Heritage Belleville recognized three recipients during its annual Heritage Revitalization Awards ceremony yesterday afternoon.
Mark Turner received a 2026 Outstanding Achievement in Heritage Revitalization Award in the category of Preservation of Historical Significance. A trained stone mason and bricklayer, Turner has played a key role in restoring numerous heritage buildings throughout downtown Belleville. Through years of dedicated work and craftsmanship, he has helped preserve the architectural character of the city’s historic core, ensuring these important buildings continue to be appreciated for years to come.
Venue 1906 received a 2026 Outstanding Achievement in Heritage Revitalization Award in the category of Outstanding Revitalization for its work at 34 Victoria Ave., a former Baptist church, Venue 1906 has been thoughtfully reinvented as a wedding centre and event space and has been in operation for approximately five years. Located at the corner of Victoria Avenue and Pinnacle Street, the exterior of the building remains largely unchanged from its original construction. Interior renovations have been completed with great care and respect for the building’s heritage character, retaining features such as the high ceilings, dark woodwork and organ pipes.
Gallery 121 was presented with a 2026 Outstanding Achievement in Heritage Revitalization Award in the category of Landmark Revitalization. This historic and colourful downtown building has been carefully restored by the Dinkel family. The gallery space visually connects with the courtyard of Dinkel’s Restaurant and Garden Patio, showcasing and celebrating the property’s built heritage while contributing to the vibrancy of the surrounding area.
“We are proud to celebrate the individuals and organizations being recognized through this year’s Heritage Revitalization Awards,” said Heritage Belleville Chair Karen Fisk. “Their dedication to preserving and enhancing our historic places helps ensure Belleville’s stories and character continue to be shared for generations to come.”
