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Hidden History Revealed
The Legacy of Henry Jones Hardware & The Roxy Theatre in Uxbridge
Photo taken during the 1890s shows the Henry Jones Hardware building
1. Introduction to a Uxbridge Landmark
At the intersection of Brock Street and Toronto Street in Uxbridge, Ontario, lies a location rich in historical transformation. From its beginnings as a hardware store in the 1880s to its current role as a beloved local cinema, this corner has seen a variety of incarnations that mirror the town’s growth and character.
2. The Origins: Henry Jones Hardware Store
A Historic Cornerstone from the 1880s
In the 1880s, the Henry Jones Hardware store stood proudly at this central intersection. Construction began on the hardware store building in August 1885, marking the start of what would become a long-standing fixture in Uxbridge’s commercial life. More than just a retail outlet, it served as a meeting place and supply hub for residents during an era when Uxbridge was rapidly developing.
The Mysterious Timeline of Its Demolition
Unfortunately, the exact date of the building’s removal is lost to history. But what remains is a community’s memory of a shop that once served farmers, tradesmen, and townsfolk with everything from tools to household essentials.
3. The Second Floor: Offices and Shops
An Innovative Use of Space in a Small-Town Setting
Above the store, eight small offices and retail spaces bustled with activity. This second level showcased an entrepreneurial spirit, enabling local businesses to thrive in the heart of town.
The Covered Stairway: Form and Function
A covered stairway connected street-goers to the upper level—a simple yet practical design feature that shielded visitors from Ontario’s unpredictable weather.
4. Enter the Quonset Era: 1949 Transformation
Rise of the New Structure
In 1949, a modern quonset-style building replaced the original structure. These semi-circular steel buildings were popular post-war, known for durability and quick assembly.
A Unique Architectural Style
Its distinctive curved roof and utilitarian design marked a visual departure from the traditional Victorian architecture of Uxbridge’s main street, signaling a new era.
The above photo courtesy of Uxbridge Historical Centre shows what the theatre looked like in 50’s
5. Welcome to the Movies: The RIO Theatre
From Hardware to Hollywood
That same year, the new building opened as the RIO Theatre, sparking excitement in the community. Suddenly, the same plot that once sold hammers and nails was transporting viewers to far-off galaxies and dramatic love stories.
The Early Days of the RIO
Movie nights at the RIO were instantly popular, offering a new kind of local entertainment and becoming a weekend staple for families and couples alike.
6. Changing Names, Changing Times
Rebranding as The ROXY in 1951
In 1951, the Theatre Amusement Company acquired the property and renamed it The ROXY—a nod to more glamorous cinema halls and a signal of continued growth.
Theatre Amusement Company Takeover
With the new management came enhanced programming and better equipment, further solidifying the theatre’s place in Uxbridge’s entertainment scene.
7. Decline and Repurposing in the 1970s
The above photo courtesy of the Uxbridge Times-Journal shows the building after it was renovated and converted to Davie Pharmacy in the 1970’s
The End of an Era
Like many small-town theatres, the ROXY faced hard times in the 1970s and eventually shut its doors. But the space didn’t stay idle for long.
A Drug Store and Souvenir Haven
It was soon reborn as a split-use space: one side housed a pharmacy, while the other featured a souvenir and gift shop—a practical reuse that kept the building relevant.
8. A Star is Born (Again): Christmas Commercials
Lights, Camera, Guardian Pharmacy!
The quirky charm of the building even made it into a Guardian Pharmacy Christmas commercial, showing how it continued to be a recognizable and beloved part of the town’s identity.
9. The Roxy Rises Once More: 1996 Revival
The Roxy Theatre as it appears today.
Cathy and Mark Christoff’s Cinematic Contribution
Local heroes Cathy and Mark Christoff saw the potential to revive the magic of movies in Uxbridge. They undertook a full restoration of the structure.
Bringing Hollywood Back to Uxbridge
On December 13th, 1996, the doors opened again under its classic name, The Roxy Theatre. This time, with not one, but two screens showing first-run films.
10. The Modern Roxy Theatre Experience
Two Screens, Modern Tech, and Old-School Charm
With state-of-the-art digital projection and sound systems, today’s Roxy Theatre offers a premium movie-going experience—without losing its small-town charm.
Popcorn, Nostalgia, and First-Run Flicks
Moviegoers enjoy fresh popcorn, authentic cinema décor, and the joy of seeing new releases in a cozy, friendly setting.
11. Preserving Local History Through Cinema
The Roxy is more than just a theatre—it’s a living monument to Uxbridge’s evolving history. From hardware to Hollywood, it represents community resilience and adaptability.
12. Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Where was the original Henry Jones Hardware store located?
A: It stood at the corner of Brock and Toronto Street in Uxbridge.
Q2: What kind of businesses were on the second floor in the 1880s?
A: The second floor featured eight small offices and shops accessed via a covered stairway.
Q3: When did the building become a theatre?
A: The current quonset-style building was constructed in 1949 and opened as the RIO Theatre.
Q4: Why did the theatre close in the 1970s?
A: Like many small-town theatres, it faced declining attendance and eventually closed, later being used as a pharmacy and souvenir shop.
Q5: Who restored the theatre in 1996?
A: Cathy and Mark Christoff led the restoration, reopening it as The Roxy Theatre.
Q6: Is the Roxy Theatre still operational today?
A: Yes, The Roxy remains a key entertainment venue in Uxbridge, featuring modern facilities and regular movie screenings.
13. Conclusion: A Cornerstone of Community
From the clinking of hardware tools in the 1880s to the joyful applause of modern moviegoers, the corner of Brock and Toronto Street continues to reflect the spirit of Uxbridge. The story of Henry Jones Hardware and The Roxy Theatre isn’t just about buildings—it’s about the people who shaped, preserved, and celebrated them.
Photos courtesy of the Uxbridge Historical Centre
Learn more about the history in Uxbridge by following our Uxbridge History blog
