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On April 11, the Newboro and Area Historical Society (NAHS) and Parks Canada hosted a first look inside the Newboro blockhouse—an experience that will be part of Doors Open Ontario August 16 and 17, and open to all. Mark it on your calendar.
The blockhouse, one of only three remaining, was built between 1832 and 1833 and has been hidden from view for over 30 years. Now NAHS is working with Parks Canada to open the doors. Many plans are in the works and hopefully the upper floor will also be revealed. Stay tuned—there’s more to come.
Following the blockhouse opening, an event was hosted at the Newboro Community Hall by the Ontario Historical Society’s Daniel Dishaw. Representatives from Elgin, Portland, Rideau Lakes, Ottawa, Merrickville, Parks Canada, Kingston, Chaffey’s Locks, the Sappers and Miners Cemetery, Delta Mill, and local historians and academics attended.
NAHS is actively working to build and expand knowledge of local history. Among the most important activities is a new Indigenous map tracing human activity in our area over the past 9,000 years, which NAHS Vice Chair Ted Stewart is leading.
NAHS Chair Kim Lulashnyk says, “The next NAHS meeting is May 26 at 7 p.m. at St. Mary’s Anglican Church, 15 Brock Street, Newboro. St. Mary’s is celebrating the 175th anniversary of this historic building. Their stained glass windows are internationally recognized. The talk will be fabulous. All are welcome.” If you’re interested in history, art, or supporting local culture, this is not to be missed.
Lulashnyk, of Stone Manor Studios, reminds us all that “our historical societies support our important tourism industry.” Support your historical society—that’s the message of the day.
Looking forward to Newboro’s Doors Open Ontario.
Article by: NAHS member Kelvin Hodges
