Event Overview
Her Honour conducted an official visit to the City of Belleville. Her Honour met with His Worship Mitch Panciuk, participated in a roundtable discussion on the topic of affordable housing and attended a reception with community members.
Tweets
A warm reception from @BellevilleON last week. Thank you for the informative conversation on sustainable and affordable housing – pleased to see all members of the community working together to find holistic solutions to complex issues. pic.twitter.com/co9COo9Iw5
— Elizabeth Dowdeswell (@LGLizDowdeswell) April 16, 2019
Site of Significance
Glanmore National Historic Site was designated a National Historic Site of Canada in 1969 in recognition of its exceptional 2nd Empire architecture. Glanmore was built in 1882-1883 for wealthy banker J.P.C. Phillips (1842-1912) and his wife Harriet Dougall Phillips (1839-1915). The grand interior features beautiful hand-painted ceilings and ornate woodwork. Many of Glanmore’s rooms have been restored to the 1890s. They feature period room displays containing some original furnishings as well as beautiful objects from the Couldery Collection. The museum cares for an extensive collection of antique furniture, paintings and ceramics. Local history is highlighted in Glanmore’s lower level, and includes the Early Homestead exhibit and Maid of All Work: Domestic Service at Glanmore. The Museum is open to the public six days a week and offers a wide variety of programs and activities for schools and the general public. Guided and self-guided tours are available year-round. Source
Did You Know?
The Moira River, which wends its way through the city, played an important role in the early stages of the community’s development. A strong demand for timber in England led to Belleville’s development as a bustling lumber town. Rich forests nearby were easily accessible by the river and French Canadian loggers were a familiar sight in the community. The logs were cut into timber at several local mills and loaded on schooners or were rafted and taken down the St. Lawrence to Quebec. Source
Royal Connection
A visit in the spring of 1816, by Sir Francis Gore, Lieutenant-Governor of Upper Canada and his wife, Lady Arabella, inspired the residents to change the name of their settlement to Belleville in honour of the fair lady. Source
Media
Lieutenant Governor praises city efforts
Lieutenant Governor talks affordable housing
Lieutenant Governor of Ontario visits Belleville to talk housing