St. James On-the-Lines -- Penetanguishene
Unique church where four soldiers can walk abreast.Photo courtesy Wikimedia Commons.
GPS: N 44° 47' 14" W 79° 55' 35"
Civic Address: 200 Church Street, Penetanguishene, Ontario L9M 1G6
Directions: Hwy 93 into Penetanguishene (changes into Main St); turn Right (northeast) on Robert St E toward Maria St; take the 1st Left onto Fox Street; turn Right at Don St; turn Left at Church St; destination on the Right.
Description: This Anglican church intended to serve as a garrison church, was erected 1836-38 on the Penetanguishene military reserve. It was also attended by the military pensioners and civilians, until the 1870's, it housed the only Protestant congregation in the vicinity. Building funds were obtained largely through the exertions of the local naval commander, Captain John Moberly, R.N.
The term on-the-lines exists because it was constructed on the "lines of communication" between the naval base and York (Toronto). The unique center aisle was built wide enough to allow soldiers to march four abreast and the church bell in the steeple is reputed to be the prize of war removed from either the Scorpion or Tigress and for two centuries has been rung on special occasions, a tradition that continues to this day. The other prize of war bell is in St. Ann's Cathedral in Penetang.
Civic Address: 200 Church Street, Penetanguishene, Ontario L9M 1G6
Directions: Hwy 93 into Penetanguishene (changes into Main St); turn Right (northeast) on Robert St E toward Maria St; take the 1st Left onto Fox Street; turn Right at Don St; turn Left at Church St; destination on the Right.
Description: This Anglican church intended to serve as a garrison church, was erected 1836-38 on the Penetanguishene military reserve. It was also attended by the military pensioners and civilians, until the 1870's, it housed the only Protestant congregation in the vicinity. Building funds were obtained largely through the exertions of the local naval commander, Captain John Moberly, R.N.
The term on-the-lines exists because it was constructed on the "lines of communication" between the naval base and York (Toronto). The unique center aisle was built wide enough to allow soldiers to march four abreast and the church bell in the steeple is reputed to be the prize of war removed from either the Scorpion or Tigress and for two centuries has been rung on special occasions, a tradition that continues to this day. The other prize of war bell is in St. Ann's Cathedral in Penetang.
St. James On-the-Line Plaque
The first rector Reverend Geo. Hallen, held the post for 36 years. Many of the communities pioneers and military leaders are buried in its cemetery.
