Mississippi Mills Council has passed five heritage designation by-laws protecting three historic buildings in Almonte and Appleton. The by-laws were published on August 12, 2026, and residents who wish to object have until September 12 to file an appeal with the Ontario Land Tribunal.
The designations cover the Snedden House at 198 Church Street, the Teskey House at 492 River Road, and the Black Watch Building at 34, 36, and 38 Mill Street. All were made under Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act, which requires property owners to obtain heritage permits before making alterations.
The Town of Mississippi Mills says the Snedden House, built in 1866 by William Snedden, is a good example of Ontario cottage style. The Teskey House, dating to 1837 with an addition in 1844, showcases Georgian Classical architecture and overlooks the original site of Joseph Teskey’s grist mill in Appleton. The Black Watch Building, built in 1909-1910, is an early 20th-century commercial building that adds to the character of Almonte’s downtown.
The Black Watch Building was already protected under the Downtown Almonte Heritage Conservation District, but the new Part IV designations provide extra protections for its historical features. Council passed the designations at its August 11 meeting, less than 11 weeks before the October 26 municipal election.
This move follows a mandatory review of the municipality’s heritage registry before a January 1, 2027 deadline set by provincial legislation. Under the rules, properties listed on the register must either be formally designated or removed.
In June, Council rejected a heritage designation for the Almonte Legion building at 100 Bridge Street after Legion members voiced concerns about higher maintenance costs and insurance premiums. The new designations do not affect that building.
Anyone wishing to appeal one of the five by-laws can contact the municipal clerk’s office by September 12.
