Built for Alderman (later Mayor) Robert McElroy, 1852.

An excellent example of Second Empire architecture and an early example of a pre- Confederation building in one of the original four historic neighbourhoods in Hamilton. Its preservation and conservation are paramount at this time when most of its original design and features are intact but in serious need of restoration. It is a key component of the neighbourhood’s history in a highly visible location for Hamiltonians and visitors alike.

54-56 Hess Street was part of the former farm plot of Robert McElroy, which included the entire block from Hess to Queen and Main to Jackson. He also owned a stone quarry on the Mountain and worked as a stone contractor. He served as an alderman in the city when he built this home and lived in it for a decade, including when he served as mayor of Hamilton from 1862-1864. He married Catherine Hess, daughter of the Hess family that is the namesake of the street and subsequent village. These properties remained in the family’s ownership for more than 70 years until 1929. For more, see: IT’S DEMOLITION OR RESTORATION FOR 54 HESS ST. S. Janice Brown, Hamilton City Magazine, Oct 31, 2023.

54-56 Hess Street meet six of the nine criteria required for historical designation. Only two are required but present owner, Wharf Street Development Corporation claim their structure is deteriorating and needs to be demolished.

Alissa Golden, Cultural Heritage Program Lead, City of Hamilton:

“Council has already supported designation of the property and directed staff to issue the Notice of Intention to Designate (NOID). Staff report and presentation to Hamilton Municipal Heritage Committee on this designation. Now that the NOID has been issued, the properties are protected as though they are designated and the owners are required to obtain Heritage Permit approvals if they are to alter or demolish any of the identified heritage attributes.

I do anticipate that the owner of 54 Hess will formally object to the designation notice now that it has been issued. As required under the Ontario Heritage Act, Council must consider any objections to the notice and decide whether to withdraw the City’s NOID or pass a designation by-law. If a designation by-law is passed, the owners are served notice of its passing, they can then appeal that notice to the Ontario Land Tribunal."

Shannon Kyles, past president of ACO Hamilton has provided important historical and architectural reasons that this building be saved. Leanne Pluthero has created an online petition, which (by Oct 31, 2023) had amassed more than 5,700 signatures.