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| Sugar plum fairies swinging and twirling from the dining room light fixture. |
Well, Christmas has come a little early and glows a little brighter for us with official town documents certifying that the Dusty Victorian villa is of architectural, associative and historic value.
Pride of ownership takes on a new
dimension now that our home is officially recognized as a part of St Marys heritage. Originally
from Montreal, having lived in Vancouver and Toronto, we are often asked, "Why
did you settle in St Marys?” There are many reasons. To name just a few: gorgeous old architecture, unique topography creating lovely vistas, several
little bridges crossing river and creek, majestic church steeples that can be
seen from miles away, but more importantly, a well preserved downtown that is
still up and running. We visited many small towns before coming to St Marys, and found a staggering number were just shadows of their former Victorian glory – "ghost
towns" would be better suited to describe them. Even if St Marys is the
exception, it is still very vulnerable. By seeking heritage designation for our
home, we wanted to contribute to the preservation of this town. As owners of an
antique home, we see ourselves as custodians and believe it’s our civic duty to
protect it. We take great pleasure living in a unique old house, recognizing that its
presence in St Marys landscape benefits everyone near and far, as well as future
generations.
Thank you to Trisha McKibbin, St Marys Museum archivist and manager, for making the entire process run smoothly and the experience most enjoyable.
Thank you to Trisha McKibbin, St Marys Museum archivist and manager, for making the entire process run smoothly and the experience most enjoyable.
The next step, the casting and installation of the bronze plaque, will most probably take place sometime in spring
2014.
Below is a certificate from our honourable Mayor Grose to commemorate our participation as a host site during Doors Open 2013 with The Dusty Victorian as seen in winter 1905 - a lovely gesture. What a great way to end the year.
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| The Dusty Victorian - December 2013 |
Wishing you all the best for 2014
(and reminding you not to forget your local animal shelter).
(and reminding you not to forget your local animal shelter).
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| My hairy fairies, Violet, Chaz and Beauty. |