Description of Historic Place

72 Waterloo Street is situated on the southwest corner of Waterloo Street North and Mornington Street, in the City of Stratford. The one-and-a-half storey brick residence was constructed in 1860.

The property was designated, by the City of Stratford in 1985, for its heritage value, under Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act (By-law 134-85).

Heritage Value

72 Waterloo Street is associated with local businessman John Sydney-Smith II, who had the house constructed in 1860. The house remained in the Sydney-Smith family for four generations.

Constructed in 1860, 72 Waterloo Street is a good example of an Ontario Gothic farmhouse. Typical of this style is the high centre gable with lancet window. Decorative zigzag bargeboards decorate the roofline and gable. Also typical are the six-over-six sash windows and central entrance with sidelights and transom.

Source: City of Stratford, By-law 134-85.

Character-Defining Elements

Character defining elements that contribute to the heritage value of 72 Waterloo Street include its:
- one-and-a-half storey brick exterior
- gable roof
- centre gable with lancet window
- six-over-six windows
- two large brick chimneys
- zigzag bargeboards
- entrance with sidelights and transom
- bay window
- full width veranda