The Voice of North Grenville
HERITAGE WEEK 2026 www.ngtimes.ca www.ngtimes.ca
The Voice of North Grenville
Reaching by direct mail 8,900 homes and businesses in North Grenville
HERITAGE WEEK 2026 February 19, 2026
Vol. 14 No. 6
Why Heritage Matters A Reflection on Pride, Place, and Community
"Proudly serving our Community"
Dan Pettigrew Owner & friendly neighbour T: 613.774.1958 Dan.Pettigrew@sobeys.com foodland.ca 12015 Main Street Winchester, ON
February 19, 2026
Prescott Streetscape, c. 1930 by Geraldine Taylor I recently returned from a visit to San Miguel de Allende, Mexico, a city whose beauty is not only found in its architecture, colours, and cobblestone streets, but in the deep sense of pride its residents have for their history. Everywhere I looked, I saw evidence of a community that has made a collective decision to protect what came before them. Buildings centuries old are lovingly maintained. Public spaces tell stories. Traditions are honoured. History is not tucked away, it is lived, celebrated, and shared with both residents and visitors alike. What struck me most was how heritage there is
not seen as something belonging only to the past. It is clearly understood as a foundation for identity, belonging, and future growth. The people of San Miguel de Allende know who they are because they know where they came from. While North Grenville may not have centuries of history behind it, we have something equally meaningful - a rich and vibrant story shaped by the people, families, farms, businesses, and community builders who came before us. Our heritage lives in our historic buildings, our archives, our landscapes, and in the stories passed down through generations. It is something we can
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be deeply proud of. Here at home, the North Grenville Historical Society plays a vital role as the keeper of these stories and artifacts. Through the dedication of volunteers and supporters, they work quietly but tirelessly to preserve our collective memory so that future generations can understand and appreciate the roots of our community. But preserving history is not something that happens on its own. It requires care, commitment, and community support. There are many ways to help. Volunteering time at the HUB or the archives is a meaningful way to contribute, whether assisting with collections, research, events, or simply
helping keep the doors open to those curious about our past. Becoming a member, whether new or renewing, is another important way to ensure the Society remains strong and able to continue its work. Supporting heritage is really about supporting community. It strengthens our sense of place, connects generations, and reminds us that we are part of a story much larger than ourselves. My time in San Miguel de Allende was a powerful reminder that communities thrive when they value their history. We may be younger, but we share the same opportunity and responsibility to protect and celebrate the legacy we are building together here in North Grenville. Heritage is not just about looking back. It is about understanding who we are today and shaping who we will become. I encourage everyone to consider how you might support the preservation of our shared history, whether through volunteering, becoming a member, or simply taking the time to learn more about the remarkable stories that make North Grenville the community we are proud to call home.
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