The Municipality of Clarington is responsible for recognizing, protecting, and conserving
valuable heritage assets. 127 Church Street, Orono, which serves as the Orono Library,
is a fine example of the Italianate architectural styles in Clarington and is identified as a
primary resource on the Municipal Cultural Heritage Resources List. The Clarington
Heritage Committee and Municipal staff recommended the designation of the property
under the Ontario Heritage Act to ensure the future of the significant cultural resources is
appropriately conserved and that it continues to be an integral part of Clarington’s history.
The house was built under the ownership of John Waddell, a major employer in Orono.
Mr. Waddell founded the Orono Furniture Factory in 1868 and was half-owner of the
Orono Cheese Factory. The house came into the ownership of the Township of Clarke
Public Library Board in 1969, and housed the Clarke Museum until 1985. The building
now serves as the Orono Library.
In addition to celebrating the Orono Library Heritage Designation Plaque on May 24, the
community can travel back in time with CLMA’s Orono Walking Tour on Wednesday, May
28 at 6:30pm. The tour will explore Orono’s downtown and share stories of notable
buildings and residents, including the Waddell family house and current Orono Library.
Tickets are available at cplma.ca/OronoWalkingTour.
Celebrate Orono and its rich history at the Orono Library (127 Church Street, Orono) by
attending the Heritage Designation Plaque ceremony on Saturday, May 24, 10am, or by
signing up for the Orono Walking Tour on Wednesday, May 28, 6:30pm.
