The area which once was the site of the Welland Iron & Brass factory has since been rendered little more than an open field. There is nothing of great significance left behind, apart from some small remains of the building's original foundation and piles of trash that have accumulated along the perimeter of the field. It would take some imagination to picture that a large factory once stood prominently in the landscape. Yet, that is, or at least it once was, the reality of the times.

Founded in 1918 on former North Main Street, or current day Niagara Street, Welland Iron & Brass specialized in the manufacturing of iron, brass, and aluminum castings and machinery. Its history was marred with destruction. First, on December 20^th, 1979, when a part of the factory was burned down in a fire that was accidentally caused inside. The damaged property was later rebuilt and sold to an unnamed individual from Barrie, Ontario in 1987. The following year, two separate arson fires started within days apart had destroyed two-thirds of the plant and left the remaining in a heap of metal and burned rubble. The site would ultimately live on in the following months as a constant eyesore in the eyes of the local community. People complained to the authorities and newspaper companies, spurring a slew of articles to be publically posted on the situation until the demolition had been finalized.

Photos taken from the site in 2003 revealed a small, windowless building that was believed to be the only remaining part of the old site that had remained intact through the fires and demolition. Since then, however, that building has also been demolished.

Next to the open field is a small park area enclosed by a canopy of trees next to the intersection of the Niagara River and the Welland Canal running parallel to Niagara Street by the bridge. There is a small semi-circular pathway that can be taken through the park on a leisurely walk.

The point of interest is now under the ownership of the City of Welland until a new development is constructed on the currently vacant plot of land.

The site is accessible by all modes of transportation and accommodating for those with disabilities

History of Welland Iron and Brass - Welland Public Library

http://www.welland.library.on.ca/industry/Factory%...&%20Brass.htm

Audio Provided by:

ErikMMusic

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TJ37KgMQRx0