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
OLD ST. THOMAS CHURCH 200th ANNIVERSARY GUIDE
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