Arthur 150: A weekend to remember
ARTHUR - Arthur 150 celebrations were a grand success this past weekend.
Coinciding with Canada Day festivities, Arthur was treated to three days jam-packed with activities, from July 1 to 3, organized by the Arthur 150 steering committee.
Residents, young and old, from near and far, experienced the opening of the Brent Barnes Memorial Skatepark, a parade, horse-drawn rides, live music, a petting zoo and fireworks – to name some of what took place.
On Canada Day, the weekend was officially welcomed under rainy skies with an opening ceremony held at the Arthur cenotaph.
Arthur retains a distinct village identity; one tethered to its roots. Its 2,450 residents make it what it is today: a modern community with a sense of respect for the village’s origin story.
Residents showed their respect Friday morning, gathering under umbrellas and taking cover under trees as local politicians and dignitaries – including Canadian Senator Rob Black, Wellington North Mayor Andy Lennox, MPPs Ted Arnott and Matthew Rae, MP John Nater, Dave Kozinets, Nancy Croft, and the Arthur 150 committee – provided remarks on the weekend celebrating 150 years since Arthur's incorporation.
Veterans from “Canada’s most patriotic village” were remembered, and Arthur resident, business owner and veteran John Walsh helped snip a red ribbon that Friday morning.
“The history of the community is very important; that’s what we’re celebrating,” Arthur 150 steering committee chair Faye Craig told the Advertiser in advance of the weekend.
