The Sharpe Schoolhouse

Origins

THE RICH HISTORICAL TAPESTRY

The story of the Sharpe Schoolhouse begins with a piece of land purchased on February 15, 1854, from David Henderson, a neighbouring farmer, for the sum of three pounds. This transaction marked the first step in what would become a vital educational cornerstone in the Chinguacousy region.

Constructed in 1879, the Sharpe Schoolhouse replaced an earlier educational structure along Old School Road—a route so named for its historical significance in the community's development. This road was dotted with schools strategically placed every two to three miles, ensuring that children could walk manageable distances from their homes to receive their education.

The schoolhouse itself, built from locally sourced limestone, stands as a testament to the architectural style prevalent in the area during that era. While not much is recorded about the builder or the exact costs of construction, the design and materials used were consistent with other schools in the region, suggesting a shared community focus on durability and accessibility.

LIVING HISTORY

THE JOURNEY OF THE SHARPE SCHOOLHOUSE

The Sharpe Schoolhouse served the community until the early 1960s, at which point the move towards centralization of schools led to its closure.

The building's educational legacy ended, but its next chapter was about to begin. It was then that Marjorie and Fred Sharpe, recognizing the structure’s historical and personal significance—Fred himself had been a pupil there for eight years and met Marjorie years later when she started teaching at the school—purchased it at an auction. They embarked on careful renovations, ensuring that the additions and improvements remained faithful to the original architecture and spirit of the building.

Today, the Sharpe Schoolhouse not only embodies the educational history of its time but also stands as a lovingly restored piece of Chinguacousy's heritage, ready to be appreciated anew by generations who value both history and modernity.

PRESERVING THE PAST

HISTORICAL DESIGNATION

The Sharpe Schoolhouse proudly holds a historical designation under Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act, enacted by By-law 1987-239. This important designation primarily applies to the exterior of the original building, highlighting its significant architectural and community value.

UNDERSTANDING HERITAGE DESIGNATION

Heritage designation is a status that helps preserve buildings of historical significance, ensuring their legacy continues for future generations. For more information on what this entails, please visit the Heritage Designation - Town of Caledon.

HERITAGE PERMITS & GUIDELINES

Owners of designated properties, such as the Sharpe Schoolhouse, are required to obtain heritage permits for any alterations that might affect the property’s heritage attributes. These permits are crucial in maintaining the historical integrity of the property while allowing for modernization that respects its past. The process for applying and the guidelines can be found on the Altering Designated Properties page. The Township of Caledon is dedicated to working closely with property owners to ensure that all proposed changes meet heritage preservation standards and to assist in finding suitable solutions when necessary.

FINANCIAL SUPPORT FOR PRESERVATION

To support the upkeep and restoration of designated heritage properties, owners can apply for the Designated Heritage Property Grants. These are matching grants that can provide significant financial assistance for approved projects. General grants can go up to $6,000, with Special Project grants reaching up to $15,000. For more details and to apply, visit the Designated Heritage Property Grant Program.