Victoria Corners Lodge Hall

~ Circa 1856 ~

Uxbridge Historical Centre

7239 Concession 6, Uxbridge, ON

Photo courtesy of Uxbridge Public Library

Photo courtesy of The Uxbridge Historical Centre

The Victoria Corners Lodge Hall is designated under the Ontario Heritage Act.

History

The Victoria Corners Lodge Hall, the oldest building at the Uxbridge Historical Centre, was a living testament to the rich history of Uxbridge. Originally situated on the south side of the road just east of Victoria Corners, northeast of Uxbridge, this historic structure had a storied past.

In its original location, the hall served as the meeting space for Loyal Orange Lodge No. 454, the Victoria Corners chapter of the fraternal, Protestant group known as the Orangemen. It stood as a gathering place, witnessing important discussions and events within the community.

Design

Constructed with plank walls, wood siding, and adorned with corner boards and returned eaves, the building exuded a simple yet timeless charm. It’s three windows, each protected by wood storm shutters, added to its character, offering a glimpse into a bygone era.

The interior of the hall was a reflection of its purpose, featuring an entryway, a small adjacent room, and a large meeting hall with a raised platform at the rear. Each corner and crevice held memories of the vibrant community life that once unfolded within its walls.

Relocation

In 1976, recognizing the historical significance of the hall, it was moved to the Uxbridge Historical Centre. This relocation ensured the preservation of its heritage and allowed future generations to connect with the town’s past.

Tragedy Strikes

Tragically, the Victoria Corners Lodge Hall met an untimely end on Saturday, May 21 2022, when an EF2 tornado touched down in Uxbridge. A falling tree, victim to the tornado’s destructive force, brought about the hall’s demise. It was the first building to fall as the tornado carved its path of destruction through the town.

As we reflect on the loss of the Victoria Corners Lodge Hall, we honour the memories it held and the pivotal role it played in Uxbridge’s history. While the physical structure may be gone, its legacy lives on in the stories shared by the community. The hall’s resilience in the face of the tornado serves as a poignant reminder of the strength and unity embedded in the town’s roots.

In remembering the Victoria Corners Lodge Hall, we pay tribute to the threads that weave our community together, recognizing that even in the face of destruction, the spirit of our shared history endures.

^{First two photos courtesy of The Uxbridge Historical Centre and Uxbridge Public Library}

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