86 Brock Street West – From Printing Press to Modern Hub

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Nestled in the heart of Uxbridge’s historic downtown, 86 Brock Street West has been a cornerstone of community enterprise for more than 150 years. Its story begins in 1869, when the building first came alive with the sound of the printing press. That June, the first edition of The Uxbridge Journal—the town’s first successful newspaper—rolled off the presses right here. The Journal quickly became an important voice for local news, events, and progress, helping to document the town’s growth and spirit through the late 19th century.

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The Uxbridge Journal office on the corner of Brock and Church street. Courtesy of the Uxbridge Historical Centre. Permanent collection, P593.

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Over the decades, as technology and times changed, so too did the uses of this building. By the 1970s, the scent of ink and paper had long since faded, replaced instead by the aroma of freshly baked pizza. Locals will remember Pizza Village, a popular spot for families and friends to gather. In the 90’s, the business changed hands and signage, becoming Sammy’s Pizza and Subs, continuing the tradition of serving up comfort food from this well-loved address.

86 Brock St W as Sammy’s Pizza and Subs, year 2000, photo courtesy of Sadie Moranis.

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In 2002, 86 Brock Street West underwent a major renovation and received a fresh new look, complete with a coat of grey paint. Following the facelift, the building became home to Strawberry Threads, a women’s clothing boutique known for its unique fashions, on the main floor, and The Tin Cup, a cozy café, on the lower level. Together, they brought a renewed energy to this corner of downtown Uxbridge, blending retail and community connection in one space.

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86 Brock St W after renovations and was painted. Photo taken in 2016, courtesy of Judy Esmonde.

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The years that followed saw the building continue to evolve with the times. It later housed Nortek, a local technology company, and an insurance brokerage, reflecting Uxbridge’s growing mix of small businesses and professional services.

In 2020, 86 Brock Street West received another round of extensive renovations. The foundation was repaired, the bricks were cleaned and restored to their original colour, and the structure was brought back to its former charm — a beautiful blend of heritage character and modern craftsmanship.

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86 Brock St W, 2025

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Today, 86 Brock Street West stands as a proud example of Uxbridge’s ability to honour its past while embracing the future. From printing presses to pizzerias, boutiques to business offices, this storied building continues to be a vital part of the town’s ever-evolving landscape — a reminder that history lives on not only in our archives but also in the walls that surround us every day.

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Learn more about the history in Uxbridge by following our Uxbridge History Blog

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Sources and photo credits:

Uxbridge Historical Centre

Sadie Moranis

Judy Esmonde