Street names in the new Charleston Homes subdivision off Harris Street in Rockwood will pay tribute to some of the area’s most well known citizens, ranging from First World War heroes to a local artist to a former municipal staff member.
“They’re all local people,” Guelph-Eramosa Mayor Chris White said of the four names approved last week by council as a condition of the draft plan approval for the new 258-unit development.
“It’s good to do that, so the names have some meaning … It’s a nice touch for sure.”
Coker Crescent and Sammon Drive are named after John S. Coker and William W. Sammon respectively. Both were residents of former Eramosa Township who died in the First World War.
“We’re trying to get streets named after everyone whose names are on the (Rockwood) cenotaph,” said White.
Drenters Court is a tribute to Yosef Drenters, the renowned artist and sculptor. Drenters, who died in 1983, was a member of the Ontario Society of Artists and The Royal Canadian Academy of Arts. He is also known locally for his 1960 purchase, and subsequent restoration, of the old Rockwood Academy.
“That one came from the public,” White said of paying tribute to Drenters. He added it is nice to include suggestions from local residents when naming new streets.
The fourth street name approved by council is Gagnon Place, in honour of late public works manager Ken Gagnon.
“He made a real positive impact on the community,” White said.
Gagnon, who passed away a year ago at age 53 after battling cancer, was renowned for his trouble shooting ability and organizational and people skills, and was also instrumental in the township taking over water and wastewater services three years ago.
