Stops Along the Way - Summer 2021

FREE

Hidden Gems of Huron County Summer 2021

The Name Says It All!

Sweets N’ Treats For a sample of best chocolate in the area, drop by Sweets N’ Treats.

With a second location in Blyth The name truly says it all!

• Homemade sponges and popcorns • Made to order gift baskets • Over 15 different barks

We do Birthday Parties!

• Huge hand rolled truffles • Wedding favours, toppers and extras • Over 4000 moulds for every occasion

14 B-Line Rd., Wingham, ON. N0G 2W0 413 Queen St., Blyth, ON. N0M 1H0 (p) 519-357-3663 Email: info@sweetsntreatschocolates.ca Website: sweetsntreatschocolates.ca

STOPS ALONG THE WAY, SUMMER 2021. PAGE 3.

Stops Along The Way Summer, 2021 W

elcome to Huron County!

Whether you are a firsttime visitor or a neighbour, we are working hard to help you safely enjoy our beautiful area.

The information in this issue is what was known or expected when we went to print on June 1. We advise you to call ahead to confirm.

This past year has been exceedingly difficult for all of us, but especially for our local small businesses. We appreciate the extra lengths that they have taken to keep going through unprecedented times.

Thank you for your continued support by shopping, dining and enjoying all Huron County offers!

Hopefully in our next issue, we can return to featuring events and gatherings. In the meantime, we have continued to focus on outdoor activities and small businesses.

As always, be safe and be kind!

– Publisher Deb Sholdice

TABLE OF CONTENTS Ghost Towns of Huron ..4

Clinton ....................................27

Goderich..................................7

Seaforth ................................29

Bayfield ..................................13

Backyard Living ................30

Zurich ......................................17

Blyth ........................................33

Grand Bend ..........................18

Wingham ..............................36

A Taste of Huron ............20

Lucknow................................39

Exeter ....................................24

Port Albert ..........................40

Hensall....................................26

Postcards from Huron ..42

is published by North Huron Publishing Company Inc. P.O. Box 429, Blyth, ON N0M 1H0 Tel.: 519-523-4792 www.stopsalongtheway.ca deb@northhuron.on.ca Editorial: Deb Sholdice Shawn Loughlin Nancy Fisher Mandy Sinclair Denny Scott Sales: Brenda Nyveld Shelley Kroes Heather Fraser

Ghost Towns

PAGE 4. STOPS ALONG THE WAY, SUMMER 2021

H

Ghost Towns of Huron County

uron County’s landscape was once peppered with far more communities than it has now.

It seems like every crossroads has a story to tell. Some of these communities were nothing more than a post office or railway siding, while others were thriving villages.

The County of Huron is striving to keep our historic settlements visible with commemorative signage along our county roads. The signs are far from complete, but an indication of the colourful past that has shaped what our region looks like today.

The 23 communities that are currently identified by brown community signs have left their mark, whether by a road name, a pioneer church or cemetery or just a story that is part of the local lore. Long-time locals still have a penchant for using the historical names of corners when giving directions, so you just might find the brown signs handy for finding your way.

Ainleyville - The original name of the town of Brussels, it is named after the original settler who laid out the town plan on the banks of the Maitland River while the post office was named Dingle. Both the town and the post office were renamed

after the Grand Trunk Railroad came to town and named its station Brussels.

Alma - Kinburn Line (Cty Rd 15) and Highway 8 - Situated between Clinton and Seaforth, there is still a collection of houses in a subdivision that sits there.

Brewster - Dashwood Rd (Cty Rd 83) and Highway 21 - A post office community located just north of present day Grand Bend and named for one of the early settlers to the area. (Grand Bend was also originally called Brewster’s Mill.)

Brotherston - Cty Rd 34 and Mud Lake Line S Located on the border of Perth County.

Constance - The original name of the hamlet of Kinburn, located on Kinburn Line (County Rd 17).

Donnybrook - Donnybrook Line (Cty Rd 22) and Glens Hill Rd - A hamlet thrived here from about the 1850s until the turn of the century. At its peak, it was the home to a general store, woodworking shop, a blacksmith, hotel, school, church and an Orange Lodge.

Farhquar - Dashwood Rd (Cty Rd 83) and Sunshine Line.

Fordyce - Donnybrook Line (Cty Rd 22) and Belfast Rd.

Harpley - Grand Bend Line (Cty Rd 81) south of Crediton Road - It once boasted two lumber mills and a post office, but was eventually overtaken by growth of the town of Grand Bend nearby.

Hills Green - Parr Line and Kippen Rd - The town consisted of a post office, store, blacksmith and two churches (Methodist and Presbyterian).

Junctionville - Just east of Wingham on Amberley Rd (Cty Rd 86).

Khiva - Crediton Line (Cty Rd 10) and Bronson Line - This was once the site of a popular hotel/tavern and a blacksmith shop catering to the busy traffic on the popular route between Crediton and Grand Bend. Eventually transportation patterns shifted and the town’s fortunes declined.

Leadbury - North Line (Cty Rd 12) and Hullett-McKillop Rd - The historic site of a hotel, store and post office that thrived as a village from the mid 1850s until the early 20th century. The Methodist Church building was moved in 1938 to Walton, where it still serves as the community hall.

Loyal - Blyth Road (Cty Rd 25) and Loyal Line.

Manchester - Historic name of the village of Auburn - The village was founded as Manchester when it was founded in 1854 and the post office was assigned the name Auburn in the same year. In fact the village was officially named Manchester for all purposes other than mail until it changed its name in 1978 to Auburn.

Marnoch - Belgrave Rd (Cty Rd 20) and Marnoch Line.

Mayne - Cty Road 34 and Fordwich Line - Another corner with a hotel, tavern, post office and store.

The post office was closed by 1866 and the village slowly faded. The United Church building was saved and moved to Country Heritage Park in Milton where it is preserved as part of our rural heritage.

McGaw - Lucknow Line (Cty Rd 1) and McGaw Line - McGaw was once a station and siding on the Canadian Pacific Railway line that ran from Guelph to Goderich. The line was abandoned in 1988 and has become a popular biking and hiking trail.

Continued on page 6

STOPS ALONG THE WAY, SUMMER 2021. PAGE 5.

Ghost Towns

Walking on Sunshine

S

unshine – an optimistic name for a place in Morris Township which never lived up to its promise. Now, the only real tangible proof of its existence is the cemetery on top of the hill on the sideroad.

At one time, the thriving community had a blacksmith shop, a combined general store and post office and two churches: Bethel, which was built around 1855-56, and Sunshine Methodist, which was erected as a log house church and then in 1875 a frame church was built and later bricked.

Bethel closed in 1883 and its members were transferred to the churches at Sunshine and Belgrave, until eventually Sunshine closed as well in 1927, and the buildings were sold. According to the local newspapers, the church was sold for $160 and the shed fetched $250.

Sunshine also had a sawmill and a chair factory. The town’s main street was gravelled and the stores fronted onto a boardwalk.

Unfortunately, the town’s fortunes turned in the 1880s after it had been bypassed by the rail lines that instead ran through nearby Blyth and Brussels, leaving Sunshine out in the cold.

The final factor in the town’s

demise was the exhaustion of the local timber supply. With no more lumber to supply the mill, it was dismantled and moved in 1888. By

1891, only three houses remained.

The post office was finally closed and combined with the Belgrave post office in 1914.

Ghost Towns

PAGE 6. STOPS ALONG THE WAY, SUMMER 2021

Historic settlements of Huron

Continued from page 4 Morrisbank - Amberley Rd (Cty Rd 86) and Brussels Line.

Sarepta - Dashwood Rd (Cty Rd 83) and Goshen Line - The post office operated out of the hotel from 1865 until it closed in 1914. The building was then repurposed as a seed cleaning business.

Sunshine - Morris Rd (Cty Rd 16) and Martin

Line (see page 5 for the full story).

Tindell - Ethel Line (Cty Rd 19) south of Ethel - The community where the Ethel Station and a siding of the Grey, Bruce and Wellington railway was situated about one kilometre south of the town of Ethel.

Zetland - Amberley Rd (Cty Rd 86) and Gibbons Line - Surveyed in 1855, this thriving community once had three hotels, a dance hall, a school, two shingle mills, a blacksmith shop and steam sawmill.

In fact, Zetland had a post office, a doctor and a school before Wingham.

The list is not exhaustive, as there are even more “dispersed rural communities” than have been recognized with the distinct brown signs to date. The County of Huron has begun the project with the communities that were situated on the roads under their jurisdiction.

You can find a map and more stories of our lost communities on our website stopsalongtheway.ca.

Artisans of Huron

Fabrics, Quilts & Much More 519-392-6046 murhilfarm@wightman.ca Check Facebook for store updates or visit our website sanityhill.ca Our 2021 Exhibit is called

“Land and See” with Artists Morag Webster Linda Wiebe Kim Wilkie

On-Farm Store is Open

Where Black is Beautiful Quality Animals Yarns, socks, hand knit & felted products Frolic With The Alpacas!

For a small donation you can visit with the Alpacas

June 3rd to September 30th Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sundays 12 pm - 5:00 pm Please feel free to call ahead to reserve a time.

226-455-6545

DEE & ADRIA GRAHAM Farm open by appointment or by chance 519­528­2406 Cell: 519­450­8144

542 BRUCE RD. 86, (Amberley Rd.) RR 1 LUCKNOW DLFARMSALPACA.COM dlfarms@hurontel.on.ca

Huron County, Ontario Add 80602 Benmiller Line to your G.P.S. kimwilkiefineart.com/events kdwfineart.com/contact

STOPS ALONG THE WAY, SUMMER 2021. PAGE 7.

Goderich

A Huron County staple

Y

ou’ll know you’ve arrived at Culbert’s Bakery not only by the smell of fresh pastries wafting through the air, but by the long lineup that snakes its way out of the West Street building and down the street towards Goderich’s historic main street. And that’s not just because of capacity limits caused by COVID-19.

Culbert’s Bakery, in business since 1942, is best known for its powdery round cream-stuffed donuts that draw the locals in, and also visitors from far and wide. While the bakery claims to be home to the tasty cream puff, as the sign on the building’s exterior proudly indicates, there’s more than just one kind of donut on offer.

Lemon, jelly, cherry and blueberrystuffed donuts sit on shelves beneath the famed cream puffs, but in

significantly lower quantities. On either side, other options including the honey dip and orange twists hang out. At the end, the day-olds sit on the ‘reduced’ rack near the entrance.

The racks of cream puffs lining the back wall of the bakery are topped up as they are pulled fresh from the oven on site. There are days when it seems there just simply aren’t enough donuts to meet the demand and the bakery shelves are empty, particularly in summer months. In fact, you’ll rarely find the famed cream puffs for sale on the reduced rack.

This Huron County institution opened in the 1800s as Curry’s West Street Bakery, with Mel Culbert taking possession of the bakery in 1942 and changing the name to Culbert’s Bakery. Today, Darin Culbert, grandson of the original Culbert’s Bakery owner, owns the

business and continues to bake fresh goodies on-site. Darin took over from his father, Barry Culbert.

The high glass cake counter is filled with shortbread cookies, including a variety with chocolate chips mixed in, gooey butter tarts, chocolates and treats that will tantalize the taste buds throughout the day. Need fresh bread or rolls? It wouldn’t be a bakery without grabbing a loaf of bread fresh from the oven or sticky cinnamon buns to go.

While the bakery is open until 5 p.m. Tuesday to Saturday, it’s best to call ahead for cream puff orders or risk disappointment. It’s not uncommon to arrive mid-afternoon to empty donut racks. The glass cabinet of treats always seems to have some selection, just maybe not the one you thought you wanted. 49 West St., Goderich. www.culbertsbakery.com

Goderich

PAGE 8. STOPS ALONG THE WAY, SUMMER 2021

July 1 in Goderich

G

oderich has a long tradition of amazing Canada Day celebrations that draw crowds from far and wide, including a giant fireworks display at the beach and a patriotic parade around The Square.

Of course, a global pandemic has

thrown a wrench into planning with crowds unable to gather.

Wanda Keith, Festivals and Special Events Co-ordinator for the Town of Goderich, has had to think outside the box to find a safe way to celebrate Canada Day. Instead of parades and

fireworks, the town is inviting all residents to decorate their homes and be part of a “self-guided” tour of Goderich. As well as Canada-themed decorations and colours, everyone is encouraged to incorporate a teddy bear into their displays to be part of the “Canada Bear Hunt” so the public can see how many bears they can find throughout the town. “This activity will be like a ‘hug for Canada’ and a safe, enjoyable activity for everyone,” says Keith.

Tourism Goderich is creating a large mural featuring landmarks of Goderich as an interactive art project.

The mural will consist of many smaller sections that residents have coloured and then it will be assembled in a prominent location, and included on the self-guided tour map. The town will then be leaving the Canada Day-themed decorations on display for the entire month of July in the hopes that the residents will follow suit.

For more information and to find the self-guided tour map, visit the Goderich Tourism Information Centre at 91 Hamilton St, Goderich or online at www.goderich.ca

The bounty of Huron County

O

n Highway 8 just east Goderich at the corner of Porter’s Hill Line sits a popular stop for many who are looking for a food shop with a little bit of everything and exciting items you can’t find everywhere.

Maitland Market and Supply opened the doors in 2016 and has

continued to add to their shelves ever since. The compact little shop has an amazing variety of local produce grown both by the owners, as well as area producers. Everything you might need to pull off a truly local feast is displayed around the shop.

There is a wide variety of everything to fulfill your baking

needs, including several types of flour as well as gluten-free options. They stock many types of frozen meat products from small farm producers, as well as soup mixes, cheeses, salad dressings and even artisanal sodas, all made right here in Ontario.

In the back of the shop they bake pies and tarts and other sweet treats; just try to resist grabbing a butter tart before you leave! The market carries bread from Red Cat Bakery and tasty baked goods from Blake Street Bakery as well. Recently owners added Hensall cocktail ice bagged in biodegradable packaging - great for camping and picnics.

Seasonally the market sells everything from seeds and plants in the spring to pumpkins and Christmas trees in the fall. Check out the market’s Facebook page to discover the next time Grassroots Wood Fired Pizza will be cooking up hot and fresh right in the parking lot.

Maitland Market and Supply is open Wednesday to Saturday. 79988 Porters Hill Line, Goderich.

Goderich

STOPS ALONG THE WAY, SUMMER 2021. PAGE 9. paddle boarding on Lake Huron is quickly becoming a popular water sport in the area.

For those who are keen to try it out, whether for an hour or a half-day, 360 Bikes ’n Boards stakes out its spot down at the Cove Beach in Goderich daily (wind dependent) to provide board rentals, along with a safety debrief, some one-on-one training, and a life jacket with whistle before hitting the water. 360 Bikes ’n Boards owner Denata Stanbury likes the Cove Beach for its soft sandy beach devoid of too many rocks.

Despite the endless horizon, paddling here is not about going far out, but to paddle along the coast and see the shoreline. Stanbury and her daughter like paddling from the Cove to the main beach and back, while others love to go along the coastline, admiring its beauty. And as for timing, morning gets top pick for Stanbury who asks, “How beautiful is it to paddle on Lake Huron in the calm at sunrise along the treemorning?” lined shoreline or magic as the Ultimately, Stanbury says “it just sun sets over the horizon, Continued on page 10

Lake Huron views

W

hether the lake is glistening like glass or slightly wavy with the sun shining down,

417 Parsons Court, Goderich 519-612-1387

Open 12-4 Monday - Friday;10-4 Saturday

• Furniture • Appliances • New beds • Antiques • Collectibles • Electronics • Other household items facebook.com/parsonsusedfurniture ~ email: parsonsusedfurniture@gmail.com

PAGE 10. STOPS ALONG THE WAY, SUMMER 2021

Out at the lake

Style of the Season Don’t miss our Lower Level featuring the area’s largest Selection of Swimwear, Lingerie and Sleepwear.

Goderich

Continued from page 9 depends on the wind. It’s the wind that tells you what you can do each day.” And that’s something Stanbury watches closely. “We keep track of the wind, checking the wind conditions each morning and throughout the day. We pull paddlers from the water if we need to.”

If winds are over 25 kilometres per hour, the 360 Bikes ’n Boards team doesn’t set up. But as Stanbury explains, “sometimes it’s not just the wind, but the gusts that are more powerful. So we consider that as well.”

After a calm day of paddling on the lake, Sunset SUP owner Clare Sutherland and her yogis take over the 360 Bikes ’n Boards paddle boards on Wednesday evenings for a sunset yoga class on Lake Huron. The evening starts with a beginner SUP lesson (Sutherland is a certified paddler, has her bronze cross and is a nurse) at 7 p.m. before paddling out and eventually dropping the anchor for class to begin. The return coincides with the sun setting.

Sutherland explains that the yoga is paddleboard specific so the poses are all modified to the board rather than a mat. While some are relaxing, others are challenging, but they are designed so yogis don’t fall off the board midway through.

For visitors keen to learn more about coastal conservation in the area, Sunset SUP offers coastal tours in collaboration with the Lake Huron Centre for Coastal Conservation. The three-hour outing includes a lesson and Lake Huron expert Erin Lawrie from the centre joins to explain the area’s history, the Maitland River that feeds into the lake, and the wildlife.

This year, 360 Bikes ’n Boards will be renting kayaks as well at the Goderich Beach. Find the team at the end of the Rotary Cove Beach daily (weather dependent). www.360bikesnboards.com

Find Your

Something for everyone... in beautiful, downtown

GODERICH • 100s of Authors • 1,000s of Titles New & Previously Read • Everything from $1 Books to Signed/Collectible Editions.

• Local History/Authors

34 West St. • GODERICH (519) 524-5224 Like Us on Facebook!

162 The Square, Goderich ph: 519-524-7232 www.schaefersladieswear.ca

bkped@hurontel.on.ca

Trade in the books you’ve read for some you haven’t!

STOPS ALONG THE WAY, SUMMER 2021. PAGE 11.

JOIN US EVERY WEEKEND ON THE SQUARE Victoria Day Weekend thru to Thanksgiving Weekend

Saturday FARMERS’ MARKET 8 am - noon 519-440-0871

www.goderichbia.ca

@ Goderich BIA Farmers’ Market

VICTORIA ST.

.

ST. ANDREW ST. HA MI LT ON ST .

ST

NORTH ST.

NE

CHURCH ST.

OR

HOUSE

T COUR WEST ST.

EAST ST.

STANLEY ST.

SOUTH ST.

MARKET ST.

T.

NS

TO

GS

KIN WEST ELGIN ST. ELGIN AVE. W.

ELGIN AVE. E.

VICTORIA ST. S.

WATERLOO ST. N.

LB

RE

South Street Vendors Ruetz’s Farm Fresh Produce, Blake Street Bakery, Bayfield Berry Farm, Pillitteri Estates VQA, Square Brew, Comfort & Joy Cards, Uncle Dad’s Pizza Plus, Greg Presseault Photography.

CO

NELSON

SQUA

Courthouse Park Vendors Burdan’s Red Cat Bakery, Firmly Rooted, Storey Farms, Runs on Plants, Harm N E Longhorns, Bachert Premium Sausage, Rosemary Edward, Field & Bloom.

NELSON STREET W.

WATERLOO ST. S.

Montreal Street Vendors Gabriele’s Wood Oven Bakery, D & S Fruits, Liams Produce, Damsma’s Honey, Faro Farm Bayfield, Milk & Honey, Daisy’s Favourite Dog Cookies.

Goderich

PAGE 12. STOPS ALONG THE WAY, SUMMER 2021

Vision of the future

A

round Goderich and much of Huron County you will see the name Dr. William “Tiger” Dunlop associated with the early days of European settlement in the area.

His larger-than-life personality and adventures in India earned him the nickname Tiger and that remains the way most remember him to this day.

In the 1820s, together with John Galt, he laid out the plans for many of the first roads and towns across southwestern Ontario. He is largely credited with the founding of Goderich and was Warden of the Forests for the Canada Company as well as MPP for Huron from 18411845. His humour and strong opinions made him a memorable figure. He loved the whole region of Huron County.

However, many do not know that he had planned another town, next to Goderich, north of the Maitland River. He and his brother Robert owned a tract of 845 acres and planned to call the new settlement Gairbraid, after a town in their native Scotland.

The site commands a marvelous view of the mouth of the Maitland River and even today you can see why they

dreamed of a town at this site.

Sadly, Dunlop died in 1848 before

he could build his town. Though he died in Montreal, his widowed sisterin-law honoured his request to be buried near his beloved home. Today there is a small enclosed cemetery with a terrific view. Both he and his brother are buried at the site along with others.

There are a few ways to access the site of the tomb. From North Harbour Road in Goderich, start on the aptlynamed Tiger Dunlop Trail and cross the Menesetung Bridge, following the signs to the location of the tomb.

There are a number of steps to climb to reach the small park area where you will find several information plaques and the tomb itself. The views all along the way are spectacular.

You can also access it from north of the river by turning from Highway 21 onto Airport Road towards the lake and then turning left onto River Ridge Crescent. Park at the end of the road and follow the path east to the base of the stairs on the right.

The Tiger Dunlop Trail also connects the Maitland Trail and the Goderich to Auburn Rail Trail (GART), part of the Goderich-toGuelph (G2G) Rail Trail.

Working in communities since 1833 to help meet the needs of community members

Food Bank

Soup Corner

Healthcare Resources

Family Resources

Self-serve, home visits, food for special dietary needs

Open six days a week to offer a hot meal to visitors

We offer various health care resources at no charge. See our website.

See the website for our list of resources to assist your family.

St. Vincent de Paul Thrift Store 441 MacEwan St., Goderich 519-524-1087 www.facebook.com/SVDPGoderich ssvp@hurontel.on.ca www.svdpgoderich.ca

STOPS ALONG THE WAY, SUMMER 2021. PAGE 13.

Bayfield

Art on the road

A

s the summer passes, you may just see a new sight around Huron County: a truck filled with art supplies and instructors ready to bring the experience of visual arts to many communities. The Bayfield Centre for the Arts (BCFA) is finalizing plans for its latest project: a rolling art studio.

While the pandemic has slowed down some of the original plans, the Mobile Art Truck is one that can be easily adapted to work within restrictions. The activities will be held outdoors and physical distancing can be managed. Though based in the town of Bayfield, the BCFA hopes to reach all communities in Huron County. Organizers are excited to promote the positive mental health benefits of participating in visual art activities, especially after over a year of lockdowns and social isolation.

Jamie McDougall of Lake Huron Chrysler has stepped up to help supply the truck and plans are underway to retrofit the interior to hold all the tables, chairs, easels, tents and, of course, art supplies necessary

to set up a workshop wherever it is parked.

The intent is to have the truck at festivals, fairs and markets. However, until those events begin again, they hope to visit retirement homes, or even family events (depending on COVID-19 crowd size restrictions).

All different types of visual arts will be offered: sketching, painting, photography, fibre and paper arts and sculpture, depending on what the community responds to and which instructors are available.

The truck will be available for a

minimum of three hours and classes will take approximately 90 minutes.

Costs will depend on sponsorships or will be affordably priced, based on a fee-for-service model. Booking can be found through the BCFA website or at bookme@bayfieldarts.ca As things open up, there are also plans for monthly masterclasses to be held in Bayfield at The Barn on Main Street. These will be exciting, handson classes. The best way to find out more is to check out the website and sign up for the newsletter at www.bayfieldarts.ca

Cottage Rentals in Bayfield|Port Albert Point Clark|Tiverton Make Your Memories Happen 800-565-4790 jennifer@cottagestays.ca

IT’S ALL ABOUT........COMMUNITY! EXCLUSIVE 55+ ADULT COMMUNITY Master planned community of 55 townhomes and Activity Centre in natural wooded setting, close to golf, sailing, fishing, hiking, canoeing and beaches. One‐floor townhomes.

2‐bedrooms. Attached garage. In‐floor heating and central air.

We currently have one home for sale ‐ 53 Bayfield Mews Lane, listed with Remax. Please go to our website for more information.

Visit our website at www.bayfieldmews.ca.

Add your name to our online wait‐list or call (519) 525‐3307 for information.

Bayfield Mews Lane, Bayfield

Bayfield

PAGE 14. STOPS ALONG THE WAY, SUMMER 2021

Lakeside history

W

andering north along the pebbled Historic Main Street in Bayfield you will find a little gem tucked back slightly, but noticeable for its creative window displays and distinct architectural look. Originally built by the Erwin brothers in 1893 for the brothers’ furniture company, today it’s the home of the Bayfield Historical Society and Archives.

The building, once located across the street and next to the Erwins’ residence (their home was located in the building currently occupied by Bayberry Shoppe), was moved to its current location when its purpose shifted from a furniture shop to the village library.

While it may look tiny and quaint from the outside, step inside and you may be surprised. The archival collection housed here is mighty. One

cabinet is dedicated to the war paraphernalia – documents, stories from World War I and World War II – collected from residents across Huron County. Another cabinet showcases Indigenous stone tools that were found in the Bayfield River Flats. For those looking to reminisce,

artworks on display recall bygone days.

Given its coastal location, an exhibit on shipwrecks is extensive and includes items found on board these vessels. Meanwhile, an exhibit put together in 2020 focuses on fossils collected on the Bayfield beach. Ruth Gibson, the society’s president, explains that one fossil is organ pipe coral that is still found in oceans today.

She also explains that there’s “petrified wood too as there is a petrified forest under Lake Huron 20 kilometres from Bayfield and we think that this piece is from there.”

While the society had been preparing to host the Admiral Bayfield Project in August of this year, organizers postponed the event until 2022, but will be releasing a book about Admiral Henry Wolsey Bayfield as written by local historian David Yates. The Admiral, for whom the village is named, “was in the Royal Navy at 11 years old and fought. He spoke five Indigenous languages learned from mapping the Great Lakes, St. Lawrence River and other waterways,” explains Gibson of some of the Admiral’s achievements.

The book will be out in July and available for purchase at the Archives and the Village Bookshop further along Main Street.

For those with ancestors in the region, the Bayfield Historical Society will research a family tree.

Prices vary, but expect to pay about $100 for a pedigree with prices increasing depending on the level of research required. The society has received requests from across the U.S. as families seek to trace their ancestors who started here. 20 Main St N, Bayfield. More online at www.bayfieldhistorical.ca

PIZZA, WINGS & MORE 519-565-2030 2B The Square, Bayfield

Follow us on FB and Instagram (@pbts) for instant updates

www.pizzabythesquare.ca CALL OR ORDER ONLINE Take out only

STOPS ALONG THE WAY, SUMMER 2021. PAGE 15.

Bayfield

Little, but mighty

F

or many people, more time at home recently led to a passion for making bread. And for those looking for organic, locallygrown, stone-ground flours, we have a great source right here in Huron County.

Kelsey and Lucas Seeberger are the creative minds behind Farm Little, which you can find on Mill Road just east of Bayfield. They share a love of growing and producing good food, so when they found they were growing more than they needed for themselves they decided to open a farm shop.

They sell homegrown seasonal fruits and vegetables as they become available as well as stone-ground flours that they grind right there on the farm.

Kelsey has the green thumb and also serves as the chief baker. She’s always happy to chat with customers

about tips for better bread making.

She even pops a few flowers into the shop now and then.

Lucas grew up milling grains and is excited to carry on the family tradition with vintage equipment he sets up and maintains himself.

They have a selection of whole wheat, pastry, rye and spelt that come

from local farms, and red fife that is grown in northern Ontario. All their flours are organic and they don’t use any harmful sprays or fertilizers.

It is easy to connect with them via their Facebook page - search for Farm Little-Bayfield, or drop by the shop.

Note – as a small start-up they are still cash only or e-transfer.

Bayfield

PAGE 16. STOPS ALONG THE WAY, SUMMER 2021

A new experience

W

ith the COVID-19 lockdown in place, recently returned Huron County resident Mandy Sinclair took to the trails – the Goderich-to-Guelph Rail Trail, the Maitland Trail and smaller loops including Bannockburn near Bayfield and the Millennium Trail in Goderich – and admired how the seasons changed on the trails. And she went to the local cafés, bakeries and producers across Huron County.

All the while, strategizing her latest venture: Tasting Huron County.

Hailing from Clinton, Sinclair spent 10 years in Morocco where she launched Tasting Marrakech food and cultural tours. She recently decided to bring the concept to Huron County.

“Having returned in July 2020, I thought I would stay just a few

months before returning to Marrakech, Morocco,” says Sinclair.

“But I started exploring the local food scene and spent many lockdown days cycling or walking on the trails.

When it became clear that I wasn’t

going anywhere throughout the winter, I bought snowshoes and started exploring the Maitland Trail along the Maitland River and the ideas for Tasting Huron County came to life.”

With two options – Tasting Huron County Breakfast Table and the Along the Way picnic delivery, Sinclair curates what she deems her favourite brunch and picnic essentials from producers across the county and delivers the curated food experiences directly to guests within Huron County. But it’s not just about the food. Emphasizing the outdoor spaces is also important.

The Tasting Huron County Along the Way picnic option allows travellers and locals alike to taste homegrown flavours against a picturesque natural backdrop.

Part charcuterie board, part classic Canadian picnic with all products sourced from within Huron County, Sinclair will deliver to guests either to a park, campsite or even to the home for those who prefer a backyard picnic.

“I love the idea of throwing down a blanket and listening to the sound of the Maitland River trickle by in the summer months, or watching the sunset over Lake Huron with a few friends and some great food,” says Sinclair.

While the menu is subject to change based on new discoveries and products available, the picnic typically includes a selection of cheese and meats, honey and maple products, cold salads and a selection of desserts. Sinclair likes to compare her deliveries to that of a haul from a Huron County-wide farmers’ market.

To book or for more information, visit tastinghuroncounty.ca or e-mail info@tastinghuroncounty.ca.

Woodland Drive In 17 Mill Road, Bayfield 519.565.2460 *Feel free to call in order ahead*

Open daily 11am to 9pm Proudly serving Metzger’s Burgers!

Daily weekday lunch specials & dinner specials. Ask about our gluten friendly options!

Stay for dessert we won’t disappoint. *Made to order Ice Cream Cakes Available*

STOPS ALONG THE WAY, SUMMER 2021. PAGE 17.

Zurich

An artist’s touch in Zurich

W

hile the lockdowns caused by the COVID-19 pandemic have wreaked havoc on the stress level of Artizan Alley’s owner Shanon Waht, there have also been some wonderful opportunities that have kept him going through the long closures.

The store is a year-round craft market with the best the area has to offer. In fact, vendors have been clamouring to get a space in the store, especially with traditional craft shows and sales being shuttered due to the pandemic. You will now find over 50 local vendors who create handmade and unique items.

Waht has been impressed with the

“Sawdust” Artizan Alley, Zurich

wide variety of talents and skills that he has been able to find in the area everything from traditional knitted items, driftwood art and wooden signs to interesting vintage and salvaged items. His own specialty is custom furniture and woodworking and upcycled projects that he can create for you with your input into colour and design.

Waht is open about his lifelong battle with depression, and the past year and a half spent trying to nurture a fledgling business through an unprecedented time has not been easy. Each time he would get a little momentum going, another wave of COVID-19 would hit and cause the government to implement restrictions and lockdowns.

The thing that has kept him going is the community that has built up around the indoor market. The cooperative of vendors has sustained him by offering support and checking in with him and each other throughout this long haul. The customers flocked to buy at Christmas and remained loyal to the business model. He credits his dog Sawdust with keeping him going and being his best “employee”.

Like many businesses, online sales through auctions nurtured Artizan Alley through the worst of it, but now Waht is finding that the public is keen to get back to in-person shopping and the store will be great “retail therapy”

when it’s allowed to open. With so many independent vendors creating one-of-a-kind items, the store is constantly changing. Stop in to see what’s new and say hi to Sawdust.

18 Goshen St N, Zurich. www.artizan-alley.com

Grand Bend

PAGE 18. STOPS ALONG THE WAY, SUMMER 2021

Getting some air

T

here’s another way to see the expansive Lake Huron shoreline along the edge of Huron County and that’s during a parasailing adventure departing from summertime hotspot Grand Bend.

Canadian-born Lee Marcoux returned to the area after living abroad once his parents purchased a summertime residence in the coastal town with his family in tow. He fell in love with the area when visiting and eventually purchased a boat and started Grand Bend Parasail in 2012.

Marcoux and his family had spent years living in the Cayman Islands, Turks and Caicos Islands and Panama (to name a few) where he worked on yachts, but also in the skydiving industry where he inspected parachutes, maintained and packed chutes. Needless to say, safety is a top priority for Marcoux and Grand Bend Parasail.

Open from May to October (for those who don’t mind the chilly temperatures in exchange for gorgeous fall colours along the coast), each tour lasts approximately 45 minutes. The parasailing lasts 10 to 12 minutes and adventurers can take in views over the Oakwood Resort to the north or the Beach of Pines and even further south to the Pinery depending on group size.

But Marcoux says that they “let the customer tell us what

area they’d like to fly over.”

And while 10 to 12 minutes may not seem like a long parasail, Marcoux says that once people go up they realize it’s quite a significant amount of time to admire the blue

waters of Lake Huron from above and grasp how long the beach truly is.

Marcoux works alongside a team that has expanded to include three captains: Captain Sean Bennett, born and raised in Cayman Islands, Nigel Walker, who hails from Australia and is starting this year, and Carlos Ramos, who is Canadian-born but has spent time living in the Philippines.

While on board, it’s common to hear English, Spanish and Tagalog spoken amongst crewmembers.

Not only has the team expanded, but the locations have too. While Grand Bend remains Marcoux’s only Lake Huron location, he opened Parasail Adventures Toronto. With its base in Port Credit, parasailing enthusiasts experience the waters of Lake Ontario while taking in the Toronto skyline from above.

Guests are encouraged to book directly online, particularly if there’s a specific date and time desired. A kiosk in Grand Bend provides an opportunity to book last-minute on the off-chance there’s availability.

Weekends though in the summer tend to be fully booked, Marcoux says.

77 Main St W, Grand Bend. www.grandbendparasail.com

Bayfield

STOPS ALONG THE WAY, SUMMER 2021. PAGE 19. range from chartered pickups in downtown Toronto for a flight out to Grand Bend on Friday afternoons in time for cottage weekends and returning on Monday morning to the office, to jaunts out to popular eating establishments in the county, and even landing in a secluded location for a surprise engagement.

The company has a saying that, “if you can imagine it, we can fly it,” says Henderson. He says, “People are pretty adventurous in terms of what they want to do.” Photo shoots, elopements outside of Grand Band with an officiant and photographer awaiting the couple at a predetermined location and even surprise engagements in remote locations are all recent requests.

Banner towing down the beach with a personal message is also on that list.

The fleet of 11 helicopters includes the R44, which is the main helicopter off to sample beers, have some food in use with a limit of up to 500 and the overall Cowbell experience. pounds or three passengers. All For a more romantic wine Huron County flights depart from experience, passengers can either take Grand Bend. greatlakeshelicopter.ca/ a 20-minute scenic flight of the area experiences/grand-bend before arriving at Dark Horse Winery or, the pilot will pick up guests from the winery to enjoy a charcuterie and wine tasting in-flight while flying over nearby Bayfield.

Eddington’s in Exeter is another popular dinner destination with views over Huron County between departure and arrival. And there’s no rushing through dinner with this service. The pilot will wait for guests to enjoy their dinner or, depending on the evening’s flight schedule, return 4 pieces at an agreed-upon time.

Battered Haddock Henderson purchased the company Denny’s Fries at the end of 2020, but said it began 2 Sides of Coleslaw operation 17 years ago. The flights

Roads not required

T

hanks to Great Lake Helicopters, the Huron County gravel run is getting an upgrade. New this summer, passengers can book a helicopter flight out of Grand Bend with one stop at one of the lakeshore’s breweries or wineries, or choose three from a list of six options.

With the rise in staycationers, the company is expanding its wine and beer tours to include other smaller establishments in the county in an attempt “to be more inclusive to the other microbreweries and wineries,” explains Great Lake Helicopters owner Dwayne Henderson.

Cornerfield Wine, Bad Apple Brewing and even River Road Brewing are additions to the popular flights to Cowbell Brewing near Blyth where passengers are dropped

FISH & CHIP THURSDAYS

Come to our on-farm Brewery!

7143 Forest Rd. Plympton-Wyoming (4 km South of Forest) stonepickerbrewing.com

2 Medium Fountain Beverages $

21.95

+ HST

It’s a Grand Bend Tradition!

86 Ontario Street South Grand Bend, ON Debit, Visa & Mastercard accepted Summer Hours: Late June to Labour Day 7 days/week 11:30 am - 9:00 pm

a TASTE of

HURON COUNTY 100% grown here ~ start to finish

Farm To Cup!

77697 Orchard Line, Bayfield 519-482-1666 Please follow facebook/Instagram for updates & operating hours Offering • fruit wine, hard ciders, fruit liqueurs & fruit spirits (Schnapps) • baking • preserves • sweet ciders & fruit juices • seasonal fruit & so much more

Farm Store is open for shopping as well as online orders & curbside available

Shop online or stop in to see us 86252 Kintail Line, Goderich 519-671-4118 Store hours: Saturday 9 am to 1 pm We hand roast in small batches, strictly fresh for order.

Our goal is to discover incredible coffees, build trusted relationships with coffee producers and bring you an unparalleled Coastal Coffee experience.

Check out www.coastalcoffee.ca for list of retailers and restaurants.

TURKEY SAUSAGE & BURGERS, DELI ITEMS Marinated TURKEY BREASTS & Succulent BREAST KABOBS Variety of BONELESS ROAST FROM THE FARM Gluten free

KE

Y TOO

$2

NIE

Share our passion for great tasting wholesome turkey!

TUR

OFF

Hwy. 83, 37451 Dashwood Rd., Dashwood • 519-237-3561 • www.haytersfarm.com

ne

O

RETAIL STORE OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK!

any turkey products co upon per v

is it

A Taste of Huron

PAGE 20. STOPS ALONG THE WAY, SUMMER 2021

STOPS ALONG THE WAY, SUMMER 2021. PAGE 21.

HURON COUNTY

G. L. HUBBARD LIMITED Growers And Packers Of Quality Rutabagas

The Hubbard Family Dinsley St., Blyth 519-523-4554

Dashwood

Bayfield

• Smoked Pork Chops • Steaks & Burgers • Homestyle Sausages • Deli Meats • Meat Package Deals

• Local pork and beef • Homestyle Baking • In-season fruits and vegetables • Maple syrup, honey and preserves

519-565-5566

519-237-3668

75073 Bluewater Hwy., Bayfield, ON N0M 1G0

70963 Bronson Line, Dashwood, ON N0M 1N0 justin@zehrscountrymarket.ca

paul@zehrscountrymarket.ca

Real Bread Made with Passion • Healthy Sourdough Bread • Wheat-Free Breads • Best Cinnamon Rolls • Yummy Pretzels ...and much more!

Open at the Farm all year 'round, Friday 9 am to 6 pm Farmers’ Markets: Goderich, Bayfield, London, Kincardine

82560 Bluewater Hwy., Goderich, ON N7A 3X9 Across from Point Farms Park

519-524-1283

redcatfarms@gmail.com www.redcatbakery.com

‘Straight From The Farm To You’

519-335-6352 43269 Amberley Rd. on Hwy. 86 between Wingham & Listowel

Maple Candy Maple Butter NOW OPEN for Fresh Picked and Pick Your Own Strawberries www.morrisonberries.com Hwy. 86 East of Lucknow

Gift Baskets Maple Sugar

www.drudgesmaplesyrup.com

A Taste of Huron

a TASTE of

PAGE 22. STOPS ALONG THE WAY, SUMMER 2021

A Taste of Huron

a TASTE of

HURON COUNTY

MASSE FRUIT & VEGETABLE FARM

C/O MIKE AND DIANNE MASSE

PICKED 35291 Zurich Hensall Road, Zurich, ON N0M 2T0 FRESH FOR Phone: 519-236-7907 YOU DAILY Email: massepumpkins@hay.net Open daily June - October 31st Like us on Facebook for up-to-date info

The Garlic Box • Liquid • Creamed • Comb

WE HAVE MORE THAN JUST HONEY...

• Honey Butter • Skin Creams • Honey Spreads • BBQ Sauce & Mustard • Bee Pollen • Bees for your own hive!

Your one-stop shop for local garlic Award­Winning Food Innovators Made With Local garlic Growing garlic goodness from field to fork since 1998

OPEN Thurs., Fri., Sat. 9-5 39006 Zurich-Hensall Rd., East of Zurich 519-236-4979

www.fergusonapiaries.on.ca

www.thegarlicbox.com www.garlicrecipes.ca

Open Monday - Friday 9 am - 5 pm

STOPS ALONG THE WAY, SUMMER 2021. PAGE 23.

HURON COUNTY 84548 St. Augustine Line, Auburn 519-529-7857

• Certified Organic • Pure Maple Syrup • Maple Syrup Candy • Custom Gift Baskets

robinmap@hurontel.on.ca www.robinsonmaple.com

J.R. FEAR APIARIES INC. RR #2, Wingham

Fresh Honey Pure Unscented Beeswax Candles Creamed Honey Honey Baskets

519-357-3656

Providing you with locally raised Texas Longhorn Beef OPEN ALL YEAR MONDAY TO SATURDAY 9 AM-5:30 PM

Curbside pick-up available

Located on the corner of Hwy 8 and Porter’s Hill Line, east of Goderich

Our beef is naturally Lean and Delicious On Farm Store Now open - Hours: Tuesdays 9am -12 pm; Friday 3pm-5pm, Saturdays 9am-11:30 am or by appointment (closed Sundays).

Come to the farm to see the Longhorns and check out our farm store.

You can buy our products at the Grand Bend, Blyth and Bayfield online Farmers’ Market and at the Goderich Farmers' Market.

37835 Telephone Road, Clinton 519-525-0375 harmnelonghorns@gmail.com www.harmnelonghorns.com

A Taste of Huron

a TASTE of

Exeter

PAGE 24. STOPS ALONG THE WAY, SUMMER 2021

Make Huron Home in Exeter

R

obinson Fresh Café owner Rupert Robinson chatted with Mandy Sinclair about his decision to Make Huron Home and open Robinson Fresh Café in downtown Exeter.

What inspired your move from Toronto to the county?

My wife grew up here. She’s from Exeter and had come to Toronto, but it wasn’t her speed. We eventually moved halfway and lived in Kitchener, but then started looking in the region.

We moved to Exeter and built our house here. Then I saw the building [now home of Robinson Fresh Café] was for sale. I was doing some catering on the side and ended up doing catering for the previous owners. Then I decided to take it over and make a go of running a café and also catering.

Tell us a bit about Robinson Café.

We have the café side where we make soup daily from scratch, we roast and smoke all our meats. Our chicken, apple and brie with cranberry mayonnaise is our

bestseller. We also do roasted vegetable wraps. We are getting quite the following for our scones and pastries. We do a lot of different stuff. It’s not your typical café.

On the retail side, we have a graband-go section so you can pick something up, take it home, put it in the microwave and in five minutes or less dinner is ready. We switch up the menu every week.

What’s your favourite season at Robinson Fresh Cafe? And why?

I like the summertime because it’s easier to get local produce and try different flavours. The buzz is out.

People are heading out for ice cream with the kids. The days are longer, so the café stays open later.

What advantages does basing yourself in Huron County have?

The community. Everybody gets behind you and you’re just part of the community. You meet everyone.

People trust you and know what to expect. You feel like you’re part of a big family. When I go to church or the grocery store, it’s a good chat.

That’s the thing about small towns;

everyone knows everyone and I find in this instance it’s a good thing.

Being five minutes from home I can spend more time with my family and my kids. I can pick them up from daycare and do stuff with them or pop home. It gives me that flexibility that I didn’t have when I was on the road or travelling all the time.

Favourite Huron County: Restaurant or bar: I like what James Eddington does and he is always creative and pushing the envelope [at Eddington’s of Exeter]. I like the Dark Horse Winery.

Takeaway: William’s Fish and Chips [in Exeter] because I like the halibut fish. It’s a tiny little place that if you blink you’ll miss it.

Hiking trail: We hike on the Morrison Trail quite a bit. It doesn’t matter what season you go – in fall the colours are spectacular, the summer it’s fresh. Even winter is nice.

Country road: Highway 21 from Grand Bend to Goderich on a nice sunny day, driving along the water and the sun makes the water look like water. I feel like I’m a tourist.

STOPS ALONG THE WAY, SUMMER 2021. PAGE 25.

Exeter

Your special day at The Barn

I

f you are looking for a real “country chic” venue, you should check out The Barn at the Exeter Golf Club on Kirkton Road east of Exeter. The turn-of-the-century barn has been tastefully converted into a restaurant and event space with plenty of charm.

The location includes a lovely, rolling nine-hole course, driving range and putting green, and is partnered with the Golf North group that includes Ironwood Golf course.

Offering leagues and pro services, there is something for every golfer's needs. After the round, you can grab a meal and a beverage at The Barn Restaurant and Pub and try some of their very popular menu items. They pride themselves on great food in a family-friendly atmosphere. Theme

nights and live music may be happening as well.

If you have a wedding in your future, the club offers full wedding services for both the ceremony and reception for up to 250 guests. The in-house wedding planner can walk you through all your options for the country wedding of your dreams.

There is even a bed and breakfast that sleeps up to 16 people located on the property to host your wedding party.

Have another event to celebrate?

Just let the team know what you need and members will work with you to make it happen.

During the recent restrictions due to the pandemic, the owners have continued to offer the restaurant menu as take-out and they are looking forward to opening to full dining

options once restrictions are lifted.

Check out the club’s website at www.golfnorth.ca/exeter for current offerings. For event-planning information, contact Emily directly at events.exeter@golfnorth.ca

Fresh Big Slices

375

$

(630 cals/slice)

plus tax

137 Garafraxa St. S. Durham ......519-369-5494 1 Rattenbury St., Clinton..............519-482-7200 47 Ontario St., Mitchell.................519-348-8600 4 Colborne St., Walkerton............519-881-3093 518 Main St. S., Exeter ................519-235-4235 132 Josephine, Wingham ............519-357-2332

Hensall

PAGE 26. STOPS ALONG THE WAY, SUMMER 2021

Getting artsy in Hensall

permanent home and studio when they fell in love with the beautiful, airy 2600-square-foot building in Hensall. They had finally found the perfect space to set up a gallery for Johnson’s paintings and create a studio space for offering lessons and paint nights.

Young is the business manager, handling the marketing, setting up the website and organizing the classes and art shows. She says that the plan is for the studio to be open mid-June (pending the lifting of provincial restrictions as the pandemic eases) and offer classes when possible.

They describe Johnson’s art as “funky whimsical”, as well as paintings that are in a realistic style.

Both original paintings and prints are for sale at the gallery and online.

The name of the gallery, Beanstalk, pays homage to the village’s long agricultural history as Hensall is known as the “white bean capital of the world”. The studio’s tagline is “where creativity grows” and the duo have big plans for the future, including branching into sculpture.

Visit the studio at 111 King St, Hensall. www.beanstalkgallery.ca or www.roberttheartist.com

H

uron County has long been a cultural hub and has just become home to yet another artist who has made their way here to take advantage of everything it has to offer.

Robert Johnson, better known as Robert the Artist, and his wife Sandy Young have opened Beanstalk Studio and Art Gallery in Hensall’s downtown in a vibrant historic storefront that was once an Oddfellows Hall and has been revitalized as a live-work space.

“Hensall chose us,” they say.

Johnson, who is originally from Burlington, Ontario, and Young met on the beach in Key West, Florida while both were living there, and the region is reflected in some of the artwork that he has created. In fact, geography has a lot to do with Johnson’s work and his collections are organized by the places that he has lived.

Johnson and Young returned to Canada for family obligations and haven’t looked back. They lived in Toronto and the Muskokas but were still trying to find the perfect,

# (+8HI[H , &ORVLLQ QJ KRXUUVV YYD DUU\\ E E\\ VHDVRQ

"bMKRH\ZHV\[ HVUH%IKMJVVRH NVYH\WLI[MZH HZWMKPISZ

&DOO DKHDG IRU IDVWHU SLFN XS

+LJKZD\ : &OLQWRQ 21 ZLOO\VEXUJHUEDU#JPDLO FRP

'.,$H.%H3'$H ^PSS`HJ\YOMY

STOPS ALONG THE WAY, SUMMER 2021. PAGE 27.

Clinton

A delicious legacy

B

uildings with a long and varied history are always interesting.

The White Carnation on Parr Line in Holmesville was built as a cheese and butter factory in 1895, making it over 125 years old. By the 1940s, it was the largest cheese maker in Canada, but the direct connection with dairy products ended in the early 1970s when it was converted into a private catering facility and took on the name of The White Carnation. It is an iconic spot for locals, as most people have attended many events there over the long history of the venue.

Since 2017, it has been owned by chefs Corinne Bos and Noriel Abejaron. Corinne grew up locally and was excited to bring her partner Noriel back home to begin the adventure of their own business after many years in high-end kitchens in Toronto.

Continuing the Sunday buffets was an important part of the plan, as was introducing new cultural foods and flavours, while still focusing on local foods.

Through the many renovations, the

building still holds much of the charm and history from its early days and is a very popular location for weddings, retirement parties and meetings, easily accommodating up to 150 people. They are also available for off-site catering. Noriel’s skill with artful and delicious buffet tables has earned the pair a legion of devoted customers, both for events and the popular Sunday buffet.

The pandemic has created many challenges for everyone in the restaurant and catering industries, however The White Carnation has offered weekend take-away meals

that kept up to their high standards of variety and taste. They also partnered with Made in Huron Artisan Market to offer soups, salads and main dishes at a retail location.

They look forward to reopening once the current restrictions are over, and are currently giving the building a makeover with some new exterior paint.

To keep up with the next takeout menu and future reopening dates, check them out on Facebook - White Carnation Banquet Hall - or call 519482-9228. 79867 Parr Line, Holmesville.

Welcome to

Parker House Motel

Satellite TV, LED TVs in all our rooms, Wireless Internet, free local calling, A/C, fridges, microwaves Your host: Ann Anderson 77575 London Rd., Clinton ~ Municipality of Bluewater PHONE: 519-482-3469 Ext. 0 • FAX: 519-482-9545 www.parkerhousemotel.com • email: reservations@parkerhousemotel.com

Clinton

PAGE 28. STOPS ALONG THE WAY, SUMMER 2021

Historic accommodations

W

hen Bob and Janice Clark arrived at the entrance of Kildonan House with the intention of viewing the property as their next venture, Janice noticed a familiar name.

“A plaque at the entrance indicated that the house was originally called the Irwin Gunn Home and that’s my mom’s maiden name, she’s from Goderich,” explains Bob. And that wasn’t the only familial connection, it turns out.

The house, located at the corner of Kirk and High Streets in Clinton, dates back to 1867 when businessman Richard Irwin returned to the area from the United States and began construction on the Italianate villa.

His second wife hailed from Virginia, prompting Irwin to name the villa Washington House. Richard Irwin was Bob Clark’s great-grandfather.

In the early 1900s, the home changed ownership. This time, Dr. William Gunn took possession as he moved to the area to start Clinton Public Hospital. He eventually used the present-day parlour and the adjoining office (currently Bob’s office), as his medical practice. The house took the name Kildonan from Dr. Gunn’s hometown in northern Scotland, Bob explains.

Today, just as it was under the Gunn ownership, the venue is a spot

for charitable events and afternoon teas. Bob and Janice recall the trousseau tea party they organized for the Red Hat Ladies from Bayfield to celebrate the royal wedding of Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, to Prince Harry. Money raised supported the women’s shelter in Goderich.

Under the property’s various owners, the villa was used as a boarding house for visitors to the area – the board of health, medical students and more. Today, Bob and Janice operate Kildonan House as a bed and breakfast with four suites, each complete with en-suite bath and one apartment-style option.

Previously owned by an antiques dealer, the house remains resplendent with collectibles from bygone days.

The collection includes period pieces

dating back to when the home was built in 1867. Some of the paintings in the home date back to the 1800s. A gilded mirror made in France in 1790 hangs in the hallway. A baby grand piano designed for use on ships and once sailed on the Manitoulin Ferry linking the island with Tobermory has found a place in the ballroom.

Another white French provincial baby grand piano sits nearby.

The second-storey balcony overlooking the entrance to the property is ideal for a sunset drink or afternoon tea while imagining days when previous visitors would arrive, whether for medical purposes or after a busy day at work. These days though the saltwater pool just off the coach house calls to guests looking for a bit of relaxation.

With the Clarks’ keen interest in supporting the local food and drink scene, Huron County wines and beers and locally roasted coffee are available to guests throughout the day. They’re up to speed on all things related to fine food in Huron County too, serving local ingredients as part of their breakfast options.

But they had us at saltwater pool and local white wine! 71 Kirk St., Clinton. www.kildonanhouse.com

Your hosts: Bob & Janice Clark 71 Kirk Street, Clinton 519-482-1163 Email: inquiries@kildonanhouse.com Website: www.kildonanhouse.com 5.0 Google rating

Currently doing takeout Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for updates

• Call to inquire about custom catering options

STOPS ALONG THE WAY, SUMMER 2021. PAGE 29.

Seaforth

Staying the course

T

he Seaforth Country Classic professional golf tournament continues to provide excitement for golfers and fans across southwestern Ontario and beyond.

The 2019 event highlighted the skills of both male and female professionals, as well as elite amateurs. The tournament, held at the Seaforth Golf Course, is a popular stop for golf pros planning their competitive season.

After the 2020 cancellation of most sporting events, the organizing committee is happy to once again be working with the Great Lakes Tour and hosting a modified version of the Classic. This year there will be the fun and friendly Pro-Am on Thursday, July 29, when regular golfers get to team up with pros, play 18 holes of golf and enjoy lunch and dinner together.

The following day, Friday July 30, there will be an 18-hole competition for the $2,000 first place cheque and the Country Classic Trophy.

“We went with a one-day competition this year to minimize the need for host-housing or billeting overnight guests due to the ongoing pandemic concerns," advised

Committee Chair Maureen Agar.

Agar went on to add that the event will continue to raise funds for the Tanner Steffler Foundation, at a time when many charities are struggling to hold fundraising activities.

The Country Classic has raised over $130,000 for local and area medical organizations since it began in 2008 as a full four-day Canadian Tour (now McKenzie Tour-PGA Tour Canada) event with such well known players as Adam Hadwin, James Hahn and Nick Taylor in attendance.

The tournament has reinvented itself by adding a female pro division, an amateur competition, opening the field to club professionals, and even

Visit

hosting a Skins Game with former LPGA player Lorie Kane.

Although border restrictions may prevent some players from attending the 2021 event, the field will have many skilled players from the Great Lakes Tour, as well as local professional Robyn Doig competing in the women’s pro division.

Admission and parking are complimentary but a donation to the Tanner Steffler Foundation upon entry is appreciated. Enter the Thursday Pro Am by calling 519522-0985 or e-mailing seaforthgolf@seaforthgolf.com. Visit seaforthcountryclassic.com for details. 42990 Front Rd., Seaforth.

fxtyÉÜà{ ZÉÄy VÄâu

“Huron County’s Home of Golf” The Seaforth Country Classic is back!

Pro Am Thursday, July 29th - Pro Competition Friday, July 30th "Seaforth Country Classic" thanks our players, sponsors, fans, and volunteers for their support of the Seaforth Country Classic & its charities. www.seaforthcountryclassic.com

42990 Front Rd., Seaforth 519-522-0985 www.seaforthgolf.com

seaforthgolf@seaforthgolf.com

PAGE 30. STOPS ALONG THE WAY, SUMMER 2021

Backyard Living

Outdoor Wood Features

Outdoor Features

Making your Inspiration a Reality.

Ooni Pizza Ovens

Green Mountain Grill Smokers

Showroom: 19 Main St. N., Bayfield 519-955-2503 info@huronfireplaces.com www.huronfireplaces.com

Enviro Urbana Valor Jotul Dimplex

Saber Barbeques

Our Brands

STUV GMG Smokers Saber BBQ's Ooni Pizza Ovens Alfa Pizza Ovens

STOPS ALONG THE WAY, SUMMER 2021. PAGE 31.

Seaforth

Outdoor living

F

amily Paradise Seasonal Resort Community, a Killam Leisure Living property managed by Cathy and Mike Mulholland and their daughter Dana, is located just northeast of Seaforth on a paved road.

The Mulhollands have been running this resort for six seasons and Cathy says it’s a “very family-oriented” campground. It has 180 seasonal sites with full hook-ups and 43 sites for transient campers with water and electricity.

The newest feature for the property is three cabins for up to six Continued on page 32

PAGE 32. STOPS ALONG THE WAY, SUMMER 2021

Relaxation Backyard time Living

Seaforth

Continued from page 31 people. The cabins were added two years ago and have proven a popular option with the latest interest in “glamping”. The cabins have a bar-sized fridge, a barbecue, firepit and a picnic table with access to a shared kitchen, making “roughing it” just a little easier.

The big draw for the campground has always been its events. There is an active recreation committee that takes great pride in organizing fun, themed weekends including Halloween in September, a Labour Day baseball tournament and the ever-popular toilet plunger toss weekend.

While COVID-19 has curtailed many of the events, the committee was still able to find a safe way for the kids to enjoy Halloween last September. Instead of the traditional trick-or-treating, the committee collected the treats from the campers and created candy bags. They then had the kids dress up at their own site, while the committee went around and passed out the bags. Saturday morning crafts were held the same way, with kits and instructions passed out to the campers at their sites instead of being hosted in the recreation hall. Cathy is looking forward to a return to events after the pandemic and once everyone can be safe again.

The property itself features all the amenities to make your stay great.

The most popular features are the jump pillow, the heated pool and the large pond, where fishing for bass and bluegill is permitted under a catch-and-release program. Daily rentals are available for stand-up paddle boards, kayaks, paddle boats and Corcl boats.

Reservations fill up fast so it may be time to start planning for next year. 43835 Hullett McKillop Rd, Walton. For more information, visit familyparadise.killamleisureliving. com

OUTDOOR FURNITURE

Casual Industries Inc.

MANUFACTURERS • DISTRIBUTORS (Highway 83 East of Grand Bend)

A complete line of Casual Furniture to compliment all areas of your home.

Outdoors Patios Garden Areas Sunrooms We also manufacture cushions and umbrellas

DIRECT TO YOU • 519-238-2110 www.gocasual.ca MON - FRI 10am-5pm; SAT 10am-4pm

STOPS ALONG THE WAY, SUMMER 2021. PAGE 33.

Image courtesy of Allan Avis Architects

Blyth

Theatre under the stars

T

he Blyth Festival is moving ahead with an ambitious outdoor stage project at the natural amphitheatre at the Blyth Campground.

In an interview with The Citizen, Festival Artistic Director Gil Garratt said that while a professionallyengineered outdoor stage will hopefully allow the Festival to move ahead with outdoor productions later this summer, he hopes it will be bigger than that. Not only can the stage be part of the Festival picture moving forward, but it could also serve as community infrastructure rarely seen in Huron County for musical performances or community celebrations like the Rutabaga Festival, Barn Dance Jamboree Weekend, the reunion of the Huron Pioneer Thresher and Hobby Association and more.

After months of development, the details of the outdoor stage proposal were finally approved at a meeting of North Huron Council in late May. When the process began last year, Garratt said there were thoughts that outdoor shows may be produced in 2020. However, that was in the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic

when no one thought it would still be ravaging the world more than one year later.

He did say, however, that the Festival has a unique history with outdoor productions like The Outdoor Donnellys and Many Hands, so he felt that, with the safety advice available at the time, it was a natural step for the Festival.

When the Festival first proposed the idea, it was part of a five-year plan. Garratt said that he and his team at the Festival saw the development of an outdoor performance space not just as a way to ensure the Festival would be ready to respond to any threats like COVID-19 in the future, but as an opportunity for years to come.

With a permanent outdoor stage, Garratt said he could see a future in which the Festival offered a full season in Memorial Hall, complemented by productions designed to be performed on the outdoor stage as well as at the Phillips Studio.

One of the first things he had to consider in terms of design was accessibility; ensuring everyone could see a show at the outdoor

theatre space, so they needed to bring an architect on board. Garratt said the Festival maintained a good relationship with architect Jason Morgan of Allan Avis Architects, so he tapped Morgan to help with the project. Bringing him on board was made possible, Garratt said, thanks to support from Community Futures Huron, the Trillium Foundation and fundraising from donors and members.

The design has gone through a number of versions, Garratt said, as he was involved from the beginning.

At one point, there was talk about performing out of a shipping container on the back of a truck.

However, together they have come up with something much more professional and permanent, though shipping containers will still play a role.

He also said an integral part of the space will be connecting to nature and being under the beautiful Huron County sky with the treeline and Greenway Trail, part of the Goderichto-Guelph Rail Trail system, in the background. In fact, several trees have already been planted at the Continued on page 34

Blyth

PAGE 34. STOPS ALONG THE WAY, SUMMER 2021 Image courtesy of Allan Avis Architects

Dawn of a new day Continued from page 33 space with the help of the Maitland Valley Conservation Authority with more to happen

at the site in the coming months.

Essentially, Garratt said, the stage will look like a giant patio, approximately 40 feet squared in a

diamond shape towards the audience.

Audience members, he said, will be in a semi-circle in front of the stage, wrapping around three quarters of the diamond stage, which includes two levels to aid the Festival’s shows.

Garratt said he drew inspiration from other outdoor stages, including the one in High Park in Toronto, on which he has previously performed as part of Shakespeare in High Park.

Audience members, as the pandemic wears on, will be physically distanced outdoors, Garratt said. However, in the future, when COVID-19 is hopefully a thing of the past, the expectation is that the space will be able to accommodate hundreds.

As time goes on, Garratt said he anticipates that the Festival will commission and produce plays with the outdoor space in mind, designing shows specifically to be produced outside as part of the season.

To keep up to date with the possible 2021 season, visit the Festival online at blythfestival.com

The sounds of history

V

ery few people are lucky enough to turn their passion from a hobby to their livelihood and Gary Clayton is one of that rare breed. He has always loved antiques and has spent a lifetime refinishing them. In 1988, while living in Walkerton, he found a niche market in restoring beautiful antique floor model radios. By 1992, he was

busy enough to need a storefront and founded The Olde Tyme Radio Centre in a former hardware store right on the busy main street of Belgrave.

The business has grown over the years and the collection now consists of more than 700 radios on the property, as well as 400 car radios and some 300 speakers hanging in the

rafters. As well as restoring radios and gramophones to sell, Gary is sought after by many enthusiasts and says his “bread and butter” is repair and restoration work for others. He does all of the work to rebuild any make or model, including refinishing the cabinets and rebuilding the interior works, drawing from his inventory of over 25,000 tubes.

The store has two showrooms and a well-maintained website that goes beyond radios to include organs, clocks, furniture, televisions, record players and gramophones and telephones. There is even a page online for “this and that”, as Gary has a keen interest in everything old.

The collection must be viewed to be appreciated. In pre-COVID19 times, Gary and his wife Nellie would set up at various car and antique shows and he hopes that he can soon continue that tradition. In the meantime, the shop is open (subject to provincial health regulations) but Gary recommends that you call ahead to be sure. 9 Queen St (Hwy 4), Belgrave. www.oldtymeradio.ca 519-357-4304.

STOPS ALONG THE WAY, SUMMER 2021. PAGE 35.

Stop, Shop, Stay Discover all there is to do in Blyth Fresh fries, hot dogs, sausages and more!

Blyth Road, Blyth

519-523-9990 Owners/Operators Jenny & Bill McGrath Jr.

Tues 11-4 Wed-Thurs 11-5 Sat 11-3 Closed Sun & Mon 545 Queen St., Blyth

Sweets N’ Treats Happy to host you during your travels

1-888-281-2746 For a sample of best chocolate in the area, drop by Sweets N’ Treats.

With a second location in Blyth, the name truly says it all!

Sweets N' Treats 413 Queen St Blyth, ON. N0M 1H0 14 B-Line Rd Wingham, ON. N0G 2W0 (p) 519-357-3663 info@sweetsntreatschocolates.ca sweetsntreatschocolates.ca

Modern space in a rebuilt 1893 historical building Located just 250 meters fr f om the G2G Trail 3 nearly identical units ideal fo f r group bookings Only 800 meters to Cowbell Brewing Co. Relaxing outdoor patio space Enhance your stay with local experiences

TTaste of o Huron gi gift basket, t yog o a retr t eat, t walking tours r private musical perf rformances, s bike rentals ls, art classes

www.blythstudiosuites.com

37A Queen Street, Blyth, ON

Wingham

PAGE 36. STOPS ALONG THE WAY, SUMMER 2021

Turning the page in Wingham

O

ne of the newest eateries in the area has taken up residence in a building with a long commercial history in Wingham’s downtown core. Castings Public House, which recently opened its doors (or at least its take-out window, thanks to the COVID-19 restrictions currently in place), is a joint venture between Danielle Sutton and Murray Simpson, both veteran entrepreneurs.

The pair has renovated the space for accessibility and function, while paying homage to the industries that have sustained Wingham for decades.

The building has housed many businesses over the years, including a

sewing factory, a dairy and a restaurant. The decor can be best described as “industrial chic” with artifacts such as a local foundry stove serving as a sideboard in the front area of the dining room and old barn vents finding new life as light shades.

Sutton has assembled a core team of employees who have worked together for a long time, which provides a great base for a new restaurant.

The menu is barbecue with a smoke flair, as a traditional smokehouse is something that Sutton has always hoped to be able to have and is still in the works for future expansion plans.

The pandemic has modified both their

opening plans and the menu, as they could only offer take-out at the beginning, but the menu has proven a hit with locals. The buttermilk fried chicken sandwich has quickly gained fame in the region, along with the “to-go” version of Combat Juice, a fresh and fruity cocktail with a bit of a kick.

As the region begins to reopen, the expanded patio area is sure to be a popular place to spend a warm summer evening. The team has plans to bring live music in and have already begun a list of local artists to feature once they are allowed.

289 Josephine St, Wingham. www.castingspublichouse.com

Wingham

STOPS ALONG THE WAY, SUMMER 2021. PAGE 37. sign and a number of people have been through the garden this year, though it’s not a matter of numbers, but of repeat visitors.

“They become regulars,” she said. “It becomes part of their walking tour. Dads come with their kids and the dads sit and talk in the gazebo while the kids run around.”

She said the visitors include people walking their dogs, families and older couples and a day doesn’t go past that someone isn’t there.

“There’s such a variety of people,” she said. “We had a couple of ladies that must have sat and talked for an hour there.”

She said that last summer was good, as the COVID-19 restrictions were loosened, and a 12-year-old went through the garden, returning a week later with his grandma.

“That’s the kind of thing that happens,” she said. www.gardensofhuronperth.com The garden is a colourful spot to One of the gardens that continues to take in spring with daffodils and see visitors is Willow Park Patch, magnolia in bloom. She said the Debbie Kuyvenhoven’s garden in seasonality of the garden makes it so, Lower Town Wingham. every three weeks, it’s a different Kuyvenhoven said her garden is experience, but it’s always full of life. really more like a park to the “Kids love running around with the surrounding community. “People trees to hide behind,” she said. wander through,” she said. “It’s right “They don’t run through the beside our house, and it feels like a flower beds, and it’s a place to have public park, so people don’t feel like fun. That’s the idea I want it to be they’re snooping around by visiting.” just like a park.” 229 Arthur St, She said she has an open garden Wingham. www.willowparkpatch.ca.

Garden beauty

W

ith the second year of lockdowns and the COVID19 pandemic wearing on, the group behind the Discover the Gardens of Huron Perth tour is directing people to its website instead of its annual pamphlet.

While the pandemic has prevented some events that distributed the guide, many of the gardens can be easily visited while maintaining your distance, so organizers made the decision to provide the information at

Selfies along the trails

T

he Township of North Huron has been blessed with excellent hiking and nature trails in or near its three communities.

In Wingham, there is the Wingham Community Trail, a 2.5-kilometre loop trail along both sides of the Maitland River. The Wawanosh Nature Centre just outside of Belgrave offers a three-kilometre trail that loops through various ecosystems in a conservation area that features meadowlands, a hemlock forest, the Maitland River and the babbling Belgrave Creek. In Blyth, you’ll find an access point to the Goderich-toGuelph Rail Trail that is a popular biking and accessible walking trail, part of which is also the Greenway

Trail, a well-maintained path that follows the Blyth Brook and features many ponds and wooded areas.

As the COVID-19 pandemic lingers into its second summer, municipalities are having to think outside the box for ways for the public to safely have fun and enjoy the area. Denise Lockie, the Marketing and Promotion Assistant was excited to promote a fun way for people to engage with these trails by creating a selfie contest. A “Find the Fox” contest as part of the Huron Hygge festival was a huge success, so they are building on that idea.

All of the trails abound with wildlife and Lockie hopes that you can catch a selfie with some of the

flora and fauna that we share the area with. Of course, we know that getting them to sit still for a photo, let alone a selfie, can be a bit of a challenge! To help everyone out, she has created some fun representations and placed them along the paths so that you can get the perfect shot. Just find the laminated creatures on any of North Huron’s trails, take a selfie and post it on the North Huron Recreation Department’s Facebook page, or using the hashtag #northhurontrails on any social media post. For each photo you post by Labour Day, you will be entered to win swag bags with items from North Huron, the Maitland Valley Conservation Authority and Stops Along the Way.

PAGE 38. STOPS ALONG THE WAY, SUMMER 2021

Experience Wingham!

Sweets N’ Treats For a sample of best chocolate in the area, drop by Sweets N’ Treats.

With a second location in Blyth, the name truly says it all!

Sweets N' Treats 14 B-Line Rd Wingham, ON. N0G 2W0 413 Queen St Blyth, ON. N0M 1H0 (p) 519-357-3663 info@sweetsntreatschocolates.ca sweetsntreatschocolates.ca

519-912-2100 TAKE OUT

• Vitamins & Supplements • Dairy, Wheat and Gluten-free foods

Visit our website www.castingspublichouse.com to view menu and updated hours.

• Bulk and organic foods

Food * Drink * Social

• Body care and “green” products

289 Josephine Street, Wingham ON

• Protein powders and bars 222 Josephine St., Wingham

519-357-3466 120 Inkerman St. E., Listowel

519-291-4920

www.pandoraspantry.ca

256 Josephine St., Wingham 519-357-1840 2stepshoe@gmail.com

STOPS ALONG THE WAY, SUMMER 2021. PAGE 39.

Two styles of art

T

Lucknow

he corner of Campbell and Inglis, on Lucknow’s main drag, is one bustling hive of creative activity.

Home of Conscious Creations Art in the front and Colt’s Chainsaw Art The Cowboy Carver in the back, the studio is a place for those who like to create, and those who prefer others to do the creating for them.

Colt and Cindy Pearce are the creative duo behind the hub in downtown Lucknow, having moved to town during the pandemic.

“I absolutely love living here. Both Colt and I are from the area, but we were living in the city and I’d become ‘citified’,” Cindy said.

Through Conscious Creations Art Continued on page 41

Enjoy the best of summer with a great book!

Armstrong’s Home Bakery Made Fresh Daily • Honey baked bread • Assorted rolls • Seasonal fresh fruit tarts • Cookies and squares • Soups and sandwiches • Pies • Cakes made-to-order • Gluten-free goods

Lucknow

Bulk Food Store • Baking supplies • Gluten-free products • Candy • Popcorn • Scooped ice cream Take home or eat here in our dining area

519-528-2211

BACKROADS OF ONTARIO Ron Brown has updated and expanded this guide to hundreds of interesting places to visit throughout Ontario. Mapped out routes for daytrips let you get to know rural Ontario with interesting stories about spots along the way. $29.95 + tax & shipping Call today to order your copy

519-523-4792

The Citizen Check out huroncitizen.ca for more rural living books and local authors.

Port Albert

PAGE 40. STOPS ALONG THE WAY, SUMMER 2021

A not-so-hidden gem

E

very hamlet should be as lucky as Port Albert to have a hidden treasure like the Port Albert General Store and Pub. Well, it’s not hidden if you’re local, a fisherman, a cottager or have ever discovered the beauty that is the Port Albert beach at sunset.

This long-established gas station, general store, LCBO agency store and restaurant has a reputation for being the hub of this lakeside community, where people come together for supplies and meals, and to catch up on the latest news.

New owners Steve Pletsch and Jim Dart are the first to admit that there isn’t much to improve upon, but they are going to try to put their own spin on the place, while keeping all that the locals love. They’ve started with a fresh paint job this spring to spruce up the exterior and show off the classic look of the building. They hope to broaden the inventory in the general store and have brought in a great new chef for the restaurant.

The patio is a popular spot in the summer and is filled to the brim on weekends with locals, fishermen and

cottagers enjoying pizza and a beer.

“We have the best pizza in the area”, says Pletsch.

They are excited for the lockdowns to end and to bring some of their ideas to fruition. Pletsch says they are planning some interesting events once everyone can safely return to the pub.

He’s hoping to create some excitement with fresh marketing and you’ll be able to follow their progress on Facebook and Instagram. Come for the pizza, stay for the sunset!

4 Central Wellington St, Port Albert. More available online at portalbertgeneralstoreandpub.com

I Want That Bag Have an event that should be in Stops Along The Way? Let us know...

Call 519-523-4792 or email deb@northhuron.on.ca

Consignment Boutique Clothing, furniture & home décor

625 Campbell St., Lucknow

519-812-4982 (IWTB) Open Thursday, Friday and Saturdays Check our Facebook page or website for our hours www.iwantthatbagconsignment.com

STOPS ALONG THE WAY, SUMMER 2021. PAGE 41.

The art of creation

Artisans of Huron

Lucknow

Continued from page 39 Cindy teaches over 30 art classes. “I’m a stained glass artist so that’s a big part of what I do. But I dabble in a bit of everything – macramé, acrylic pour-painting with other art in it.”

In light of the pandemic, she’s switched her teaching from in-studio to online via Facebook Live, which has resulted in a reduction of class offerings, but the demand for those classes she offers – the macramé plant hanger workshop and burlap flower classes – is high.

She will return with her stained glass workshop, a class that must be done in a studio, and her mosaic window class, in which creative students use an old barn window as the starting point, when restrictions are lifted.

From the shop, she also sells art and craft supplies geared toward kids, including wooden cut-outs, canvases, acrylic paints and she also teaches kids’ classes on Thursday mornings when local health regulations allow.

But it’s not all arts and crafts.

Within the Conscious Creations Art, Cindy operates Crystal Rainbows, which she says “is the spiritual side” of her. It’s a space where she sells crystals, oils and self-healing books, and even meets clients for life coaching, reiki and readings, and organizes popular spiritual groups.

Around the back of the building, you’ll find Colt’s Chainsaw Art, where Colt is at work creating sculptures using one tool: his chainsaw. Cindy says he sources his wood either while out walking locally or from the nearby Mennonite community. His benches are popular items as are carvings featuring dragonflies. If he’s not in his studio, he may be out on location, as Colt is often called to carve a tree on a local homestead.

579 Campbell St, Lucknow. More information is available online at www.consciouscreationsart.ca

A collaborative marketplace showcasing Huron County’s creative artisans.

Offering: Blyth Farm Cheese, Meats, Baking, Preserves, Etc.

Country Quilting Piece a quilt you love, we can quilt it! ** Custom Machine Quilting ** For the quilting enthusiasts, we have everything you need.

Cottons, flannels, fleece, wools, books, patterns 84849 Ethel Line, Brussels, ON

Open Mon.-Sat. Gourmet Edibles & One-of-a-Kind Items!

26 Isaac St., Clinton 519-482-1445

519-887-9456 www.countryquilting.ca

www.madeinhuron.ca

Unique Ironwork Benches, railings, gates, furniture and more One-of-a-kind functional art

Antiques & Home Decor Shop Clinton , ON www.antiquesrad.com antiques.rad@gmail.com

Visit our website at

www.workingiron.ca allan@workingiron.ca 36854 Dungannon Road, Dungannon

519-529-3434

Robert Johnson offers weekly paint nights and lessons in his airy historic building.

Original paintings and prints on display.

www.BeanstalkGallery.ca

111 King Street, Hensall 289‐946‐1430

PAGE 42. STOPS ALONG THE WAY, SUMMER 2021

oP s

d r tca

m o r sf

n o r u H

Time to Build or R e n ov a t e !

Call for your free estimate today!

• Commercial Store Fronts • Wide selection of vinyl and vinyl & aluminum clad wood windows • Entrance Doors - steel or fibreglass • Interior wood French doors • Garage doors....commercial and residential • Glass shower enclosures • All glass and mirror work

Marg Miller Owner

David Carolyn Miller Miller Office Administrator Service Tech & Sales

Mike Low Service Tech

Fergie Ferguson Sales

Tyler Ryan Sales

Jon Miller Service Tech

41 Third St. Vanastra LOCAL CALLS 519-482-7869 IF BUSY CALL 519-482-5816

info@dndglass.ca www.dndglass.ca Celebrating 40 Years In Business!

Watch for upcoming exciting events!

Tom Hillman Service Tech

PROFESSIONAL SALES • SERVICE • INSTALLATION