The Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority (NPCA) and the City of Thorold, in partnership with Heritage Thorold, celebrated the heritage designation of St. Johns Centre Conservation Area today, recognizing the significant cultural value of a site that has played an important role in Niagara’s history for more than 170 years.
The designation under the Ontario Heritage Act recognizes the St. Johns Mill and St. Johns Schoolhouse, two historic buildings that reflect generations of community life, industry and education in the former village of St. Johns.
St. Johns Centre is located along Twelve Mile Creek, the only cold-water creek in the Niagara Peninsula watershed. The conservation area spans 7.3 hectares and sits within the Niagara Escarpment and Carolinian forest zone. St. Johns Centre represents an important ecological area and is a significant habitat for migratory birds, bats, as well as many diverse mammals and insect types.
The area was originally settled in 1792 by entrepreneur Benjamin Canby, who received the land as part of a Crown Grant. Alongside John Darling and John Street, Canby developed the site into a thriving industrial village with several saw and gristmill operations. By 1799, the hamlet, then known as St. Johns, had become one of the most important settlements in Upper Canada. In 1831, a post office was established to support the many businesses operating within the village, including a woolen mill, foundry, tannery, and the existing grist and sawmills.
Today, both the mill and schoolhouse serve as living classrooms through programming with the Niagara Catholic District School Board (NCDSB). Their continued use demonstrates how heritage can evolve while keeping history relevant, accessible, and alive for future generations.
This heritage designation reflects a shared commitment by NPCA, the City of Thorold, and Heritage Thorold to the preservation of Niagara’s history.
QUOTES
"The designation of St. Johns Centre Conservation Area celebrates an important chapter in Thorold's rich history. We are honoured to work alongside the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority and Heritage Thorold to recognize the site's cultural significance and preserve its historic character for our community."
Mayor Terry Ugulini, City of Thorold
“Places like St. Johns Centre remind us that conservation isn’t just about landscapes; it is about stories, people, and the legacy we choose to carry forward. This designation helps ensure that an important part of Niagara's history can continue to be protected, experienced, and shared for generations to come."
Rob Foster, NCPA Board Chair
“This is a place where history isn’t just remembered, it’s still alive. From early industry to hands-on learning today, St. Johns Centre tells a story that deserves to be conserved and shared.”
Adam Christie, Director, Conservation Areas
“Heritage conservation is a shared responsibility, and this designation is the result of several organizations working toward a common goal. We're grateful to our partners for helping recognize the significance of St. Johns Centre and ensuring its history continues to be valued as an important part of our community.”
Leilani Lee-Yates, CAO
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About Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority:
As a community-based natural resource management agency, the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority envisions a healthy and vibrant natural environment with shared greenspace and clean water for all. NPCA’s work supports the conservation, enhancement and sustainability of healthy watersheds with programs and services that focus on drinking water source protection, flood and hazard management, ecosystem restoration, community stewardship, education, and land management.
NPCA is the caretaker of 43 conservation areas within the Niagara Peninsula watershed held in public trust for recreation, heritage preservation, conservation and education. These natural and shared greenspaces marry nature, culture and adventure to create limitless opportunities for discovery.
To learn more, please visit: www.npca.ca.
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Media inquiries to be directed to:
Natalie Stickles
Community Relations Specialist, City of Thorold
905-227-6613 x439
JoyAnna Bodini
Marketing and Engagement Coordinator, NPCA
905-933-1232