Old Saint Paul's, Woodstock, Ontario
Trivitt Memorial, Exeter St John the Evangelist, Kitchener Christ Church, Meaford St John's, Sandwich Old Saint Paul’s, Woodstock


Old Saint Paul's, Woodstock, Ontario

This church was completed in 1834 shortly after the founding of the community. It was financed through the efforts of Admiral Henry Vansittart and constructed under the direction of his agent, Captain Andrew Drew R.N. The Admiral also pledged maintenance of its first incumbent, the Rev. William Bettridge, who served the congregation 1834-79. During the Rebellion of 1837 the building became a temporary jail for prisoners captured by local Militia. St. Paul's was consecrated in 1838 by Bishop G. J. Mountain. The Chancel was added to the original structure in 1843 and the Transepts in 1851.

Ontario Archaeological and Historic Sites Board


CAPT. ANDREW DREW R.N. 1792-1878
This house was built by Capt. Drew who came here in 1832 as agent for Admiral Henry Vansittart founder of Woodstock. Purchasing land now included in the eastern section of the city, Drew divided it into town lots and formed the nucleus of this community. During the rebellion of 1837-39 he led the Canadian force that destroyed the American steamer "Caroline" which was supplying William Lyon Mackenzie's supporters on Navy Island. This action almost precipitated war between Britain and the United States and several attempts were made on Drew's life. He returned to England in 1842 and resumed his naval career.

Ontario Archaeological and Historic Sites Board
Located at his former residence 735 Rathbourne Ave., Woodstock, Ontario



More on the history of Old St Paul's is at the Old St Paul's Anglican, Woodstock website