Grimsby, Ontario couple to receive HCF Achievement Award
Ottawa, ON May 29, 2012 – The Heritage Canada Foundation (HCF) and the Grimsby Heritage Advisory Committee are pleased to announce the presentation of a national Achievement Award to Barry and Linda Coutts for the restoration work undertaken at the historic Nelles Manor at 126 Main Street West, Grimsby, Ontario.
The Achievement Award recognizes and celebrates the 40 years that Barry and Linda Coutts have dedicated to returning Nelles Manor to the beautiful Georgian-style home it once was. Built by Robert Nelles in 1798, it is considered to be the oldest inhabited dwelling between Niagara and Kingston. It is also celebrated as one of the few houses in the area to have survived the battles and skirmishes of the War of 1812.
Motivated by their respect for the area’s heritage and their desire to preserve the Nelles family’s history, the Coutts have spent countless hours uncovering, repairing and replicating, among other things, the original black walnut floors and panelling, the hidden plaster walls, and the house’s seven fireplaces. Their efforts demonstrate a sustained and admirable commitment to heritage conservation.
The recipients will be celebrated at a Banquet on June 2 to be held in the Fort Henry Discovery Centre in Kingston as part of the Ontario Heritage Conference.
The HCF Achievement Award honours individuals or groups for their achievement in heritage advocacy and volunteerism, and for projects that demonstrate a commitment to heritage conservation. Nominations are encouraged throughout the year.
Photos of the Nelles Manor can be viewed here.
The Heritage Canada Foundation is a national registered charity dedicated to the preservation of Canada’s historic places. Your support is vital to our work. Please join or make a tax-deductible donation today.
Contact:
Carolyn Quinn, Director of Communications, cquinn@heritagecanada.org
Telephone: (613) 237-1066 ext 229; Cell (613) 797-7206
