Cobourg is a town in Southern Ontario ninety-five kilometers (59 miles) east
of Toronto and 62 kilometers (39 miles) east of Oshawa. It is located along
Highway 401. To the south, Cobourg borders Lake Ontario.
166 James Street East – 1880s – two-story rectangular house with a side wing – chipped gable120 University Avenue East – Victoria College – 1832 – Edward Crane, architect and builder. This is in the Greek Revival style and was built as the Academy of the Methodist Church and became one of Canada’s earliest degree-granting universities in 1841. Egerton Ryerson, a prominent educator and founder of the Ontario public school system, was its first President. After forming a vital part of the Town’s academic and cultural life for over fifty years, Victoria College was persuaded to relocate to Toronto in 1892 and today remains affiliated with the University of Toronto.10 Chapel Street – c. 1841 – This house has Georgian features – balanced facade, medium-pitched roof, and robust end chimneys. Its rather heavy and severe doorway, with its single panel, is characteristic of the Greek Revival style.428 John Street – Built by William Hargraft, a prosperous hardware merchant in Cobourg who became Mayor and member of the Provincial Government. Second Empire Style with front tower.18 Spencer Street East – Known as ‘The Poplars’. The Spencers, Beattys and Daintrys who lived here were closely associated with the history and development of Cobourg and were connected to well-known Canadian families including the Ryersons. Early Ontario Regency Architecture50 Havelock Street — c. 1851. Residence of R.D. Chatterton who was the first editor of the Cobourg Star, Canada’s oldest continually published newspaper.77 Havelock Street – 1876 – This square house was built as a wedding present from the bride’s parents for Alfred Reynar, professor of English literature at Victoria College, and his bride Ida Hayden. The double main door is enhanced by a curved transom and narrow sidelights. The bay windows have stained glass transoms above each of the three narrow, mullioned window panes; there is bracketing under the eaves.80 Havelock Street – c. 1875 – William Bond, a contractor and builder, built this Victorian house with elaborate stone quoins, and stone lintels with worked keystone over each window. The second story center window is a mock French door, a counterpoint to the main door. Professor Bain of Victoria College was its first owner.
