GUELPH – The Guelph Black Heritage Society (GBHS) was formed after the British Methodist Episcopal (BME) Church was listed for sale in November 2011.
This historical stone church was built in 1880 by formerly enslaved Black individuals and their descendants who reached Canada, via the Underground Railroad. Today, under the stewardship of the GBHS, the renamed Heritage Hall acts as a cultural centre, hosting cultural and educational programs and events.
Heritage Hall is the only Black-focused facility in the region representing a critical historical record and offering a unique, welcoming contribution to Guelph’s growing diverse population.
The GBHS raises awareness in Guelph of both local (Guelph/Wellington) and national Black heritage as well as addressing social issues of importance to Black Canadian communities.
In 2020, the GBHS launched its education initiative #Change Starts Now which provides educational programming on Black history and culture as well as relevant resources on diversity, discrimination and anti-racism.
In order to continue its important work the GBHS is tasking the community to raise $600,000 and to “Give A Cup” to help relieve the cost of the Heritage Hall mortgage and other infrastructure.
To contribute:
– Drink a cup of “Lantern Brew,” an exclusive blend created for the GBHS through a collaboration with Lost Aviator Coffee Co. and The Daily Grind (519); and
– Purchase “Give A Cup” swag such as travel tumblers, coasters and mugs.
To purchase Lantern Brew online: https://checkout.square.site/merchant/01Y3C6J0RF4NZ/checkout/
To donate, go to https://www.guelphblackheritage.ca/donate/.
