Sharon Temple
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Temple of the Children of Peace is located in the village of Sharon, Ontario. Generally it is know as the Sharon Temple, it was constructed between 1825 and 1832. It is a cube shaped building with two upper levels of proportionally decreasing size that gives it a wedding cake look. Its symmetrical architecture symbolizes the religious beliefs of that sect. The leader of the sect or cult was David Willson. He was born in New York State in 1778 and migrated to Canada. Although he grew up in the Quaker tradition he was ousted from that church. His sect placed great emphasis on ceremony, music and practical education. After his death in 1866 the sect slowly diminished. The last service was held in the Temple in 1886. Followers of the sect were strong political reformers and several joined William Lyon Mackenzie in the 1837 Upper Canada Rebellion. The temple is now a National Historic Site and museum as well as a National Peace Site. The museum site has a collection of restored buildings and displays pioneer artefacts and historic items related to the sect. The Ontario Heritage Foundation has arranged a public easement so that the building is available for public use such as concerts, weddings, and special occasions. The site is maintained by a foundation.
External link
- Sharon Temple Museum Society (http://www.sharontemple.ca/)
- Photo of Sharon Temple (http://www.boldts.net/album/SharonTemple.shtml)