Pelham Heritage Master Plan

This rural municipality, located atop the Niagara Peninsula, has a long history of farming activity but has not been known for its cultural heritage resources. Its historical significance has been rather overshadowed by the historic events and attractions offered by better-known communities located closer to the Great Lakes, the Welland Canal, and the Niagara River. Bray Heritage led a team of planners, historians, archaeologists, architects and tourism development consultants that worked closely with Town staff and local residents. The resultant Heritage Master Plan focuses on what is unique to Pelham; in this case, a largely intact rural setting of farmland and small communities. In the Plan, the Town’s subtle heritage resources are identified and strategies for their inventory, evaluation, conservation and enhancement are provided. The Plan helps the municipality be a good steward of these resources and identifies ways in which heritage can provide tangible benefits to the local economy and quality of life. By renewing a focus on farm life and agricultural settings, the Plan not only reinforces the values local people wish to retain, but also provides ways for Pelham to capitalize on its modest charms within the wider context of the Niagara Region.