In the aftermath of the fire that caused extensive damage to St. James Anglican Church in Hudson, Fire Department Director Daniel Leblanc confirms that the blaze was not of criminal origin, but that an electrical problem is a plausible cause.

"The prevention department is currently investigating the cause of the fire, but according to the information we've received from the people on site, it's plausible that an electrical problem was to blame," he confirmed to Néomédia Vaudreuil-Soulanges.

Renovation work was underway in the church's central building. According to CBC, the fire was started by a switch.

More than 80 firefighters from nine fire departments were called to the scene, which ended at around 11:45 pm on Sunday.

"When firefighters arrived, we noticed smoke in the attic of the central section of the building. The fire quickly spread to the back and front of the church. With three levels of roof, it was difficult for crews to find the source of the fire. We had to resort to the use of a mechanical shovel to remove the roof. Fortunately, the entire stone structure and bell tower are still standing," adds Leblanc.

Nearly 200 years of history

St. James Anglican Church was built in 1842 by local masons and carpenters. Its stone tower was completed in 1845.

Originally built as a modest church, the many transformations it underwent between 1842 and 1888 turned it into an imposing structure. This stone edifice of harmonious, classical proportions demonstrates the skill of its designers. Its architectural style is freely inspired by the Regency Gothic style developed in England in the early ^19th century.

The first church service was held here in 1849 by Reverend James Pyke, whose line of descendants includes Hudson's current mayor, Chloé Hutchison.

Although the church suffered extensive damage, many artifacts relating the history of the church and congregation were saved.

"We were able to preserve the integrity of the Church's display cases. In the back room were a lot of paintings and historical pieces. Fortunately, we were able to relocate much of it," concludes director Daniel Leblanc.

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