The Oakville Historical Society i s pleased to announce the speaker for our September 16th “Speaker
Night”, presented by Shannon Kyles. Ms. Kyles will share how each new wave of settlement in
Ontario reflects not only the economic differences between one decade and the next, but the way in
which our culture has evolved. We respond to technological advances, booms and busts, and the
shifting use of materials – acknowledging the architecture used for our homes, businesses and
houses of worship is always the very best that we can do within the parameters of the current age

Well known and respected for her knowledge on the subject, Ms. Kyles has served as a columnist on
architecture for CBC’s “Fresh Air” for 9 years, is the editor for “Arabella” magazine, writing about
architecture, as well as created a video series “In Praise of Older Windows”, available on YouTube.
Last year she published “The Story of Ontario Architecture”, which will be available for sale at her talk.
This book is an in-depth look at architecture in Ontario, with emphasis on the people who created the
buildings, as well as the style and materials. She is passionate to share her knowledge to encourage
all who are interested in our built heritage – to maintain it – and not knock it down.

Very hands on, she has been involved in the restoration of historic properties, including the
restoration of an 1830s carriage house.
She also serves as a Guest Lecturer at the University of Guelph, and holds membership in the
Canadian Association of Heritage Professionals and the Architectural Conservancy of Ontario.

Please join us on Wednesday September 16, 2026 at 7:30 pm in the Coach House (right next door
to the Oakville Historical Society), and learn more on this fascinating and historical topic.
Hope to see you there!