BELLEVUE: HOW VARIOUS OWNERS HAVE CHANGED THE BUILDING  

BELLEVUE: HOW VARIOUS OWNERS HAVE CHANGED THE BUILDING  

Built between 1816 and 1819, in the Palladian style, the white painted brick house over looks the Detroit River and Boblo Island.  One of only three National Historic Sites in Amherstburg (the others being Fort Malden and Amherstburg Freedom Museum), BelleVue was designated because of its outstanding architectural importance. Unfortunately it is also on the National Trust’s Top10 list of endangered places and it is one of the few remaining examples of Georgian architecture in Ontario. 

Starting with builder Robert Reynolds, the Deputy Assistant Commissary General of the garrison at Fort Malden, BelleVue has had a number of owners over the years. On July 23 at 6:30 pm noted local historians Robert and Debra Honor will take you through its colourful history. The Honors really know the town’s history and are sure to present a very informative and interesting talk. 

Recognizing its historic importance, in 2016 Amherstburg town council purchased BelleVue for $1.1 million. Fund raising commenced immediately and raised enough monies for a new roof; but unfortunately funding today is well short of the 10 million needed to restore it.

Restoring and protecting Heritage properties is very important to Amherstburg’s image and pride.  A municipal election is coming up this fall so when you talk to candidates for our seven council positions make sure you ask them what their stance is on BelleVue?  What will they do to make sure it is successfully restored for generations to come? 

The Honor’s presentation will be very popular and attendance will be restricted to 40 so request your seats soonest. You don’t want to miss this talk 

The River Bookshop Team