Canada’s oldest continuous Roman Catholic parish west of Montreal, this Windsor church has undergone extensive restoration after closing in 2014.
At a glance
A working parish church in Windsor, Ontario, serving the same Catholic community for centuries. The current building dates to 1845 and is the fourth structure erected on the site. After major restoration work began in 2019, the church reopened for weekend mass in September of that year.
History
Our Lady of the Assumption holds the distinction of being Canada’s oldest continuous parish west of Montreal. The present church opened in 1845, replacing three earlier structures on the same location. In 2014, assessments determined the building required approximately C$15 million in restoration work, leading to its closure. A fundraising campaign followed, enabling construction to begin in early 2019 on the first phase of a planned four-phase restoration program.
What you see
The 1845 church structure required comprehensive restoration. The first phase, completed in 2019, included installation of a long-term copper roof, new heating system, major electrical upgrades, and structural repairs. The second phase, begun in 2020, focused on restoring the church’s ceiling.
Cultural significance
This parish represents continuity of Catholic faith and community life in southwestern Ontario. Its longevity and resilience—demonstrated through both its survival and recent restoration efforts—make it a landmark of regional religious heritage.
Key facts
- Country: Canada
- City: Windsor, Ontario
- Coordinates: 42.3064°N, 83.0695°W
- Current building completed: 1845
- Reopened to public: September 8, 2019
Practical information & getting there
The church is located at 350 Huron Church Road in Windsor, Ontario. It reopened for regular weekend mass on September 8, 2019. For current visiting hours and Mass times, contact the parish directly or check its official website.
Sources & resources
Find it on the map
See this place and what’s around it →📷 Diventa un fotografo di Cultural Heritage Online
Condividi le tue foto dei luoghi: restano pubblicate con la tua firma come autore. Più vengono viste, più ti fai conoscere — e presto un concorso premierà le foto più apprezzate.
Accedi o registrati gratis per aggiungere una fotoDo you manage this place?
This page is read by travellers and heritage enthusiasts who find it on Google. Keep it accurate — and make it work for you. Free for non-profit heritage institutions.