church board accepted his generous offer, and the organ was transported to his workshop on February 10, 2024, to begin the restoration process. The restored organ was installed back into its case at the Old St. Thomas Church on March 23, 2024, where organist Amadeusz Kazubowski-Houston played Nimrod by Edward Elgar (watch the video by going to https://fb.watch/sbcQ4gePde). This restoration has brought the historic Karn organ back to life, enriching the celebrations at Old St. Thomas Church and preserving a piece of musical heritage for future generations. For more details and pictures on the restoration, visit Rodney Jantzi’s Facebook page or his website. Hear Rodney perform on the organ on July 17th as part of our Summer Concert Series.
In August 2022, Rodney Jantzi, an enthusiast and restorer of reed organs, visited the Old St. Thomas Church and attempted to play the organ. He discovered severe air leakage and numerous dead reeds, signalling the instrument’s dire need for restoration. Moved by a news article about the church’s nearly silent Christmas Eve service in 2023,
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OLD ST. THOMAS CHURCH 200th ANNIVERSARY GUIDE
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The History of the Old St. Thomas Church
by Heather Jackson, Chair of the Bicentennial Committee Located on Walnut Street in the City of St. Thomas, the Old St. Thomas Church is one of the oldest structures in St. Thomas. Surrounded by a graveyard dating back to 1819, the churchyard is the final resting place of many generations of Anglicans in St. Thomas. The Old St. Thomas Church was founded on land donated by Captain Daniel Rapelje, the founder of St. Thomas. It is considered an early example of North American pioneer architecture. Daniel Rapelje (1774-1828), an American who came to Upper Canada in 1802, became a captain of the 1st Middlesex Militia after serving in the War of 1812. Following the war, Capt. Rapelje built a grist mill which attracted new settlers to the area. In 1821, Rapelje donated two acres of his original land grant to be used for a church building and a burial ground for Anglican adherents in the area. Rapelje had already buried two sons on the site by 1819. The church was constructed with bricks made in the Kettle Creek Valley between 1822 and 1824, and a tower, steeple, and chancel were added in 1825. A donation from Col. Thomas Talbot financed these additions. As one of the earliest churches in the area, the congregation had to rely on visiting missionary ministers of different denominations until a permanent Rector could be secured.
The most important visiting minister was Rev. Charles James Stewart, who spent much of his career helping to establish the Anglican church in southwestern Ontario. Rev. Stewart (1775- 1837) arranged for the first Holy Communion at the church on June 19, 1825. Though Stewart became the Bishop of Quebec in 1826, he often returned to St. Thomas. The church’s first incumbent was the Rev. Alexander Mackintosh, a missionary deacon who served from 1824-1829 and was also the village’s schoolmaster. The congregation began with only 12 parishioners in 1825 but quickly grew to 41 by 1827. The church was consecrated in 1833 and would serve the congregation continuously until 1877 when Trinity Church opened. The 1824 church building then served as a Sunday school, losing its bell to Trinity Church. In the 1840s, the church was extended to the south, and transept galleries and a vestry were added. The pulpit was also relocated to the junction of the nave and transept at that time. The interior
Photo courtesy of Elgin County Archives.
We Celebrate Your 200th Anniversary!
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Congratulates Old St. Thomas Church on its 200th Anniversary Here’s to many more years of community, celebration and growth.
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OLD ST. THOMAS CHURCH 200th ANNIVERSARY GUIDE
is characterized by simple white walls and box pews called ‘family pews’. The galleries have simple wainscoting panels of dark wood. The transept and sanctuary walls have ogee arch windows, simple wood muntins of intersecting tracery, and small quatrefoils. The exterior walls of the nave are rendered with white stucco over brick. The tower is wood frame with white clapboard and contains a pair of lancet louvered vents on the façade, and single lancet louvered vents on the sides. The crenellated roof of the tower is replicated along the slope of the gable roof of the main façade. The tall and slender octagonal needle spire rises above the crenellated tower and is clad with slate shingles.
1848 Royal Coat of Arms
1852 Queen Victoria portrait
1852 Prince Albert portrait
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Our Historic Bell by Heather Jackson, Chair of the Bicentennial Committee Nestled within the City of St. Thomas, Ontario, stands the historic Old St. Thomas Church, a testament to the enduring legacy of faith and craftsmanship. Among its treasures lies a remarkable relic, the original bell, cast in 1838 by Maj. George Holbrook Bells of Medway, Massachusetts. Weighing an impressive 500 pounds and measuring 28-1/2 inches in diameter, this bell symbolizes the church’s rich history and connects to an illustrious lineage of American craftsmanship. George Holbrook, born in 1767, was apprenticed to none other than Paul Revere, the legendary figure of the American Revolution, renowned for his midnight ride and his skills as a silversmith and bell maker. Under Revere’s tutelage, Holbrook honed his craft, mastering the intricacies of machinist and clockmaker trades, which would later culminate in creating timeless pieces like the bell at Old St. Thomas Church. Originally installed at Old St. Thomas Church in 1838, this bell faithfully served its congregation until the growth of the town and the congregation outgrew its location. In 1877, Trinity Church was built, and St. Thomas Church closed for regular services. For over a century, it resonated with the faithful, tolling the passage of time and marking moments of significance in the community’s life. However, the bell’s journey was far from over. In January 2020, when Trinity Church closed its doors, the bell found a new home at the St. Thomas Islamic Centre, where it continues to stand as a symbol of unity and resilience. In 1951, another bell entered the scene, gifted to the church by the family of a former Wabash Railway Mikado Engine 2268 engineer.
This new addition brought its own resonance, its chime blending with the echoes of history embedded within the church’s walls. Today, as the Restoration and Maintenance Trust endeavours to repatriate the original bell to its rightful place at Old St. Thomas Church, the echoes of its past reverberate with renewed vigour. Guided by Verdin Bells, experts in the art of bell restoration, this endeavor seeks not just to restore a piece of history but to ensure that its voice continues to resonate for generations to come.
In the symphony of time, these bells stand as more than mere instruments; they are guardians of memory, storytellers of a bygone era, and beacons of hope for the future. As they ring out across the landscape of St. Thomas, they remind us of the enduring power of faith, craftsmanship, and community to transcend the boundaries of time and space.
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OLD ST. THOMAS CHURCH 200th ANNIVERSARY GUIDE
Old St. Thomas Church Bicentennial Events List All Summer Long Church & Cemetery Tours June Anniversary Church Service Saturday the 22nd. Starting at 10:30 am. July Summer Music Series John Milles: Wednesday the 3rd. Starting at 7 pm. Founder’s Day Service: Sunday the 7th. Starting at 3 pm. Summer Music Series Ken Baldwin: Wednesday the 10th. Starting at 7 pm. Summer Music Series Rodney Jantzi: Wednesday the 17th. Starting at 7 pm. Summer Music Series Barkley Road Brass Works: Wednesday the 24th. Starting at 7 pm. Summer Music Series – Allen Weatherall – Wednesday the 31st. Starting at 7 pm. August Summer Music Series Ukes of Hazzard: Wednesday the 7th. Starting at 7 pm. Summer Music Series Jeff Butler: Wednesday the 14th. Starting at 7 pm.
Photo by Tony Bendel
Old Church Exhibition at the St Thomas Elgin Public Art Centre August 17 to September 14 Summer Music Series St. Hilda’s/St. Lukes Choir: Wednesday the 21st. Starting at 7 pm. Summer Music Series Eva Marton: Wednesday the 28th. Starting at 7 pm. December Carol Sing Sunday December 1st, featuring our Book Launch.
519-631-1333 • 6804 Sunset Drive Warmest congratulations as you celebrate your bicentennial.
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Celebrating History Through Art: The Old St. Thomas Church Exhibition by Heather Jackson In the heart of St. Thomas, Ontario, lies a treasure trove of history – the Old St. Thomas Church. With its timeless charm and storied past, this iconic landmark has been a beacon of the community for generations. Now, as we gear up to celebrate its bicentennial, the Bicentennial Committee is spearheading a unique initiative to honour the rich heritage of St. Thomas through art. The St. Thomas Elgin Public Art Centre will host a special exhibition from August 17 to September 14, 2024, showcasing original artworks depicting the Old St. Thomas Church. This initiative aims to capture the essence and significance of the church in the eyes of local artists and the community at large. The call for submissions has ignited a wave of creativity throughout St. Thomas and beyond. Artists of all ages and backgrounds have been inspired to pick up their brushes and capture the spirit of the Old St. Thomas Church on canvas. From seasoned painters to aspiring amateurs, each artist brings a unique perspective and artistic flair to their interpretation of this beloved landmark. Among the artwork that will be displayed is “The Lychgate, Old Church, St. Thomas” by renowned local artist Carolyn Curtis (1903-1995). Carolyn painted this beautiful watercolour in 1950 and it is an example of her deep connection to St. Thomas and her passion for preserving history through art. Carolyn’s painting pays homage to the timeless beauty and architectural grandeur of the structure. Through her meticulous brushwork and keen attention to detail, Carolyn breathes life into the weathered stones and soaring spire of the church, evoking a sense of nostalgia and reverence. As the exhibition’s opening night approaches, anticipation builds within the community. Residents and art enthusiasts alike eagerly await the opportunity to immerse themselves in the visual splendour of the Old St. Thomas Church’s history brought to life through art. The exhibition promises to be a celebration of creativity, heritage, and community spirit—a testament to the enduring legacy of the Old St. Thomas Church and its place in the hearts of the people. Visitors to the St. Thomas Elgin Public Art Centre (301 Talbot St ., St. Thomas) will have the chance to explore a diverse array of artworks inspired by the Old St. Thomas Church, each offering a unique perspective on this iconic landmark. From traditional
paintings to mixed-media installations, the exhibition promises to showcase the boundless creativity and talent within the St. Thomas artistic community. As we celebrate the Old St. Thomas Church’s Bicentennial, let us not only reflect on the past but also look to the future with hope and inspiration. Through art, we have the power to preserve the stories and memories that define us, ensuring that the legacy of places like the Old St. Thomas Church continues to inspire generations to come. Join us at the St. Thomas Elgin Public Art Centre as we celebrate history, heritage, and the transformative power of art. Let us honour the Old St. Thomas Church and all it represents—a symbol of resilience, community, and the enduring spirit of St. Thomas. Painted by Maxine Allen, The Old St. Thomas Church and its Lychgate dated 1976.
Betty Lynn Cassis Sales Representative 519.670.9436 Congratulations on your church’s remarkable 200-year anniversary! Just as you’ve provided a spiritual foundation for your community, your steadfast presence has become an integral part of the local landscape. Here’s to two centuries of faith, fellowship, and the invaluable contributions your church has made to the neighborhood. Wishing you continued blessings as you embark on the next leg of your journey.
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OLD ST. THOMAS CHURCH 200th ANNIVERSARY GUIDE
Upcoming Old St. Thomas Church Book Join us on a journey through time as we unveil the captivating story of the Old St. Thomas Church! The Bicentennial Committee has embarked on a mission to immortalize this cherished landmark’s rich history and significance within our community. Thanks to the expertise of local author Maridon Duncanson, and the invaluable assistance of Steve Peters, this vision has blossomed into a remarkable book. Delve into the origins of the Old St. Thomas Church, tracing its evolution from inception to icon. Explore the intricate details of its majestic interior and discover the legacies of the dedicated rectors who served within its hallowed walls. But our narrative doesn’t end there – journey with us beyond the church doors to uncover the stories of the fascinating individuals interred in the Church Cemetery, each weaving a thread in the tapestry of our community’s history. Stay connected with us on Facebook for exciting updates and exclusive pre-order information. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this extraordinary literary journey as we celebrate the timeless allure of the Old St. Thomas Church and its enduring impact on generations past, present, and future.
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Congratulations to the Old St. Thomas Church on 200 Years of Spiritual Service.
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2024 Summer Concert Series
July 3 John Milles July 10 Ken Baldwin July 17 Rodney Jantzi July 24 Barkley Road Brass Works July 31 Allen Weatherall August 7 Ukes of Hazzard
You are Joyfully Invited to the 200th Anniversary Of
August 14 Jeff Butler August 21 St. Hilda’s/St. Luke’s Choir August 28 Eva Marton Concerts begin each Wednesday at 7 pm
The Old St. Thomas Church Service Saturday, June 22nd, 2024 – Starting at 10:30 am Or Founders Day Sunday, July 7th, 2024 – Starting at 3 pm 55 Walnut Street, St. Thomas, Ontario Reception to follow each service
Freewill offerings will be accepted
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I take great pride in residing and working in a city steeped in rich history and heritage. To me, the Old St. Thomas Church holds a significance akin to that of the railways or Jumbo in our city’s narrative.
Congratulations on your remarkable 200th Anniversary!
Heartfelt congratulations to the Old St. Thomas Church on commemorating 200 years of leaving its mark on St. Thomas! Geoff Rae • Managing Editor geoff@villagerpublications.com • 519-495-7177
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OLD ST. THOMAS CHURCH 200th ANNIVERSARY GUIDE
Celebrating Our Past, Exploring Our Future by Geoff Rae
This July 7th marks St. Thomas’ 7th Founders Day, hosted by the Old St. Thomas Church. The event will be held from 3 pm-4 pm and will include some guests and a special guest speaker, MP Karen Vecchio, with a small reception afterward. Rev. Nick Wells explains how the event began: “I’ve been the chaplain for the Old St. Thomas Church for ten years and this event started since my incumbency. There used to be an event, more of a Heritage Day, at Trinity Anglican Church that celebrated the first Eucharist celebrated in the church. We thought to start a Founders Day for the Old St. Thomas Church, yes, marking the beginning of the Anglican Church in St. Thomas, but I wanted to take it a step further than that and expand it into the community. Captain Daniel Rapelje, the founder of St. Thomas, actually has some of his family buried in the Old St. Thomas Church because he set aside two acres plus two rods (an old English measure of distance equal to 16.5 feet) for the setting of a public church and burial ground. I thought we needed to look at a much larger community and make it open to all the religious groups and all the communities in St. Thomas.” “The more communities we can get to participate the better; I would like it to be as diverse as possible, and not just restricted to Anglicans. We want to remember all of our past and also to begin reflecting on our future and pondering what it might be like. Because St. Thomas is changing, and it’s going to continue to change and continue to get more diverse, our service needs to reflect that. Even though we’re honouring our ‘founder,’ Daniel Rapelje, it’s honouring all of our founders. Although different religious and other ethnic groups, at one time themselves pioneers, have come in here over time, they’re not pioneers Congratulations on reaching an incredible 200 years of service! Your steadfast dedication is as impressive as a finely tuned engine. Wishing you continued success and blessings.
anymore because they’ve integrated themselves into the community. This event is a time to allow everybody to speak; each year, I pick somebody in the community to come and speak and talk about what it’s like to be a member of St. Thomas and what their hopes and dreams are for the city.” Rev. Wells notes that the guest speaker will be joined by delegates from the city. Rev. Wells says one thing he enjoys about the event is that he never knows what the chosen speakers will say about their experiences and their visions for the city. “I never ask for their speeches ahead of time,” he says, “But I always ask for a copy afterwards. I’ve been collecting them because, at some time in the future, it would be great to have them published as a collection of what different people thought of the city at different times. Somewhere, sometime in the future, people might look back at those and think, ‘Wow, they were really prescient.’” If you would like to celebrate St. Thomas’ past or be a part of the discussion of what our future may look like, attend Founders Day on July 7th at 3 pm at the Old St. Thomas Church, located at 55 Walnut St., St. Thomas. congratulations Old St. Thomas Church on your 200 th Anniversary
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continued. However, during the 1980s, after the steeple caught fire, a strong resurgence of community support to protect the aging building was born. Monies were beginning to be raised, and restorative measures were attempted to allow utilization of the Old Church year-round. Electrical panel upgrades and electrical lamps were installed, including plans for a heating system. At that time, the Old St. Thomas Church Restoration and Maintenance Trust was established to ensure the funds being raised were protected and utilized for the site. The Anglican Diocese, through the Board at Trinity Church, retained ownership of the property and, in order to nurture the community support and ensure restoration integrity of preservation techniques, hired Peter Stokes, a prominent historical architect from Niagara-on- the-Lake, to assess the building and formulate a restoration plan.
The Old St. Thomas Church Restoration and Maintenance Trust by Gail Ballard, President of the Board The Old St. Thomas Church Restoration and Maintenance Trust was established as a not-for-profit charitable corporation in January of 1984 whose purpose under the Letters Patent is the care and maintenance of the Old St. Thomas Church and Churchyard. The site is owned by the Incorporated Synod of the Diocese of Huron and is now deemed a Chapel at Ease. The two acres where it rests were donated by one of St. Thomas’ earliest settlers, Captain Daniel Rapelje, with the first graves of his sons dating back to 1819. The construction of the Church began sometime around 1822, opening in 1824, and the first celebration of Holy Communion in 1825. The building is an excellent example of vernacular gothic revival with a metal-clad steeple surrounded by wooden crenellations on the tower and roof gables. The structure is load-bearing brick partially covered in stucco with a post-beam roof, tower, and spire. The lancet arched windows run the length of the structure in a decorative Gothic style. Inside are box pews with doors, white walls, choir and transept galleries. The tower additions, transepts and vestry were completed between 1825 and the 1850s. The Royal Coat of Arms was hung in 1842 with the permission of the young Queen Victoria before she was Empress of India. The Old Church remained open until 1877, when Trinity Church, now the St. Thomas Islamic Centre on Wellington St., was completed. The first restoration was undertaken in 1894 with a group led by Charles Oakes Ermatinger to preserve the structure.
Summer Vibes ST. THOMAS In the 1920s, for the Church’s 100th Anniversary, there was another restoration push due to the floor in the Church caving in at the conclusion of the service. By the 1930s, the Masonic Window was installed, creating a beautiful focal point in the Church. In 1948, the Lychgate was added to enhance the entrance, as seen in many traditional English Churchyards. By the Centennial year 1967 and into the 1970s, minor repairs
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OLD ST. THOMAS CHURCH 200th ANNIVERSARY GUIDE
Over the past forty years, the Trust has raised funds and overseen over a million and a half dollars of restorative work, including the total restoration of the building from 1988 to 1992 under the leadership of Dana Porter, who tirelessly devoted hours to the Old Church’s preservation and whose name is commemorated on a plaque at the Lychgate. Extensive work was done including a completely new foundation, roof repairs and eaves troughs, truss repairs, window painting and re-glazing, repairs to the floor, tower re-cladding, brickwork re-pointing, painting, and plaster refinishing. The total cost at the time was four hundred thousand dollars, not including hours of donated services and materials. This facelift kicked off a new era of continued momentum and renewed community involvement. The Old Church was now open during the summer months for tours and special events. Since that time, these repairs have continued in cycles as the windows needed repairs and painting, the roof needed replacing, the brickwork needed re-pointing, and the tower needed re-cladding. It is always in need of continued care and maintenance. To quote Peter Stokes from his initial assessment of the building, “The Old Church of St. Thomas is such a rare and precious example of an early church that everything possible should be done to maintain its integrity.”
It is due to the numerous community volunteers, expert restoration architects, skilled tradesmen, federal / provincial grant opportunities such as the Ontario Heritage Trust along with private financial support through designated giving, will bequests, and foundation donations that the Old St. Thomas Church Restoration and Maintenance Trust have been enabled to preserve this historic site to ensure that it remains a steadfast landmark in St. Thomas and the surrounding area.
Be A Part of History Wedding or Donation inquires Call Rev. Nick Wells 519-615-6226 or email oldstthomaschurch@hotmail.com
As neighbors who love to celebrate milestones, we at Royal Oak Senior Living are inspired by your fantastic longevity of service to our community. Together we celebrate 200 remarkable years of the Old St. Thomas Church!
226-210-9508
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The Old St. Thomas Church Cemetery by Steve Peters The practice of burying the dead in a special location has been practiced for thousands of years. All people have viewed burial as a time of closure for families and, in some cases, a necessary step for the deceased to enter the afterlife or to give back to the cycle of life. The Indigenous Peoples whose land makes up present-day St. Thomas have long, too, given respect to their dead. For well over 10,000 years, they have buried their loved ones in single graves or in Ossuaries. The arrival of an immigrant population in the last 250 years has not stopped the need to bury our loved ones. A Cemetery is a Greek word for a sleeping place, and a Graveyard refers to a burial ground within a Churchyard. The roots of the Old St. Thomas Church Cemetery date to 1819, with the passing of two brothers, George James, on November 3rd and Lambert, on December 25th. The sons of Daniel and Elizabeth Rapelje were “laid to rest in the most beautiful spot on their farm.”* The Rapelje family arrived in 1810 and settled on Lot 1 Concession 8, Yarmouth Township, a 200-acre farm. By 1817, the area on the west side of the farm developed for businesses and homes, and the name St. Thomas was given. In 1821, Daniel deeded land to the Church of England for use as a Church and Graveyard. The Old St. Thomas Church Cemetery stands out with its layout as a monumental cemetery, a traditional style adorned with headstones. It also houses a Scattering Garden, a unique
addition for cremated remains. As you enter, you’ll pass through the Lychgate, a feature with a fascinating history. The name is Greek for ‘gate of the dead,’ and it was added in 1948. Close to 2000 individuals are interred in the cemetery, and well over 500 monuments with the names of over 1000 people are inscribed. A large number of the graves are not marked. In the early days, stones were not used, only ornate wooden headboards. It is recorded that in 1909, there “is only one wooden marker left in the cemetery where there used to be so many.”* A book could easily be written about the men, women, and children buried in the cemetery—the famous and not-so-famous pioneers, war veterans, ministers, politicians, farmers, and so on. Most of the stories are about real lives, but some have taken on mythical and legendary characteristics.
Old St. Thomas Church Commemorative Guide Geoffrey Rae Managing Editor / Sales Geoff@villagerpublications.com • 519-495-7177 Publisher: Barb Botten barb@villagerpublications.com Graphic Artist – Cathy Wood Thanks to the Board of Directors for all of their assistance. Copyright @ 2015 Villager Publications. All rights reserved. This magazine or any portion thereof may not be reproduced or used in any manner whatsoever without the express written permission of the Publisher. Information presented has been compiled from sources believed to be accurate at the time of printing however the Publisher assumes no responsibility for errors or omissions.
CONGRATULATIONS!
www.salusmutual.ca 866.931.2809
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OLD ST. THOMAS CHURCH 200th ANNIVERSARY GUIDE
Congratulations on 200 years of unwavering service! Your church’s stability has been a cornerstone of strength and faith in our community. No visit is complete without inspecting the impressive Chisholm Family Monument. Seven deaths in seven years led to stories that a “curse” had been placed on the family. Thanks to the work of late historian George Thorman, his publication “Myth and Reality” tells the true story. Many of the founding families of present-day St. Thomas are buried here, including Rapelje, Mandeville, Drake, Curtis, Hamilton, and Warren. Daniel Drake, the first white child born in St. Thomas and later a Mayor, is buried in the family plot. Samuel Eccles was a local brewer who taught John Labatt the art and mystery of brewing lies here. In 1860, Susan Paul, the daughter of another brewer, had a dance with the Prince of Wales, who later became King Edward VII; she is now buried nearby. Veterans of all wars rest here. Octavius Wallace, who was killed in the US Civil War in 1863, fighting for the North. Thomas Kains, who in 1814 helped burn Washington, causing the President’s House to have to be painted White. LCol. Bob Chamberlain, a Military Cross recipient and longtime supporter of the Restoration of the Church. Several monuments mark the Ermatinger family plot. Edward, with a White Bronze monument, his house still stands east of the Church. Charles Oakes, with a large marble slab, was a Judge and early advocate for the restoration of the Church. Judge Hugh Richardson played a significant role in the fate of Louis Riel. Close by, Maria (Ermatinger) Baldwin, wife of Reverand M.S. Baldwin, and her baby daughter are buried under a sandstone monument that has turned black over time due to the elements. Sadly, a story that has now become an urban legend began to circulate in the 1980s, namely that Maria was a “witch.”
Sadly, the years have not been kind to the monuments in the cemetery. It is a huge financial challenge to care properly for it. Old age, acid rain, tree limbs falling, and sadly vandalism have taken their’ toll. There are no grave spaces available, but our Scattering Garden has become quite popular. The cost is $500 for scattering or $1000 for scattering and a monument. Contact St. Thomas Anglican Church at 519 631 7368 for information. The Cemetery Board is a member of the Bereavement Authority of Ontario. The current Chair is Dr. Malcolm Wood. * Quotes from Miss Hattie Robinson from an article she wrote on the church’s history in 1909.
Congratulations to the Old St. Thomas Church on being a St. Thomas Landmark for 200 years!
Serving Elgin County for 3 generations Monuments ∞ Markers ∞ Engraving 43546 John Wise Line 519-631-8668 519-637-3385 (after hours) www.leememorials.ca
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THANK YOU!
As we commemorate Old St. Thomas Church’s remarkable 200-year journey, we extend our deepest gratitude to all who have stood by us with unwavering support and dedication. Your generosity and commitment have been the cornerstone of our success, shaping our legacy and ensuring our cherished traditions endure. To those who have lent their time, resources, and passion to make our 200th anniversary celebrations possible, we offer heartfelt thanks. Your enthusiasm and collaboration have infused each moment with joy and significance, creating memories that will resonate for generations. Together, we honour our past, celebrate our present, and embrace the future with renewed spirit and unity. Here’s to 200 years of faith, community, and shared purpose and to the countless blessings that lie ahead.
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