Shaw’s of Perth building back in Matheson family after more than 150 years
Former owner Peter Blier and Dana Matheson in front of the Heritage Plaque at 1 Gore St. E.
A piece of Perth history has come full circle.
The iconic Shaw’s Building at 1 Gore Street East has returned to the hands of a Matheson descendant for the first time since the 19th century. The structure was built by the Honourable Roderick Matheson in the mid-1800s.
BC resident Dana Matheson, President of Matheson Ventures and Foundation, great-great-great grandson of Roderick is the new owner.
His parents had told him about the family history. After doing some research he found the building and contacted Scott Sommerville of Century 21 Synergy Reality who contacted now-former owner Peter Blier and arranged a meeting in August of 2025.
The Shaw’s Building, originally home to R. Matheson & Co. and later Shaw’s of Perth, is one of Canada’s oldest retail locations still on its original foundation.
The sale was brokered by Scott Somerville of Century 21 Synergy and made possible with seller Peter Blier of Moonlight Developments.
Sommerville says Matheson provided a family tree and other history that let him know the intent was sincere. So he had a message for the prospective buyer.
All parties emphasized preserving Perth’s heritage.
The building has long played a central role in the town’s commercial and cultural life, and its return to the Matheson family marks a rare full-circle moment for local history.
While he was in town closing the sale, Dana and his son attended the 100th anniversary of the Perth Museum, which is also a key piece of family history known as the Matheson House. Dana says it’s another part of town he’s happy to help.
100th Anniversary of the Perth Museum (Photo town of Perth)
The purchase of Shaw’s and support of the Museum by Matheson highlight his family’s desire to preserve local heritage, family legacy, and small-town continuity.
All involved are grateful for that commitment.
Town Crier and local historian Brent McLaren also shared some history of the Matheson family during a visit to LanarkLeedsToday.ca. It’s quite a story. Press play to find out more.
