Residents here are seeking a $2,500 donation from Puslinch Township to help cover costs for 150th anniversary plans at the Ellis Chapel.
Calling the chapel “a little jewel in the township,” Ken Murray explained the building was restored in 1963 and has been maintained as an historic site ever since by an 18-member board of directors, of which he is chairman.
He explained the chapel, which is located on the south side of Ellis Road in the west end of the township, is open during the summer months only, and hosts about 20 weddings per summer, plus events such as baptisms, funerals, concerts, and others.
Murray and his wife, Marilyn, who were married at the chapel themselves, said the chapel has no denomination affiliation and is run by volunteers.
“It’s one of the most enjoyable volunteer experiences either of us is involved in,” Marilyn told council.
She said the numerous activities planned to celebrate the chapel’s 150th anniversary this year are expected to cost about $5,500 – of which the board has already raised $2,700.
The chapel never receives any government grants and only once before has the board asked Puslinch council for any money, Marilyn added.
Councillors lauded the board for its work maintaining the chapel.
“You have a beautiful facility there,” councillor Jerry Schmidt told the delegation.
Mayor Dennis Lever agreed and said council would consider the funding request during ongoing budget deliberations.
