The Hidden Historic Landmarks walking tour took almost 20 people on a trip through Aldershot’s history Wednesday (July 3) as they explored buildings that date back to as early as the 1800s.
The tour started at the Aldershot Village BIA office on Plains Road East and visited several historic homes and buildings in the area, including some well-known landmarks such as the Gallagher Farmhouse at 241 Plains Rd. E.
The tour was led by Richard Collins, a local historian and past president of the Mississauga South Historical Society, who spoke about people from different eras and cultures who have called Aldershot home.
“Aldershot is full of these beautiful old buildings,” he said. “Early settlers, British loyalists, farmers and workers all lived here.”
Several members of the Aldershot BIA, including Ward 1 councillor Kelvin Galbraith and the BIA executive director Andrea Dodd, also joined the tour.
Many of the buildings along Plains Road East used to be farmhouses that grew fruits and vegetables, like cabbages and strawberries. The Gallagher Farmhouse, which was built in 1886 was owned by the Gallagher family until 1998, had large orchards that still exist along the North Service Road.
Other buildings, such as The Roelfson House at 242 Plains Rd. E., were built in the early 1900s and were owned by workers who managed Hamilton’s early factories.
The tour lasted an hour and a half and covered part of Plains Road East, Gallagher Road and Shadeland Avenue. Organizers at the tour spoke about the possibility of a second tour later this year that would cover more of Plains Road East and Waterdown Road.
