Built in 1924 in Windsor’s downtown core and originally called Border Cities Arena, Windsor Arena was one of the first artificial ice arenas in North America. The first hockey game at the arena was held on November 26, 1925 and attracted spectators from far and wide to see the newly built wood, steel, and trussed concrete structure.

Nicknamed “The Barn” for its shape and “The Madhouse on McDougall” for the fervency of its hockey fans, Windsor Arena has witnessed hockey and cultural history. From the time it opened until 1924 until is closed in 2012, it was a premium sports and entertainment facility.

Mayor Drew Dilkins has made his intention to demolish the barn known. He had opposition in his own Council and the property took a place on the back burner. On July 14, 2022, after Windsor Fire responded to reports of smoke coming from the building, the heritage community rallied. Thankfully, damage was quite limited, but the community realizes there is a real danger to the building if we do not act soon. This structure has had many offers to live again all of which have been shot down by the sitting Council. Mayor Dilkins has said that he has plans for this centrally located piece of property. The heritage community would like to see it become somewhere the community gathers once again and have come together to work towards that goal.

ACO Windsor-Essex Branch has lobbied local candidates and council, and promoted the #savethewindsorbarn campaign on social media. Michigan heritage advocates (because of its place in Michigan sports history) and people notable in preserving sports history were made aware of the situation. Branch President Tammy Dewhirst is writing a letter to Windsor City Council promoting a reuse as a community flex space which was promoted by a mayoral candidate and seems to be quite the popular idea in the community.

If you want to get involved, you can sign a petition at savethewindsorbarn.com, email the Mayor and Members of Council (their contact details can be found at citywindsor.ca) or reach out to ACO Windsor/Essex at acowindsoressex@gmail.com.

To hear a recent CBC Radio interview with ACO Windsor/Essex President Tammy Dewhirst about "The Barn" CLICK HERE