Hamilton street to be renamed after famous Polish scientist

A prominent street in Hamilton is set to be renamed on Sept. 10, to honour the 550th birth anniversary of Polish Nicolaus Copernicus.

Earlier this week (Aug. 14) Mayor Andrew Horwath put forth a motion to rename Saint Ann St., between Barton St. E. and Solidarnosc Place.

“The street holds a particular significance due to its location in Ward 3, where the Polish community has established its presence with landmarks such as St. Stanislaus Church, Dom Polski, and the White Eagle Banquet Center,” Mayor Horwarth said.

The motion was passed 13-1 in favour of renaming the street, however, came with just one dissenting “no” from Ward 2 Councilor Cameron Kroetsch.

“I’m never in favour of voting on naming something after a person.”

“I’m voting no for that reason only,” Councilor Kroetsch added.

The initiative to rename the street as “Nicolaus Copernicus Way” was spearheaded by the Canadian Polish Congress Hamilton District, representing the Polish community in Hamilton, Burlington, and Brantford.

They have committed to covering all costs associated with the commemorative signage, which will be installed along the entirety of Saint Ann St.

The renowned astronomer is hailed as the ‘father of modern astronomy’ for his groundbreaking heliocentric model of the universe.

This gesture aims to honour Copernicus’s life, work, and enduring influence on modern astronomy, as well as to celebrate the rich Polish heritage present in the area.

The commemorative signage is slated to be in place by Sept. 8.