Five Chatham-Kent property owners have been honoured as this year's Mayor's Heritage Preservation Award recipients.
Among them are Merlin's Joe and Melanie Simpson who also won the people's choice award in 2016. Joe says the winning home had been his grandfather's, which his family restored.
"It took about five years, roughly, from start to finish. We moved in 12 years ago," says Simpson. "It was a lot of effort, but it was a house I've always felt comfortable and safe in."
Simpson adds the family's name holds historical significance in Merlin.
"My grandfather was a politician, he had the longtime hardware store in Merlin until he was 80. My dad was the fire chief, the president of the Kinsmen Club. A lot of ties in Merlin," says Simpson.
Below is a complete list of the 2016 winners. Click here to learn more about the recipients.
- Gerald and Anita VanLith - 22088 Clachan Rd., Orford Township
- Greg and Kelly Guy - 6308 Middle Line, Raleigh Township
- Brad and Donna Eagen - 22026 Clinton Street, North Buxton
- Michael and Melanie Fry and Stephen and Stephanie Keating - 124 William St. S, Chatham
- Melanie and Joseph Simpson 109 Erie St. S., Merlin