The Cardno Block

 

Downtown Seaforth has no shortage of distinctive heritage buildings, but there’s one stretch of Main Street that stands head and shoulders above the rest - the Cardno Block, which stands at 39-47 Main Street South. Constructed in 1877, the three-storey building is anchored around a striking clock tower that makes the block a hard to miss landmark with a prominent position on Main Street. 

 

The whimsical block was recognised for its historical value in 1980, in accordance with the Ontario Heritage Act, with special attention paid to its distinctively curved mansard roof and clock tower. The building is constructed in a most eclectic style, taking inspiration from the Napoleon III style of architecture, which blends together distinctive structural design elements from different historical periods into an anachronistic facade. The unique slate tile of the clock tower turret and mansard roof may remind observers of  dragon scales or a gum drop covered gingerbread house.

 

The ornate decorations of the Cardno Block reflect one of Seaforth’s most prosperous times. Local businessman and developer Alexander Cardno had the building constructed shortly after much of the downtown had been burned in a catastrophic fire. Before that, from 1873 to 1877, a hotel had operated on the property. Cardno tore down the hotel and adjacent building to make way for his vision of “five large commodious stores” and built the Cardno Block.

 

The unique space on the second floor quickly evolved into the well-known Cardno Music and Concert Hall. From touring opera companies to vaudeville performances, a variety of entertaining shows were put on in the venue, which were always greatly enjoyed by the local population. The Hall also acted as a gathering place for local service groups, and politicians wishing to address their platforms. Patriotic concerts were given during World War 1, some of which featured local singer Grace McFaul Mullen.

 

As the clock tower ticked away, the Hall was replaced by more modern facilities, and ceased being used as a public space. However, the influence of Cardno's cultural efforts to improve the social quality of life within Seaforth and the surrounding countryside will not be soon forgotten. No walking tour of Seaforth would be complete without a stop to admire the dynamic details of the Cardno Block and its towering clock. 39-47 Main St. S., Seaforth