Uxbridge History • April 30, 2025

Henry Jones Hardware & The Roxy Theatre

by Shane Coxworth

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

Monday Market Minute April 28

by Shane Coxworth

Monday Market Minute – Uxbridge & Scugog Real Estate Update

📅 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:

📍 Uxbridge Market Update:

13 new listings came to market (slightly up from 11 the previous week).
6 additional properties were relisted after being previously removed.
10 properties had price adjustments (more than double the 4 adjustments last week), suggesting that sellers are working hard to stay competitive.
7 homes sold conditionally (up from 3 last week).
10 properties sold firm (up from 6), showing strong buyer commitment.
Total active listings in Uxbridge now sit at 130, up 3 from the previous week’s 127.

📍 Scugog Market Update:

14 new listings were added (a big jump from 8 last week).
5 properties were relisted.
7 properties had price adjustments (slightly down from 10 last week).
9 homes sold conditionally (more than double last week’s 4).
7 properties sold firm (up from just 1 the week before).
Total active listings in Scugog are now at 110, up from 102 last week.

📈 What’s the Takeaway This Week?

The spring market momentum is definitely picking up in both Uxbridge and Scugog!
We’re seeing increased inventory, more firm sales, and a market where buyers have more options but are also moving quickly when the right property hits.

If you’re a seller, pricing correctly is key right now — buyers are active but cautious, and homes priced well are moving fast.
If you’re a buyer, there’s more selection, but competition is heating up, especially on well-presented and appropriately priced homes.

🎥 Be sure to watch my full Monday Market Minute video below to hear all the details!
If you’re thinking about buying, selling, or simply want to know what your home might be worth in today’s market, let’s connect!
📩📞 I’d love to help you navigate this exciting spring season.

Thank You For Watching

The Monday Market Minute April 28

See the March 2025 Housing Reports for

Durham Region

Township of Uxbridge

Township of Scugog

Check out our Uxbridge and Scugog Events Pages to keep up to date on whats going on around town. Click the links or scan the Code with your phone to take you directly there.

UXBRIDGE EVENTS

SCUGOG EVENTS

April 21, 2025

Monday Market Minute April 21

by Shane Coxworth

Monday Market Minute April 21

Week of Sunday April 13 – Saturday April 19

Weekly Real Estate Market Minute for the Townships of Uxbridge and Scugog

Thank You For Watching

The Monday Market Minute April 21

See the March 2025 Housing Reports for

Durham Region

Township of Uxbridge

Township of Scugog

Check out our Uxbridge and Scugog Events Pages to keep up to date on whats going on around town. Click the links or scan the Code with your phone to take you directly there.

UXBRIDGE EVENTS

SCUGOG EVENTS

Uxbridge History • Uxbridge History • Uxbridge History • April 16, 2025

Planks Hotel

by Shane Coxworth

Planks Hotel

Plank’s Hotel (Postcard). Courtesy of the Uxbridge Historical Centre.

Introduction to a Uxbridge Landmark Long Gone

Uxbridge, Ontario, in the mid-1800s was a developing village poised for growth. As settlers arrived and infrastructure improved, the need for social hubs and accommodation became clear. Among the pioneering names in its hospitality history was the Plank family, whose establishment would later become a beloved local landmark—The Plank Hotel, which officially opened in 1873.

John P. Plank’s Arrival and Vision

John P. Plank, around the age of 30, emigrated from the United States with his family and made Uxbridge his new home. Seeing opportunity in the growing settlement, Plank built a small brick tavern in 1843. This modest establishment is believed to be the first dedicated public entertainment venue in Uxbridge. In his later years, John passed on the business to his son, Bartholomew Plank.

The Birth of The Plank Hotel in 1873

Ambitious and forward-thinking, Bartholomew took his father’s tavern to new heights—literally. In the fall of 1873, he completed a large, three-storey brick addition to the original structure. Thus, The Plank Hotel in Uxbridge opened in 1873 at the bustling intersection of Brock and Main Streets, right at the southwest corner of the village center.

This hotel wasn’t just a place to sleep; it represented progress, connectivity, and hospitality at its best.

Strategic Location and Layout

The location couldn’t have been better—central, accessible, and positioned to catch the eye of both locals and travelers. A look at historical maps, like the one included in period records, shows J.P. Plank’s plot clearly situated in the heart of town. This placement enabled the hotel to become a prominent community gathering spot.

Amenities and Unique Offerings

In 1874, just a year after the hotel’s grand opening, Bartholomew added a major perk: free transportation between the train station and the hotel. This innovative move helped attract customers from outside the town, boosting its reputation and business reach.

From entertainment to lodging, The Plank Hotel became the go-to place for both locals and newcomers alike.

Early 1900’s view of Brock Street looking west. You can see the Arlington Hotel on the left.

Brock Street East Uxbridge 2021

Avoiding Disaster – The 1874 Chimney Fire

Tragedy nearly struck in December of 1874 when a fire was discovered in the hotel’s chimney. Fortunately, the flames were caught in time, saving the establishment from destruction. This close call, however, underscored the ever-present risks buildings of the time faced, especially those with heavy foot traffic and wood heating systems.

Prohibition and Changing Laws

John P. Plank’s time operating the tavern came before the era of strict prohibition laws. This allowed for more relaxed management when it came to alcohol and entertainment. Interestingly, Plank passed away in 1876, years before prohibition regulations began being strictly enforced.

Leadership Under Bartholomew Plank

Bartholomew, or B. Plank as some records note, remained at the helm until his death in 1891. His era of management is often seen as the golden years of the hotel. It continued to thrive and evolve, cementing its role in the social and economic fabric of Uxbridge.

The Arlington Hotel located on the corner of Brock St and Main St. Behind the hotel you can just make out the Uxbridge Music Hall. Arlington Hotel. Courtesy of the Uxbridge Historical Centre. Acc. #: 972.18.1

This photo shows the corner of Brock St E and Main St as it looks today (2021)

Transition and Transformation

Following B. Plank’s passing, the property was sold by the family. While the next owner remains unnamed, the hotel underwent a rebranding and emerged with a new identity: The Arlington Hotel. Though the name changed, its role in the community remained significant.

The Final Chapter – 1921 Fire

Sadly, the Arlington Hotel met a fiery end in 1921 when it burned to the ground. The once-vibrant establishment was reduced to ashes, marking the end of an era for the town.

Legacy and Later Use of the Site

Years later, in 1947, the land that once housed the Plank Hotel was converted into a garage and later purchased by Alex Williamson, and became home to Williamson Chevrolet-Oldsmobile. While the building itself no longer stood, the land remained a point of significance in Uxbridge’s evolving landscape.

The Plank Hotel’s Cultural Impact

The Plank Hotel wasn’t just a business—it was a cultural cornerstone. It supported the local economy, offered jobs, and helped foster community identity. Events, meetings, and celebrations held there helped shape the town’s social fabric for decades.

Historical Mapping and Significance

Looking at historic maps, you can find the location labeled as “J.P. Plank”, confirming its central position and providing a window into Uxbridge’s urban layout in the 19th century. It remains a reference point for local historians and architecture enthusiasts alike.

Preservation and Remembrance Today

While there may be no standing structure left, the story of The Plank Hotel lives on in archives, historical accounts, and community memory. Its importance is occasionally highlighted in local historical tours and museum displays.

Lessons from The Plank Hotel’s History

Entrepreneurs today can learn from Bartholomew Plank’s foresight: innovation, strategic location, and community involvement are timeless keys to success. Even in the 1800s, creating convenience for customers—like the free train station shuttle—was a smart move that modern businesses still use.

FAQs About The Plank Hotel in Uxbridge

1. When did The Plank Hotel officially open?
It officially opened in the fall of 1873 with a large three-storey brick addition.

2. Who was the founder of the original establishment?
John P. Plank founded the original tavern in 1843, which his son later expanded into a hotel.

3. What happened to the hotel in 1874?
A fire was discovered in the chimney but was quickly extinguished, saving the hotel.

4. Why was the hotel renamed?
After Bartholomew Plank’s death in 1891, the new owner renamed it the Arlington Hotel.

5. When and how was the hotel destroyed?
It burned to the ground in 1921 and was never rebuilt.

6. What is located at the site today?
The site became home to a garage in 1947, purchased by Alex Williamson.

Conclusion: A Symbol of Ambition and Legacy

The story of The Plank Hotel in Uxbridge opened in 1873 is more than a tale of brick and mortar. It’s a reflection of vision, community, and change. From John P. Plank’s humble tavern to Bartholomew’s grand hotel, it stood for decades as a proud symbol of progress. Though gone, its legacy endures in the hearts of Uxbridge residents and in the annals of Canadian hospitality history.

Photos and Credits

Uxbridge The Good Old Days by: J. Peter Hvidsten

Uxbridge The First 100 Years by: J. Peter Hvidsten

Uxbridge Historical Centre

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

Monday Market Minute • April 14, 2025

Monday Market Minute April 14

by Shane Coxworth

Monday Market Minute April 14

Week of Sunday April 6 – Saturday April 12

Weekly Real Estate Market Minute for the Townships of Uxbridge and Scugog

Monday Market Minute – Uxbridge & Scugog Real Estate Update!
Week of April 6th – April 12th

Let’s take a quick look at what’s happening in the local real estate market

📍 Uxbridge:
📈 16 new listings (same as last week)
🔁 6 properties relisted
📉 12 price adjustments (up from 9)
🔄 2 sold conditionally
✅ 5 sold firm (up from 4)
🏘️ 127 active listings – up from 115 last week

📍 Scugog:
📉 1 new listing (down from 2)
🔁 2 relisted properties
📉 3 price adjustments (steady from last week)
🔄 2 sold conditionally (up from 1)
❌ 0 sold firm (down from 4)
🏘️ 98 active listings – up from 95 last week

What’s the market saying?
Uxbridge is gaining inventory fast, giving buyers more selection—but sellers should be ready to stand out with sharp pricing and presentation. Scugog’s market is quieter this week, but inventory is slowly ticking up.

🎥 Catch the full Monday Market Minute video now!
Questions? Let’s talk real estate!

Thank You For Watching

The Monday Market Minute April 14

See the March 2025 Housing Reports for

Durham Region

Township of Uxbridge

Township of Scugog

Check out our Uxbridge and Scugog Events Pages to keep up to date on whats going on around town. Click the links or scan the Code with your phone to take you directly there.

UXBRIDGE EVENTS

SCUGOG EVENTS

Real Estate Stats • Real Estate Stats • Real Estate Stats • Real Estate Stats • Real Estate Stats • Real Estate Stats • Real Estate Stats • Real Estate Stats • April 10, 2025

Uxbridge Housing March 2025

by Shane Coxworth

Uxbridge Housing March 2025

Each office is independently owned and operated

Housing Market Report for March 2025

Here is the Region of Durham Housing March 2025 report (all housing types), with reports from the Canadian Real Estate Association, and Toronto Regional Real Estate Board included.

This housing report for Durham Region includes the number of new listings, average list price, number of properties sold, average selling price, average days on market and average asking price to selling price ratio for all property types within the Region of Durham.

^{Scroll to the bottom for links to take you to the housing market reports for Uxbridge, Scugog and Brock.}

From Toronto Regional Real Estate Board

Toronto Regional Real Estate Board – Market Stats At A Glance – March 2025

Read the Toronto Regional Real Estate Board Market Watch Report

Township of Uxbridge Full Report

Uxbridge Township Real Estate Market Analysis – March 2025

The Uxbridge Township real estate market saw a resurgence in activity in March 2025, with a notable uptick in sales and new listings compared to the previous month. The average sales price climbed to $1,152,796, representing a 2.6% increase from February 2025’s average of $1,123,318, but still down 12.5% from March 2024, when the average stood at $1,317,687.

This year-over-year dip underscores a broader price adjustment trend seen across many markets, though it’s worth noting that seven high-end sales—six properties between $1.5M and $1.9M, and one exceeding $2M—likely skewed the average upward, making it less reflective of the overall market conditions.

Sales Volume & Price Dynamics

Sales activity rebounded with 26 properties changing hands, more than double the 11 sales in February and higher than the 23 sales reported in March 2024. Despite this increase, the sale-to-list price ratio slipped slightly to 98%, down from 99% in February, hinting that while demand has improved, buyers are negotiating more effectively.

Properties sold relatively quickly, spending an average of 22 days on the market, consistent with February and signaling sustained buyer interest.

Inventory & Listings

New listings surged in March, with 63 homes hitting the market, compared to 35 last month and 40 in March 2024. This 80% increase in new listings from February signals renewed seller confidence as we approach the spring market.

As a result of strong buyer absorption, months of inventory dropped to 3.15, down sharply from 6.55 in February, bringing the market back into balanced territory—neither clearly favoring buyers nor sellers.

Market Sentiment & Economic Influences

Despite improved activity, uncertainty looms over the housing market. Developments south of the border, including economic instability and an escalating trade war, are casting a shadow on investor and buyer sentiment. Compounding this is Canada’s upcoming federal election, adding another layer of unpredictability to the short-term outlook.

Buyers and sellers alike may proceed with caution in the coming months, watching closely how political and economic conditions evolve. As we head into the spring, traditionally a busier season, market participants should expect more inventory and possible price adjustments, especially if macroeconomic concerns begin to impact mortgage rates or consumer confidence.

March 2025

February 2025

Average Sold Price

Number of Properties Sold

Active Listings

Number of New Listings

Months of Inventory

WATCH OUR MONDAY MARKET MINUTES

*Information is believed to be accurate at time of posting but is not guaranteed to be correct. Some values may vary slightly based on the exact date and time the reports were generated. Market stats are provided by TRREB (Toronto Regional Real Estate Board) and are based on sales for the month of Attached/Row/Townhouses, Condo Apartments, Condo Townhouses, Detached, Detached with Common Elements, Link Homes and Semi-detached. *Some values may vary slightly based on the exact date and time the reports were generated.

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.

Click below for more reports

Durham Region

Township of Scugog

Township Brock

Check out our Uxbridge and Scugog Events Pages to keep up to date on whats going on around town. Click the links or scan the Code with your phone to take you directly there.

UXBRIDGE EVENTS

SCUGOG EVENTS

April 10, 2025

Scugog Housing March 2025

by Shane Coxworth

Scugog Housing March 2025

Each office is independently owned and operated

Housing Market Report for March 2025

Here is the Region of Durham Housing March 2025 report (all housing types), with reports from the Canadian Real Estate Association, and Toronto Regional Real Estate Board included.

^{Scroll to the bottom for links to take you to the housing market reports for Uxbridge, Scugog and Brock.}

From Toronto Regional Real Estate Board

Toronto Regional Real Estate Board – Market Stats At A Glance – March 2025

Read the Toronto Regional Real Estate Board Market Watch Report

Township of Scugog Full Report

Scugog Township Real Estate Market Analysis – March 2025

The real estate market in Scugog Township experienced a noticeable price surge in March 2025, though deeper analysis reveals that the dramatic rise in average sales price was heavily skewed by a few high-value rural property transactions. While demand indicators such as time on market and listing activity showed signs of market vitality, underlying uncertainty due to external economic factors continues to cast a shadow over long-term trends.

Price Trends: Average Sales Price Surge Driven by High-End Rural Sales

The average sales price jumped to $1,286,923, marking a 32.9% increase from March 2024 ($967,812) and a 34.0% increase from just last month ($960,538 in February 2025). However, this dramatic upswing is largely attributed to three high-priced rural sales at $1,630,000, $1,820,000, and $3,225,000, which significantly inflated the average. Without these outliers, the market would likely show a more stable pricing trend.

Sales Activity: Steady Volume but Below Last Year’s Levels

Sales volume remained flat month-over-month with 13 properties sold, mirroring February’s total, but still below the 19 sales in March 2024. This continued softening of sales activity reflects a moderation in buyer enthusiasm, despite the presence of premium sales that suggest there is still demand at the top end of the market.

Market Competitiveness: Slight Recovery in Seller Leverage

The sale-to-list price ratio improved modestly to 97%, up from 96% last month, indicating that buyers were slightly more willing to meet seller expectations. However, this is still short of the high-competition ratios seen in previous years, pointing to a market that’s gradually stabilizing.

Inventory & Supply: Listings Rise as Months of Inventory Climbs

New listings rose to 48 in March, up from 36 in February and 45 in March 2024, signaling renewed confidence among sellers. Meanwhile, months of inventory increased to 5.85, up from 4.77 last month, nudging the market closer to a buyers market threshold while remaining technically balanced. This increase in available homes gives buyers more options and can moderate price pressures moving forward.

Time on Market: Homes Selling Faster

The average days on market dropped to 33 days, down from 52 in February, suggesting that well-priced properties—particularly in desirable segments—are moving more quickly. This may reflect urgency among buyers ahead of potential economic shifts or interest rate changes.

Market Outlook: Cautious Optimism Amid Economic Uncertainty

While March data points to a short-term spike in pricing and quicker sales, uncertainty looms over the market. Ongoing economic tensions due to the trade war, as well as geopolitical instability south of the border and Canada’s upcoming federal election, are creating hesitation among both buyers and sellers. These factors may lead to fluctuations in demand and pricing volatility in the months ahead.

Conclusion: Volatility Ahead Despite March Strength

Scugog Township’s real estate market showed unusual strength in March, but the sharp increase in average sales price is not reflective of overall market trends, having been distorted by a few high-end transactions. The balanced inventory level and improved days on market suggest underlying buyer interest, but external economic pressures could heavily influence activity in the second quarter of 2025. Caution is advised as the market navigates this uncertain landscape.

March 2025

Scugog Housing March 2025

February 2025