Home receives heritage designation, preserving a century of history

CALEDONIA—A love story that never quite was, a family home cherished by many, and now a designated cultural treasure.

CALEDONIA—Robert and Dianne Goffin outside their Caledonia home, The Maples. —Haldimand Press photo by Nick Fearns.

The Maples has become more than bricks and mortar in Caledonia.

The home, at 212 Caithness Street East, has officially been recognized as a property of cultural heritage value and interest under Section 29 of the Ontario Heritage Act.

The new designation ensures that the distinctive architecture and rich historical roots of this landmark will be protected for generations to come.

Built in 1921-22 by local druggist and community figure Charles Edward Donaghy, The Maples was constructed as part of his efforts to court schoolteacher Maggie Bell Patterson.

Although the couple never married nor lived in the home, both played key roles in its early design.

Patterson, a founder of the Caledonia Women’s Institute, was known for her discerning eye and made many changes throughout the build process.

Donaghy invested over $18,000 in the construction – a significant sum at the time – and the result became a landmark in Caledonia.

“When we walked into the front hall and saw the woodwork and leaded glass, we just knew this was the place,” said current co-owner Dianne Goffin, who has lived in the home with her husband Robert since 1983. “My mind said, ‘If you don’t say yes to this house, you’ll always regret it.’”

The Goffins moved to Caledonia when Robert was transferred for work. Originally planning to build a modern home, their plans shifted the moment they stepped inside The Maples. Though the house required substantial restoration – including a new furnace, roof, and structural repairs – the couple dove into renovations with enthusiasm and an engineer’s precision.

The Maples is a Craftsman-style residence with significant Edwardian influences. Its heritage designation cites design, historical, and contextual value.

The home boasts exceptional interior woodwork milled from local oak, original double-hung windows, and a carved red oak balustrade.

Notably, the home’s porch was reconstructed by Robert over a three-year period using original materials and traditional techniques, preserving its unique wood slat ceiling and swooping railing design.

Inside, elements such as white oak panelling, red oak cabinetry, and British Columbia fir breakfast room woodwork underscore the home’s craftsmanship. “There are all kinds of features about this house that no one would ever build today,” said Robert.

The home’s historical value extends beyond its builders. In 1927, Major G.M. Thomson, a WWI veteran wounded at Ypres, moved into the house with his family. His son, Lt. George R. Thomson, died in combat just before the end of WWII. Major Thomson co-founded the Caledonia Club in 1935, which continues its charitable work to this day.

In 1942, Stu and Susie Merrill became the next long-term residents. A prominent businessman, Stu co-owned the French Box Company and operated a local hardware store. It was the Merrills who gave the house its name, inspired by the stately maples lining Caithness Street. A hand-painted wooden sign declaring “The Maples” still hangs on the property, lovingly restored by the Goffins.

“When we moved in, everyone in town still called it ‘the Merrill house,’” said Robert. “Even though we’ve lived here longer than any previous owner, those old names stick.”

For over four decades, the Goffins have maintained and improved the home while staying true to its heritage.

In 2013, Robert returned from working abroad and undertook an extensive porch restoration. Diane, meanwhile, personally painted the veranda and curated gardens featuring a rose bed and ornamental trees. The attic has been finished into a modern suite with skylights and a balcony, thoughtfully integrated without disrupting the home’s character.

Anne Unyi, Supervisor of Heritage and Culture for Haldimand County, helped guide the designation process.

 “The Maples clearly meets all three criteria under Ontario Regulation 9/06,” said Unyi. “It possesses design and physical value in its architectural detailing and craftsmanship, historical value through its association with significant local figures, and contextual value as an enduring landmark in the community.”

Unyi acknowledged that property designation is often misunderstood, adding, “There can be a perception that heritage designation restricts owners from doing anything with their property, but the goal is to support sensitive stewardship, not to prevent change. The Goffins’ stewardship is a perfect example of that.”

The Maples remains filled with sunlight and memories. Rainbows from the leaded glass reflect onto the floors, casting light onto decades of family photos and heirlooms. Their daughter, who was just 11 months old when they moved in, now brings her own children to visit.

“They love coming here,” said Dianne. “There are so many spaces to explore. It’s a place that lifts your spirits.”

The designation means that any future changes affecting identified heritage features will require County approval. But for the Goffins, who say they intend to age in place, that’s not a concern.

“We’re not looking to change it,” said Robert. “We’re trying to protect it.”

Unyi said she’s pleased to see the heritage values of The Maples being preserved for future generations. “This designation ensures that its unique story and architectural features will not be lost. It’s about preserving the character and cultural fabric of our communities.”

The Goffins hope future generations will appreciate The Maples not just for its beauty, but for its stories. From a romantic gesture that turned into a community landmark, to a century of service, sorrow, and celebration, The Maples stands as a testament to Caledonia’s past – and now, thanks to its new designation, to its future as well.