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Durham Real Estate
Housing Market Report for November 2022
Read from the Durham Association of REALTORS®
Toronto Regional Real Estate Board
See the full report here:
Or watch it below:
Durham Region
Week of April 20th – April 26th Welcome back to another edition of my Monday Market Minute, where I bring you the latest real estate updates for the Township of Uxbridge and the Township of Scugog! Let’s dive into what happened this past week: […]
December 14, 2022
Downtown Uxbridge – Brock Street, West
Downtown Uxbridge – Brock Street, West
Above: View of Wixan’s Bridge, the Lt. Col. Samuel Sharpe memorial and Post Office as seen today (2022).
History
Below is Brock Street W from a similar vantage point taken in the early 1900’s. At the time this photo was taken the house was owned by Michael O’Neil a local blacksmith. In the next photo you can see his blacksmith shop located just west of his home.
Both photos are courtesy of Uxbridge: The First 100 Years by: J. Peter Hvidsten. (page 148 and 96)
Below is another similar view taken during the Santa Claus Parade in 1961. The two houses in the background where torn down and replaced with the Post Office, Wixan’s Bridge and the parking lot. The billboard is the approximate location of the Lt. Col. Samuel Sharpe memorial.
The above photo is courtesy of Uxbridge The Good Old Days, by: J. Peter Hvidsten (page 95)
Photos courtesy of
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December 7, 2022
Mansion House Hotel
Lost Landmark: The Remarkable Story of the Mansion House in Uxbridge
Photo Courtesy of Uxbridge The Good Old Days by: by J. Peter Hvidsten (Martin’s Hotel, IGA)
A Proud Beginning: Joseph Gould’s Vision in 1871
In the heart of Uxbridge, at the prominent corner of Brock Street and Toronto Street, stood a symbol of civic pride and Victorian charm—the Mansion House Hotel. Built in 1871 by Joseph Gould, one of Uxbridge’s most respected and influential figures, this red-brick, three-storey building quickly became a focal point of community life.
The Mansion House Hotel was designed by Architect John T. Stokes of Sharon, a skilled designer who had earlier crafted Joseph Gould’s own home on Toronto Street. Stokes’ architectural influence extended beyond private homes—he was likely also responsible for designing the local Uxbridge library, showcasing his deep involvement in shaping the town’s architectural landscape.
Joseph Gould wasn’t just any local. He was a visionary landowner and public servant who saw Uxbridge as a growing hub of commerce and connection. With that in mind, he commissioned the Mansion House to serve both as a place of lodging and a center for social gatherings.
The above photo courtesy of Uxbridge – The First 100 Years 1800-1900 by: J. Peter Hvidsten shows the Mansion House circa 1914.
Architectural Highlights of the Mansion House
Though modest in style, the Mansion House had several notable architectural features that made it stand out:
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Three-storey red brick construction, typical of 19th-century Ontario towns.
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Main entrance on Brock Street, welcoming travelers and locals alike.
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Second-floor balconies on both the east and north sides, offering views of bustling town life.
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A distinctive third-floor portico on the north side, adding a touch of grandeur.
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To the west of the entrance, a discreet alleyway led to the back of the hotel where stables and storage sheds awaited guests traveling by horse.
This clever layout accommodated not only visitors staying overnight but also those arriving for banquets, political events, or a quick stop in town.
Growth and Expansion in the Late 1800s
As Uxbridge grew, so did the Mansion House. In the late 1800s, the hotel underwent renovations and expansions, growing to offer 70 guest rooms. These updates didn’t just make it larger—they made it more central to town life.
Even though Joseph Gould retained ownership, the building was frequently leased to various operators, reflecting its role as a practical and profitable enterprise.
A Hub for Gatherings and Politics
From the late 1800s into the early 20th century, the Mansion House was more than just a hotel. It served as a lively social hub where Uxbridge’s residents came together for:
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Banquets and formal dinners
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Family celebrations and dances
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Political meetings and community planning sessions
At a time when newspapers and face-to-face meetings were the main forms of communication, spaces like the Mansion House played a vital role in shaping community identity and local governance.
Martin’s Hotel Era: 1930 Onward
In 1930, a new chapter began when Jim and Jean Martin purchased the building. They continued to run it as a hotel, and under their stewardship, it became affectionately known as Martin’s Hotel. The name change reflected both a new era and a continuation of its tradition as a place of welcome and warmth.
The End of an Era: Demolition in 1963
As time moved on, so did the needs of the community. In 1963, the Mansion House was demolished to make room for a modern, one-storey commercial building.
While its loss was felt by many, the new building soon found new life. In 1964, it became home to an IGA grocery store, operated by John and Evelyn Hockley. This marked another generational shift, from communal gatherings to daily commerce—a symbol of how towns evolve.
Here in this photo courtesy of Uxbridge The Good Old Days by: by J. Peter Hvidsten taken in November 1963 you can see the hotel being torn down.
Uxbridge IGA Store
New IGA store
The new IGA store was opened in 1964 by John and Evelyn Hockley (shown above) and featured 4000 square feet of shopping space with large merchandise aisles, refrigerated space for produce and fresh meats. Photo courtesy of Uxbridge The Good Old Days by: by J. Peter Hvidsten
Remembering the Mansion House Today
Though the Mansion House no longer stands, its legacy lives on in the memories of older residents, family photographs, and the stories passed down through generations. It reminds us of a time when hotels were more than places to sleep—they were the heart of a town.
Whether you walked through the front doors on Brock Street, tied your horse in the alleyway, or attended a community banquet under its roof, the Mansion House was a place where life happened.
Present Day Photo – 2021
Learn more about Uxbridge’s History by checking our blogs
PHOTO CREDITS:
UXBRIDGE The Good Old Days Researched by J. Peter Hvidsten (Martin’s Hotel, IGA)
UXBRIDGE – The First 100 Years 1800-1900 by: J. Peter Hvidsten
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December 1, 2022
Trinity United Church Uxbridge
Trinity United Church Uxbridge
1888 – 2022
Uxbridge Trinity United Church – September 2018
Uxbridge Trinity United Church – September 2018
The above two photos show the original corner stones. The 1888 stone is located on the north east corner of the church and the Methodist Church stone is located on the south east corner with the main entrance to the church in between them.
History Of Trinity United Church Uxbridge
The congregation of the Methodist Church was founded in 1858. On July 21, 1888 the corner stone of the Methodist Church was laid in a ceremony by Mrs. Hon. John A. Macdonald and Mr. Wm. Gooderham. The church built on First Avenue on a piece of property donated by John Plank was opened in February 1889. In 1925 the church became a member of the United Church of Canada, creating Trinity United Church Uxbridge
The bell in the tower was ordered from McShane Bell Foundry in Baltimore and was the heaviest bell in town, weighing 1200 pounds or 550 kilos.
Photo Courtesy of Uxbridge The First 100 Years by: J. Peter Hvidsten
Photo Courtesy of Uxbridge The Good Old Days by; J. Peter Hvidsten
Photo Courtesy of www.scugogheritage.com/postcards/uxbridge.
Downtown Uxbridge
In the above photo courtesy of Uxbridge The Good Old Days by; J. Peter Hvidsten taken in the mid 1950’s you can see the Church from Downtown Uxbridge. The Church continued to look over downtown until November 2022 when it was torn down.
Trinity Hall
The Rose Window
Uxbridge Trinity United Church – Rose Window
The building houses many beautiful stain glass windows including the Rose Window (shown above) located over the entrance on the east wall, which was given and dedicated by the Sunday School on 1906.
Centre of the Rose Window
During the demolition of the Church the demolition company managed to save the centre of the Rose Window along with the bell and many other items that can be used in the building of the new Church.
The following is taken from the Trinity United Church website and gives a descriptive tour of the building and chronological order of events and renovations.
Visit the Trinity United Church website here https://www.trinityuxbridge.org/about
You can view more photos of this beautiful Church here https://www.flickr.com/photos/57156785@N02/28441770205/in/photostream/
The above photo shows the corner stone being gently removed on November 29 2022 during the demolition of the Church.
Read About Other Churches in Uxbridge
Source and Photos
Uxbridge The Good Old Days by; J. Peter Hvidsten
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November 24, 2022
Palmer Piano Factory / Gold Medal Radio & Phonograph Company
Palmer Piano Factory / Gold Medal Radio & Phonograph Company
Above is a post card showing the Palmer Piano Co building in Uxbridge.
The above photo taken from “Downright Upright A History of the Canadian Piano Industry” by Wayne Kelly shows the Palmer Piano Factory located beside the train tracks, just south of where the Co-op was located.
The map below is a section from the Uxbridge Insurance plan drawings from 1910 showing the corner of Brock St and Victoria Ave.
According to Tales From The Uxbridge Valley, written by Alan McGillivray
“After a fire at the Uxbridge Piano and Organ Company in 1907, the Palmer Piano Company built a huge factory by the railway just south of where the Co-op store is located today, but they only lasted a short time and were followed into the factory in 1912 by the Gold Medal Furniture Company, which soon had a staff of ninety. In 1922, it became the Gold Medal Radio & Phonograph Company, making Quadradyne Radios and Gold Medal Phonographs until 1926.”
In 1942 the Textile Dyers and Finishers of Toronto moved from the old McGuire piano factory that was on Franklin Street to the Gold Medal factory which was vacant at the time. In 1944 all was lost when the building was destroyed by fire. Remains of the building and the chimney of the boiler remained for some time in the forest at the end of Collins St before it was demolished to make way for a house.
Below is an ad from the Toronto Star advertising the Gold Medal Radio Phonographs built in Uxbridge from Nov. 7, 1924.
Photo courtesy of http://keithwright.ca/CAPP/Gold%20medal/Gold%20Medal.html
Click the link above to see more ads and photos of the Phonographs that are on display at the Uxbridge Historical Centre (Uxbridge-Scott Museum and Archives)
Ad from the Toronto Star advertising the Gold Medal Radio Phonographs built in Uxbridge from Nov. 7, 1924
The photo below was captured from the Youtube video about the The Gold Medal Radio Phonograph Corp. Ltd.
View the video here https://youtu.be/o43rps08ggM
The photo below was captured from the Youtube video about the The Gold Medal Radio Phonograph Corp. Ltd.
The photo below provided by Nick Tyler shows all that was left of the factory after the fire in 1944.
Building remains
Sources and Credits
Tales From The Uxbridge Valley, written by Alan McGillivray
Nick Tyler
November 16, 2022
The Uxbridge Municipal Office
The Uxbridge Municipal Office
History
The Uxbridge Municipal Office is located at 51 Toronto Street South, right in the heart of town. The building was originally built in 1958 and was the home of the St Joseph’s Separate School. Over the years the student population grew and in 1990 they moved to their new location on Quaker Village Drive. The building was extensively renovated and an addition was added to give us the beautiful Town Hall we have today (seen in the second photo). Over the years there has been extensive landscaping and the grounds have displayed many sculptures by local artists.
St Joseph’s Separate School.
The above photo courtesy of the Uxbridge Times-Journal taken in 1961 shows the newly constructed St Joseph’s Separate School.
The school play ground was to the north of the school and was once the site of the home of Joseph Gould. In 1961-62 the stately home was torn down to provide the space for the newly constructed school. The lines of Joseph Goulds house were preserved in the architecture of the council chambers on the north half of the building.
Read about the Home of Joseph Gould in our blog.
The photo below taken in 1961 shows a group of students in front of St. Joseph’s Separate School with Joseph Goulds home in the background. Photo courtesy of Uxbridge The Good Old Days, by Peter Hvidsten
The Home of Joseph Gould
Photo courtesy of Uxbridge The Good Old Days, by Peter Hvidsten
Source and Photos
Uxbridge Times-Journal
November 16, 2022
Downtown Uxbridge North West
Downtown Uxbridge North West
Above: View of Wixan’s Bridge and Post Office as seen today.
Below: Similar view during the Santa Claus Parade in 1961. The two houses in the background where torn down and replaced with the Post Office, Wixan’s Bridge and the parking lot.
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November 9, 2022
Uxbridge’s Military Cannon
Uxbridge’s Military Cannon
Located in Veterans Memorial Park on the shores of Elgin Pond.
The cannon sits on display near the old location of the beach, swimming area and docks of Elgin Pond where during the 50s, 60s & 70s it was a favourite spot for swimmers to hang their towels or lay on while drying off after a swim in the spring-fed water.
History of the Cannon
According to Military History Books by Harold A. Skaarup this cannon is a German First World War 15-cm schwere Feldhaubitze 1902 (15-cm sFH 02), (Serial Nr. 911), Fried Krupp
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Real Estate Stats • Real Estate Stats • Real Estate Stats •
November 8, 2022
Uxbridge Housing October 2022
Uxbridge Real Estate
Housing Market Report for October 2022
*Information is believed to be accurate at time of posting but is not guaranteed to be correct
Not intended as a solicitation if your property is already listed by another broker. Affiliated real estate agents are independent contractor sales associates, not employees. ©2021 Coldwell Banker. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker logos are trademarks of Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. The Coldwell Banker® System is comprised of company owned offices which are owned by a subsidiary of Realogy Brokerage Group LLC and franchised offices which are independently owned and operated. The Coldwell Banker System fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act.
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Real Estate Stats • Real Estate Stats • Real Estate Stats •
November 8, 2022
Scugog Housing October 2022
Scugog Real Estate
Housing Market Report for October 2022
*Information is believed to be accurate at time of posting but is not guaranteed to be correct
Not intended as a solicitation if your property is already listed by another broker. Affiliated real estate agents are independent contractor sales associates, not employees. ©2021 Coldwell Banker. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker logos are trademarks of Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. The Coldwell Banker® System is comprised of company owned offices which are owned by a subsidiary of Realogy Brokerage Group LLC and franchised offices which are independently owned and operated. The Coldwell Banker System fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act.
Related Articles
November 8, 2022
Brock Housing October 2022
Brock Real Estate
Housing Market Report for October 2022
*IMAGES
*Information is believed to be accurate at time of posting but is not guaranteed to be correct
Not intended as a solicitation if your property is already listed by another broker. Affiliated real estate agents are independent contractor sales associates, not employees. ©2021 Coldwell Banker. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker logos are trademarks of Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. The Coldwell Banker® System is comprised of company owned offices which are owned by a subsidiary of Realogy Brokerage Group LLC and franchised offices which are independently owned and operated. The Coldwell Banker System fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act.
November 8, 2022
Durham Region Housing October 2022
Durham Region Real Estate
Housing Market Report for October 2022
*Information is believed to be accurate at time of posting but is not guaranteed to be correct
Not intended as a solicitation if your property is already listed by another broker. Affiliated real estate agents are independent contractor sales associates, not employees. ©2021 Coldwell Banker. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker logos are trademarks of Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. The Coldwell Banker® System is comprised of company owned offices which are owned by a subsidiary of Realogy Brokerage Group LLC and franchised offices which are independently owned and operated. The Coldwell Banker System fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act.
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November 2, 2022
Quaker Meeting House
Quaker Meeting House
or the Friends Meeting House
Quaker Meeting House – Front
Quaker Friends Meeting House. Photo courtesy of Uxbridge The First 100 Years by: J. Peter Hvidsten. Page 161
When Built
According to the Quaker Meeting House’s website the building is the oldest structure in Uxbridge.
It was built in 1820 and replaced an older building from 1809. Located on Quaker Hill over looking
Uxbridge from the west.
Quaker Meeting House – East Side
The following is taken from the Quaker Meeting House website
History of the Quaker Meeting House
The present board and batten meeting house ( 1820) is the oldest building in Uxbridge Township. An interior partition in the centre created separate areas for men and women. Around 1881 the partition was moved and a small Sunday School area was created at one end. During the renovation the west door and window on the South wall were switched, changing the architectural symmetry of the building.
The hand hewn pine pews are of 2 types; open backs to accommodate a woman’s bustle and closed backs for men.
The main source of lighting was from a centre hung brass lamp with small coal lamps around the perimeter. A wood stove in the middle of the room (since removed) supplied heat.
In 1995 the building was raised and a concrete block foundation was installed.”
An Annual Remembrance Service is held on the second Sunday in June at 2:30 p.m. All and everyone is invited
Weddings are welcomed at the Meeting House, but conditions are primitive with no hydro or running water. There is no charge for weddings, however we have always received a generous donation towards the upkeep.
More information can be found at:
http://www.uxbridgequakermeetinghouse.com/
or
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Uxbridge Historic Homes •
October 26, 2022
Robert Mooney Residence
Robert Mooney Residence – 122 Brock Street East (c.1874)
Robert Mooney Residence – 122 Brock Street East (c.1874)
The Historic Robert Mooney Residence: A Testament to Gothic Revival Architecture
Nestled in the heart of our town, the Robert Mooney Residence stands as a stunning testament to 19th-century Gothic Revival architecture. This historic house, originally owned by Robert Mooney, a prominent local merchant, and his wife Elizabeth, captures the essence of an era where craftsmanship and elegance were paramount. Built by local homebuilder and architect Johnston Brown under the meticulous direction of Mr. Mooney, the residence is a cherished landmark that continues to captivate both residents and visitors alike.
Architectural Details and Design
The Robert Mooney Residence is a one-and-a-half-story, “T” shaped red brick house that rests gracefully on a robust stone foundation. The use of white brick to accentuate the windows and quoins adds a touch of sophistication and highlights the intricate masonry work that was prevalent during the period. This combination of red and white brick not only enhances the visual appeal of the house but also reflects the architectural trends of the time.
One of the most striking features of the residence is the north gable, which boasts a Gothic-style door that opens onto a beautifully adorned verandah. The verandah itself is a masterpiece, featuring carved brackets and entablature that showcase the attention to detail and craftsmanship that went into its construction. These elements not only provide structural support but also add a decorative flair that is characteristic of Gothic Revival architecture.
Distinctive Gables and Windows
The house is adorned with gables on the east, west, and south sides, each contributing to the building’s unique aesthetic. Unlike many Gothic Revival structures, the gables of the Robert Mooney Residence are free from bargeboards and finials, giving it a more streamlined appearance. Despite this simplicity, the design remains elegant and timeless.
The small west gable is particularly noteworthy for its Gothic window, a feature that adds both charm and character to the residence. This window, with its pointed arch and intricate tracery, is a hallmark of Gothic design and allows natural light to flood the interior, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
The West Side Sun Porch
Adding to the charm of the Robert Mooney Residence is the sun porch located on the west side of the house. This delightful space offers a perfect spot to enjoy the beauty of the surrounding landscape while being sheltered from the elements. The sun porch is an ideal place for relaxation and contemplation, embodying the harmonious blend of form and function that defines the entire residence.
Legacy and Preservation
The Robert Mooney Residence is more than just a house; it is a piece of our town’s history. The careful preservation of its architectural features allows us to appreciate the artistry and vision of its original builders. As we walk through its halls and admire its Gothic windows and verandah, we are transported back to a time when attention to detail and craftsmanship were paramount.
Today, the Robert Mooney Residence stands as a reminder of our rich architectural heritage and the enduring legacy of those who came before us. It is a symbol of pride for our community and a testament to the timeless beauty of Gothic Revival architecture.
Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply a lover of beautiful homes, the Robert Mooney Residence offers a glimpse into a bygone era and continues to inspire admiration and wonder.
Read about other historic homes in Uxbridge by following our blog Uxbridge Historic Homes.
Source:
Uxbridge Walking Tour Brochure
https://www.uxbridge.ca/en/explore-and-play/resources/Documents/Uxbridge-Walking-Tour-Brochure.pdf
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Uxbridge History •
October 19, 2022
Elgin Pond Drinking Fountain
Elgin Pond Drinking Fountain
Drinking fountain (water trough) at Elgin Pond
Drinking fountain (water trough) at Elgin Pond
Who remembers the drinking fountain at Elgin Pond?
Located at the corner of Main St S and Mill St is the spring fed water trough. Kids used to lay down in the trough to get soaked by the cold spring water and then jump into the pond, making the pond water feel warmer.
As kids we used to drink out of it all of the time. If you cup your hand over the spout water shoots out the hole on top like a drinking fountain.
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October 12, 2022
Uxbridge Housing September 2022
Uxbridge Real Estate
Housing Market Report for September 2022
*Information is believed to be accurate at time of posting but is not guaranteed to be correct
Not intended as a solicitation if your property is already listed by another broker. Affiliated real estate agents are independent contractor sales associates, not employees. ©2021 Coldwell Banker. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker logos are trademarks of Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. The Coldwell Banker® System is comprised of company owned offices which are owned by a subsidiary of Realogy Brokerage Group LLC and franchised offices which are independently owned and operated. The Coldwell Banker System fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act.
October 12, 2022
Scugog Housing September 2022
Scugog Real Estate
Housing Market Report for September 2022
Here is the Township of Scugog Housing September 2022 report (all housing types), with reports from the Toronto Regional Real Estate Board
Toronto Regional Real Estate Board
Township of Scugog
*Information is believed to be accurate at time of posting but is not guaranteed to be correct
Not intended as a solicitation if your property is already listed by another broker. Affiliated real estate agents are independent contractor sales associates, not employees. ©2021 Coldwell Banker. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker logos are trademarks of Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. The Coldwell Banker® System is comprised of company owned offices which are owned by a subsidiary of Realogy Brokerage Group LLC and franchised offices which are independently owned and operated. The Coldwell Banker System fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act.
Related Articles
October 12, 2022
Brock Housing September 2022
Brock Real Estate
Housing Market Report for September 2022
Here is the Township of Brock Housing September 2022 report (all housing types), with reports from the Toronto Regional Real Estate Board
Toronto Regional Real Estate Board
Township of Brock
*Information is believed to be accurate at time of posting but is not guaranteed to be correct
Not intended as a solicitation if your property is already listed by another broker. Affiliated real estate agents are independent contractor sales associates, not employees. ©2021 Coldwell Banker. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker logos are trademarks of Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. The Coldwell Banker® System is comprised of company owned offices which are owned by a subsidiary of Realogy Brokerage Group LLC and franchised offices which are independently owned and operated. The Coldwell Banker System fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act.
Related Articles
October 12, 2022
Durham Region Housing September 2022
Durham Real Estate
Housing Market Report for September 2022
Here is the Durham Region Housing September 2022 report (all housing types), with reports from the Toronto Regional Real Estate Board
Toronto Regional Real Estate Board
*Taken from Toronto and Regional Real Estate Board – Market Watch report September 2022.
Durham Region
*Information is believed to be accurate at time of posting but is not guaranteed to be correct
Not intended as a solicitation if your property is already listed by another broker. Affiliated real estate agents are independent contractor sales associates, not employees. ©2021 Coldwell Banker. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker logos are trademarks of Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. The Coldwell Banker® System is comprised of company owned offices which are owned by a subsidiary of Realogy Brokerage Group LLC and franchised offices which are independently owned and operated. The Coldwell Banker System fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act.
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Uxbridge History • Uxbridge History • Uxbridge History • Uxbridge History • Uxbridge History • Uxbridge History • Uxbridge History • Uxbridge History • Uxbridge History •
October 12, 2022
The Commercial Hotel
The Commercial Hotel in Uxbridge:
A Journey Through Time and Transformation
The Commercial Hotel on Brock St before it was moved to its present day location. Photographer Unknown, taken from the Growing Up In Uxbridge Facebook Group.
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Nestled in the heart of Uxbridge, Ontario, The Commercial Hotel stands as a symbol of resilience, history, and community transformation. With roots dating back to 1868, this iconic building has undergone dramatic changes over the decades—each chapter telling a unique story about Uxbridge’s evolving culture and heritage.
From Humble Beginnings: The Original Commercial Hotel (1868)
The story of The Commercial Hotel begins over 150 years ago on Brock Street East, just east of Main Street. Built in 1868, the structure quickly became an integral part of town life, initially functioning as a hotel, a livery stable, and later a home. It was more than just architecture; it was a cornerstone of the community’s daily rhythm. This location served as a bustling hub for travellers and townsfolk alike, offering lodging and care for horses—an essential service in a pre-automobile era.
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The Commercial Hotel on Brock St before it was moved to its present day location. Photographer Unknown, taken from the Growing Up In Uxbridge Facebook Group.
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A Monument on the Move: Saving a Historic Landmark (1981–1982)
By the early 1980s, the building faced demolition. But in an extraordinary act of preservation, the town chose to relocate the entire structure in November 1981 rather than lose it forever. The move was nothing short of a feat—raising the historic building and transporting it to its current location at 37 Main Street North.
By 1982, the site began a new chapter with the development of Trinity Manor Apartments,—a 40-unit apartment complex designed specifically for independent senior living. Though the building had moved, its spirit and historical integrity remained intact.
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Photo taken Al Dunlop, photographer for the Toronto Star shows the building being moved west along Brock Street
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The Hobby Horse Arms Era: A Beloved Local Pub and Scotch Haven
For many years, the Commercial Hotel building housed one of Uxbridge’s most cherished establishments: The Hobby Horse Arms. This venue wasn’t just a pub—it was a community cornerstone and a destination for scotch lovers across the GTA, boasting one of the largest single malt scotch collections in the region.
Visitors could enjoy a cozy meal at the pub located on the lower level, complete with a sun-soaked patio during the summer months. Upstairs, a Wine Bar offered a more refined ambiance and could be reserved for private parties and special events, making it a beloved venue for celebrations of all kinds.
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The Commercial Hotel – 1868 in its present day location on Main Street.
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A New Chapter: Main Street Pools (2020–Present)
In 2020, after many decades of vibrant service to both locals and visitors, the building turned another page in its story. It was sold and transformed into Main Street Pools, which now occupies this landmark space. Today, Main Street Pools continues to serve the community, albeit in a very different way—offering high-quality pool products and services from the very location that has witnessed more than a century of local evolution.
Escaping Destruction a Second Time
Then, in May of 2022, the Commercial Hotel once again proved its resilience. When a tornado tore through Uxbridge, leaving destruction in its wake, the historic building narrowly escaped serious damage. It stood tall amid the chaos—a testament to its enduring structure and the care taken to preserve it over the years.
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Why The Commercial Hotel Matters
What makes The Commercial Hotel so special isn’t just its age or its unique journey across town. It’s the way this building has continuously adapted to meet the changing needs of the Uxbridge community. Whether it was hosting weary travelers in the 1800s, offering fine scotch and warm meals in the 2000s, or helping families build backyard oases today, the building has always been more than just bricks and mortar.
FAQs about The Commercial Hotel in Uxbridge
1. When was The Commercial Hotel originally built?
It was built in 1868 on Brock Street East, just east of Main Street.
2. Why was the building moved in 1981?
The building was moved to avoid demolition and to preserve a piece of Uxbridge history.
3. Where is The Commercial Hotel located now?
It currently sits at 37 Main Street North in Uxbridge.
4. What was the Hobby Horse Arms?
It was a popular pub and wine bar known for having one of the largest single malt scotch collections in the Greater Toronto Area.
5. What is the building used for today?
As of 2020, it houses Main Street Pools, a business offering pool services and products.
6. What are Trinity Manor Apartments?
They are a 40-unit apartment complex built behind the relocated Commercial Hotel, designed for seniors living independently.
Conclusion: A Legacy Still Standing
The Commercial Hotel may no longer host guests under its original name, but its legacy endures in the walls of 37 Main Street North. Through every transformation—from hotel to a home, pub to pool shop—it has reflected the heartbeat of Uxbridge. It reminds us that while times may change, the soul of a community is often rooted in the stories and structures of its past.
Learn more of Uxbridge’s History by checking out of Uxbridge History Blog
Photographer Unknown, taken from the Growing Up In Uxbridge Facebook Group.
