Council advances designation of Schomberg Community Hall and Jan Rupke House
Township of King, Ont. (February 25, 2026) —Two prominent historic buildings in King are being recognized for their cultural heritage value and importance to the Township’s history and community identity. At its meeting on February 23, 2026, King Township Council stated its intention to designate Schomberg Community Hall and the Jan Rupke House under Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act. Notices have been issued allowing for a 30‑day objection period, after which Council can pass the designation by‑law which will advance the formal designation of the properties.
Heritage designation helps protect buildings and places that reflect King’s architectural, historical, and cultural heritage, while allowing for thoughtful change and continued use. These designations support the Township’s ongoing commitment to heritage conservation and the preservation of places that contribute to King’s distinct character and charm.
Schomberg Community Hall
The Schomberg Community Hall, located at 325 Main Street, is recognized for its long-standing role as a civic and cultural landmark within the historic core of Schomberg. Originally constructed in 1907 by the Schomberg Market Association to support what was once one of the most active small‑town produce markets north of Toronto, the building was expanded in 1922 with the addition of a second storey and auditorium, allowing it to function as both a market hall and community hall. In 2022, the hall underwent a comprehensive renovation that modernized building systems, improved energy efficiency, and achieved full accessibility, while maintaining its historic civic function.
The facility is used as a site for recreation programming and summer camps and is available to rent for private functions. It has two levels, each including separate kitchens and washrooms, with elevator access. The Upper Hall accommodates 150 people and the Lower Hall accommodates 90 people. The entire facility can be permitted, making it a popular venue for large parties and events. For more information, visit king.ca/facilities.
Jan Rupke House
The Jan Rupke House, located at 19130 Dufferin Street, is acknowledged for its cultural heritage value and its direct association with the early Dutch settlement of Ansnorveldt. Constructed circa 1934, the two-storey vernacular dwelling blends Dutch Colonial Revival, Victorian, and American architectural influences, distinguished by its steeply pitched gable roof, original front bay window, dormers, and board‑and‑batten exterior.
The property has strong historical and associative value as the original home of Jan Rupke, one of the hamlet’s original settlers and a prominent community leader, whose home served not only as a family residence but also as a place for early communal gathering and leadership. Retaining much of its original form and location, the house remains a defining feature of Ansnorveldt’s historic streetscape and a tangible link to the agricultural, cultural, and settlement history that shaped the community. This designation represents an important milestone for heritage conservation in Ansnorveldt and is the first designated heritage property in King Township’s portion of the Holland Marsh.
King Heritage & Cultural Centre
In addition to these two heritage designations, Council supported an update to the heritage designation for the King Heritage & Cultural Centre, located at 2920 King Road, following the completion of a significant, multi-year restoration initiative in 2025. The update repeals outdated designation by-laws and consolidates all relocated heritage structures on the property—including the King Railway Station, the King Christian Church, and the Laskay Women’s Institute Hall—under a single, modern by-law. This approach simplifies future administration and strengthens the long-term conservation of this important cultural destination.
Heritage Planning
Heritage designation is a key tool for conservation, guiding future changes while allowing historic places to remain active and relevant within the community. Learn more about King Township’s heritage conservation efforts, including the Municipal Heritage Register and the interactive Heritage Story Map, available at king.ca/heritage. The Story Map highlights designated and listed heritage properties and helps share the stories that have shaped King Township over time.
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Media Contact(s)
Township of King
Andrea Gyarmati, Manager of Communications and Public Engagement
Township of King | Phone: 905-833-5321 | Email: media@king.ca