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)
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:
Three-storey red brick construction, typical of 19th-century Ontario towns.
Main entrance on Brock Street, welcoming travelers and locals alike.
Second-floor balconies on both the east and north sides, offering views of bustling town life.
A distinctive third-floor portico on the north side, adding a touch of grandeur.
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:
Banquets and formal dinners
Family celebrations and dances
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
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.
The Palmer Piano Factory and Gold Medal Radio & Phonograph Company in Uxbridge
Tucked in the industrial memory of Uxbridge lies the fascinating story of a once-grand building that served multiple roles through the early 20th century. What began as a promising piano factory would become a hub for furniture, radios, phonographs—and ultimately, a tragic reminder of Uxbridge’s ever-changing landscape.
According to Tales From The Uxbridge Valley by Alan McGillivray, the story begins in 1907 with a devastating fire that destroyed the Uxbridge Piano and Organ Company. Seizing the opportunity to continue local manufacturing, the Palmer Piano Company constructed a massive new factory by the railway tracks, just south of where the Co-op once stood. While the facility held great promise, Palmer Piano’s operations were short-lived.
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.
By 1912, a new chapter began when the Gold Medal Furniture Company took over the factory. Quickly employing a staff of ninety, the company outfitted the plant with modern woodworking machinery and began making a name for itself in local manufacturing circles. But progress didn’t stop there.
In 1922, responding to the booming popularity of home audio entertainment, the company rebranded as the Gold Medal Radio & Phonograph Company. It specialized in producing Quadradyne Radios and Gold Medal Phonographs, aligning with the technological enthusiasm of the Roaring Twenties. These products brought music into homes across the region, further establishing Uxbridge as a center of innovation and craftsmanship.
However, by 1926, production came to a halt, and the factory sat silent for years—until it was repurposed again during World War II.
The map below is a section from the Uxbridge Insurance plan drawings from 1910 showing the corner of Brock St and Victoria Ave.
Map showing the location of the Palmer Piano Co building in Uxbridge.
In 1942, Textile Dyers and Finishers of Toronto relocated to the site, having moved from the old McGuire piano factory on Franklin Street. The new site offered ample space and infrastructure, but the revival was tragically short-lived. In 1944, fire struck again, and the entire building was destroyed.
For years, remnants of the factory lingered—its brick foundations and a solitary boiler chimney hidden in the forest at the end of Collins Street. These silent remains stood as a ghostly reminder of Uxbridge’s industrious past before finally giving way to residential development.
Today, nothing remains of the Palmer Piano Factory or the Gold Medal Radio & Phonograph Company, but their stories live on. They speak to Uxbridge’s resilience, its creative energy, and its ability to adapt through the ages—from the musical tones of pianos and phonographs to the hum of wartime industry.
Below is an ad from the Toronto Star advertising the Gold Medal Radio Phonographs built in Uxbridge from Nov. 7, 1924.
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.
Located at 51 Toronto Street South, right in the heart of Uxbridge, the current Uxbridge Municipal Office is a building that carries with it a rich history of education, architecture, and civic pride.
From Schoolhouse to Town Hall
The building we know today as the municipal office was originally constructed in 1958 as St. Joseph’s Separate School, serving generations of local students. As Uxbridge grew, so did the school population, and in 1990, St. Joseph’s relocated to its new home on Quaker Village Drive. With the school vacated, the building was given a second life.
Extensive renovations and a thoughtfully designed addition transformed the old school into the beautiful Town Hall we see today. The redesign preserved elements of the past while making room for a modern municipal facility to serve the community’s needs.
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The above photo courtesy of the Uxbridge Times-Journal taken in 1961 shows the newly constructed St Joseph’s Separate School.
Honouring Joseph Gould
The original school playground, located to the north of the school, is now the location of the council chambers. Before becoming part of the school grounds in the early 1960s, this land was the site of the stately home of Joseph Gould, a significant figure in Uxbridge’s early development. The home was demolished in 1961–62 to make room for the growing needs of St. Joseph’s School.
Photo courtesy of Uxbridge The Good Old Days, by Peter Hvidsten
An Artistic Landscape
Over the years, the grounds surrounding the Uxbridge Municipal Office have seen extensive landscaping, including lush greenery, seasonal plantings, and a rotating display of sculptures by local artists. These public art installations add character and charm, creating a welcoming space for residents and visitors alike.
Past Homes of Uxbridge Council
Before settling at 51 Toronto Street South, the Township of Uxbridge’s administrative offices had several other homes:
20 Bascom Street: After the Times Journal newspaper moved out in 1975, the township took over the building. The main level housed the township offices, while the lower level became home to the local police department.
12 Spruce Street: Prior to Bascom Street, the municipal offices were located at this address, though few traces of that era remain today.
Market Hall: In the late 1800s, council meetings were held on the upper level of the Market Hall, a prominent building that once stood at the northeast corner of Brock Street and Toronto Street—a location central to Uxbridge’s early civic life.
A Living Piece of Uxbridge History
Today, the Uxbridge Municipal Office stands as more than just an administrative building. It’s a place where history, community, and civic engagement come together. From its origins as a school to its transformation into Town Hall, and with roots reaching back to prominent residents like Joseph Gould, this building reflects the spirit and evolution of Uxbridge itself.
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.
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
Discover the Historic Quaker Meeting House on Quaker Hill
Nestled high atop Quaker Hill, overlooking the tranquil town of Uxbridge, Ontario, stands a humble yet historically rich structure—the Uxbridge Quaker Meeting House. Known as the oldest building in Uxbridge Township, this timeless site embodies over two centuries of quiet devotion, community, and architectural heritage.
Quaker Meeting House – Front
A Glimpse Back in Time: Built in 1820
Constructed in 1820, the current Meeting House replaced an even earlier building from 1809. Its modest, board-and-batten exterior belies the significant role it has played in local religious and community life for more than 200 years.
The Meeting House reflects the values of the Quakers, or the Religious Society of Friends—simplicity, peace, integrity, and community. Sitting serenely on Quaker Hill, the building commands a peaceful view of the town from the west, offering a literal and symbolic perspective of mindfulness and reflection.
Architectural Simplicity with Stories Etched in Timber
The Meeting House was designed with functional and symbolic symmetry. Originally, a central interior partition separated the men’s and women’s sides during worship, reflecting Quaker customs of the era. However, around 1881, the partition was moved to one end to create space for a small Sunday School. During that renovation, the west door and a south wall window were switched—an adjustment that disrupted the building’s architectural symmetry but added a new chapter to its evolving story.
Inside, the details speak to the thoughtful consideration given to its congregants. The hand-hewn pine pews are unique—some open-backed to accommodate the women’s bustles of the time, others closed-backed for men. A centrally-hung brass lamp once provided the main source of lighting, complemented by smaller coal lamps along the perimeter. In the centre of the room stood a wood stove to provide heat, though it has since been removed.
Quaker Friends Meeting House. Photo courtesy of Uxbridge The First 100 Years by: J. Peter Hvidsten. Page 161
Preservation Through the Years
Preserving history requires both care and commitment. In 1995, the Meeting House was gently raised, and a concrete block foundation was installed to stabilize and support the structure for future generations. Thanks to community support and dedicated volunteers, it remains a well-preserved artifact of Ontario’s early settler history.
An Invitation to Remember and Celebrate
Each year, the Annual Remembrance Service is held on the second Sunday in June at 2:30 p.m. All are welcome to join this special event that honours the spiritual and cultural legacy of the Uxbridge Quaker community.
For those seeking a unique and deeply meaningful location for a wedding, the Meeting House also offers a serene setting steeped in history. While amenities are primitive—no hydro or running water—the spirit of the place is profoundly special. There’s no fee, but couples often leave a generous donation toward the upkeep of this treasured space.
Quaker Meeting House – East Side
Plan Your Visit or Special Day
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a lover of heritage buildings, or simply someone looking for a tranquil space to reflect, the Uxbridge Quaker Meeting House invites you to step back in time.
1. What is the Uxbridge Quaker Meeting House? It’s the oldest building in Uxbridge, built in 1820, serving as a place of worship for the Religious Society of Friends (Quakers).
2. Where is it located? It’s located atop Quaker Hill, west of Uxbridge, overlooking the town with a scenic, peaceful view.
3. Can weddings be held at the Meeting House? Yes! Weddings are welcomed, though facilities are basic with no electricity or water. There’s no charge, but donations are appreciated.
4. What events are held there? The Annual Remembrance Service is the main event, held every second Sunday in June at 2:30 p.m.
5. Is the building open to the public? Visitors are welcome to attend services or arrange visits for special occasions, but it’s best to contact the organizers in advance via their website.
6. How was the building preserved? In 1995, the building was raised and placed on a concrete block foundation to protect and preserve it for the future.
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.
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.
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
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.
For nearly a century, the Uxbridge Farmers Co-op stood as a vital hub for the agricultural and local community. What began as a modest initiative by local farmers in 1915 eventually became a bustling complex of services that supported the town’s growth through much of the 20th century.
Formed in 1915 under the name Uxbridge Farmers’ Co-operative of Ontario, the organization began with a single coal shed at the corner of Brock and Victoria Streets. This original building was eventually purchased from Harvey J. Gould and served as the foundation for what would become a much larger enterprise.
History of the Uxbridge Farmer’s Co-op
Uxbridge Farmer’s Co-op got its start in Uxbridge in 1915 as the Uxbridge Farmer’s of Ontario (UCO). During the 50’s and 60’s the Co-op seen its biggest growth. In 1951 a building at the corner of Brock Street and Victoria was opened. Then in 1957 the Co-op opened its largest expansion, which included 6 grain silos, a feed mill and a feed warehouse.
Uxbridge Farmer’s Co-operative. Photo courtesy of Uxbridge The Good Old Days by: J. Peter Hvidsten Page 98
A Period of Rapid Growth
The 1950s and 1960s marked a golden era for the Co-op. In April 1951, construction began on a new building, and by October, a new store was officially opened. This was just the beginning. In 1956, a major expansion added six grain silos, a feed mill, and a feed warehouse near the railway tracks—essential infrastructure that opened in May 1957 and significantly boosted local agricultural productivity.
Then, in 1960, the Co-op underwent further renovations and expansions, opening a larger grocery and hardware store in partnership with the Red & White food store franchise. This move solidified its place not only as a resource for farmers, but also as a convenient shopping destination for the wider Uxbridge community.
Adapting to the Times
In 1965, members voted to integrate more closely with a broader network by becoming a branch of the United Co-operatives of Ontario. A few years later, in 1968, the facilities underwent a facelift, and the grocery store re-opened under a new name: the Super Save Market—reflecting the shifting trends of the retail world.
Uxbridge Farmer’s Co-operative. Photo courtesy of Uxbridge The Good Old Days by: J. Peter Hvidsten Page 98
A Quiet End and New Beginnings
Despite its long and successful history, the Uxbridge Co-op eventually succumbed to the changing times. It closed and was abandoned in 2005. By 2010, the once-busy buildings were demolished. Although initial plans called for an office complex, financial difficulties stalled progress.
Finally, in 2015, the property found new life when it was purchased again. Construction began in 2019, giving rise to the building that stands on the site today—a quiet yet enduring testament to the land’s long legacy of serving the people of Uxbridge.
The following photos taken from Google Street view taken in July 2009 show the structures just before they were demolished in 2010.
Remembering the Co-op
The Uxbridge Farmers Co-op was more than just a store or a mill—it was a cornerstone of community, cooperation, and rural resilience. While the physical structures may be gone, their story remains a lasting part of Uxbridge’s rich and evolving history.
Source and Photo Credits
Uxbridge The Good Old Days by: J. Peter Hvidsten
Uxbridge Landmarks Past and Present by: J. Peter Hvidsten
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