About UsMembershipMuseumTrailsCemeteriesMemory WallLinks
|
| HomeAbout UsMembershipMuseumTrailsCemeteriesMemory WallLinks
|
Built in 1844 as a low cost substitute for a blockhouse to defend the canal against American-based raiders, the Chaffey's Lockmaster's house was originally a one-storey limestone building. A tin roof protected it in case of fire and two stone porches and gun-slits provided extra defense in case of attack. The house was occupied continuously from 1844 until 1967, by only five lockmaster's families. In 1894 it was renovated and a frame second-storey and kitchen addition were added.
During its heyday, the house was the social centre of Chaffey's - it had the only phone in the
village and housed the local post office. Campers and cottagers often visited and stayed for
dinner. Stories abound about raids on the garden and boaters lining up to buy the delicious-smelling
bread baking in the oven.
Then in 1967 the house was abandoned and remained vacant through the 1970s. At one
point, the government had plans to turn the house into an office. Fortunately, the Chaffey's Lock
Wommen's Institute, The Chaffey's Lock and Area Heritage Society and other village organizations banded
together and plans for a community museum were born.
The film, "The Golden Years" is a central part of the museum. Produced
in 1982 as a joint venture of the National Film Board, Parks Canada
and the village of Chaffey's Lock, it details the golden years, hardships and joys of
life in early Chaffey's. Much of the footage is based on films taken
during the 1930s and 40s by Don Jarrett, then owner of the Opinicon
Hotel. It's well worth viewing!
|
||||
|
1724 Chaffey's Lock Road, RR1 Elgin, Ontario K0G 1E0 email: suemaclat@sympatico.ca or tacton@kingston.net website maintenance & design donated by Ken W. Watson ©2012 Chaffey's Lock and Area Heritage Society |
