Events
Explore our upcoming events.
An Evening with Shannon Kyles
Author of The Story of Ontario Architecture
Gallery Stratford
February 5
Doors open at 6:15 pm
(please enter through The Shed)
The Architectural Conservancy of Ontario Stratford–Perth County Branch, in partnership with Gallery Stratford, is pleased to welcome author Shannon Kyles for a special talk on her new book, The Story of Ontario Architecture.
This beautifully illustrated book explores the cultural evolution of Ontario through its buildings, featuring over 1,200 photographs—many from Stratford and Perth County. Readers are guided through the province’s architectural story, from Indigenous pointing trees and early settlement, through Victorian grandeur, to the rise of the middle class in the twentieth century. Along the way, Kyles highlights the styles, materials, influences, and social forces that have shaped Ontario’s built heritage.At this event, Shannon Kyles will speak about the research behind the book, the role architecture plays in our everyday lives, and why understanding the places around us deepens our appreciation of them.
Attendees will have the opportunity to meet the author and purchase signed copies of the book on site.
Tickets: $20 (available in advance or at the door)
Proceeds will benefit both organizations.
🎟️ Tickets & details:
📘 For more information or advance book sales:
Save the Date: 2026 Annual General Meeting
Please join us for the ACO Stratford–Perth County Annual General Meeting on June 2, 2026, at the Stratford Country Club.
Details, including speaker and start time, will be announced closer to the date.
Book Launch: The Ontario Cottage: Perfect of its Kind
A tribute to one of Ontario’s most enduring and recognizable architectural styles.
We are delighted to share that The Ontario Cottage: Perfect of its Kind — a new book by Lynne DiStefano and Dan Schneider — was launched in November 2025. Dan, who is from St. Marys, is currently president of the Stratford/Perth County ACO branch.
This beautifully illustrated volume explores one of Ontario’s most beloved architectural forms — the Ontario Cottage — highlighting its history, craftsmanship, and enduring place in the province’s cultural landscape.
The authors held launch events across the region, each featuring an illustrated talk, discussion, and book signing. Events took place in St. Marys on November 6 and in Stratford on November 9. The book is available at Fanfare Books in Stratford and Betty’s Bookshelf in St. Marys as well as on-line through Indigo and Amazon.
The Architectural Conservancy Ontario aims through education and advocacy to encourage the identification, conservation and re-use of important structures and the creation of districts of heritage significance.
