Welcome to the

Williams-Holt House

Glen Williams Ontario Heritage District

Williams-Holt House History
Before
Historical Background

Isaac Williams

Historical Value                                                   The building is an interesting example of a mid-nineteenth century brick industrial building, converted to a house with minimal exterior structural changes. It was one of three buildings which formed an industrial complex. As a brick building situated at the head of the bridge, it was a landmark from the date of construction. It continues to serve as a representative of the historic nature of the village, which lies tucked around the corner. Isaac Williams bought village lots 61 and 62 from his brother in 1848.

The above map from the 1877 Halton County Atlas, shows the village lot boundaries. The dam
has been removed and the factory races filled in.
Before
 DESIGNATION

Design Value

The Williams-Holt House is a mid 19th century example of Georgian architecture adapted to industrial purposes. As the “factory” grew beyond family enterprises, this style of building was no longer constructed. Besides the usual Georgian features, simplified for an industrial building, the three additional doors emphasize the functionality of the building.The design value extends beyond the building to encompass the high earthen berm between the house and the river and the apparent flume or raceway which once conducted water from the dam of contemporary vintage.
Cultural Value
 The Williams-Holt House is an integral part of the historic core of the village of Glen Williams. The Georgian design associates it with buildings built by the founding family, which it was. It also represents a family-based era of industry on which the word manufacture – built by hand.
After
Character

 Defining Elements

  • English garden-wall pattern red clay bricks made locally

  •  Industrial adaptation of the Georgian style

  • Five original access doors – three of which are bricked in

  • Earthen berm which once formed part of an original dam

Glen Williams Credit River
 Glen Williams (The Glen)

The Glen has nestled at this quiet place in the Credit River Valley since 1825. Founded by hardworking Loyalists who harnessed the power of the local stream to run saw and flour mills. They kept at it, built bobbin mills, grist mills, woollen mills, knitting mills. They build beautiful brick homes for their families out of locally made brick. They built a Town Hall, churches, shops, stores, a tannery, a post office. They built a community.
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