It was a bit of history lesson for Erin councillors on Feb. 8.
Wellington County Museum and Archives administrator Janice Hindley addressed council about the art and artifacts on loan for display at the municipality. In addition, she handed out the latest version of the museum brochure.
“For those of you who haven’t had the pleasure of meeting us yet, we are located between Fergus and Elora, in a national historic site,” she said.
Hindley said the building was constructed in 1877 and is the oldest remaining house of industry or poor house in Canada.
“It is now the Wellington County Museum. We have a state-of-the-art facility just behind it in our new archives.”
She reported on year round programs for children, adults, seniors and families.
Hindley cited numerous festivals and events in addition to its newest program – Treasures Out of The Vault.
That includes pieces related to certain municipalities or all municipalities in Wellington County – and highlighting them in local council chambers for people to enjoy.
Hindley expects the exhibits will rotate a few times each year. “We tried to choose or fit pieces that reflect the municipality … So we brought a crazy quilt.” Hindley said with smile.
After a round of laughter, councillor Barb Tocher quipped, “That would probably describe us very well.”
“Is that a reflection of the new mayor?” asked Mayor Lou Maieron.
“Not at all,” Hindley said.
In outlining the quilt history, Hindley noted it was created around 1910 by Elizabeth Doneldson, of Hillsburgh. That family ran the general store and post office.
“Crazy quilts really became popular in that time period. Before that quilts followed traditional patterns. Crazy quilts were random and the creator could incorporate many types of fabrics, mementos – and she has incorporated fair ribbons from Georgetown, Erin and Hillsburgh.”
Hindley said the second item is the painting Elora Swans. The swans used to frequent the Grand River there. She hoped council and residents will enjoy the display.
Hindley anticipated being able to offer a few other “surprises” to Erin later in the year.
“I would just like to thank you very much,” said councillor John Brennan.
Maieron suggested for the duration of the stay “We’ll call them the Erin Swans” (the mayor had a lengthy legal battle over a swan at his place and was finally vindicated).
Maieron linked the museum discussion with recent discussions he had with members of the Erin Agricultural Society and his take on what is being done to promote heritage in Halton Hills.
He said the society has a number of historical pieces, and that it predates the incorporation of the village or township of Erin.
In his discussion, Maieron suggested if Erin had a display case, perhaps the society could showcase some of its items there as well.
