I have concerns about the proposed de-designation of the Cartwright Building located at 89 Thomas St. East across from our County Museum. Lennox & Addington County’s request to the Town of Greater Napanee to de-designate the heritage designation of this historic building is the first step towards the planned demolition of this building. This plan was recommended in an L&A County staff report dated June 20, 2022. My reasons to preserve this important historic building and not de-designate it’s heritage status are listed below.
– Constructed in 1891, the Cartwright Building is named after R. J. Cartwright Esq. M.P.P., who gratuitously offered the property in 1863. This gift should be respected.
– The building was identified decades ago as a building of historical significance. With the passage of time the building has only become more historically significant.
– The building, located across from the historic County Jail, was used as the jailer’s house and represents an important part of the justice and policing history of Greater Napanee.
– The Greater Napanee Heritage Committee has advised against the de-designation.
– The exterior building structure, brick walls and limestone foundation are in good shape.
– This historic building belongs to the Public and therefore the Public should have some say in its future repurposing. For example, could it be transformed (with an expansion) into a County Library? Could it be used as an art gallery and coffeehouse-style performing venue for musicians?
– Constructed in 1891, the Cartwright Building is named after R. J. Cartwright Esq. M.P.P., who gratuitously offered the property in 1863. This gift should be respected.
– The building was identified decades ago as a building of historical significance. With the passage of time the building has only become more historically significant.
– The building, located across from the historic County Jail, was used as the jailer’s house and represents an important part of the justice and policing history of Greater Napanee.
– The Greater Napanee Heritage Committee has advised against the de-designation.
– The exterior building structure, brick walls and limestone foundation are in good shape.
– This historic building belongs to the Public and therefore the Public should have some say in its future repurposing. For example, could it be transformed (with an expansion) into a County Library? Could it be used as an art gallery and coffeehouse-style performing venue for musicians?
I pray that Greater Napanee Council will not de-designate the heritage status of the historic Cartwright Building. It is an important part of Greater Napanee’s history. If it is torn down it is lost forever.
Respectfully submitted,
Stephen Medd
Proud citizen of Greater Napanee
Stephen Medd
Proud citizen of Greater Napanee