What Makes Amherstburg Great: Christ Church
- February 19, 2026
Guest Content Creator: River Bookshop
Today Amherstburg is one of Ontario’s great small towns, but greatness doesn’t happen on its own. Nature, history, and human actions always play a part. Amherstburg’s location right beside the Detroit River originally made it an important place and adds to its beauty to this day. From the War of 1812, to Freedom seekers escaping slavery in the United States, and Rum Running – history has left its mark! But so have the creativity, hard work, and enthusiasm of its residents.
During 2026 we are going to shine a light on what we think makes Amherstburg great. Our hope is that this new series helps you get to know the town better, support its many businesses and attractions, and become a strong, positive champion of the town. Look for our first story in our next Buzz.
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Christ Church at 317 Ramsay is the oldest continuously used church in Amherstburg. It’s also one of the most fascinating places in town with its 1812 history, with a graveyard and beautiful stained glass windows. It’s led by the very energetic Reverend Lisa Poultney, the Rector in Amherstburg and also at Christ Church, 25 km away in Colchester.
HISTORY: Lieutenant-Colonel William Caldwell commanded the Western Rangers and the First Nations Forces during the War of 1812. Following the war, he donated the property for the church and contributed funds for its construction. In return for his donation, all he asked for was a pew marked in his name. To this day, you can see a plaque marked “The Late Colonel Caldwell’s Pew” on his pew. The church, designed in the Neo Classical and Palladian style, was built in 1818-19.
GRAVEYARD
The graveyard actually predates the building of the church. It was was set aside as a burial ground as early as 1798. It contains the remains of military personnel and early settlers. Most of the headstones have been removed from their original plots and placed against a brick wall for preservation.
STAINED GLASS WINDOWS
You could say that stained glass windows in churches once functioned as the ticktock of their times. Christ Church has 12 beautiful stained glass windows. The first one was installed in 1879 with additional panels installed in the early 20th Century. Today these beautiful windows filter light to create a serene and symbolic ambiance within the church’s interior.
Keeping a parish going is a challenge today (let alone two), but Reverend Lisa is up for the challenge. Her philosophy is that the church is open and welcoming to everyone and anyone. Please say hello to Lisa when you see her walking her three rescue dogs around the downtown. She would tell you that you are always welcome to attend services at 11AM on Sundays. Listen to the interview on CKBG 107.9 FM this Saturday and Sunday at 8AM.