Peterborough Architectural Conservation Advisory Committee Celebrates its 50th Anniversary

Peterborough, ON –The Peterborough Architectural Conservation Advisory Committee (PACAC) celebrates its 50th anniversary June 2, 2025. 

In March 1975, the Ontario Heritage Act (OHA) was passed, and months later the City of Peterborough became the second municipality in Ontario to form a Municipal Heritage Committee.  

The Peterborough Architectural Conservation Advisory Committee was established by City By-law on June 2, 1975, to advise and assist City Council on matters relating to the preservation and designation of heritage properties. 

The first committee consisted of nine members: Dr. Eldon Ray, Betty Hinton, Maria Teresa Bradburn, J. J. Overvliet, Edgar Boland, Jennie Spurway, Victor Barry, Margaret Fleming and Martha Ann Kidd. 

Over the years PACAC has also played a vital role in programs such as Doors Open Peterborough, Heritage Week and the Heritage Hunt, as well as providing educational events and workshops for owners of heritage properties celebrating the City’s local heritage. Currently 795 buildings are listed on the City’s Heritage Register - there are 348 properties in The Avenues and Neighbourhood Heritage Conservation District and 142 buildings that have been individually designated under the OHA. 

PACAC also recognises the role that heritage preservation plays in mitigating the climate crisis through conservation of existing buildings, adaptive reuse projects and the idea that “the greenest building is the one that already exists." 

PACAC’s annual Heritage Hunt will take place in September. Doors Open Peterborough will take place on Saturday, September 13, 2025. 

Quotes 

“As we mark the 50th anniversary of the Peterborough Architectural Conservation Advisory Committee, we celebrate five decades of dedicated stewardship, thoughtful advocacy, and passionate preservation of Peterborough’s architectural heritage. PACAC has played a vital role in protecting the character and identity of Peterborough, ensuring that the stories of our past are preserved in the buildings and spaces we cherish today. Conservation isn’t just about preserving bricks and mortar. It’s about honouring the people, history and spirit that define who we are. I would like to thank PACAC for its enduring commitment to heritage and for helping shape a city that respects its roots while building for the future.” – Mayor Jeff Leal 

“I want to extend my personal thanks to all members of PACAC, past and present, who have given of their time and energy so that we can continue to learn about and tell the story of Peterborough through its built heritage.” – Stewart Hamilton, Chair, PACAC 

For more information about PACAC, heritage and heritage events in the City visit peterborough.ca/heritage. 

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