Our new house is a block north of “Salvation Corners” in Owen Sound, so nicknamed because of the four limestone churches standing there.

The oldest church building is St. George’s Anglican Church. This Gothic style building was patterned after St. Mary’s Church in Bristol, England and opened in 1881. It features a 142-foot steeple. (I had trouble getting a good photo because of all the trees on the beautiful grounds surrounding the church.)

Next to be built was Georgian Shores United Church (originally Division Street Presbyterian) in 1886. The pointed arches, buttresses, and square tower are all features of the Gothic Revival architectural style.

The third church, in order of construction, is the Church of the Nazarene (originally the Church of Christ, Disciples — sold in 1956). By far the smallest of the buildings, it is patterned after an early English country church.

Finally we have First Baptist Church, which erected its present building in 1903. Evidence of the Italianate style is seen in the semi-elliptical windows.

If you want to learn more about the history of these churches, there are handy historical plaques in front of each one. If you’re not in the area, I’d be happy to answer any questions you leave in the comments. You might also be interested in this brochure of a historical walking tour of Owen Sound.