The most rewarding part about working on heritage buildings is having the opportunity learning the history of each place. First constructed between 1863 and 1865 by and for the Six Nations Confederacy Council, the Old Council House in Ohsweken, Ontario has been witness to a politically fraught and tumultuous 160 years. The building served as the seat of government for the Six Nations Confederacy Council from 1863 – 1924 when, under orders from the Canadian Government, the RCMP removed the traditional hereditary Council and instituted a new elected body. Ownership of the Old Council House has since been restored to the Confederacy Council and now, ahead of the upcoming 100th anniversary of that pivotal ousting, the Council House is getting a face lift.
Working with the dedicated volunteers leading the restoration efforts, Quartek’s work will include masonry repairs and window restoration, interior finishes and lighting, accessibility upgrades, and all new mechanical systems.
Read more about the history and restoration of the Old Council House: https://tworowtimes.com/news/local/old-council-house-restoration-bringing-haudenosaunee-political-history-to-life/”