Harrison Cole

Recipient of the ACO NextGen Award

Harrison Cole is a dedicated advocate for heritage conservation in the City of St. Thomas. Through his personal restoration projects, volunteer service, and generous community engagement, Harrison has consistently demonstrated a deep commitment to preserving local heritage and supporting others in doing the same. A long-time member and current Chair of the St. Thomas Municipal Heritage Committee, Harrison plays a key role in promoting heritage awareness and stewardship at the local level. He brings thoughtful insight and strong historical knowledge to the committee’s work, helping to guide decisions that shape the city’s architectural legacy. Harrison has personally restored two historic buildings on Talbot Street—St. Thomas’s main commercial corridor—as well as his own home on Rosebery Place. These projects reflect his hands-on approach, deep respect for original architecture, and strong understanding of traditional building techniques.

What truly distinguishes Harrison is his generosity in supporting others. Whether answering questions, offering site-specific advice, or guiding homeowners through the restoration process, Harrison is a trusted and approachable resource for those undertaking their own conservation efforts. His informal mentorship has helped make heritage preservation more accessible and achievable throughout the community. Harrison’s work stands out not only for its quality, but for the way it encourages others to value and protect the built history of St. Thomas. His approach is practical, grounded, and community-focused—an inspiring example of how younger professionals can make a meaningful impact in heritage conservation. In addition to his role as Chair of the Municipal Heritage Committee, Harrison also serves as Chair of the Community Improvement Program and sits on the Board of the Elgin County Railway Museum and CASO Station.

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488 Talbot St. before and after

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571 Talbot St. before and after