HomeMy WebLinkAbout211Spiral bound scrapbook 22 x 35 cm., compiled by the Claremont Women's Institute c. 1970.
This book is a collection of photographs, newspaper articles, family histories, church and
community histories and much more.
“FOREWARD”
I am so glad to hear that the Women’s Institutes of Ontario are going to compile village history
books. Events move very fast nowadays; houses are pulled down, new roads are made, and
the aspect of the countryside changes completely sometimes in a short time.
It is a most useful and satisfying task for Women’s Institute members to see that nothing
valuable is lost or forgotten, and women should be on the alert always to guard the traditions of
their homes, and to see that water colour sketches and prints, poems and prose legends
should find their way into these books. The oldest people in the village will tell us fascinating
stories of what they remember, which the younger members can write down, thus making a
bridge between them and events which happened before they were born. After all, it is the
history of humanity which is continually interesting to us, and your village histories will be the
basic of accurate facts much valued by historians of the future. I am proud to think that you
have called them. “The Tweedsmuir Village Histories”.
Written by Lady Tweedsmuir.
Adelaide Hoodless 1857-1910
Adelaide Hunter Hoodless was a woman of intelligence and education;
But when her first baby died she felt that he might have lived if she had known more about
how to take care of a baby. So, she led a campaign for clean milk in her city
(Hamilton), and a crusade to have homemaking-
Household Science – included in every girl’s education in public school, with special
courses available at colleges and universities. All of this was accomplished before her
death at the age of fifty-two.
Mrs. Hoodless also wanted homemaking education for women who were already mothers
of young children. She spoke of this at a meeting of Ontario.
Farmers; Experimental Union; and Erland Lee, a young farmer of Stoney Creek, offered to
organize a meeting of the women of his township, Saltfleet, if Mrs. Hoodless would speak to
them. Following the meeting, the world’s first Women’s Institute was organized at Stoney
Creek, Ontario, Canada, on February 19th, 1897. Its purpose: better homes and a better
community life.
For information about other commemorative spoons, write:
S. Pearl Clark
66 Rosedene Avenue
Hamilton, Canada
The Adelaide Hunter Hoodless Homestead
The Birthplace of the founder of Women’s Institutes
St. George, Ontario
Brant Co.
Illustration: Adelaide Hunter Hoodless Homestead
F W I C
In 1851, David and Jane Hunter bought a modest clap-board house on the Blue Lake Road,
South Dumfries Township in Brant Country, now known as the Adelaide Hunter Hoodless
Homestead.
The Homestead was known in the community as “The Willows”. The Hunter family was
blessed with twelve children, the youngest was Adelaide, born in 1857.
This child was a natural leader and during the latter part of the 1800’s and very early 1900’s
was instrumental in the formation of many women’s organizations, among them, the, the
Women’s Institute. Also, schooling for girls, especially in the “Domestic Science" area, was
a deep concern, and she worked tirelessly toward promoting a better life for women and
children.
The Adelaide Hunter Hoodless Homestead purchased in 1959 by the Federated Women’s
Institutes of Canada, is located in a park-like setting about a mile from the junction of
Highway 24 and 5.
The homestead, typical of the mid 1800’s was heated by many stoves upstairs and a large
fireplace in the cellar. The house was probably built around 1830. Typical of that era, the
simple doorway, flanked by wooden pilasters leads into a hallway from which the stairwell
rises straight to the second floor.
The rag carpets, common in those days, cover the floors, and many pieces of furniture and
lovely dishes form a part of the priceless original heirlooms handed on by the Hunter family,
which adds authenticity to the Homestead.
Recently a comfortable apartment was added to the house, leaving space for a nicely
furnished mid-1800 kitchen and small pantry.
A Hostess resides in the apartment and welcomes many visitors during the year.
The Federated Women’s Institute of Canada have set a goal of $50,000.00 to form a
Foundation Capital Fund, from which the interest will be used to run some of the day to day
maintenance and operation costs of the Homestead. The Fund was set up in 1979 and
$8,000.00 has been invested to date. As donations come in, further funds will be invested.
The Capital Fund will remain intact.
Members from all Provinces have been asked to join together to donate $1.00 per person
during 1981. Ontario members are asked to send their donations to the FWIO office and in
turn the Treasurer will send the funds to FWIC.
The Adelaide Hunter Hoodless Homestead
R.R. #1, St. George, Ont. N0E 1N0
Hours…2.00—5:00 p.m. Daily
Except during March when closed
Buses book in advance with Hostess
Telephone 519-488-1130
Adelaide Hunter Hoodless Homestead
R.R. #1, St. George, Ontario
½ mile West
Intersection
Highways #5 & 24.
June 13, 1959, a plaque sponsored by the Blue Lake and Auburn Women’s Institute was
unveiled by the Archaeological and Historic Sites Board, Ontario Department of Travel and
Publicity, at the birthplace of Adelaide Hunter Hoodless, Founder of the Women’s Institute. All
levels of the Women’s Institutes were in attendance; Branch, District, Area, Provincial, National
and International, the latter represented by an Area Vice-President of the Associated Country
Women of the World.
In July, 1959, at Charlottetown, P.E.I. the Board Directors of the Federated Women’s
Institutes of Canada decided to purchase the birthplace. A three-month’s option was taken
and the Homestead purchase for $11,500 with approximately three acres of land.
Following the FWIC purchase of the property a National Homestead Committee was set up.
The project was placed on the agenda of the FWIC Board Meeting in Vancouver, June,
1961. It was brought before the National Convention that followed, and as a result $5,000
was voted from the funds to restore the Homestead and $500 for landscaping the lawn.
Later by a Board letter vote, $50 was added to the amount for landscaping.
The Horticultural Department of the Ontario Agriculture College, Guelph, planned and did the
landscaping around the Homestead. A flag stone walk was placed in front and to the side
steps. Sturdy and attractive steps both front and side were constructed. The Township of
South Dumfries donated the use of heavy machines and labour, which improved the site as
well as the parking area. Picnic tables were the courtesy of the
Ontario Department of Highways for three seasons.
Basically the house was well built. The foundation needed little attention and the roof only
minor repairs. The basement was cemented and set tubs installed with a new cold water
tank. Cupboards from the old kitchen were placed in the basement, also a counter space
and electric outlets to prepare for picnic parties. The outside basement entrance was re-
built. An oil furnace with forced air vents was installed and gives adequate heat to the whole
house. The Ontario Hydro did a complete re-wiring job with a new to water tank and marked
a very substantial bill as paid. They also moved an unsightly pole from the front of the house
to the side.
Illustration: Erland Lee (Museum) Home
FWIO
“Edgemont”, the property owned by the Federated Women’s Institute of Ontario on which
sits the Erland Lee (Museum) Home, the Drive House and Tenant House is situated high on
the Escarpment overlooking Lake Ontario on Ridge Road in Saltfleet Township, Stoney
Creek. The Women’s Institute members, not only in Ontario but beyond and local municipal
governments all helped to raise funds to purchase the house in 1971.
The “Lee” ancesters received the crown Deed back in 1801 when a frame house was built.
The next generation built the back part of the present home in 1860 and later in 1873 the
front portion.
Erland Lee, progressive farmer of Wentworth County, Secretary of the Farmers' Institute
was responsible for asking Adelaide Hoodless to speak at the Ladies’ Night of the Farmers’
Institute. Because of Adelaide’s great charisma and vital interest in women, she encouraged
the formation of a Women’s Organization. Erland and Janet Lee traveled the roads of
Slatfleet asking the women to attend this special meeting.
It has been often repeated that Erland Lee said, “if men need an organization to learn how to
better feed their animals, then women need an organization to learn how to better feed their
families.”
As a result of their effort, 101 women met at Squire’s Hall and the Women’s Institute was
formed.
The Erland Lee (Museum) Home, depicts life in a middle-class farm family home. Some
artifacts belonging to the Lee’s still remain, among them, the ceiling high pine cupboard,
built in 1801 and the dinning room table.
It was around this dining room table that the original Constitution was worded by a
Committee, including Erland Lee, and recorded by his wife, Janet.
A Copy of the original Constitution, by-laws and early minutes of the first Women’s Institute
in the World, Stoney Creek, are to be found in book form on the Constitution Table in the
Dining Room.
The Drive House has been converted into a display area and demonstrations can be seen
on special activity days.
Women’s Institute members have raised $130,000.00, which is invested in a Foundation
Fund. This fund will remain intact, and the interest will be used to assist with part of the daily
operations of the Home.
Mr. and Mrs. Victor Bechin reside in the apartment at the back of the Home and are on daily
duty to welcome all who come to visit.
Both the Federated Women’s Institute of Ontario and the Federated Women’s Institutes of
Canada have seen fit to honor the foresight of Erland Lee and Adelaide Hoodless, who
together founded an organization which now includes 8½ million people around the globe.
The Erland Lee (Museum) Home
R.R. 1, Ridge Road,
Stoney Creek, Ont L8G 3X4
Hours…10.00 a.m. – 3.00 p.m.
Monday through Friday
Closed month of February
Buses book in advance with
Hostess, Mrs. Victor Beachin
Telephone 519-622-2691.
From the Pages of History
Mrs. E. D. Smith, First W. I. President
The Smith Family’s community activities stretched well beyond business and politics.
Senator Smith, a proponent of women’s education, encouraged his wife Christina to
become an active participant in the emerging Women’s Institute.
As a result, Mrs. Smith was to be elected its first President, and many W.I. meeting were to
be held at the Smith home. Her husband and others assisted Erland Lee, Secretary of the
Farmer’s Institute, to draw up the Constitution. The Institute was an important development
in the lives of rural women who learned through it to apply a measure of science to their daily
needs.
In the latter part of the nineteenth century, farmers recognized the value of organizations
where they could share and improve their knowledge of farming techniques, by learning from
each other’s discoveries and mistakes. But the women, who also played an important role
on the farm, making butter, caring for the hens, milking the cows as well as rearing a bevy of
children had no such assistance and support. Education was limited, ignorance was
widespread.
It was as a result of ignorance that Adelaide Hoodless, the wife of a well-established
furniture company owner in Hamilton, lost a cherished baby. She had unwittingly fed her
child-contaminated milk and was distraught when she learned the reason for her child’s
death.
The frustration of knowing that her child could have been saved had she been better
informed about child care and homemaking, launched Mrs. Hoodless on a vigorous
campaign to improve the practical side of a women’s education.
An invitation from Erland Lee of the South Wentworth Farmers’ Institute to address the
Institute’s Ladies’ Night gave Mrs. Hoodless an opportunity to expound her philosophy. “The
health of your wives and children, which you are neglecting, is far more important than that of
your animals.” Mrs. Hoodless continued, “perhaps such an organization is more necessary
since a women’s work, homecraft and mothercraft, is much more important than that of men
since it concerns the home and the care of the loved ones who
dwell therein.”
With the aid of Mr. Lee, a meeting of local women was organized in Stoney Creek. From
that meeting on, the first Women’s Institute grew from strength to strength.
Mr. E. D. Smith was born Christina Armstrong, a farmer’s daughter from York Township in
Ontario, she was a sensitive and retiring young lady. In 1886 she married E.D. Smith who
originally studied to become an engineer. He had been forced to give up his studies, as his
eyesight was in jeopardy. He then put all his youthful energy into his fruit farm, then the
nursery, then the food processing business.
The Smith’s had four children, and Christina was the disciplinarian, while her husband was
inclined more toward leniency.
In 1889 the Smith’s moved down from the escarpment to live in the house known as the
Homestead in the Winona area. The original structure dates back to 1831 and a new wing
was added later. In 1911, they moved into Helderleigh a grand post-Victorian structure near
the present E.D. Smith office.
This home became a place where visiting salesmen, suppliers and other business men
would go for lunch, when invited by Mr. Smith. Hearty meals were often prepared by Mrs.
Smith herself, using recipes she copied painstakingly into a black book she entitled, Mrs. E.
D. Smith’s Cookbook.
Christina was fortunate to always have help in the house, usually an English family that
arrived complete with trunks full of uniforms. Mr. Smith recruited workers in England and
gave greatest encouragement to those with large families.
Around the turn of the century E.D. Smith and Erland Lee formed a joint stock company and
built a creamery at Vinemount. Later the building was used as a spray plant for the fruit
industry. Large kettles were installed for the manufacture of the sulphur mixture used then.
In 1928, the Women’s Institute was allowed to hold meetings in the building, they later bought
and remodelled it.
It is interesting to note that the E.D. Smith vineyards today supplies Canadian wineries. The
only reason “E.D.” did not become a wine-maker was that Christina objected on moral
grounds.
Since those pioneering days, the Women’s Institutes have never looked back and today are
a worldwide organization, thanks to the zeal of Mrs. Hoodless and Erland Lee and the
organizational ability of people like Christina Smith.
From dream to reality
The Erland Lee Home
LISTED ARE A FEW OF THE ACCOMPLISHMENTS OF WOMEN’S INSTITUTES
Instrumental in having bread wrapped.
—white line painted on center of Prov. Highways
—red stripes removed from bacon packages
—fluorescent paint on the sides of railroad cars (for better night vision at rural crossings)
—garments labeled re quality
—music on school curriculum (1937)
—‘STOP’ signs at railroad crossings
—fowl graded for sale
—legal marriage age 16 years (with parental consent) (1937)
—car owners purchase public liability insurance before a license (1938)
—law mandatory for traffic to stop, when school bus is stopped (1938)
—hot lunches available in schools
—International Peace Garden (2200 acres-Manitoba & North Dakota) (1935)
—breathalizer & blood test of certain motorists (1962)
—hospitalization benefits to all Nursing Homes
—T.B. tests for persons dispensing food
—sex education in schools (1945)
—regulation re dimming car lights (1945)
—staples abolished on packages of food products (1964)
—poison containers clearly marked (1964)
—sale of mineral based detergents banned
—course on Household Sciense at MacDonald Institute
—dental and medical inspection in schools
—milk pasteurized
—MacDonald Institute U. of Guelph, began as a result of the efforts of W.I., led by Mrs. John
Hoodless
—war memorials
—war services e.g. Red Cross, Korean Conflict
First prize song selected
Featured below is the first prize song written by Mrs. Ella Smith, Williamstown, Picnic Grove
W.I., for the Bernice Noblitt Award Competition open to Institute members in the Ottawa
Area. The song entitled “An Institute Prayer” may be sung to the tune of “Bless This House”.
An Institute Prayer
Bless our Institute we pray, keep us caring every day.
Caring for the treasured things, facing all that each day brings,
Bless the places that we meet, keep
Us kind in what we speak,
Love we pray that we may be,
Every true in love for Thee
Bless the children we hold dear, may
They never learn to fear,
Bless the homes where we can share
In all the things for which we care.
Bless, O Lord! Our neighbourhood,
Give us strength to do more good.
Lord, we pray that all may see,
Paths O Lord, that lead to Thee.
Lord, we pray that all may see,
Paths O Lord, that lead to Thee.
Bless our country that it might, ever
Stand for truth and right,
This great land from shore to shore,
Needs to love Thee more and more.
Many tongues the people speak, yet
Good lives are what all seek,
Lord, we pray that we may be,
Always true in love for Thee.
Bless our leaders give them grace,
That with fairness they many face
All the problems of each day, and
Let them know the kindly way.
Lord, our thanks to Thee we give,
For this land in which we live,
Help us keep in strong and free,
Closer, closer God to Thee
Held us keep it strong and free,
closer, closer God to Thee.
Father for the world we pray, and
The rulers that hold sway.
Many countries torn with strife need
To know a happy life.
For each one in need we pray, may
All learn a better way.
May all learn to on Thee call.
Thou hast hope and love for all.
Women bless in every land, help
them Lord to take a stand,
Stand up tall for truth and right and
may they always see the light.
Aid in lives that have care, let
all know that each must share,
Lord a brighter day we’ll see, when
all know a love for Thee
Lord a brighter day we’ll see, when
all know a love for Thee
CLAREMONT WOMEN’S INSTITUTE – PRESIDENTS
Mrs. C.J. Frodie—— 1909
Mrs. G. M. Forsyth—— 1913-1916
Miss Jennie Forgie—— 1916
Mrs. R. E. Forsyth—— 1917
Mrs. Peters—— 1918
Mrs. G. M. Forsyth—— 1919-1920
Mrs. David Gregg—— 1921
Miss Sarah Edwards—— 1922
Mrs. G. M. Forsyth—— 1923
Miss Clara Underhill—— 1924-25
Mrs. David Gregg—— 1926-27
Mrs. Kilpatrick—— 1928-31
Mrs. G. M. Forsyth—— 1931-33
Mrs. F. Loyst—— 1933-34
Mrs. R. E. Forsyth—— 1934-39
Mrs. McIntyre—— 1939-45
Mrs. Henry Johnson—— 1945-49
Mrs. J. Badgerow—— 1949-52
Mrs. G. McConnell—— 1952-54
Mrs. J. Peddie—— 1954-56
Mrs. Lloyd Pugh—— 1956-58
Mrs. Grant Taylor—— 1958-59
Mrs. Melvin Johnson—— 1959-61
CLAREMONT WOMEN’S INSTITUTE – PRESIDENTS (Cont’d.)
Mrs. R. Jackson—— 1961-63
Mrs. J. Anonby—— 1963-65
Mrs. William Wallace—— 1965-66
Mrs. Ellis Britton—— 1966
CLAREMONT WOMEN’S INSTITUTE – SECRETARIES
Miss S. E. Evans—— 1909-31 (22yrs.)
Miss Clara Underhill—— 1931-35
Mrs. Russell Pilkey—— 1935-37
Miss S. E. Evans—— 1937-39
Mrs. Hooey—— 1939-42
Mrs. Wesley Lehman—— 1943-46
Mrs. J. Badgerow—— 1946-49
Mrs. R. Torrance—— 1954-60
Mrs. Jack Ward—— 1960-61
Mrs. Gordon Gauslin—— 1961-64
Mrs. W. R. Evans—— 1964-68
Mrs. J. Peddie—— 1968-77
Mrs. Howard Hill—— 1977
Illustrations: Old Public Library and Barber Shop
Nets Sanderson, Harry Porter, Breton Lore and Peter Shirk
Two men share the distinction of having served the Claremont public for the longest period; Dr.
Nelson Tomlinson, whose medical service has extended from early 1919 until the present time,
and Harry Porter, who came as barber in 1914, and continued in that capacity until 1971.
Born in Manvers Township, of Irish ancestry, Harry Porter, while still in his 'teens, suffered an
injury which necessitated the loss of a foot. This handicap led to his choice of barbering as a
career.
After apprenticing for a year with Jim Hanna of Stouffville, he came to Claremont in October
of 1914, to work for Peter Shirk, who had "bought out" Bob Bryan, who previously owned the
business. The barber shop at that time was in the old "Bundy Block”, where the new Stiphout
TV store is now located. The telephone exchange was also in the same building. No forty-
hour week existed in those days-one evening off each week, Saturday night busy until
midnight, -or later!
About 1916, Harry bought the business from Mr. Shirk, and moved down to the building on
Main Street, next to the Corner Store, where Hugh Pugh now has his real estate office. For a
time, Magnus Henderson, a shoemaker, had the rest of the building rented. Later the
Bethesda & Stouffville Telephone Co. bought the property, and Edgar Shirk lived in the
residence, having charge of the switchboard in the eastern part. It was during this period, in
1937, that the old Sanderson Hotel and livery stable burned -one of Claremont’s spectacular
fires.'
Following this fire, in 1938, Sandersons sold pieces of the property to Wm. Brown, who built
the present restaurant and adjoining residence, and to Parry Porter as the site for a new
barbershop.
Gordon Taylor later bought the restaurant from the Browns, in time enlarging it to include his
Marina. Parry continued his barber business in the little shop until September of 1971, when
after a stroke, and on his doctor's advice, he closed the business and sold the shop to
Gord's Marine.
Many changes have taken place during that more than half a century! In those early days we
had three churches, a veterinarian. a pump shop, a bake shop, two blacksmith shops, a
carpenter shop, two shoe stores, two grocery stores, and a general store. As cars replaced
Old Dobbin, people have become accustomed to going farther a field for all types of service.
It's all "progress", but occasionally we older folk feel a bit of nostalgia for those "Good Old
Days"!
oyo 6 Domxm tnv 9,nown rooms, Cmu.
No. A.D., r91
:On H)e supreme Court of Ontarto
Meflouren
iinnr BLIFABRTH REODIR, ening on bobst.f of
herself sad all the ahildren of Ralph
Brodie, Physician, deeeaeed, and NO AQ-
nialetratrix of the Estate of the said
Ralph Brodie, PLAIN I IFv
AND
THE IIHHIOIPAL CORPURATION OF W, TOORS".HIP
OF PIdi6Rixe,
DErENDANT
GEORGE THE FIFTH, by the Grace of God, of the United Kin am of
Great Britain and Ireland, and of the British Dominions beyond t e Seas,
KIND, Defender of the Faith, Emperor of India.
TO `Z 0,,,4
GREETING:
We tEuntrumnH kfau to attend the Sittings of the Supreme Court of Ontario
to be holden at the City Holl, Qaeen dtreet Best dales
Aren fouOn Monday day of Yoroh A.D., rut g
at the hour of ton o'clach in the fare noon and so
from day to day, during the said Sittings, until cite above cause is tried, to give
aevidence on behalf of the defendant,
t
and also e-b_&_ith.Ydam=12hS4___ndS195f3WSLh1f1
f
ar
ss
a
A
,f donfarol. the Honourable SIR WILLIAM RALPH MEREDITH, Knight,
Chief justice of Ontario the twenty-first
day of February A.D., ,9, g, in the eighth
year of our reign.
"%. Harley"
Clerk of Records and Write.
Police Village of Claremont
Claremont, Ontario
July 7, 1967
Taxpayers within the village of Claremont.
WITHOUT Prejudico:
As you are aware, the Council of Pickering Township by a motion of Mrs. Joan L.
McPherson seconded by Councilor John Williams that no action be taken by the Council to
purchase the South-West Corner Lot at concession 9 and Brock Rd. for any purpose as
requested by the Trustees of Claremont.
After a discussion with the Dept. of Municipal Affairs who feel that Council is trying to read
something into the Municipal Act by contending that this a Parking Lot, when in effect it is a
Parkette with accessory service providing parking, however this could become a lengthy
Court Case for Argument and court decision.
As the Village Trustees have not received any petition in favour of this lot purchase, it can
only be assumed, that the Business Man and Tax Payer are in favour of one man, through
personal reasons, will deprive any future parking within 132 feet within all directions of the
four corners within the Village of Claremont and through this action and that of Council as
outlined in an earlier paragraph, we the Village of Claremont donate approximately
$11000.00 to our neighbours within the Township of Pickering, which previously would have
been used particularly for the purchase of this said land to provide a Parkette rather than the
existing condition which now exists at this area.
Yours truly,
Police Village of
Claremont Trustees.
cc Pickering Township Council.
Illustrations:
Claremont Village
Taken from the air looking northeast along 9th concession.
Claremont Village
Taken from the air looking west.
The Claremont 4-H began in the fall of 1959. Mrs. Ellis Britton was the first leader and Mrs.
Jack Ward was the first assistant leader. The course was called "Cotton's May Be Smart".
The 14 girls in the course put on a Fashion Show in the hall at a Women's Institute Meeting.
The following girls have all received their Provincial Honours for completing 12 units.
Barbara Carson Twiner
Quite often, someone will ask me "Where did you learn how to cook or sew?" and with great
pride and sincerity, I will say that it was, to a very great degree, from my experience and
training with the 4-H Homemaking Clubs.
It's hard to say how much of a better person I am because I spent almost ten years in Club
Work. It's not just with homemaking talents in which I feel proficient, but also you get to meet
girls your own age group. Also you are more prepared, if an occasion occurs and you have
to get up and make a short speech. After all, the nervous excitement before doing our skit or
demonstration must have done something for us! The judging and quizzes at Achievement
Day make you think—weigh factors for and against a product to help decide which is really
the better deal.
It seems like such a long time ago when Mrs. Britton approached me and said that the
Claremont Women's Institute was going to start a new project and sponsor the Homemaking
Club—would I be interested? I had just become 12 years old. We were to make a cotton
dress for the project which was, "Cottons May Be Smart". In the years since then, that dress
got updated and shortened several times, and my machine has stitched several miles. I had
had some experience with cooking and baking but my interest increased. At least with three
brothers I had no trouble getting rid of my experiments —successful or otherwise!
Usually the projects alternated from sewing to cooking. Included were almost any subject in
homemaking — bedroom accessories, clothes closets, wardrobe planning, entertaining,
first aid and gardening, in cooking fruits, vegetables, cereals and foreign foods.
I was able to partake in a trip to the CNE for three days. It was with great anticipation that I
looked forward to a place that is so common now. We stayed at the Woman's residence at
the U of T went on a tour of the museum and Parliament Buildings as well as the Grandstand
Show and "Ex".
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CLARIi1NION1' CENT NNIAI.
AND
OLD IIOYSr AND CaIR1.8' tel, UNON
ale Plot in lee Main aftrra „ 0.4)c.
Came noon Homo!
(Arm home, for home is always Lep
Come home, for fear some foolish is,
You wait too long and bsc the way.
n,ar rrlenns:
We are prep+r, n., a wetroma and onartainmeal that you
will mr.a,aar all >Var life, but, to make it a rent success,
Ote coded and canted efforts of all who have "or lived
m or around the old from town, and throe who are and buys,
was essentially required. you are earnestly remested not
only to attend the Old Boys' and Girls' fe.mdon and Cartoon -
Ill of the Village of Claremont, but also advise any of your
friends mrd mlalivos who ever lived in the districI of the
bis event. The Committee would lila W an* everyone come
book home.
Friends neer port
And all along life's ragged nay,
The smile of friendship crowas the day,
And Mails are young. (hnoph heads he gray.
Friends neu r part.
The following committees are in charge.
Community Fart Hoard
Dr. N. P Tomlinson, Chairman. Wda. Hrr1.ett, Vice Chun
conn. N. F. Goddard. Rohl. Ruddy. Wm. Reesor
]os. Farr. Alf. W. Mole. Alf. Pretty
Secretary -Treasurer.
Historical Committee
iMrs. R. E. Forsyth, him, G. M. Forsyth and
Mrs. H G McIntyre
Plablicitir and Advertising
Alf. Pretty and N. F. Goddard
Re -Union Relations Committee
Thos. Gregg G. M. Forsyth W G Scott and Wm. Palmer
Old School Pupils Committee
Dr. N. F. Tomlinson, DL S. Wither and tie School Hoard
i
CLAREMONT
CENTER NNIAY:
CEL EBRA' ION
Pt2ID 11, "S,\TCRDAV, SUNDAY
JVNn 10, 11, 1;?.
19:38
Come; Lear Old CO/9rade!
/~x`own da'a a, ewe or
✓/ee ahawa.� � �a m/aro+!{ uxf e:
Greetings from the O!d to?ks at Hwne:� "
I'
Caai ri
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Divine servioe for Toronto District, ^ 4
The Claraocnt United CAuroh
Rt. War.. Bruco Lohman D.D.G'.M[.
War. Br'o. Herald Hopkins Dist, see.
Rev. T.H. Fleethm - Dist. Chap.
Rev. E.S.. Linstead - IAinister of the Churl
Bio. Kent ll - Organist.
T Feld Sail
CLAREMONT _
To ee Cold I'd" ill nn.:nlees If the BABB It le the
MEMORIAL PARK
TUESDAY, JUNE 23rd, 1936
Integral aad better boosted of WLlbi and loot.
udl in file of:e:aaan nide me sale global prizes as ppoidely
EVENING ENTERTAINMENT
slobber Big Amnhm Contest frvm :he PoNlie t with lead-
izes am
teohe s an. the giving one mi for pi
aint En�m a 00 to n,dnfyand PSAIIWen.
le LryPethep lett. the Li talent'hit. Alfred Forter baro ulaNr d 9reJ until
efemtd.
el
indoor pawo" 1, the roman.
Claiming", ate rtnmi.a a aooanr for :aeearvl at ! P. on.
t ONE AD5rtesmN for eligible roots red a. ne ental,
nddtc 'e0 ...n gargling de: aimren. W seer e. ms.
Care da.xad an Gaennda to, xe amu, a to i
Den" of 10.80 in obtained Holt 25 anu bank.
Em.io, A, headed] to be in Fends of BenegrY 4Y n
Byrd son. oar, bit
N. F. 'fendinmrt prttldeal Alred ]retry. Baere[ary
The Claremont 4-H began in the fall of 1959. Mrs. Ellis Britton was the first leader and Mrs.
Jack Ward was the first assistant leader. The course was called "Cotton's May Be Smart".
The 14 girls in the course put on a Fashion Show in the hall at a Women's Institute Meeting.
The following girls have all received their Provincial Honours for completing 12 units.
Barbara Carson Twiner
Quite often, someone will ask me "Where did you learn how to cook or sew?" and with great
pride and sincerity, I will say that it was, to a very great degree, from my experience and
training with the 4-H Homemaking Clubs.
It's hard to say how much of a better person I am because I spent almost ten years in Club
Work. It's not just with homemaking talents in which I feel proficient, but also you get to meet
girls your own age group. Also you are more prepared, if an occasion occurs and you have
to get up and make a short speech. After all, the nervous excitement before doing our skit or
demonstration must have done something for us! The judging and quizzes at Achievement
Day make you think—weigh factors for and against a product to help decide which is really
the better deal.
It seems like such a long time ago when Mrs. Britton approached me and said that the
Claremont Women's Institute was going to start a new project and sponsor the Homemaking
Club—would I be interested? I had just become 12 years old. We were to make a cotton
dress for the project which was, "Cottons May Be Smart". In the years since then, that dress
got updated and shortened several times, and my machine has stitched several miles. I had
had some experience with cooking and baking but my interest increased. At least with three
brothers I had no trouble getting rid of my experiments —successful or otherwise!
Usually the projects alternated from sewing to cooking. Included were almost any subject in
homemaking — bedroom accessories, clothes closets, wardrobe planning, entertaining,
first aid and gardening, in cooking fruits, vegetables, cereals and foreign foods.
I was able to partake in a trip to the CNE for three days. It was with great anticipation that I
looked forward to a place that is so common now. We stayed at the Woman's residence at
the U of T went on a tour of the museum and Parliament Buildings as well as the Grandstand
Show and "Ex".
Along with a girl from Altona, we put on a skit about posture. Two years later, I went to the Girls
Conference held at OAC in Guelph. Here we had tours of the grounds, building, and had
several lectures on becoming a woman and good Canadian citizen. Soon I was to receive my
Provincial honours and a dozen teaspoons. For my last six projects, I did "double duty" — a
member and leader.-- --- is always with great pride that I use my sterling spoons and
especially the pie server. I know that there are not very many people with one like it.
In conclusion, to sum up my opinion of the 4-H Homemaking Clubs, I hope that my children
will be able to participate in this work. Of course it was only possible because of the
dedicated work of the leaders who spent many hours and much thought in this work.
Carol Anderson
I began 4-H with great eagerness even before I was old enough to receive credit for my
work. That was in 1963, I began with the course "The Milky Way". In 1966 I completed "The
Supper Club" as my sixth unit and received my County Honours. In the summer of 1967, I
was honoured to represent our District on a trip to Toronto. It was a great experience to
spend a weekend in a University Residence with about 200 fellow 4-Her's from all over
Ontario. During the visit, we toured the Parliament Buildings and the Museum, and we spent
a day at the CNE and an evening on the Grandstand. I received my Provincial Honours in
1968 upon completing my favorite "Needlecraft". In the summer of 1969, I was thrilled to
learn that I was being presented with $100 scholarship to aid my further education for my
work in 4-H.
I enjoyed all the time that I spent as a member of the 4-H Homemaking Club. The
knowledge I gained and the experiences I had will be forever of value to me.
Dorell Britton
I have always liked sewing and cooking. By belonging to the 4-H Club I learn more about the
techniques of correct sewing and get new ideas and recipes for cooking. 4-H gives me a
reason for cooking, and I make the time to try the recipes which I would not get around to
trying if left on my own.
I like sewing better than cooking. Through the 4-H I have learned how to sew properly, and
by making the articles, I have become competant enough to make my own clothes in the
style I want.
I completed by 16th project in the spring of 1973 and I was assistant leader for my last three
projects. Being a leader showed me how much effort my leaders had put into the projects.
In the summer of 1971, I was chosen as one of the girls to represent Ontario County at the 4 H
Conference held at Guelph University. This gave me an insight into University life as we stayed
in residence on the campus. It also gave me a chance to meet other girls from across Ontario
with the same interests as me. We talked about the courses they had taken recently and the
ones I had taken recently and which ones we enjoyed most. Many of the courses were the
same but some were different.
I think 4-H is a good experience for every teenage girl. She learns sewing and cooking—
basic things that will help her later in life.
Darlene Sandra Gammage
Unlike many groups, 4-H allows us to experience all factors of li,ke. From cooking and
sewing, personal hygiene and home decoration, to the study of nature and outdoor survival,
politics and home safety; we can experience them all. Every project is more than just a
benefit to the participant, but a benefit to society.
Every girl learns how to cope with life and how to communicate with other. Participation is
the key factor. “Learn to do by doing; is 4-H motto, and that is precisely what is done. My
most memorable demonstration of this was when I had to cut up a whole chicken into
pieces. It felt terrible, but it was fun.
My favourite projects are the Outdoor Living. As I was in the Cadet Corp in Pickering at the
same time, I always had plenty to do. I have always felt comfortable outdoors. I loved
making the letters and envelopes with a leaf print, as I love art too. We took various leafs
pressed the backs onto a ink pad and then on a paper. I was amazed how clearly they
turned out and how professional they looked. In this same project we did animal feet placed
in plaster of paris. It was great fun tramping about in the mud searching for raccoon prints.
Even though where is a lot of work involved in 4-H, the only thing I can remember is the fun
we had. We were always doing something interesting, and doing it well. I had a number of
leaders, and things never got boring because the lady who enjoyed a certain topic taught it.
We always had the best. I and any young ladies out there waiting for some pastime that is
fun and challenging, 4-H is for you. There is nothing better than increasing your knowledge
and improving your abilities.
I have completed the following 12 projects and was honoured to receive my Provincial
Honours, and a Focus on Living, Needlepoint, The cereal shelf, Essential Edibles,
Accessories – The final tour of outdoor Living, It’s Your Corner of the World., Which Came
First = The chicken or the Egg, 4-H Winners. Ready? Set? Sew.”, Food for Friends, More
Outdoor Living.
Nancy Ann Ward
I began my first 4-H project the Spring of 1974, at the age of twelve, with" Clothes For Leisure".
I received my County Honours in the Fall of 1976. In the Fall of 1979, I received my Provincial
Honours upon completion of "Needlepoint", which I one of my favorite courses.
I was fortunate enough to receive several trips through the 4-H program. I went to the
Regional 4-H Conference at the University of Toronto in 1976. In June of 1979, I was the
County Representative at the Provincial 4-H Homemaking Conference at the University of
Guelph.
In April of 1980, I was honoured to be selected for the top 4-H award in Canada I was the
Provincial Representative to the 5Oth US. National 4-H Conference in Washington D.C. One
4-Her from each province in Canada was selected. Our first stop along a very eventful trip
was Ottawa. There we were honoured by meeting with the Governor-General Edward
Schreyer, and the Minister of Agriculture, Eugene Whelan.
In Washington D.C. we were hosted by over 300 4-H members, leaders and staff from 46
states, Puerto Rico, Virgin Islands, District of Columbia and Guam. We have the opportunity
to meet with U.S. President Jimmy Carter at the White House, as well as other U.S.
Dignataries
.
This trip was an opportunity of a life time. It was definitely the highlight of my 4-H years.
The 4-H program has enabled me to become a more rounded person. I have enjoyed my
4-H courses, and I will always remember the valuable training and opportunities that I have
received. 4-H is a program that enables you to get more out of it than what you put in it.
Each project was a learning experience for the members and leaders alike. We all had a
chance to grow and change for the better. As I reflect back on my 4-club work, I am thankful
that I was a rural youth that was able to benefit from what 4-H had to offer. I am thankful for
the leaders, Womens' Institute Members and others who made this opportunity possible.
I have learnt many valuable things from the 4-H program-- One is "Never say no to an
opportunity!"
Kim Evans
I have always been very proud to announce I was a 4-H member. I have found each and every
course very interesting and beneficial to me. I started 4-H in 1974 at the age of 12. The first
course I took was the “Club Girl Entertains. In the spring of 1977 I received my County Honours
with my sixth course, “For Knits Only.” And in the fall of 1979 I achieved my Provincial Honours
with the course “Needlepoint. I have now completed fifteen 4-H Homemaking courses.
In June 1980 I was selected to represent Ontario County as a delegate at the Provincial 4-H
Homemaking Conference. I was among 142 delegates across Ontario. The conference was
held at the University of Guelph with the theme, “Dimensions 80 – Looking.
This was one opportunity I would not have wanted to miss.
I highly believe that 4-H has benefited me in all aspects of living such as sewing, crafts and
personal hygiene. Also 4-H was an advantage to my education in school and college.
I really appreciated the opportunity of the 4-H training made possible with the financial aid of
the Women’s Institute and the leadership and devotion of my leaders.
CLAREMONT POST OFFICE (Historical Research Paper – 1949)
When there was no Claremont, the stone building which still stands on the south-west corner of
the Brock Road and Ninth Concession (now occupied by Mr. McLeod) already stood there. It
was built in 1847 on the corner of the farm of Mr. Hamilton. His brother-in-law, Mr. Patterson,
lived in it for a short while but moved to Toronto. Shortly afterwards, Thomas Noble, a genial
Irishman rented the store and began selling groceries and other wares to settlers of the
neighbourhood.
The place then began to be commonly known as Noble’s Corners. This was the second store
in the neighbourhood, John C. Michell having already conducted business since 1844 on the
east side of the Brock Road, ½ mile south of the corner, now known as the Roy Brignall Farm.
Ambitious enough to boast two stores, the region of Noble’s Corners had yet no depository for
Her Majesty’s Mails. About 1850 the community decided that it no longer could do without so
necessary an institution, they began to cast about for a name for the new post-office that was
to be.
Several names had been in order but the one ordered by Mr. Michell met with most favor.
Some years earlier his Uncle Mr. Watkins, who had owned the Hamilton Farm, built a house
on it, near the Ninth Concession, which, mindful of a little village near Old London, he had
named “Claremont Cottage”. Mr. Michell’s suggestion was that the name of Claremont be
given to the new post-office and embryo, village. It was so named, and by appointment of
the Queen and the Province of Canada, Thomas Nobel became the first post-master of
Claremont in 1851.
He continued on as post-master until 1853 when it was taken over by the Macnab Brothers,
who carried on in the store building for two or three years. Then they bought the corner lot on
the north-west corner and to this they brought a frame building that had been built in
Greenwood. This building still stands on the corner owned by
Mr. Wm. Palmer. They began to lay the foundation for an extensive and prosperous
business.
William Macnab left the business at this time; his place was taken by his brother Duncan.
They continued on in this building until July 1875, when they purchased the brick building on
the south-east corner of the four-corners, and moved the post-office part along with the
groceries and other contents of the store. They continued in this store for 24 years or until
1899. They then retired from active management, the business being being transferred to
three of the younger generation of the Macnabs, Peter, son of the older brother, William and
Charles and Peter, sons of John. This partnership was maintained for a number of years,
but eventually was dissolved, the share of the two brothers being purchased by Peter
Macnab, Sr. Mr. Macnab carried on for a number of years then the post-office and store was
taken over by
Mr. David Scott, who carried on until 1930. Then the store business was sold to Mr. Bertrand
and the Post-office part was taken over by Mr. Pretty who moved it back to the same building
on the north-west corner, where it had been for a number of years.
Mr. Pretty carried on as postmaster until 1947. Then it was taken over by Mr. Fred Mowder,
between the corner store and the B.S. telephone office on the south-west corner. Mr. Morley is
still our postmaster and Claremont has had her name and post-office for
98 years.
(later history on Claremont Post-office)
In 1955, the late Charles Cooper built our present Post-office west of the four-corners. This is
a modern block building with a brick front. Ken Betz Construction Company of Stouffville
erected the building at a cost of $15,000. The structure has modern conveniences with up-to-
date lighting and forced air heat. Mr. Morley assisted by his wife Verna, continued at the Post-
office until 1963, when Mr. Morley retired. He was succeeded by Mr. Roy McLeod. Roy
remained a short time as Postmaster. In 1964, Mr. Bates became Postmaster at Claremont
assisted by Mrs. Wilmot Hill.
Some Happenings of Interest in the Baptist Church
Periodically during a stretch of 20 years from the 1950's to the 1970's our church received
some renovations and modernization. This started in the basement. For many years there was
no real basement but just a dug-out big enough for a furnace in which wood was burned. During
Rev. George Davison's pastorate a proper excavation was made under the church auditorium,
which was used for a Jr. Sunday School. Cupboards were built by the Mission Circle for S
School supplies, choir gowns etc. Then in 1953, an oil furnace was installed and in the summer
of 1970, washrooms with flush toilets were put in the basement.
The kitchen was our next project. The Mission Circle bore this responsibility. In 1959 quite
adequate cupboards were built and in 1962 new dishes, a setting of 100, were bought. The
gift of a second hand refrigerator by Jessie Taylor has completed the modernization of this
kitchen unit.
In 1960, we sold our old parsonage to Mr. Erwin Carruthers but our minister continued to live
there until Feb. 61. A new modern brick bungalow was built on Joseph St. during the fall of
1960 and the winter of 1961. Its first occupant was Mr. John Carnegie.
Miss Mabel Edwards was instrumental in getting the people enthused about improvements
in the Sr. Sunday School room. She began by offering to pay all cost over $500. for the
laying of inlaid linoleum on the floor. Sunday School funds paid for attractive new drapes and
the chairs were painted picking up one of the colours in the curtains. Since then someone
has donated stacking chairs, which in my opinion, are not as colourful as the old ones. New
tables have also been added and just recently storage cupboards. Since Mr. Luck has
become our minister the ceiling has been lowered and new lights installed. Our Minister and
some of the men in the church did all the work-carpentry and painting.
In 1970, renovations began on the church auditorium. All the woodwork, walls and pews were
painted an antique white. Only the armrests were stained and varnished a medium oak. Early
in 1971, the whole expanse of the floor was carpeted the platform which had been lowered,
as well. The industrial type of carpet with its rich reddish-golden shade is warm, attractive
and minimizes noise - in fact it is practically nil. The organ and pulpit were moved to the west
side of the platform and the communion table was placed on the east side of the platform in
front of the baptistery. A new wrought-iron railing has been put around the stair well leading
to the basement. These auditorium re-
novations were made possible because, when Whitevale Baptist Church was burned down
and they decided not to rebuild, $6000. of their assets were given to the Claremont
Church where some of Whitevale’s former adherents and members were now attending.
In addition, again Rev. Luck and some of the men have done all the work except laying the
carpet. Before our re-dedication service on May 30, 1971 we hope to have new
draperies on the baptistry and new lights.
Some other gifts and legacies
1. Miss Elizabeth Evans left the church enough money for an electric organ which was
installed in 1954.
2. Mrs. Wm. Birkett also remembered the church in her will. This money was used for a
new pulpit, sedilia and hymn-board.
3. After the death of Mr. G. M. Forsyth in 1959, his daughter, Viola, gave a communion
table in memory of her father, mother, and sister Mary.
4. Miss Mabel Edwards presented the church with choir gowns and caps.
5. Mr. and Mrs. Norman Linton had receptacles for communion cups placed on the back of
the pews. These are varnished to match the
arm-rests.
6. Mrs. George Carter presented the church with two silver collection plates in memory of
her grandfather, Mr. Senior, who had served on the Convention Board of Stewardship, for
many years. He had many times preached in this capacity in our church as a lay minister.
7. Mr. and Mrs. Hutton gave a new ourside light fixture made by Mr. Hutton himself.
This October 1971, the church celebrates its 150th anniversary.
POWER PLANT BIGGEST EVENT IN TWP. HISTORY
The location of Ontario Hydro's new $266 million nuclear power station on the shores of Lake
Ontario, has been termed by Reeve Clifford Laycox as the most important event in the 153
year history of Pickering Township.
Addressing an audience of more than 400 on Saturday morning, marking the official start of the
huge construction project, Reeve Laycox called it a "momentous occasion." He said that he
was pleased that Pickering had been selected as the site for such a program.
Mr. Laycox stressed the many advantages that the township had to offer both for industrial and
commercial interest. "This may sound like a sales pitch," he said, "Well it is. There, are many
faces in the audience that I have not had the privilege of getting too yet."
Premier John Robarts lined up the transit to mark the beginning of the venture. "We are proud
indeed to be the province in which this country's nuclear power program began and reached
maturity," he said, "just as we are proud of Hydro and its leadership." Hon. C. M. Drury, Minister
of Industry, also addressed the gathering. The program chairman was Mr. W. Ross Strike of
Ontario Hydro.
It is proposed that the plant will be ready for operation in 1970.
The first record of the Claremont Lawn Bowling Club available was dated July 24th, 1931.
This meeting was called for the purpose of electing a slate of officers and a board of
trustees. As a result of this meeting the following were duly elected:
PRESIDENT ————H.G. McINTYRE
VICE-PRESIDENT—————F. WARD
SECRETARY TREASURER ——R.J. HOW
Elected as board of trustees were the following: R.E. Forsyth, Dr. N.F. Tomlinson & F. Evans.
A committee of five to act as greens committee were also appointed.
A set of by-laws were set up at this time. The membership fee was set at five dollars per
gentleman, two dollars and fifty cents for ladies and non-residents were to pay one dollar per
year.
The property where the club was located was owned by Mr. Lyman Pilkey who leased it to
the Club for the sum of one hundred dollars, the Bowling Club to pay the taxes and local
improvements.
In 1931 there was a membership of eighty-eight, composed of forty ladies and forty-eight
gentlemen, but sad to relate from then on the membership decreased till in 1936 there were
only thirty-nine members.
At this time it was proposed that the club join the Ontario Lawn Bowling Association, this
would entitle teams or rinks as they are more commonly known, to take part in competition
anywhere in the province provided they were paid-up members of the club. The club acted
on this proposal and duly became a member of the Ontario Lawn Bowling Association.
Teams from Claremont Bowling Club took part in tournaments from time to time with a fair
amount of success winning trophies from time to time. Speaking of bowling teams or rinks
these were known as fours, which as the name implies meant four players, next there were
Irish Trebles composed of three players and Scotch Doubles meaning two players. These
rinks could be all ladies, all gentlemen and mixed.
After joining the O.S.B.A. each paid-up member would receive a Lawn Bowling Annual. This
contained all the tournament dates all over the province for the whole season which would
start about the first Wednesday in June and continue to the end of September.
The club carried on reasonably successful up until 1962 when some friction arose amongst
the members which caused a split and some members joined up with Stouffville and
Uxbridge. For several years then it was a toss up whether the club would fold or not, but by
1969 the past was forgotten and the members started to pull together and things began to
look more like old times.
Considerable improvements were accomplished such as a new fence tile on the club house
floor, new lights and cupboards in the kitchen.
This brings us up to 1974 when the lack of members caused concern as to whether it was
possible to carry on. A meeting was called and the situation discussed at great length. It
was moved that a delegation approach the council to see if they would take over the property
and facilities and operate it with the Senior Citizens Group, having the right to use the club
house for their activities. A delegation representing the Bowling Club duly met with a
committe of council at the Municipal building. The members of this committee received the
proposal quite favourably, and in due course agreed to take over the Bowling Club with the
Claremont Club to operate it as before. The Town of
Pickering would transport anyone from other localaties to the Claremont green once or twice a
week or as often as it became necessary.
At this point it became necessary to consider winterizing the club house so that the Senior
Citizens could use it. This broughtabout an application by the Senior Citizens Group to new
horizons for a grant: - this grant was approved in the amount of five thousand one hundred
dollars.
The men from the bowling club and Senior Citizens then commenced to renovate the club
house, but it soon became apparent that we were taking on a far greater job then was
anticipated and that it was going to cost far more than the fifty one hundred dollars which had
been granted. After a number of meetings with members of council representatives we are
pleased to say that we now have a brand new and very modern club house nearly completed
and we sincerely hope that the Bowling Club and the Senior Citizens will make good use of it
for a good many years.
Illustration: C.P.R. Depot
HISTORIC STATION DEMOLISHED
CLAREMONT - Another piece of history became victim of the bulldozer yesterday with
demolition of the 93 year old railway station in this hamlet.
Pickering Councillor Norah Geraghty said last night she believes CP Rail levelled the building
when it heard rumbling of public support to have it preserved. Mrs. Geraghty was informed that
the two-storey frame structure had been wrecked only yesterday, when she raised the issue at
a public meeting in the community last night.
Mrs. Geraghty had hoped to arouse sufficient interest amoung Claremont residents to force
CP Rail to continue use of the station. The railway plans to demolish nine picturesque
stations along the 100-mile-line northeast of Toronto and replace them with small concrete
block and aluminum structures.
Mrs. Geraghty said she received terrific response to a story in Monday's Star about her
campaign to save the old station. Several people told her they planned to come to last
night's meeting if the railway station was to be discussed. The chairman of the historical
society wanted it preserved, she said.
"One man offered his property to put the building on, another lady was interested in setting
up a little tea shop," she said. "They were really getting gung-ho on it. Then the
announcement was made that the bulldozers were there today."
Mrs. Geraghty said she thinks CP Rail got the same number of calls she received "and they
decided they'd better move on it now. It's a bloody shame."
CP Rail had earlier offered the station building to the town of Pickering, provided it was
moved to another location.
Illustration: Mrs. R.P. Hopper
Mrs. R.P. Hopper was author of the book entitled "Old Time Primitive Methodist in Canada".
She dedicated this book to the memory of her dear father and mother, James and Margaret
Agar. It is a tribute of affection around the names of those who when their country was young
surmounted obstacles, their courage overcame prejudice.
The R.P. Hoppers lived on the south-east corner of Joseph and Wixson Street and this house
is now owned and occupied by Mr. & Mrs. George Carter. Mr. R.P.Hopper purchased the
stone store at the south-west corner of Con.9 and the Brock Road in 1875 and continued in
business until 1897, when he sold it to his brother David. This building was erected in 1847
before Claremont obtained its official name.
Excerpts taken from the book "When Mr. Jolly was on Whitby Pickering Mission he started
services at Bethel, in a log school house on the north-west corner of Con.9 and Bethel
sideroad. Isaac Linton was one of the converts and among the first members were Mr. & Mrs.
Richard Ward, Robert Middleton and family, and others. The school house was not very
comfortable so they decided to hold meetings in Mr. Linton's farm kitchen".
In 1899, when Claremont Methodist Church was built, Mrs. Linton was chosen to lay the
corner stone. She made forty pies for the dinner and when the Church was opened, gave
one hundred dollars - an amazing amount for those days.
Mrs. Raymond Stickwood, a grand daughter of Mrs. Isaac Linton, is an ardent worker in the
United Church and has in her possession, the trowel that her grandmother used when laying
the corner stone. Now in 1972, Mrs. Stickwood is president of the U.C.W. of Claremont
United Church. Her husband, Raymond, is Chairman of the board of Stewards and their
daughter is a member of the Church Choir.
IN
EVER GRATEFUL MEMORY OF
MRS. R.P. HOPPER
1845-1922
"Where all the saints rest who have heard Thy
call, Have risen and striven and now rejoice
in rest:
Call us to home from sorrow To rest in Thee
Tomorrow
In Thee our Best, In Thee our All"
Christina Rossetti
Those who knew Jane Agar, wife of R.P. Hopper of Claremont and Toronto, in the days of
her youth at Newtonbrook, more than half a century ago, always recalled with pleasure the
memory of her buoyancy of spirit and her love of fun. Through a long and unusually useful life
these characteristics marked her, and in all her efforts for the public we all stood her in good
stead. What would worry or exasperate others furnished her with a new and fascinating
glimpse of human nature, or with downright amusement. Her humor, yoked with her robust
common sense was often both her own salvation and that of her cause.
In an age when too many profess a passion for "service" but ache for praise and when
ambition is apt far to exceed ability, Mrs. Hopper supplied the contrast. She was splendidly
endowed and she knew it, but she was content wholly to obliterate herself if only the
common good could be subserved. Accordingly, much of what she did was hardly known;
although it was impossible to conceal some of her activities in church work, in Women's
organizations and in the sphere of civic politics, where before ill-health set in, she was an
acknowledged power.
From rare parents, who were identified with that early Methodism in Toronto which she
portrayed in her published volume, she inherited not only sagacity and normal strength, but
also a human and generous turn of mind. She could not be deceived. At the same time, she
could not be unkind. The head was always steady, but the heart was always warm; and
head, hand and heart were ceaselessly at work to relieve sorrow, establish righteousness
and strenuously to foil the evil-doer.
Faith was with her essentially a sixth sense. What others seem only to have won, was hers
by a high intuition. In the best meaning of the term she was a Christian mystic and the
"practice of the presence of God" was her habit as it was, too, her strength, refreshment and
consolation. She was of those –
"Who carry music in their heart
Through dusky lane and wrangling mart,
Plying their daily task with busier feet
Because their secret souls a holy strain repeat".
When a year ago, she and her now bereaved husband observed the fiftieth anniversary of their
marriage, the hope was expressed that they might yet "set the diamond in the gold". But it was
not to be. Suddenly on April 5th, while still engaged in her tasks, she ceased at once to work
and live. She had but lately celebrated her seventy-seventh birthday. The beautiful cemetary of
Mount Pleasant has been rendered more sacred and in consequence more beautiful since she
was carried there.
- W.H. Adams.
VILLAGE IS HER HOME
Annie Porter is as much a part of Claremont as the house in which she lives. The village is
her birth place and so is her home.
Through the years, Mrs. Porter has contributed much to the welfare of the community. It was
fitting then, that she should be honored, Sunday afternoon, at a gathering of close friends in
the lower auditorium of the Claremont United Church. The occasion was her 80th birthday.
Looking lovely, her white hair glistening in the noon-day sun, Annie (Spofford) Porter sat
back in the comfort of her favourite black leather chair and reminisced about the days that
used to be; about the Claremont she used to know.
It was her great grandfather, the late Robert Law, who purchased four acres from one of the
Wixon brothers back in the mid-1800's. He later sold the property to Mrs. Porter's mother,
Lavinia Spofford "for one dollar and his love and affection". The house, still Mrs. Porter's
home, was built by Nathan Forsyth and William Leaper around 1890.
Annie received her elementary education in Claremont and later continued on through the
Continuation School. Two of her principals were the late M.E. Ward and the late Milton J.
Wilker. "I just missed Dr. Tomlinson," she said with a look of regret.
Following graduation from Toronto Normal School, she accepted a teaching position at
Claremont and remained there from 1925 to 1933. She also taught for a short time at
Cherrywood.
Then cupid intervened. Annie Spofford and Harry Porter were married in 1933, prompting
her to vacate the classroom (at least temporarily) in favor of becoming a full-time housewife.
During the war years, members of her chosen profession were scarce so, on the advice of
an inspector, she returned to the same room from 1942-1957.
It was quite a challenge, she says, thinking back. For it was during her retirement that the
course of study was changed. She had to acquaint herself with it, then teach it, all in a very
short time.
Some of her pupils were children of students she had assisted the first time around.
For 3½years, she taught at Stouffville. The highschool principal was Archie Stouffer and the
public school principal Paul Boadway. Pupils she remembers were - John Button, Janet
Button, Harold Lewis, Reg Stouffer, Jack, Bill and Ethel Sanders, Edith Swift and Charles
Nolan.
Skating was always a favorite recreation, in fact, she says now, "the church and the rink were
my life". An indoor arena was located just north of the Claremont Park. In Stouffville, one of
similar size was located on Mill Street.
Following a second retirement from teaching, Mrs. Porter accepted a position at the Claremont
Library and remained there from 1958 through to 1971.
Prior to her husband's death in 1973, they travelled extensively including trips to Alaska, coast-
to-coast across Canada and to Florida.
I always enjoyed driving, she said. She's looking forward to regaining her licence following eye
surgery in York-Finch Hospital and a period of convalescence in Parkview Home at Stouffville.
Until recent years, Annie never considered herself "a joiner". However, in her own works, "it
was either do things or become a hermit". She attends services regularly at the Claremont
United Church and is secretary of the U.C.W.
While she honestly admits "I don't know a quarter of the people who live here now", it was
Annie Porter who helped shape the lives of hundreds of students through two generations.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY!
Illustration: Building Stone Fence at the Millers (Thistle Ha’)
CLAREMONT AREA FARM NAMED HISTORIC SITE
Hugh Miller, R.R. 2, Claremont, is justly proud of the historical significance attached to his farm
Thistle Ha' on the 7th Concession of Pickering. Recently, the Government of Canada
recognized its significance too and declared the property an historic site. An engraved plaque
has been erected in one of the fields signifying this fact. Hugh Miller, his father and grandfather
have been prominent breeders of shorthorn cattle, Clydesdale horses and Shropshire sheep,
dating back to 1848.
Jim Thomas
THISTLE HA'
This farm was acquired about 1848 by John Miller, a Scottish immigrant who became a
pioneer importer and breeder of pedigreed livestock in Canada. In 1852 the Millers began
importing quality stock, notably shorthorn cattle. Clydesdale horses and later Shropshire
sheet from the United Kingdom. Miller's example, as well as the animals bred at Thistle Ha',
played an important role in improving stockbreeding throughout North and South America in
the 19th century. Succeeding generations of Millers have maintained the farm's reputation
for raising fine blooded stock.
GOVERNMENT OF CANADA
Illustration: Charles Cooper (1905-1964)
Charles Alton Cooper, business and community leader in the Village of Claremont for 40 years
passed away in Uxbridge Hospital on Friday, June 26th. Mr. Cooper had not enjoyed good
health for some three years, but his death came quite quickly last week only the day after he
had been removed to hospital.
Charles Cooper was born in Claremont fifty-nine years ago, a son of Mrs. Cooper and the late
Frank Cooper. He became associated in his fathers hardware and implement business at the
age of sixteen and has become known over a wide area as his business expanded many times.
The Chas. Cooper Co. was synonymous with the name of Claremont. As a business man, a
community leader and a friend, "Charlie" as he was popularly known to his hundreds of friends
had become almost an instituion in north Pickering. He carried the International Co.
implement line for forty years and was honoured in 1963 as a General Motors car dealer for
twenty-five years. The plaque which was presented to him at that time is enscribed, "for
loyalty, integrity and service," and these words sum up the life of this man in his comminity.
Nineteen years ago Charles Cooper married Mildred Carson who survives him. He is also
survived by one brother Richard, associated with him in the business, two sisters, Rowena,
(Mrs. Frank Barclay), Isabel (Mrs. Wm. Benson of Claremont and his mother Mrs. Mary
Cooper; one sister Eileen predeceased her brother.
Charles Cooper was identified with Claremont United Church, was a member of the
Masonic Lodge and had served as Village Trustee and was chairman of the Recreation
Committee when it started.
He was the founder of the Ontario Retail Farm Equipment Dealers Ass. and served as
president for a number of years as well as a director.
The funeral on Monday afternoon was one of the largest ever conducted in Pickering Twp.
The floral tributes were magnificient almost completely filling the entire one end of the funeral
chapel. Mr. Cresswell who conducted the service, spoke of Mr. Cooper's great circle of
friends, his jovial manner and sympathetic understanding which had endeared him to so
many. The funeral was conducted from the McEachnie Funeral Home in Pickering Village
and interment was made at Claremont Cemetery. Mr. Len Sykes, managing director of the
ORFEDA Association and a number of past presidents served as honorary pallbearers and
those bearing the casket were, Blair Evans, Jack Ward, Ken Ward, Earl Wilson, Ken
Middleton and Joe Ward.
SARAH ELIZABETH EVANS
Sarah Elizabeth Evans was born in 1868, on the farm owned by her parents, William Evans
and Melissa Morgan, lot 14, Conc. 9, Pickering. Rolph, her brother, was born three years later
and from the beginning they were associated with Claremont Baptist Church.
Their father William was the son of James and Sarah (Pugh) Evans who emigrated from
Radnorshire, Wales. Their mother, Melissa Morgan, was the daughter of Alexander and
Elizabeth (Sharrard) Morgan. He was a blacksmith and carried on this business on the lot
where Earl Pilkey now lives. The large brick house was built by these early settlers.
After William's death at the age of forty, the mother and two children farmed in Uxbridge
Township. While living there, a Miss Little came to teach at Webb School and she lived with
the Evans family. She and Elizabeth became firm friends _ later Miss Little married David
Gregg, father of Miss Isobel Gregg.
Elizabeth was very fortunate to be able to attend Ontario Ladies' College, Whitby, to extend her
education and learn many crafts. She, and her brother Rolph and their mother then moved to
Claremont (third house north of Booth Dispensers Ltd.)
In the early 1900's, Elizabeth gave music lessons on her organ and later on the piano. Their
home was filled with many beautiful crafts made by Elizabeth and her mother: oil paintings,
charcoal sketches, a hand-knit coverlet over beautiful home-made
quilts displaying the finest stitchery, and chairs covered in needlepoint.
Elizabeth played the organ in the Baptist Church for many years and accompanied the Baptist
Male Quartette. She was a leader of the Mission Circle and became one of the Directors of the
Whitby-Lindsay Association. She was Secretary of the Women's Institute for twenty-five years.
Through all of her eighty-six years, Miss Evans (Elizabeth) remained young at heart. Many of
her Young people's Sunday School Class have gone out into the world much the better for
having had the influence of such a wonderful Christian lady and friend. She had great respect
for the advice that "Ma" had bestowed upon her.
Dr. H. S.Hillier
Dr. H. S. Hillier was born in England and came to Canada as a boy and concluded his
education at McMaster University in Hamilton, Ontario, where he received the degrees of B.A.
(1920), B.Th. (1929) and D.D. (1948). He had pastorates in Clarenceville, Que., Dunnville,
Ont., and in Bolivia, South America.
Dr. and Mrs. Hillier were married in July, 1922 and went to Bolivia as missionaries in
December, 1922. They worked in Bolivia for twenty-five years with three furloughs intervening.
Dr. Hillier published two books in Spanish and established the Southern Cross Radio
Station.
In 1946, Dr. Hillier was appointed Associate General Secretary of the Canadian Baptist
Foreign Mission Board and in that same year he became the General Secretary-Treasurer
of the Board,
which post he held for eleven years. He has visited many continents and countries throughout
the world including: Africa, India and Pakistan.
After his retirement from the Canadian Baptist Foreign Mission Board, he accepted a call to
the pastorate of the Claremont Baptist Church on October 4, 1963.
He spent five good years in Claremont and on his retirement a reception was held in the
Legion Hall, Claremont, where many friends and associates came to bid him farewell. Dr.
Hillier remarked "It has been a pleasant relationship for all concerned. I feel the church needs
younger men, now we'll have more time to tend our petunias." The new minister, despite his
age, will have a big pair of shoes to fill.
Mr. R. P. Hopper 1845 – 1922
Jane Agar, Wife of R. P. Hopper, was the author of the book entitled Old-Tyme Primitive
Methodism in Canada. This book she dedicated to her parents, James and Margaret Agar,
who were identified with early Methodism in Toronto. She portrayed this form of religion in her
published volume, and through this early training, became one of those rare individuals who
possess the moral strength to surpass all obstacles in life. Her humour and good common
sense were both her salvation and contentment.
She was very active in church work, women's organizations and civic politics but much of
what she did was hardly known.
She and her husband lived on the South-east corner of Joseph and Wixson Streets, in
Claremont. Mr. Hopper purchased
the stone store at the south east corner of the Ninth Concession and the Brock Road in 1875,
and continued in business until 1897, when he sold it to his brother, David.
W. H. Adams has written, "Faith was with her essentially a sixth sense. What others seem only
to have won, was hers by a high intuition. In the best meaning of the term, she was a Christian
mystic, and the "practice of the presence of God" was her habit as it was, too, her strength,
refreshment and consolation
WILLIAM NEWMAN
The Honourable William G. Newman, son of Mr. and Mrs. Harry Newman, of Greenwood, has
lived all of his life in Pickering and now resides at Balsam on the former Winton White property.
Before coming to this area, he farmed the land that is now known as West Shore in South
Pickering.
On February 26, 1974, after years of involvement in politics, he was appointed Ontario's new
Minister of the Environment. Mr. Newman had been serving as parliamentary Assistant to
Transportation and Communication Minister Gordon Carton since March 1972. Before that he
had served on Pickering Township Council for six years and was the youngest Reeve to ever
hold that position.
In 1967 he won the Ontario South election and steadily gained popularity. He and his wife,
Holly, named their place of residence "Tanrydoon" which means "Welcome" and this
describe the atmosphere of the Newman home. They have three children: Cathy, Carrie
(Missy) and Allan.
DONALD RAWSON
Donald Rawson, son of Reuben Rawson, attended school in Claremont, then attended the
University of Toronto. In 1946 he became head of the Biology Department at the University of
Saskatchewan in Saskatoon, a position he retained until his death, in 1961. In 1962, Mrs.
Rawson received a scroll from Premier W. S. Lloyd showing an aerial photograph of Rawson
Bay in Nemeiben Lake, which was the last lake on which
Dr. Rawson carried out fisheries research. The scroll had the following inscription: "Named in
memory of Donald S. Rawson, Phd., F.R.S.C., 1905-1961, in recognition of his outstanding
services to Saskatchewan and to Canada in the fields of limnology and biology." It goes onto
describe him as a devoted teacher and professor and an outstanding scientist and pathfinder
in the practical application of limnology.
A street in Saskatoon has been named Rawson Street, in memory of this noted scientist.
PAST REEVES Of PICKERING TOWNSHIP IN THIS AREA
MR. JOHN FORGIE
John Forgie, son of John Forgie and Barbara Duncan, was born on Lot 19, Concession 9,
Pickering. His parents farmed there for more than thirty years, then they retired to the Village
of Claremont. John Forgie Jr., married Miss Bowes and they had two sons, Murray and
William. In 1901, his wife died and in 1906 he married Charlotte Howitt. They remained on
the home farm.
Mr. Forgie took an active part in politics. He began as an Assessor of the Township of
Pickering in 1906 and served in that capacity for three years. (Then after a lapse of two
years, he was returned to the same position. In 1913, he was elected councillor for the
Township, the office he held until 1916 and deputy reeve in 1917, part of 1918 and part of
1922. When R.R. Mowbray was unable to fulfil his commitments in 1918, John
Forgie became Reeve, a post he also held in 1923 and 1924.
Mr. and Mrs. Forgie sold the farm in 1925 to Mr. David Dawson and moved to Claremont.
Mr. Forgie travelled by horse and buggy, often staying in the south end of the township for
two or three days at a time, until he had fulfilled his duties. There he remained overnight
with his sister, Mrs. Robert Carson, then living in Dunbarton.
Mr. Malcolm Forsyth.
Forsyth was one of Pickering Township’s most active and enthusiastic municipal leaders.
During his colourful political career, which extended from 1901 until his death, Mr. Forsyth
held
almost every major office in both the Township of Pickering and the Police Village of
Claremont. He was intensely proud of his municipal record. He was one of the Township's
most noted historians. His compact office-library carried records dating back to early pioneer
life in the municipality. He was active in the South Ontario Liberal Association.
Mr. Forsyth started at the bottom of the municipal ladder and climaxed his career by being
chosen Warden of Ontario County in 1928. In 1901, he was elected to the Claremont Public
School Board, an office he held off and on for thirty years. He was a board member when the
Continuation School was established in Claremont. Other members at that time were Dr.
Ralph Brodie and Albert Rawson. He was a charter member of the Claremont Cemetery
Board from l908 until his death. He was a member on the first board of Trustees when
Claremont was declared a Police Village in 1908 and held that position until 1917.
G. M Forsyth was elected to Pickering Township Council in 1921. From 1923 to 1926, he
was Deputy Reeve and in 1927 he became Reeve of Pickering Township holding the office for
two years. He had been appointed the Claremont representative to the Hydro Commission
and during his term as Reeve, he was instrumental in bringing hydro to Claremont.
"Mac” was the son of Daniel Forsyth and Rachel Barry, who settled first around Glasgow, in
Uxbride Township and then in Claremont. He married Lillian Cooper of Claremont and they
had four children; Viola, Mary (deceased in 1943), Georgina and Barry, who
died in infancy. Viola and Georgina sold their home in 1973 and moved to Markham.
Mr. Forsyth had many interests but farming was his livelihood. He specialized in breeding
Shorthorn cattle and Clydsdale horses. He was a charter member of the Ontario County
Plowmen's Association and was called on to judge cattle at many rural fairs. Mr. Edgar Ward
purchased the Forsyth farm in 1946 and Mr. Forsyth built a lovely red brick bungalow at the
corner of Wixson Street and the ninth Concession, where he spent his retirement year. He
died in 1959.
George Gerow
George Gerow was the son of John Gerow of French decent. Around 1810, the Gerows
emigrated to the United States and then to Canada, where they settled on Concession two,
Pickering. They later lived in Claremont. John hand four sons, Daniel, John who became
Proprietor of the hotel in Brougham, Walter and George.
George was a well-known pumpmaker in this area. He was keenly interested in municipal
activities and in 1889 was elected Deputy Reeve for two years.
From 1891 to 1894 he served as Councillor. Then in 1895 he was elected Reeve and in
1902, although not in council at the time, he was appointed Warden of Ontario County.
George later moved to Port Perry where he became Reeve. His son John carried on the
pump-making business.
E. B. HOOVER
Elias B. Hoover was the youngest son of Abraham Hoover and Maria Burkholder who lived
on four hundred acres of land, including lot 34,
concession 8 and parts of Lots 35, Concession 7, Lot 31, Concession 7 and 30,
Concession
7.
Elias married Rachel Lott and lived on the east half of Lot 34, Concession 8. Besides farming
he was a member of the Township Council for five years, Deputy Reeve for two years and
Reeve in
1915-1916.
JOHN MILLER
John Miller was born near Annan, Dumfrees, Scotland on May 12, 1817. On April 12, 1835
he left Scotland arriving on the first of June. For five years he lived in Markham, then after
other members of the family having come out, they settled on Lot 25, Concession 7,
Pickering. In 1848, he bought the farm since known as "Thistleha" where he spent the rest
of his life. He married Margaret Whiteside and had the following family: William, Robert,
James, John, Ellen, Agnes, Elizabeth and Margaret.
His second wife was Elizabeth Boyer and their family were: George, Andrew, Henry and
Mary.
John was a successful farmer and an importer and breeder of stock. He took an active
part in the affairs of the Township serving, as Councillor and Reeve for many years and in
1876 became Warden of Ontario County. He died in 1904.
JOSEPH MONKHOUSE
Joseph Monkhouse came to Canada in 1845 and began storekeeping
in Altona the following, year. In 1857 he married Christina Reesor and leaving the store he
began milling. His wife died in 1865. In 1874 he moved to Lot 32, Concession 9, and for
twelve years managed
the farm. He then married Elizabeth Kester and soon became interested in municipal affairs.
He served for ten years in Pickering Township Council being Reeve from 1884-87 and Warden
of Ontario County in 1887. When his brother died, he returned to the store and continued
until his death in 1903. He was succeeded by his son, Willis J. Monkhouse.
WILLIAM REESOR
William Reesor was born on his parent's farm, April 28, 1875, in the Village of Altona. His
education was attained at the village school-house. He always enjoyed sports, participating
in football, baseball, hockey, curling and lawn bowling. Mr. Reesor won many hunting trophies
and from the first bear that he shot (weighing 200 pounds), a lovely bear rug was made.
Mr. Reesor was a farmer most of his life. In the early days of his youth, he helped his father,
Mr. Elias Reesor on the home farm and later, when he married, he bought his own farm in
Mongolia. Finally, he purchased a farm from Mr. Joseph Monkhouse, in Altona.
He was extremely interested in public affairs, serving thirteen years on the Council of
Pickering Township - six years as Councillor, two years as Deputy Reeve and five years as
Reeve. He was Warden of Ontario County in 1843. It was a strange coincidence that the
same farm should have two owners who both became Wardens of Ontario County - Mr.
Monkhouse and Mr. Reesor. He was an active member of the Altona Christian Church and
later, the Missionary Church.
Mr. Reesor married Ethel Millard and their family included: Kate (Mrs. Walter Carter),
Evelyn (Mrs. Fred McNair) and Millard.
In 1953, Mr. and Mrs. Reesor moved to Stouffville and his son continued on the farm
(Altonholme Farm), Lot 32, Concession 9, until it was sold to Revenue properties "Century
City" in June, 1869. Mr. Reesor died in Stouffville in July, 1968.
WILLIAM GEORGE SCOTT
William George Scott was the son of William and Elizabeth (Miller) Scott. His father was
born in Scarbough, of Scotch descent, and in 1861, they settled on Lot 12. Concession 8,
Pickering. They owned four different properties in North Pickering and later moved to Lot
22, Concession 8. Their family included Helen, Agnes, William George, Janet, Mary, Robert
and David (proprietor of the Corner Store in Claremont. 1915-1927).
W. G. Scott, a farmer, was a breeder of Clydesdale horses and had a good herd of Shorthorn
cattle. He was an Elder and active supporter of the Presbyterian Church in Claremont; a
member of Brougham Union A.F. and A.M. Lodge; and President of the Conservative
Association in Ontario Riding. He was interested in all things pertaining to the social and
political life of Claremont and Pickering Township.
Mr. Scott was a strong, supporter in improving the road conditions of the Township, which at
that time were in a deplorable condition and almost impassable. Later, he became closely
associated with the rapid development of telephone lines in the area.
Through his efforts and determination, many miles of line were built, and communication with
areas that had been previously isolated was then provided with the convenience of the
telephone. He attained
the office of president of what later came to be known as the Home
Telephone Company.
In 1911, he left Lot 12, Concession 8, Pickering, to institute the Industrial Farm at Langstaff,
which was a home for the Rehabilitation of convicts for the Toronto area. W.G. Scott was
well-suited for the position and gained great respect from the prisoners. While Mr. Scott was
at Longstaff, Mr. William C. Ormerod took over the farm. His family included: Emerson,
Howard, Edith and William. They remained until 1917, when W. G. resettled on the farm.
He again became active in community and political affairs. He was Reeve of Pickering
Township in 1912, 1919 and 1920 and in the last year attained the high honour of being
elected Warden of Ontario County. This was a well-deserved achievement as his whole life
was centred around his family, his farm and the well-being of the residents of Pickering
Township.
JAMES UNDERHILL
James Underhill was born on the seventh Concession of Pickering, son of Robert Underhill,
also of Pickering Township. In March 1894, he married Rachael Wilson. Later he acquired
the farm to the west of Claremont, south of the ninth Concession, remaining there until
1905. He was connected with local municipal affairs, was on the school board for twenty-
one years, local police Trustee Board and Township Council. He was Reeve of Pickering
Township having succeeded to the position in 1904.
He was an active member of the Methodist church and a member of the Masonic Lodge. He
was also a very enthusiastic curler.
Mr. Underhill owned two hundred acres of land north-west of the village, of which, Mr. Wesley
Lehman was in charge. He was a dealer in and breeder of Clydesdale horses and Cotswold
and Shropshire sheep. Mr. and Mrs. Underhill had one daughter Clara (now Mrs. Frank
Carson).
HISTORY OF THE CLAREMONT U. C. W.
1962 to 1982
Back in January 1962, a new organization was formed in the United Church. For 10 years, the
W. A. and W. M. S. had been discussing union and finally it became a reality - the W. A. looking
after the needs of the local church and the W. M. S. the missionary side of it including the
Mission Band. The new organization known as the "United Church Women" or U. C. W. was
to do the work of both. Now this was some task because both of these organizations had
had long and proud histories and it took a lot of patience, vision and intelligence to cope with
all of this. Some people said that it was the biggest thing that had happened in the United
Church since "union" in 1925.
The purpose of the United Church Women was: "To unite all women of the congregation for
the total mission of the church and to provide a medium through which they may express
their loyalty and devotion to Jesus Christ in Christian witness, study, fellowship and service."
We have tried in our local organization to do just that.
Claremont U. C. W. began with 48 members - Mrs. William Wallace as President. The
inaugural service was held on Sunday, January 28, 1962 with Rev. A. E. Cresswell
conducting the election of officers. Two units were formed with Mrs. Clifford Reynolds as
leader of the afternoon unit and Mrs. Richard Ward leader of the evening unit.
Great things have happened in the last 20 years, both spiritually and financially. Last year
alone, we gave $2,000.00 to the Board of Stewards to help with the maintenance of our
church. Donations of money or clothes were given to the men's hostel at Oshawa, ARC
Industries (workshop for retarded adults in Ajax), Participation House in Markham, Street
Haven in Toronto, and many more worthwhile causes.
Two of our ladies should be given special recognition today: Edith Stickwood helped in
every capacity, and 7 years ago, when the afternoon unit couldn't get a leader, she offered to
help them out and has been their leader ever since. Dorothy Cook has been treasurer of the
overall organization for almost the entire 20 years. These ladies are both to be commended.
Several of our ladies have moved to other congregations and are great pillars in the
organizations where they live. We miss them very much.
During this time, we have been fortunate in having three ladies who have helped us in every
facet of our program - in the meetings, in the kitchen and as a model in our fashion shows,
namely - Mrs. Creswell, Mrs. Linstead and Mrs. Cook — Many thanks to them.
Today we have honoured 10 of our senior members. It is great to offer applause for a job
well done and to show our appreciation for the accomplishments of both these and our
younger active members. Living is just not existing. We all have a talent (no matter how
small) and a job to fulfill.
Probably one of the most worthwhile projects during these years was the "Quilt Fair" in which
we all participated. That morning the church was a shambles, but by the time things got
under way, every quilt was in place and people were lined out to the sidewalk. Over 500
attended and we took in over $2,000.00.
We also held a very successful fashion show. The models who were all connected with the
church justly displayed their outfits and the audience of over 200 was very appreciative. This
week we will be having another one which will feature both ladies and children's clothes.
Our spring luncheons were events that we will always remember - "good food and good
friends". In the early years, we had many profitable bake sales, bazaars, suppers
(admission $1.00 for adults, 500 for children), and remember the Spring Tea we had at Mrs.
McConnell's to raise money for our "New Society".
We have catered to many memorable events: Mr. & Mrs. Roy Morgan's and Mr. & Mrs.
Clifford Reynolds' 50th anniversaries, Mrs. Porter's and Mrs. Carruther's 80 birthday parties,
and just last year a reunion of friends for Mr. & Mrs. Frank Carson. It was indeed a privilege
on our part.
In earlier years, some features of our programs were making an Easter bonnet, and wearing
it to the meeting, or painting an Easter egg. Demonstrations on flower arranging, art, cake
decorating, etc. were intriguing, and slide presentations proved extremely interesting and
factfinding, some of which were:
David Pegg - who spent 2 years in Germany, showed slides on Russia.
Derek Curtis - his trip to Australia with the Boy Scouts.
Luella (Carson) Shank - the Yukon where she lived for 51/2 years
Freda Murray - Indonesia where she lived for a number of years
Florence McIlvride - Jamaica where she taught
Then just recently we viewed the slides taken by Rhoda Almack on her trip to the Galapagos
Islands, off the coast of South America.
We have also had many very interesting and educational talks:
Mrs. Lloyd Britton spoke on "Our Anglican Neighbours"
Beatrice McLean - the new curriculum
Florence McIlvride - Stewardship, Man and His Church
Nancy Watson - inter-church relationships
Janet Evans - church and minorities - Indians, Eskimos and new Canadians
Rev. Tom Fleetham - changing the church to fit the needs of the people
Isobel Evans - gave an excellent talk on The Family.
Now we look back with pride to the U. C. W., which has continued to participate and achieve
other goals, to those who have laid the strong foundations upon which the United Church of
Canada is built and to those who have carried the hope and healing to far away places. We
hope you have enjoyed our 10th anniversary and renewed old acquaintances. May today
become another happy memory.
Lilian Gauslin
LG/mr
Ten senior members of the Claremont United Church Women were honored at a special
service marking the organization’s 20th anniversary. Of the ten, seven were able to attend
including (left to right) – Aldine Evans, Maud Anderson, Hazel Sanderson, Olive Vine, Annie
Porter, Agnes Wallace and Clara Carson. Each was presented with corsage and church pin.
Mrs. Wallace was the U.C.W.’s first president twenty years ago. Unable to attend were –
Laura Reynolds, Clarissa Woods and Jean Benns.
You are the salt of the earth,” said Marean Ward at the conclusion of a special
service honoring ten senior members of the Claremont U.C.W.
Special music was provided by a choir of U.C.W. members.
It was twenty years ago that the United Church Women’s organization was formed a work that,
in the words of guest speaker Jean Nauta of Lemonville was to become “the total mission of
the church”.
It was Geneevieve Carder, now of Stouffville, who headed up the re-organization
Committee, Mrs. Nauta explained. The purpose, she said, was to review accomplishments of
the past and set targets for the future.
The speaker praised the leadership provided by UCW presidents over the past 20 years.
“You gave us the inspiration to stand up and play a part”.
Following the service, lunch was served with Andy Rogers making a lovely Anniversary cake.
U.C.M. President Lillian Gauslin delivered an interesting history of the organization. Many
former members attended.
WELCOME TO CLAREMONT
Compliments of
The United Church Women
October 1982
Illustration: North Pickering Royal Canadian Legion.
The Legion — Lest We Forget
When the war against Germany ended in a complete surrender of the enemy, on May 8th, 1945,
there was great rejoicing. In larger places it was proclaimed a public holiday. Few people that
lived through those years will ever forget that day, listening to the radio as the King's speech
was broadcast from England.
The war had hit Claremont hard — almost every young man served his country either in
Canada or abroad and some never returned. Those who gave their lives from Claremont were:
Alvin Lehman, Victor Prouse, Ivan Purdy and "Teddy" Rhodes. "And so they passed over and
all the trumpets sounded for them on the other side."
A banquet was held on Saturday evening, May 11, 1946, to honour all of the returned men and
girls. The Women's Institute and Park Board sponsored the event, which included the wives
and sweethearts. There were fifty-one men and three girls, each of whom was presented with
a pen and pencil set. The address was given by Mr. Joe Farr, and Mrs. H.G. Mclntyre made
the presentations. A special Dedication Service of chimes was held in the United Church,
Claremont, in memory of the young men of the community who gave their lives. These
chimes were to be played every Sunday and on special occasions, such as Christmas and
Good Friday in recognition of the services of all the men and women who served our country.
On March 15, 1948, the boys decided to organize. They were called the North Pickering
Branch of the Canadian Legion of the British Empire Service League. Arthur J. Sutherland,
Claremont, became the first President and Harold O. Hopkins the first Secretary. Twenty-
one members signed the Charter, namely: Art. Sutherland, Glen Manderson, James Norton,
Gord. Benson, William Hicks, John (Ren) Loyst, William Voss, John Lehman, Sid Dunning,
Doug. Reynolds, James Briscoe, Joe Farr, Fred Morley, Leslie Lye, Roy McLeod, Gord
Taylor, J.O. Graham, Moses Norton, Wm. (Bud) Norton, Harold Hopkins and Howard Hockley.
This new branch was to include all "Boys" from the Village of Brougham to Coppin's Corners
and from the Whitby-Pickering Townline to the Markham-Pickering Townline.
At first, the boys decided to buy a building to serve as their meeting-place. They paid ninety
dollars for it and loaded it onto the truck. Before
Illustrations:
Walter Knox (killed in action)
Jim Faulkner (killed in action)
Joe Norton (killed in action)
Alvin Lehman (killed in action)
Victor Prouse ( killed in action)
Jack Norton (killed in action)
Kenneth Evans (killed in action)
Ivan Purdy (killed in action)
Edward (Teddy) Rhodes (killed in action)
HONOUR ROLL OF CLAREMONT
World War I (1914-1918)
Walter Anderson
Frederick brown
Rosewell Carson
John Dafoe
Ross DeRusha
Albert Emms
Thomas Foster
Harold Graham
George Hennett
Archie Hopkins
Arthur Littlejohn
Percy Lynn
Ralph Madill
William McLean
Albert Peters
William Shepherdson
Clarence Stokes
Richard Underhill
World War II (1939-1945)
Alvin Lehman
Jack Norton
Joe Norton
Kenneth Evans
Jim Faulkner
Walter Knox
Victor Prouse
Ivan Purdy
Henry Rasmusen
Ted Rhodes
“They served till death! Why not we?”
FMMO' =er cl
:A,
Claremont Wins the Nint.h Award of the Sh6ulder-To-The-Wheel :(lub I
III Malay, James, Gen. Del. Clarmarnt 71 ESmre'y, Charles J., Claremont R,R.3
LL12 Beelby, Robert. Claremont R.R.2 72 Enwrey, Barbara, Claremon) R.R.3
Beelll 3 Bull. yRebert. Geer Claremont
Claremont 73 Fmmrey, David, Clareownt R.R.3
11t15 Bell Wendy, Gen. Del. Claremont 74 Fraser, Mark. Brack Rd., Claremont
l6 Belton, Colin, Claremont arece 75 Gauslin, Earl, Box 732 Claremont
76 Gall, Larkin, Box 64 Claremont
Beason, Donald, Brock Rd. Claremont 77 Gall, Margaret, Box E4 Claremont
.118 Benson. Grace, Brock Rd. Claremont 78 Gillespie, Susan, Gen. Del. CTaremon
09 Benson, Gordon, Gen. Del. Claremont 70 rnluenln ere. 8.... n.i
R.R.1
63
Greenbury, Charles,
Box 205 Clarm
"
84
Greenbury, Janine,
F104 LIST OF VOTERS
Claremont
85
OF OBTAINED: w:C :L E RS ",.'.a"PE'SHE° Eun"nex.
Box 205 Claren
ORDINATION THE
NO
Gregory, All, Box 174 Claremont
24- Bounded on the nest by the line between I
ots 23 and 24, on the north by the Township
boundary, on the east by the centre line
of Regional Road 1B southerly to
the road
Between Concessions 8 and 9, then east a
Ong the centre line between concessions 8 ar.
9 to Regional Road 1, then southerly along
the centre line of Regional Road 1 to the
' road between Concessions 7 and 8. then
West along the centre line of the
road betnee
Concessions 7 and 8 to a line between Los
23 and 24.
Hankinson. Gillian.
Anderson, Earl. 5026 William, Claremont
62 Davis, Lillian. Gen. Del.,
Claremont
Anderson, Helen, 5026 William, Claremont
62 Devitt, Janet, Gen. De7.,
Claremont
Baker, Margaret, Box22, Claremont
63 00minczyk, Sandy, Box 227
Claremont
Bartlett, Cam, Box 93, Clermont
64 Couples, Dwight, Gen. Del.
Claremont
Beasley, Alfred, Claremont R.R.3
65 ' Douglas, Linda. Gen. Del.
Claremont
Beasley, Alfred Jr., Claremont R.R.3
66 Drake, Bruce, 5200 Brock,
Claremont
Deal", Janette. Claremont R.R.3
67 Drake, Robin, 5200 Brock,
Claremont
e ckett, Michael, Gen. Del.Clarewnt
EB Duddy, Stephen, Claremont
R.R.3
III Malay, James, Gen. Del. Clarmarnt 71 ESmre'y, Charles J., Claremont R,R.3
LL12 Beelby, Robert. Claremont R.R.2 72 Enwrey, Barbara, Claremon) R.R.3
Beelll 3 Bull. yRebert. Geer Claremont
Claremont 73 Fmmrey, David, Clareownt R.R.3
11t15 Bell Wendy, Gen. Del. Claremont 74 Fraser, Mark. Brack Rd., Claremont
l6 Belton, Colin, Claremont arece 75 Gauslin, Earl, Box 732 Claremont
76 Gall, Larkin, Box 64 Claremont
Beason, Donald, Brock Rd. Claremont 77 Gall, Margaret, Box E4 Claremont
.118 Benson. Grace, Brock Rd. Claremont 78 Gillespie, Susan, Gen. Del. CTaremon
09 Benson, Gordon, Gen. Del. Claremont 70 rnluenln ere. 8.... n.i
R.R.1
63
Greenbury, Charles,
Box 205 Clarm
t R.R.1
84
Greenbury, Janine,
Box 205 Clarem
Claremont
85
Greenbury, Robert,
Box 205 Claren
. Claremont
w
Gregory, All, Box 174 Claremont
Claremont
87
Gregory, Elsie, Box
174 Claremont
Claremont
88
Hamlin, Aldine, Gen.
Bel. Clarewi
t R.R.2
89
Hankinson, Timothy,
Claremont R.R"
nt R.R.2
90
Hankinson. Gillian.
Clareonnt a_R.
35
Britten, E111s, Claremont R.R.3
Ya
Ranges, Rosenery, Brock Rd., Clarence
1
.136
Britton, Dorothy, Claremont R.R.3
95
Hedges. Donald, Brock Rd., Claremont
137
Britton, Marlon, Claremont R.R.3
96
97
Hill. Janice, Claremont R.R.3
.138
Britton, Lorne. Claremont R.R.3
98
Hill, Mark, Claremont R.R.3
Hill, Wilmot., Gen. Bei., Claremont
'.139
Bran khors t, JOM1n, Box 6 , Claremon%
99
Hill. NOrrine, Gen. Del., Clarewnt
140
Bronkhorst, Celia, Box 604, Clarew
-
100
Hodgson, Russell, 5020Dow, Clarewrt
141
Brockhurst, Men, Claremont R.R.3
101
Hodgson, Edna, 5020 Dow, Claremont
112
Budd, Valerie, Claremont R.R.3
102
Hopkins. Harold, 5128 Brock, Claremon
113
Calhoun, Doreen, Gen. Bel., Claremont
103
Hopkins, Boris, 5128 Brock, Claremont
114
Calhoun, William, Gen. Del., Claremont
104
Hoover, Ted, Box 98 Claremont
1.115
Carder, David, Box 138 Claremont
05
Bursar, Wendy, Box 9B Claremont
.!146
Carder, Linda, Box 138 Claremont
IO6
Rowell, Greg. Box 93 Claremont
117
Carruthers, Peter, Gen. Del., Claremont
10
Huleatt, Anthony, ClaremontR.R.2
.,118
Carruthers, Glenda, Gen. CO., Claremont
I w
Huleatt, Shirley. Claremont R.R.2
- 119
Carruthers, William, 5062 Brock, Claremont
109
Hutchinson, Ian, Gen. Be]. Claremont
50
Carruthers, Wendy, 5062 Brock. Claremont
10
Hutchinson. Patricia-, Gen. Del., Clar,
pl
Carson, Frank, Gen. Del. Claremont
11
Nutt, Dave, Clarewnt R.R.3
-, 1w2
Carson, Clara, Gen. Del., Claremont
12
Nutt, Cheryl. Claremont R.R.3
IS
Cece, Ralph, Claremont R.R.3 -
73
Hutt, Michael, Claremont R.R.3
1f4
Coca, Pine, Claremont R.R.3
14
Jackson, Jean, 5274 Brock, Claremont
1y5
'1i6
Copies, William, Gen. Del., Claremont
15
Jackson, Wendy, Box 803(Uxbridge) Clan
Collett, Michael, 5258 Brock, Claremont
16
Jacob, George, 4976 Brock, Claremont
i.'7
Collett. Helen, 5258 Brock, Claremont
17
Jones, William, Gen. Del. Claremont
154,
18
Jones, Elaine, Gen. Bel. Claremont
-11`9
1
Daly, Mary Box 154. Claremont
19
Roast, Ann, Gen. Dei.Clasemont
1 0
0avtdge, Beverley, Claremont R.R.3
20
Most, Len, Gen. Del. Claremont
131
Davidge, Geraldine, Claremont R.R.3
21
Knepp, Edward, Box 26 Claremont
anna"LNO
MMT UC IT ADDED
TO THIS LIST MNURB IT 115 INALZED
POLL NO,
ME wwmTMan
..im
a,
24
.TNS.LETMEANS
ELECTORAL DSTWRINM
-
YORKBE
BE
ISapP. Ruth, Box 26 Claremont
192
Robertson, Al Gan. bel. Claremont
Lake, Wm. Paul, Bax 114 Cian
193
Robertson, Garin, Box 136 Claremont
[[ \IDT
794
Robertson, Pauline, Box 136 Claremont
Lake, Wendy, Boz 114 Claremont
ISapP. Ruth, Box 26 Claremont
192
Robertson, Al Gan. bel. Claremont
Lake, Wm. Paul, Bax 114 Cian
193
Robertson, Garin, Box 136 Claremont
at
Lake, Paris. Boz 114 Claremont
794
Robertson, Pauline, Box 136 Claremont
Lake, Wendy, Boz 114 Claremont
lg5
Rose, Jean, 4947 Brock, Claremont
Leeming. Stephen, Boz 143;
196
Rose, Jose h, 4947 Brock. Claremont
Leeming, Shelia, Box 143, Claremont
197
Russell, Mart, Gen. Del. Claremont
Lehman, John, Gen. Del. Claremont
198
Raszell, Margaret, Gen. Del. ClaremontLehman,
Ranine, Gen. Pel. Clermont
199
Rowe Carol, 5014 Dow, Claremont
Lehman, Janice, Gen. Oil. Claremont
200
,
Pass, Douglas, 5014 Dow, Claremont
Lehman. Alvin. Gen. Claremont
201
Roy, George, Box 227 Claremont
1
Lehman, Nancy, ben Claremont
202
Samriile, Albert, Gen. Pel. Claremont
aremnt R.R.3
Clermont R.R.3
148
Mclvor, Debbie, Claremont. R.R.11 1
—
Third, Ronald, Clermont R.R.2
- 149
Meredith, Ken, Box 54, Glarmmnt
219
Tilley, Robert, Claremont R.R.3
150
Meredity, Bettyanne, Box 54, Claremont.
220
Tilley. Trudi, Clermont R.R.3
151
Middleton, Mac, Claremont, R.R. 41
221
Towner, Brian, Gen. Del. Claremont
- .152
Middleton, George„ Gen. Del. Claremont /
222
Towner, Helen, Gen. Oil. Claremont
Hiller, Alice, R.R.4 3 Claremont.
223
Towner, Larry, Gen. Del. Claremont
753
154
Moxiyy, Janus, Claremont _
"-
224
Tomer, Sharon, Gen. Del. Claremont
955
en.GenDel.
Maxey, Linda, Gen: Dei. Claremont -1
225
Towner, Terry, Gen. Del. Claremont
156
Mulvaney, Kenneth, 4951. Brock Claremont
226
Towner, William, Gen. Del. Claremont
157
Mulvaney, 4951 Brock Claremont
227
Trenaine, Georgia, Claremont R.R. 1
158
drew, Ge emoSt.
Mysktw, Andrew, Gen. Del. Claremont
228
Tremeine, Terry, Claremont R.R.1
159
Sophia, Gen. Del. Claremont
229
Tuck. Byron, Box 74 Claremont
161
Norton.
Norton, Denise, Gen. Del. Claremont
230
Tuck, Terry, Box 74 Claremont
761
Norton, Denise, Gen. Del. Claremont -
231
Tweedie. Stan, Gen. Del. Claremont
- 162
Norton, Doris, Central St., Claremont.
:232
Ontermann, G. Claremont R.R.2
163
Peddie, Willard, Gen. Del. Claremont.
233
Vale, Donald, Claremont R.R.3
164
Peddie, Marion, Gen. Del. Claremont /
234
Vale. Sylvia, Claremont R.R.3
_ 165
Pepper, William, Claremont R.R.2
235
Vernon. Linda, Gen. Del. Claremont
166
Pepper, Norma, Claremont R.R.2
236
Vico, Olive, Gen. Del. Claremont
167
Perkins, Lillian, Claremont R.R.3
237
Vass, Aleta, Claremont R.R.3
168
Perkins, Reginald, Claremont R.R.3
238
Voss, Rad. Claremont, R.R.3
169
Philips, Diane. Box 135 Claremont
239
Ward, Frank, Gen, Del. Claremont
170
Philips. Frank, Box 135 Claremont .
240
Weir, Douglas. Gen. Del. Claremont
171
Post111, George, Bax 31 Claremont
241
Weir. Olive. Gen. Del. Claremont
172
Post111, Baan, Box 31 Claremont
242
Wells, Vern Gen. Del. Claremont
173
Prest, Jack, Gen. Del. Claremont
243
White, Peter, Gm. Del. Claremont
174
Quesnel, John, Claremont R.R.2
244
White, Yvonne, Gen. Del. Claremont
175
Quesnel. Cheryl, Claremont R.R.2
245
White. Ren. Gen. Del. Claremont
176
RedshaW. Charles, Gen. Del. Claremont
246
Whyte, Karen, Box 38 Claremont
177
Redshaw. Irene. Gen. Del. Claremont
247
Nhvte. Paul. Box 38 Claremont
raid. Gen. Del. Claremont
John, Claremont R.R.3
Gen. Del. Claremont
24
W--}}114 LIST OF VOTERS '
25
Bounded on the north b- the Township boundary, on the ,at by the centre
line of Regional Rned 18 southerly to the road between Concessions 8 and 9,
then east along the centre line Of the road between coneesslans R and 9
to Regional Road 1, than ern,therly alon , the centre line Of 9.eglnnal. ? ad
1 to the road between Concession 7 and k than east. sloop the centre line
Of the road between Cnnces.=inn 7 and q to the line. between Lots ilk and 15,
then north alone the line between Lot,, 11i and 15 to the road between
concessinns R Rai 9, then seat along the centre line of the pond between
Cnnceasione 0 end 9 to the, line between Lots 15 and 16, then north along
the line between lots 15 and 16 to the Township Boundary,
1:
Albert, Ephrem R.R.1 Claremant
2.
Albert, Men RHI
Claremont
-3.
Albert, all RR1
Claremont
6.
Albert,.daen 831
Claremont
5.
Allman, C
ClarrAont
-6.
AImack, Corrie
Claremont
7.
Alsace, Lorne
Claremont
S.
A1mae's, Rhoda
Claremont
9.
Anderson, M.
Claremont
30.
Anderson, M.
Claremont
11.
Anonbv, Er11n?,
Claremont
12.
Anonhy, Jack
Claremont
--13.
Anonhy, Lear&
Claremont
14.
ARhtal, Jene 7R1,
Claremont
15
Ashton, Bob In,
-16.
Avery, Arthur
Claremont
17,
Avery, P
Claremont
18,
Avery, Sten
Clare mast
-19,
Ball, William
Claremont
20,
Bell, Eileen
Claremont
21,
Barnes, Heather
Cl aremant
22.
Barnes, 'William
Claremont
23.
Bates, Jack
Claremont
26.
Bates, Jana
Claremont
25,
Bates, James
Claremont
26.
Bolla, E 8 Con.
/Claremont
27.
Bos, Joy Rffi
Claremont
28.
Boa, Norman BRI
Claremont
-29.
Boa, Robert RRL
Claremont
Con.
Con.
Allen r
Claremont
WY. '
Claremont
Claremont
Claremont
Claremont
Claremont
9 con.
Claremont
Claremont
ley
Claremont
Claremont
Claremont
Claremont
Claremont
Claremont
8. Elloltt, I Claremont
9, enepringbam, Joe W. Cleremant
0. Empringhan, Lillian, Claremont
1. Evans, A. Claremont
2. Evans, Laura, Claromont
34. . cans, Capol* Claremont
5. Evans, Dean, Claremont
6. Evans, Blair, Claremont
7. Evans, Jean, Claremont
S. Evans, Sherry, Claremont
,9. Evans, Glen, Claremont
10. Evans, Isobel, Claremont
11. Evans, 51-. Claremont
'2. mrauta, A. Claremont
3. create,
e, III,
ce Claremont
rpm«age, Ross, Claremont
'6. muslin, Cardon L. Claremont
i7, Couslln, Lila, Claremont
P8. Muslin, Lillian, Claremont
(9. Caualln, Ronald, Claremont
30. allesnie, Alaister, RR1,Clapemr
31. allespie, Diana, Rn. Clareen
32. Breen, Cher, 8 con. Claremont
33. Respond, Alfred, Claremont
36• Ramrvond, 0111, Claremont
35. Hammond, Robert, Claremont
36. Hammonds names, Claremont
17. Rapdy, Sadie, Claremont
381 Hardy, Norris, Claremont
39. Harper, Harold, Claremont
90. Harper, Nola, Claremont
91. Harrison, Earl, Claremont
32. Harrison, Jean, Cl Reenact
93. Harrison. Him, Claremont
94. Harrison, Sherry, Claremont
95. Hazlew00d, Joan, Claremont
96. Hazlewood, Jahn, Claremont
97. Hedges, Marie, Claremont
98. Hedges, Bon, Claremont
99. Bill, Mary, Claremont
100. Hill, Howard, Claremont
101. Hockley, Robert, Claremont
102. Hoe slay, Tnalme,Claremont
103. Happe, Pat, 8 con. Claremont
10 . Illingworth, Shirley, Claremont
105. Illlugworth, Anthony, Claremont
106, Ingersoll, Laren, Claremont
107. In gran, Dale, Claremont
108. Ingram, vlorence, Claremont
109. Ingram, Linda, Claremont
110. Ingram, Son Claremont
111. Ingram, Randy Claremont
112. Jacobs, C. Claremont
113. J000bs, Larry, Claremont
116. Johnston, Janos Claremont
'F S
- -' rma utr OF owunm .w,.e N.,..
aBounded
ME
wNortn
awoun
ING
HE
airy r
2SPEOR5
on the by the Townshr
anr t E fig Ere Centre I
of Regional Road 1B southerly to the ro
d between Concessions 8 and 9, then "
east along the centre line o' the road I
etween Concessions 8 and 9 to Regional
Road 1, then southerly along the Centre
line
6f Regional Rend 1 tc the road
_. between Concessions 7 and 8; then east
I long
the Centra line of the road
between
Concession 7 and 8 to the line Ietweere
lots 14 and 15, then north elor
the
line between lots 14 and 15 to the
road
between Concessions A end 9, tear
_ vest along the Centre line of the reed I
etween concessions 8 end 9, to the lir
between lots 15 and 16, then north el orm
the
line between lots 15 and 16 to
the
movnahlo Boundary.
115.
Kartenrinht, Rage, 331, Claremont
174.
Purcell, Aida, 381, Claremont
_
116.
Kartwvight, Xety RR1, Claremont
175.
Purcell, C.R. CRI, Claremont t
117.
Kennedy, Elmer, Claremont
176.
Redshaw, Heather, Claremont
118.
Kennedy, Jackie, Claremont
177.
Redshaw, Ken, Claremont
- 119.
Kennedy Maryanne, Claremont
178.
Paschen. A31en, Claremont
120.
Kennedy, Hose. Claremont
119.
Redshaw, Carol, Claremont
121.
Koster, K. Claremont
100.
Redshme, Jim, Claremont
- 122.
Lehman, Barbara, Claremont
181.
Redshaw, Vary, Claremont
123.
Lehman, Robert, Claremont
182.
Peeves, HUSK, Town Line, Clarem
124.
107st, Marion, Claremont
183.
RSdsdlll, C. , Claremont
_ 125.
Loyat, B. Claremont
184.
RSdedill, D. Claremont
126.
MacDonald, David, Claremont
165.
Be Here, B. Claremont
127.
MacDonald, Vickie, Claremont
186.
Re gees, Marianne, Claremont
128.
MacDonald, S. Claremont
187.
Rogers, E. Claremont
- 129•
Mackintosh, Gerald, Claremont
188.
Sanderson, Razel, Claremont
130.
Mackintosh, Lorraine, Claremont
189.
Smith, Linda 8 con, Claremont
131.
Mae Neell, Arthur, Claremont
190.
Solmers, Viola, Claremont
- 132.
MacNeall, Darlene, Claremont
191.
Somers. Albert, Claremont
133.
Martin, Ronald, Claremont
192.
St. Jahn, L. Claremont
134.
Martin, Shelley, Claremont
193.
Straughan, B. 8 con, Claremont
- 135.
McBeth, X. Claremont
194.
St,mgese, Nancy, PRI, Claremont
136.
NcCance, Linda, Claremont
195.
Sturgeas, John, AAI, Claremont
13 j.
McCance, Ward, Claremont
196.
Taylor, David, Claremont
13.+.
McKenzie, George, Claremont
197.
Taylor, Jessie, Claremont
_
139.
McKenzie, Lenora, Claremont
198.
Taylor, Donna, Claremont,
140.
McKenzie, David, Claremont
199.
Taylor, Gamy, Claremont,
141.
McNlsh, Alexander , Claremont
200.
Timms, Rosemary, Claremont
142.
HCNish, Jean, Claremont
201.
ideas, Roland, Claremont
143•
Myhre R. Claremont
202.
Tran, Barbara, Claremont
1
Nagy Dela, 3R1. Claremont -
203.
Pram, Robert, Claremont
- 1
Nacv, Lorraine, PETS, Claremont
204.
Tucker, June, Claremont
146.
Noble, John, Claremont
205.
Tucker, Shaun, Claremont
49:
Noble, Elizabeth, Claremont
206.
gazelle Ray, Claremont
_ 9
Nolan, Cornice, Claremont
207.
Uzzell, Darlene, Clersmont
149.
Nolan, Jim, Claremont
208.
Vanderleest, Sandra, Claremont
150.
Norton, Carl, Claremont
209.
Vanderleest, 9., Claremont
151.
Norton, Jean, Claremont
210.
VanderIlUt, Harvey Claremont
_ 152.
Norton, L. Claremont
211.
Vanderllgh, John, Claremont
153.
Norton, Marjorie, Claremont
212.
Vandenligt, Marg. Claremont
15
Norton, Douglas, Claremont
213.
Walker, C., Claremont
-. 15 .
Norton, Leoes, Claremont
214.
Horde Keith, RR1, Claremont
156.
Norton, aadis, Claremont
215.
Ward, Susan, 3R1, Claremont
157.
Norton, Mosos, Claremont
216.
Ward, Dianne, Claremont
-- 158.
Norton, E. Claremont
217.
Werde Larry, Claremont
1$9.
Norwood, June, Claremont
218.
ward, Mureen, Claremont
160,
Paisley, Jean, Claremont
219.
Ward, Richand, Claremont
161.
Paisley, Thomas, Claremont
220.
Ward, Ronald, Claremont
162.
Delmer, R1Ck, Claremont
221.
Ward, Bernice, Claremont
163.
Pascoe, Helen, Claremont
222.
Word, Jack, Claremont
164•
_
Pascoe, Lloyd Claremont
A
223.
Ward, Nancy, Claremont
165.
Payne, Anne, con, Claremont
224.
Whitney, James, Claremont
166.
Payne, James, 9 eon, Claremont
225.
Whitney, Joan, Claremont
167.
Pilkey, Earl, Claremont
226.
Whitney, Robe, Claremont
- 168.
Pilkey, Larry, Claremont
227.
Wideman, Donna, Claremont
169•
Pilkey, Lenni, Claremont
228.
Wideman, John, Claremont
170.
_111 Shirley, Claremont
229.
Didemane Steelhem, Claremont
171.
Porter, Aerie Claremont
230.
Wilcox, Joyce, Claremont
- 172.
Pritchard, C. 9R1, Claremont
231.
Wintenstein, Lynn 391, Claremont'
1
itchard D. 3 Claremont
232.
Winterstein, Ray, RR1, Cleremen
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est along the centra line of the road between
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Concession 7 and 8 to the line between y to III
.line between Lots 14 and 15 to the road atwee
along the centre line Do the road betweem Cone
between lots 15 and 16 , then north II the
the Township Boundary.
233. Winterstein, Glenda, Claremont
234. Rollin, David, Claremont
235. liollin, gill, Claremont
236. Woolhead, Alma , Claremont
237. Roolheed, 0I Claremont
239. Woolhead, Lee, Claremont
239. WONO ad, Steven, Claremont
240. Woolhead, Parry, Claremont
241. young, g. Carl, Claremont
242. young, gatbleen, Claremont
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THE MT. ZION CHURCH
In 1847 Richard Benjamin Jones bought, a piece of land, 1-¼ acres in size. from John Jackson
at the north west corner of lot 6, rear conc.7, Pickering Twp. "In 1854, a group of people known
as the "Jackson's Congregation" bought this piece of land from Richard Jones, but it was not
till 1856 that they could afford to build a church. As Mr. Jackson owned the rest of this farm at
this time it is very likely that is where the "Jackson's Congregation" got it's name, the church
was a frame structure, built on posts. Each side had two windows with the entrance to the north.
Inside, they had a box stove with the pipes running the full length of the building
At this time there were at least four branches of Methodism in this area The Methodist
Episcopal Congregation met in 1857 in a building known as the “White Church". It was on the
south-west corner of lot 8, conc.7. The Bible Christians met in a building at the north-east
corner of lot 1, at the 8th, concession. The Primitive Methodists gathered at the Balsam
Church known as the "Temple Hall" which was just east of where the Balsam store is now.
Later the shed from the Temple Kall was moved down to the Mt. Zion Church and was
placed to the east of the shed that was there, and it stayed there for many years. In 1967 this
shed was donated to the Brougham Museum. It was torn down, taken to Brougham where it
was rebuilt in it's original form, and it can be seen there at the present time.
Evidently the different branches of Methodism got together as the Pickering Circuit was
formed in 1863. This included Pickering, Brougham, Mt. Pleasant, Greenwood, Claremont,
Glen Major, Mt. Zion, Salem, Kinsale and Audley. In 1873 Samuel Jones gave to the
trustees of Jackson's Congregation (later known as Mt. Zion), a piece of land on the north
side of the road in exchange for their property on the south side. The church was moved to
the north side and again it was put on posts. It was much the same as before with some
improvements. It was a Little larger and the windows now had small colored glass in the
panes. In 1893 the congregation decided to have a larger and better church so they built the
present brick church at a cost of $2496.00 A great deal of the work was done by the local
people. While the church was being built the Congregation had church in the shed. A few of
the trustees and stewards at this time were: Richard Wilson T.C. McAvoy, Elijah Jones,
John C. Jones, Mr. George Middleton held the mortgage which was burned at a later date.
There are just two churches in this circuit now, Greenwood and Mt. Zion, Rev. T.H. Fleetham
is the present minister and has been there for nearly 15 years. There are still a few
descendants of the pioneers living here. Although the attendance has dropped off we have a
good junior choir ladies class, Sunday school, U.C.W.and Men's Club. A great many of the
pioneers were buried in Salem Cemetery which was the first cemetery and also the first
church in the district.
OPTICIAN
Robert E. Forsyth, son of Rachel and Daniel Forsyth, practised Optometry in Claremont and
Toronto for many years. His office in Claremont was originally in the Barry Public House, north
of the C.P.R. tracks. He also repaired watches and clocks. In 1904 he operated a Gent's
Furnishings store in the same location. "From the head down, he handled a full line of spring
hats, spring shirts (coloured and white) and spring footwear. A call at the store convinced the
most fastidious that R.E. Forsyth's, North Claremont, was the place to get the right goods at the
right price"1 Robert was married to Edna Caster and they had two children, June (Mrs. F.J.
Button) of Stouffville, and Anna (Mrs. C.J. Clarke), of Windsor. He was an enthusiastic bowler
and curler, a member of the Rameses Shrine in Toronto for fifty-four years and a life member
of the Shrine Ladder of Smiles in support of the Shriners' Hospital for Crippled Children.
VETERINARIANS
Thomas Graham, Veterinary Surgeon, had an office at the establishment of Graham Bros.,
west of Claremont, in 1896.
Previous to this, Dr. Charles Brodie, graduate of the Ontario Veterinary College, began
practising in Claremont. He was the eldest son of James and Matilda Brodie, of whom, four
sons were veterinarians, one a druggist, and two medical doctors. From 1875 until well over
thirty years, he continued in Claremont, then he moved to Chazy, New York, to be the
veterinarian for the Miner Farm, where he died in 1917. Dr. Brodie married Priscilla Tracy
and they had four children: Melville, Emma, Frank, and Ralph.
Dr. George Brewster was the next veterinarian in Claremont (around 1914-15), followed by
Dr. Breton Love. Dr. Love boarded with Miss Emma Brown until his marriage to Ethel
Burton. He was the last practising veterinarian in Claremont, leaving here around 1915 to go
to war. His wife died before he returned. They had one daughter, Muriel Maxine.
Pioneer Farms And Families
Many of the farms in the Claremont area have fascinating histories — some of them have been
handed down through five or six generations of one family. A few have not been described in
this book. This may have been for one of several reasons — the property has been divided into
many small acreages; the farm has changed hands so many times through the years that it
was impossible to get a clear picture of its history, or the information could not be readily
obtained. The following is an account of many of these farms, and people who settled in
Claremont before 1900.
ANDERSON — James Anderson and his wife lived on the Uxbridge-Pickering Townline, one
half mile west of the Brock Road in Uxbridge Township. They had fourteen children, twelve boys
and two girls. As the family grew up, they all left this area except Alex. He was born February
23, 1865.
At the age of fourteen Alex went to work for James Evans on the ninth Concession of
Pickering, later known as the Edgar Evans Farm. After nine years with Mr. Evans, he went
west to take up land and settled in Battineau, North Dakota. Alex married Annie Perry and to
this marriage there were three children, Myrtle of Toronto, Maitland of Claremont and Goldie. He returned to Claremont in 1911.
In 1912, Alex and Reuben Besse purchased the livery business from Fred Evans. They
continued with this for some time, and finally Alex bought out Reuben's share. In 1916, the
business was sold to Thomas Sanderson.
At this time Percy Lynn was driving the south mail route. He joined the army and Alex
finished out Percy's contract. The route was let out for tender, and bid in by Oscar Barber.
Later, Alex moved to Toronto, where he died in March 1925.
In 1916, Maitland, like many other boys in the area, worked for the C.P.R. His salary was
seventeen cents an hour, ten hours a day. Maitland married Maud Sanderson and they had
three sons, Ernie, Earl of Claremont, and Rae of Peterborough. Earl married Helen Wilson,
of Balsam, and they have three children: Carol, Ernie and Murray. Rae married Ann Wilson
of Lakefield, and they have one daughter, Michelle. This makes five generations of
Andersons who have made their home in Claremont.
APPLEBY — Thomas Appleby, one of the early settlers in the area, was a staunch member
of the Primitive Methodist congregation. For many years he was a class leader, local
preacher and Sunday School Superintendent and often rode twenty miles on horseback to
an appointment on the Markham circuit, preached at three places, and returned home the
same day. Thomas married Ann Ward (daughter of Richard Ward) of Balsam, the minister
being the Rev. William Gledhill, one of the first Primitive Methodist ministers. Thomas and
Ann settled on Lot 17, Conc. 9, and they had two children, Thomas and Jennie. They began
in very humble circumstances like so many of the early settlers, and in later years moved to
Wroxeter, Ontario. Mr. Appleby was a butcher in Claremont for a number of years around
1869-70. This land is now owned by Frabak Corp.
Illustration: Residence of Frank Barkey - Built 1859 (Picture taken in 1880)
BARKEY — The Barkey family originally came from Pennsylvania, U.S.A. In the early 1800's
they settled in Whitchurch Township. Daniel Barkey, son of Jacob, and his wife Barbara Pike
moved to the present farm Lot 28, Conc. 9, Pickering, in 1837, and built a log cabin. Howard
Barkey has the original deed from the Crown for this land.
The main house was built in 1857 of cut flint stone from the farm and bears the inscription "D.B.
— 1857". Daniel was a Mennonite preacher as well as a farmer. They raised a family of six:
Peter, was a doctor in Pennsylvania; Lydia, Francis and Victor operated shoe stores in
Chicago and Levi went to Duluth, West Superior.
Wilmot remained on the home farm and married Martha Stouffer. Their family consisted of
Mildred of Stouffville; Ella; Mary (Mrs. Clarence Hoover) of Markham; William; and Charles
who remained on the farm and married Bessie Mowder. Of his family of five, Clifford married
Mary Graham, of Markham; Barbara married Arthur Adams of Markham; Wilmot; Walter
married Laima Kivedaras, of West Hill; and Frank, who remained on the home farm. Frank
married Donna Johnson and they have four children: Sharyn, Elaine, Glenn and Eric. They
are the sixth generation of Barkeys to live on this farm.
In 1970, Dr. D. O'Connor purchased the farm and Charles retired to Markham. Frank has a
fine herd of Registered Holstein cattle, winning many prizes at fairs throughout this part of the
province.
BARRY — John Barry was born in Yorkshire, England, in 1824. When he was just a boy, he
came to Canada with his parents and settled in Whitchurch and later, near Manilla in Victoria
County. In 1845, he married Mary Sharrard and in 1846, settled on a farm just east of
Claremont on the eighth Concession. He carried on a very successful business as a butcher.
Then, he built a sawmill on the creek just south of the village. It was burned to the ground
twice but he persevered. In 1890 he purchased some land and two houses near the C.P.R.
station and in 1891, he erected a large Public House and store on the north side of the track.
He later became a very wealthy man owning over three thousand acres of land. His daughter
was Mrs. Dan Forsyth. Mr. and Mrs. Forsyth had five children: John, Mary (Mrs. (Dr.) Ralph
Brodie), George Malcolm, Robert E. and Mildred.
John Barry owned Lots 19 and 20, Conc. 7, Pickering, which in later years became known
as the Storry farm. In 1859, John Barry sold this parcel of land to Joseph Wixson and from
then until 1903, it was owned by a series of persons namely: John Hood, Robert Hopper,
and George Gerow.
William Storry came from England with his parents and they settled first in Scott Township.
He married Elizabeth Smith and in 1903, the family moved to the seventh Concession. They
had four children: Levi, Charles, Newton and Hannah. In 1905 William died and willed the
farm to his sons, Levi and Charles, and in 1911 Charles purchased Levi's share.
Charles Storry married Elizabeth Gostick and they had four children: Mabel, Wesley,
Armand William, and Newton (deceased at an early age). Charles died at the age of thirty-
seven during the 'flu epidemic that was prevalent in the area and Elizabeth carried on with
the farm. Armand moved to Brougham in 1947 and later operated his own gravel business.
Wesley and Mabel remained on the farm until 1973, when it was expropriated by the Federal
Government. They have continued farming near Listowel, Ontario.
Bennett - William Bennett and his wife emigrated from England and settled on Lots 23 and 24,
Conc. 9. Pickering in 1833. Their son Thomas Bennett married Barbara McLelland and had
three sons, C.O., who remained on the farm, and Walter and Sydney, who settled on Lots 21
and 22, Conc. 6, Pickering. William Bennett owned one of the first brick houses in this area. It
was one of the finest in the Township "with spacious rooms and massive woodwork". This
house was allowed to deteriorate through the years. Then, in the 1940's Kalman Vizely
purchased it, remodelled it, and it is once again one of the finest in the area. It was later owned
by the McIlvrides before being taken over by the Federal Government for the Airport.
ssixog
Billion and Charlotte Benson and family lived first in
Manvers, Ontario. Then in 1860, they moved to Markham Township
where they were burned out. Prom there, they went to Uxbridge
Township in 1896. Their family included: Wesley, Milton, Harry,
Minnie and May. They all gave up forming except Milton, who
married Mary Evans, daughter of James Evans. They lived on the
E. W. Evans farm (Lot 14, Cone. 9), Pickering, and raised a
family of seven: Ivan, William, Myrtle, Mary, Jean, Evans and
Cordon. In 1955, they retired in Claremont. Milton died in 1955
and his wife lived with Jean (Mrs. Kenneth Reeser) until her
death in 1959.
Ivan married Etta Sanderson (deceased 1561) and worked
for the C.P.A. most of hie life. He then, married Mabel Sanderson
and five in Agincourt. Ivan has Us daughters Edna and Mildred.
William married Isobel Cooper and farmed west of Claremont
until they retired in Stouffville. They have two daugbtems, Enid
and Ruth.
Myrtle (Mrs. Mark Linton) lives in Toronto. Mark retired from
the T.T.C. in 1962 Their children include: Bernice, Howard(deceased`
Jean and Audrey. '
Maxis- married William Goat (deceased) of Hamilton. They had
one son, John.
Jean married Kenneth He sear and farmed until Rents death in
1967. They had one child (died in infancy). Jean now resides in
Stouffville.
Evans married Margaret Norton, In 1944;they bought the William
Edwards farm -(Lot 13, Cone. 9) and Evans has been employed by the
C.P.R. They have five children: Mary, Harry, Stanley, Dorothy and
Donald.
Gordon married Memo. Beverley and they live in Claremont.
He is the foreman of Pickering Township Roads Department. Their
family included: Robert, Grace, Thomas awl Blanche..
OnVThomas Graham married Elizabeth Nesbitt and farmed
-22 22 Cone. 8, Pickering. Thep retired to the former
Presbyter(an Manse, in Claremont.—Their family included:
James (married Men- Smith)-, Ma=,lthe dressmaker), John
(married Jane Jane;), Stewart (marriedd Etta Neal) Elisabeth
Ann (married Kirkwood Beelby) and Marg (married William E.
Cowie).
BUNDY - John Bundy emigrated from England in 1832 with his wife and two children. His little
daughter died before they arrived in Canada and was buried at sea. They settled first in
Uxbridge township and then in Claremont, John excelling in the carpentry trade. His family
George (who was a cabinet maker and undertaker), John, Samuel, Abraham, William and
Joshua (who carried on the tinsmithing business in Claremont.
Their residence was just south of the United Church (formerly the Methodist Church) and it
became known as the "Bundy Block". George Beverley and his wife and family lived there until
it was torn down and a cement block store was put up by a Mr. McGrath to replace it.
COCHRANE - (PEGG) - William Cochrane, a native of Ireland, came to Canada in 1845. He
first lived in Pickering, then moved to Burford Township and helped to lay the railway between
Paris and Woodstock. He returned to Pickering, and worked for the Miller family of Atha. He
married Elizabeth Devitt and after working four years at Atha, they moved to Lot 11, Conc. 8.
They had ten children including Jane (Mrs. David Pilkey), Elizabeth (Mrs. W. H.Coates),
Josephine, Agnes and James.
Lot 11, Conc. 8 was deeded from Crown Land in the early 1800's. James Macauley had
purchased it from Chief Justice Elmsley and this was part of the land known as the Toronto
Purchase. Then the Linton brothers purchased it, each having fifty acres with separate sets
of buildings.
William Cochrane bought both farms around 1862 and built the present buildings. He was a
Shorthorn importer and made several trips to Scotland to purchase breeding stock. His
daughter Josephine and son James ran the farm until the early 1900's.
This farm was then rented to Emerson Ormerod, James Stevenson, and Norman Linton
respectively.
In 1937 William Pegg bought the farm. Mr. and Mrs. Pegg had four children: Sheila, David,
Marion and Gerald, The next owner was Ralph Hyatt in 1963, who more or less ran it as a
hobby farm while he worked in Toronto. Then, in 1973, they sold it and moved to Cambray
where they bought another farm. Since then, Lot 11, Conc. 8 has been operated by many
different people.
WELCOME TO:
CASTER FORSYTH HOUSE
5230 OLD BROCK ROAD NORTH
This house was built in 1892 by Mr. Thomas Patterson, a local Claremont builder, for Mr.
Tobias Caster. Mr. Caster was a grain merchant and was owner of the grain elevator where
the Claremont Co-Op now stands.
Mr. and Mrs. Caster had two children - Edna and John Herbert. John graduated in Electrical
Engineering from the University of Toronto and lived the rest of his life in Toronto. Edna
married Robert Forsyth of Claremont. The wedding ceremony was performed in the "Front
Parlour" of the house on April 23, 1902. Mr. Forsyth was a great-great grandson of Mr.
Joshua Wixson, one of the original settlers of the Village of Claremont.
Mr. and Mrs. Caster continued to occupy the house until their deaths in 1934 and 1940. Due
to Mrs. Caster's illness and her inability to look after the house, Mr. and Mrs. Forsyth and two
daughters moved into the house in 1925.
Mr. Forsyth was an optician and although his office was in Toronto, always resided in
Claremont. He died in 1956 and Mrs. Forsyth in 1959, at which time the house was sold to
Mr. N. Binstead and family who lived in the house some 20 years.
In 1980 Peter and Wendy Bigalke bought the five bedroom Victorian home and they have
since been restoring it to its original charm. They are currently working on the hallways and
stairs with finishing touches to the dining room.
The old house features original coloured glass, ceiling medallions, carved 1874 door hinges
and extensive wood trim and wainscotting. Over the years all the wood had been painted,
and the Bigalkes have spent many painstaking hours stripping paint to bring back the natural
pine beauty.
With the help of Mrs. Bigalke's father, the verandahs have been rebuilt including new posts
and gingerbread copied from the rotted originals.
The old summer kitchen and woodshed have been converted into the family room. Painted
wainscotting from the old dividing wall was used to finish the "woodshed" half of the room.
An old barn beam was used for the new fireplace mantel. The pine cupboard in the corner is
the refinished original.
In the hallway by the kitchen, there is an original metal candle holder nailed to the door frame
in the same spot it has always been. All of the light fixtures throughout the house have been
replaced with mostly antiques as the originals have been lost through the years.
Upstairs, one of the five bedrooms was converted into a bathroom with an attempt at down-
playing the modern conveniences by hiding the shower behind the door, using an antique
buffet as the vanity and an old four-footed tub that the Bigalkes bought from south of
Stratford, Ontario.
You will find photo albums on the dining room table of "before" and "after" pictures of each
room or project as they were completed.
WILKINS - DEATH (Lot 1, Conc. 8)
'
On May 3, 1845, John S. Macauley granted Lot 1, Conc. 8,
Pickering to John Nelson Potter and Anne Gee. This document was a Soldiers Grant and the
business was transacted at Newcastle, Ontario. They built a log cabin on the south-west field
on Conc. 8. Then in 1846, at Montreal, John Potter received the Crown Grant. More
acreage was acquired each time. In 1855, the stone house was built by a Mr. Pearson,
stonemason, who lived where Cherry Downs Golf Course now is. The stones used in the
construction of the house were found on the farm and the lintels over the windows, were
stone-boated from Whitby Harbour. Ramps were built to the road, to roll them up over the
upstairs windows. This is one of the finest old stone houses in Pickering Township.
In 1862, at Quebec, Alexander Wilkin acquired the Crown Grant and the Wilkin family
retained it until 1953, when Lindsay L. Death became the owner of 134 acres of land. The
Deaths are well known for their fruit and vegetables in this area. The farm is now known as
"Green Brae".
COWIE-Robert Cowie and his wife, Hannah Dixon, came from Mara Township to the north
half of Lot 27, Conc. 7, Pickering, about 18.90. They had one daughter, Meta, and one son,
Russell. Meta married Fred Cowie (no relation) and had one daughter, Irene, (Mrs. Thomas
Philip). Russell married Grace Lynn," of Toronto, where they still reside, and they have no
family. Fred Cowie was a long time member of the Claremont Football Club and his brother-
in-law, Russell, also played for a number of years.
COWIE-William Cowie came from Dumfries shire, Scotland around 1834 and settled on Lot
26, Conc. 7, Pickering which remained, in the Cowie name until around 1944, when it was
purchased by Alexander Gray. This land was originally part of the land that was given to
Captain George Law for war" services. William married Jenett (Janet) Bell, daughter of
John Bell, the first postmaster, of Atha. They also owned the E1/4 Lot 27, Conc. 8,
Pickering.
Their family included: James, who married Catharine Sharrard, daughter of Aaron Sharrard
(not a sister as in The History of Brougham - page 300); John married Evaleena Lapp, of
Altona; William married Agnes Dunkeld and they had one daughter, Annie Louise (Mrs.
Russell Davidson) [who died] he then married Catharine Sharrard, widow of James Cowie;
Elizabeth married Elias Bice; Robert died at the age of one; and Maggie married John
Kerr and moved to Brooklin.
James family were: William Edwin who married Mary Graham and had one daughter,
Margaret (Mrs. Victor Symes), and Fred, who married Meta Cowie.
DAY
Early in the 1830’s George day and his wife, Jane (Nellest), came from Yorkshire. They had
departed from Whitby, England and landed at Whitby, Canada. They settled on Crown Land,
Lot 7, Conc. 5 Pickering Township. Their family included William, Mary (Mrs. Wm. Jones),
Annie (Mrs. Robert Sadler), John, Jane (Mrs. William Lee), Hannah (unmarried) and Thomas.
They lived there a short while, then moved to Balsam.
Thomas married Mary Sadler and they had a son, Robert, who operated a portable sawmill at
Evansville (east of Claremont). He also did custom threshing. Later they lived about one mile
south of Claremont and he operated Barry’s mill. Robert married Hannah Flint and their family
include: Jessie (unmarried), Richard, William and Annie Sophia (Mrs. Alvin Bushby).
Richard (Dick) was caretaker and fireman at Cedar Creek School, while he attended. He
received ten cents (each time) for sweeping the school and $1.00 per month for lighting the
fire. At the age of twelve, he began threshing with his dad. He married Sarah Hopkins in 1916
and has lived in the same house in Balsam since that time. Sarah died and in 1933 he
married Elsie Walker. His family included Charlie, Delma (Mrs. Clifford Martin) and Doris
(Mrs. Gerald Westgarth).
EVANS - William Evans was born on a farm east of the Village of Claremont, the son of
Thomas Morgan Evans and Mary Elizabeth Hannah Jane Linton. He married Aldine Ward,
daughter of Walter Ward on May 11, 1932, with the Rev. MacLellan officiating.
He was a great sports enthusiast, a member of the Claremont Band for many years; a member
of the village Fire Department and was given a thirty-five year medallion and a citation for his
long and faithful service. He served as clerk of the session in the United Church and a member
of the Board of Stewards for over 40 years. He was a Master Plumber for Pickering Township
for 30 years and farmed for 11 years.
William and Aldine had three sons: Blair, Glen and Dean, all of Claremont. Blair married Jean
Madill; Glen married Isobel Atkinson and Dean married Carolyn Payne: two daughters, Betty
(Mrs. Terry Hopkins) and Christina (Mrs. Paul Forsythe).
Blair and Jean had two children: Rodney and Sherry: Glen and Isobel had four children: Kim
(Mrs. John Bolender). Kelly (Mrs. Clarke Canning), Patti and Pam. Dean and Carolyn had
three children: Brad, Tim and Deanna; Betty and Terry had two children; Jodi and Jeff. Paul
and Christina had three children; Chad, Damon and Jay.
William died March 15th, 1978 while on vacation.
FORGIE— John Forgie came from Scotland to Canada in 1852. He married Barbara Duncan
in 1860, and they settled near Cherrywood. After five years, they moved to N1/2 Lot 19, Conc.
9, and in 1897 retired in Claremont. Their family included: John, Mary, James, Isabella, Jean,
John (who farmed on Lot 19, Conc. 9, until his retirement), Annie and Agnes. John became the
Reeve of Pickering Township in 1923-24. His first wife was Miss Bowes who died in 1906.
They had two sons, Murray and William. Then in 1906, he married Charlotte Howitt. He was
very active in all community affairs.
In 1925 they sold the farm to David Dawson. He and his wife, the former Edith Fell, had
emigrated from England to Canada in 1904. They settled first at Cherrywood and the first
person they met upon arrival was William Teefy, a devout Roman Catholic. They shook hands,
and Mr. Teefy remarked, "You go to your church and I'll go to mine but we'll walk along together.
" They became great friends. Later, they went to Locust Hill, and in 1925 they settled on the
Forgie farm. They had three daughters: Helen (Mrs. Dean Mairs), Lucy (Mrs. William Boyington),
and Lillian (Mrs. Joseph Empringham), and two sons: David and Robert. David Sr. died in
1948.
GRAHAM — Richard Graham was a native of Dumfriesshire, in Scotland. Born in 1828, he
came to Canada when a young man. He made many trips to Scotland crossing the ocean fifty-
two times, bringing back to Canada Clydesdales, Hackneys and ponies of high quality. In
1882, he became a victim of pneumonia and passed away at his home, Cairnbrogie Farm,
Claremont leaving his wife, the former Mary Armstrong, daughter of Robert Armstrong of
Markham Township, and a family of five sons, Robert, William, David, George and Thomas
and two daughters, Elizabeth and Margaret. His sons inherited their father's love of good
horses and continued to import from Scotland. Their success in the show ring at many of the
leading fairs and exhibitions on this continent, such as the Canadian National Exhibition,
Toronto; the Ottawa and London, Ontario Exhibitions; Chicago Internationals Chicago,
Illinois; and Madison Square Gardens, New York, won them many trophies and medals.
Following the death of William, in 1932, the farm was sold and two remaining members of
the family, Thomas and Margaret moved to the Village of Claremont.
The farm was later purchased by Winton White and his wife, Lila Barclay. Then Mr. and Mrs.
H.Hilge bought it, and transformed the house into the "Claremont Nursing Home Ltd".
(Gosling)
GAUSLIN - George Gauslin and his wife, Jane Gauby emigrated from England and settled on
Lot 13, Conc. 8 Pickering. Their family were: Joseph, Elizabeth, Richard, Thomas (Lot 14,
Conc. 7), Susan, Hannah, Eliza, John (who remained on the farm), and Mary. John married
Addie Tucker and they had three children; Walter, Herman and Ethel (Mrs. John Murray). They
retired from the farm in 1970, and moved to Brougham. Both Herman and Ethel died in 1972
and Walter moved to Stouffville. This farm was bought by Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Verschuuren
(Pickering Sod Farms Ltd.). Joe died in 1987 and his son Peter took over the farm.
Both Walter and Herman had no family but Ethel and John had two children: Walter who
married Ruth Grose, and Jean (Mrs. Cecil McMordie). Walter and Ruth had two children:
Robert who married Carolyn Burton and Julie.
GAUSLIN - George Gosling and his brother emigrated from England around 1850. They
landed in New York but never saw each other again. He and his wife Jane came to Canada
and also purchased Lot 14 (north half) in the 7th. Conc., of Pickering from Archibald Pilkey
(100 Acres) for the sum of $5,5OO. In 1893 this land was handed down to his son, Thomas
who had the name changed to GAUSLIN. Thomas married Mary Middleton and they had one
son Leslie and two children by a former marriage, Albert and Mame who both moved to the
United States. The barn that now stands was built in 1901 and the brick house in 1905 which
was onstructed for $5000. They drew all the bricks from Uxbridge with a horse and wagon.
Thomas died in 1930 and Mary on Oct 31st., 1924 in her 77th. year and Leslie who had
married Lila Slack, daughter of Albert Slack and Elizabeth Beverley, continued to
GAUSLIN - (Cont'd) - operate the farm. They had two sons Gordon and Earl, Gordon married
Lillian Graham of Markham and they farmed on Lot 12, Conc. 8, Pickering. They had two sons
Glen and Ronald; Glen married Linda Smith and they have five children: Melanie, Laura, Donna,
Renee, and Neil. Ronald works at ARC Industries, in Ajax and is not married. In 1965 Leslie
sold the farm to Messrs. Corson and Howes and the Gauslins retired to Stouffville. Earl is now
in the auctioneering business and is not married.
Gordon sold the farm in 1970 to David Haynes of Toronto and moved to Claremont.
Leslie died July 21st., 1972 and Lila died April 13th, 1981.
GOSTICK - The northern half of Lot 24, Conc. 7, where the Machpelah (Gostick) Cemetary is
located, was originally owned by Samuel George who had emigrated to Canada early in the
1800's. It was sold to John Gostick, Adam Spears, Alexandra Spears, Hugh Gregg and then to
Thomas Calvert Gostick in 1896. When Frank Gostick was married in 1923, he and his wife
(Pearl Phillip), took over the farm. They had two children, Gordon and Ilene (Mrs. Merlin Pugh).
In 1966, they sold the farm to Shea Real Estate and moved to Stouffville. Part of this property
was purchased by Frank Russell and is now in the expropriated area.
GOSTICK- For one hundred and fifty some years, the direct line of the Rev. Thomas Gostick
owned and operated Lot 24, Conc. 7, where five generations of Gosticks made their home.
In June, 1832, after thirteen weeks of sailing, they landed in Montreal, continued their journey
to Upper Canada, and settled in Pickering Township.
Rev. Thomas Gostick married Sarah Spearing Burton, of Essex, England and to this union
were born two sons and three daughters, and one child who died before their
GOSTICK - (Cont'd.) - departure from England. Thomas Fleming Gostick married Elizabeth
Scarr of Drayton and lived on the homestead; John Gostick married Priscilla Hailey of
Claremont; they later moved to London, Ontario; Liza married Alfred Tracy who lived on a fifty-
acre farm on the 9th. Conc. (retired in Claremont);Sarah married William Tracy and settled in
Minesing, Ont.; Mary Ann married John Baillie and moved to Toronto.
To Thomas Gostick and Elizabeth Scarr were born Thomas Calvert and Frederick, also a
daughter, Elizabeth. Fred married Hattie Whittleton of Goodwood, Ont. They reside on Lot 24,
Conc. 7. To them were born two sons and six daughters: Maurice John, killed in a car accident
in 1941; Russel Frederick married Ethel Ward and had one son, Gary Russel - they resided on
Lot 24, Conc. 7; Muriel (killed in a car accident); Myrtle (Mrs. Walter Foote); Kathleen Isobel
(killed in a car accident in 1986); Ellen Jean (Nellie) married William Hopkins and died in 1986:
they had one son, Maurice William; and Ada Elizabeth (Mrs. Fred Hodgson) lived in Brougham;
and Edith May was employed as a receptionist at the Baptist Church House in Toronto: she
died in 1986.
Illustration:
The house as it was up to 1929
Barnraising 1902
GREGG (Lot 25, Conc. 8)
In the early 1830's, Hugh Gregg with his wife and family of ten (six boys and four girls) left
Northern Ireland to settle in Canada. After spending three years near German Mills, they
moved to Pickering Township. Shortly after, Mr. Gregg passed away. Of the sons, two
stayed in Pickering Township - Joseph (Lot 26, Conc. 8) and Hugh (Lot 25, Conc.8).
Joseph Gregg had a family of nine, of which four lived in this area. Hugh continued living on
his father’s farm, later moved to Claremont (opposite the United Church). He had a family
of three (girls - Eva (Mrs. William Pugh whose son, Hugh, still lives in the area,), Nellie (Mrs.
William Palmer) and Lizzie (Mrs. Charles Elliott, of Brooklin). John Gregg married Cora
McAvoy, daughter of T. C. McAvoy and former teacher at Mt. Zion School. John was a
business man in Claremont. Ruth lived with her parents and Ellen (Mrs. Andrew Storry) lived
on Lot 23, Conc. 8.
Hugh Gregg, brother of Joseph, continued on the farm, part of which had been purchased by
his mother in 1845 and the remainder in 1868. He and his wife, Noble Lindsay, had a family
of four -Thomas, David, Jennie (Mrs. Thomas Condy) and Margaret (Mrs. David McFarlane).
David continued the family farm and also farmed the south part of Lot 26, Conc. 9. He married
Lizselle Little, who had taught in Claremont. They had a family of four - two sons, Hugh and
Gordon both deceased), and two daughters, Isobel and Jean. Thomas Gregg married
Isabella Palmer (sister of William) and lived on Wixson Street, in Claremont. She only lived
two years and the house, built by William Leaper, was sold to William Palmer.
These two brothers, David and Hugh, were twins. Hugh had
settled in Pickering while David settled in Reach. Later Hugh thought that he would like to be
nearer his brother. Another brother, Joseph, had bought land in Reach and the two agreed to
trade farms. The one in Reach was all bush. After some months of back-breaking labour,
Hugh asked Joe to trade back again. This was arranged. Shortly afterwards a tornado passed
through that part of Reach leveling a good portion of Joe’s farm.
The farm (S1/2 of N1/2 Lost 25, Conc. 8) known as the Gregg farm was in the family over one
hundred years passing from Hugh Sr. to David and then to Hugh Jr. In 1968 it was sold to K.D.
Walmark and Elaine Pitt.
HAMILTON – Four sons of John Hamilton emigrated from Duns, Berwickshire, Scotland, to
Canada in the early 1800’s. William, opened a store at York Mills and later moved to Uxbridge.
His grandson became the village postmaster. William was followed by John and Alexander,
who came together, then later, the fourth brother, Robert came. Robert was a teacher and his
profession took him to various places.
Alexander Hamilton conducted a general store in Claremont from 1856 until 1861, just east of
the four corners on the north side of the ninth Concession. He then moved to Albion. He died
in 1889.
John Hamilton first lived in the vicinity of Weston. He married Mary McGlashan and later moved
to Pickering where he farmed for several years in the south part of the Township. In 1840 he
purchased the north half of Lots 19 and 20, Conc. 9, the north-east angle of which “corners” into
the Village of Claremont. A stone building was erected on the corner known as “the stone store”.
It was the first store in the village and was operated by Thomas Noble, the first postmaster.
John Hamilton lived on this farm until his death in 1887. His family were: Alison, Helen, John,
Janet, Jessie, Margaret and Andrew.
HICKINGBOTTOM – In 1842 John Hickingbottom came to Canada and purchased Lost 2 and
3, Conc. 9, Pickering. Other owners were: 1906 – William Chisholm; 1915 – W.P. Jones;
1959 – Lewis Jones; 1964 – General Sir Neil Ritchie. It was sold again in 1974. The lovely
fieldstone home on this farm is approximately 130 years old and shows the excellent
workmanship that went into these older dwellings.
In 1925, Claremont Brick and Cement Products Ltd., purchased ten acres of land and
operated a business from there but this soon went out of existence. A gravel pit was also on
this farm, where gravel was drawn out by horse and wagons to make new roads in the area.
Each farmer was obligated to draw a certain amount or be charged extra in taxes. Later, the
Township drew the gravel in trucks.
HICKINGBOTTOM – (Cont’d) – While the Ritchies were the owners of the farm, the house eas
laden with mementoes of battle campaigns and furnished with many Asian antiques. General
Ritchie was a British Army Commander and rose from Second Lieutenant of the British Armed
Forces in 1914, to A.D.C. General to the King from 1948 to 1951. When he retired in 1951, he
was awarded the Knights Grand Cross (G.B.E.).
This farm was later owned by Mr. and Mrs. Scott Fennell. Scott became our Federal Member
of Parliament and served in the Department of the Secretary of State. He resigned in 1988.
LINTON. - (Lots 13 and 14, Conc. 8, Pickering)
Isaac Linton (born 1805) came to Canada from Yorkshire, England, in 1830, with his brother,
Robert, who settled near Pickering Village.
In 1832, Isaac settled on Lot 13, Conc. 8, Pickering, which consisted of eighty acres of bush
land. He Paid $6.00 per acre for it. Here he built a small frame house which still stands. The
family slept upstairs and at night the last one to bed pulled the ladder up in case a wild animal
entered the downstairs. He also built a barn 35' x 55' which also stands. He specialized in
Clydesdale horses.
In 1842, he married Hannah Coultice, who had also emigrated from Yorkshire. They had six
children, Elizabeth (Mrs. Charles Pugh), Ann (Mrs. Edward Pugh), Jane (Mrs. Edward
Russell), Harriett Mrs. John Chapman) who lived on the Uxbridge-Pickering Townline, where
their great nephew Lloyd Linton lives, Alice (died at the age of nine) and William.
Twice a year, Isaac travelled to York (Toronto) by wagon and team to trade his produce for
sugar and flour. This trip took two days. In 1862, he built the stone house on Lot 13, and in
Claremont - he built the house where Dr. Tomlinson resides. They were very active
members of both the Claremont Methodist Church and the Society of Bethel. They had many
camp meetings on their property and people travelled for miles to attend. During the progress
of such meetings the ministers and principal workers lodged with the Lintons and they had
twenty beds to make each day.
Isaac purchased fifty acres on the north 1/2 of the S1/2 of Lot 14, which had been partially
cleared by a family by the name of Dunn. A few years later, he purchased another fifty acres
south of this.
William Linton married Elizabeth Burgess, in 1872. To them was born a daughter Elizabeth
(Mrs. Morgan Evans). The mother died six days after Elizabeth's birth. In 1874, William
married Sarah Puckrin and their family included: Almira (Mrs. william Middleton), Alice (Mrs.
Judson Ward), Emma (Mrs. Herbert Blake), Etta (Mrs. Fred Ward), Norman, Levi and
Beatrice (Mrs. John Bales). Norman married Eva Holtby in 1917, and carried on with the
family farm. In 1920, he built a dairy barn and shipped milk in cans which he took daily to the
railway station in Claremont.
Illustration:
The Home of Isaac Linton – Built in 1862 – (now owned by Raymond Stickwood).
LINTON – Cont’d
Norman’s family included: Edith (Mrs. Raymond Stickwood) R. N., Eileen (Mrs. Paul Wellman),
Mildred (Mrs. Maurice Binstead), and Doris and Dora (who were twins and died in infancy).
In 1951, Raymond and Edith Stickwood bought the farm from her father, who retired in
Claremont. Their family included: Kenneth, Brian and Katherine (who is attending McMaster
University in Hamilton to take her Bachelor of Science in Nursing).
The sixth generation born on this farm was Janice Marie, daughter of Kenneth and Doreen
(Jones), on September 11, 1971.
PROPERTY OF CLEEVE HORNE
One of the distressing aspects of an airport site is the deterioration of life in the adjacent land
area; be it farm land which will suffer from noise and air pollution or streams and wild life
habitats killed by the unnatural environment or homes made unfit to live in because of airport
traffic. People and animals thus affected are rightfully called "The Uncompensated Losers."
One such site, located only 3/4 mile from a projected runway is the home and property of Mr.
and Mrs. Cleeve Horne. The area, encompassing two hundred acres, has been maintained as
farm land and a natural sanctuary for fish, birds and animal life; such as deer, pheasant, fox, the
blue heron and occasionally a timber wolf. The vegetation supports such rarities as the
Fiddlehead Fern, Jack in the Pulpit, May Apple, Bittersweet, Wild Ginger and a magnificent
growth of the Ontario symbol, the Trillium. The pond and stream also provide a resting place
for migratory wild fowl.
The Hornes will face an even greater threat if the airport is built. Their home, a building of
international architectural importance and engineering accomplishment, will be particularly
vulnerable to damage by aircraft. The roof structure based on the principle of the Hyperbolic
Parabaloid, rests gracefully on its two low points. As a need for a bearing wall has been
eliminated by the self-supporting roof, only full length glass windows are used to protect the
interior. The concept, possible in theory for years, became practical with the invention of
reinforced concrete and was realized in this building by the Toronto Architects' firm of
Clifford and Lawrie in 1958. How long this home of future historic interest would remain
intact with 747's passing 100 feet overhead is a point for speculation. People interested in
viewing the house or partaking in a nature walk, have been invited to do so by Mr. and Mrs.
Horne, during the festival weekend May 13, 14. The location is south of Claremont, 1/2 mile
east on the 8th Concession off the Brock Road.
Be loneses Of Pickering Townshipo n's c w
The loanvmeMn whkl, sk to
ovnE the rayl and south walls
ce, bat the Low. and like
It the eM nl the mine I, will
Bell in 1870, IF
apell nn,t e, rho are
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.
a pervNor paldcTx nwith
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ill brought by the attend owner
fthe C uer Farm, lmel, loner
11 -51859). when he left England,
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You are Invited to the
Girds W0wr6wh
Lot 5. Con. 7
Pickering Township
July 26th, 1992
1:30 p.m.
To help Celebrate
of ]ones History
B.B.Q. 4:00 p.m.
Murray & Evelyn, alma & Families
Please bring your lawnchairs
and reply by July 1st to
Murray & Evelyn banes
R.R. # 1 Ashburn, Ontario
LOO 1510 416-649-5200
In 4UU5 eepn and
Joan's On
do,.
Lets back up a bit and
I'll tell the story.
From then to now is an
interesting allegory.
England was the
place where it all begun
rheseventh child at George
and Susannah -he was a son.
his Joseph was a strong
gardener for Lord Hoddinott
ut this English gent found
l ms
helf in love -knot
in love with the Lord's
daughtero
by a common folk,
Yas unheard f then and would
make Royalty choke.
U OLD LJO�
Homestead
Open House
Il®RI
Anniversary
1842-1992
1842 vas the date they
settled here,
To Work the land and
begin their c.-.._
Tn.1it i.,.,_ we. Mae --ane -
LoraHoddlmtt dreaded
this love. affair.
But Joseph and Joan
WithoutSI reply
hercare.not
father's
blessing Joan did decide -
To leave the estate
and slope outside.
When Joan died it
left Joseph In a haze,
With ten children
to feed- he had to raise.
He loaded his family
on a ship In 1832,
And headed to Canada
not knowing what held do./
A small barn was built
for the animals and grain.
The harder they worked
the more they could gain.
Elijah, six children
and a wife.
Worked In the fields
for their entire life.
There was no buying or
selling in 1865.
Families exchanged produce
with neighbours to survive
Soap homemade, clothe
and preserves.
The hardest wo ker
got what he deserves.
In 1870 they built this
brick house.
F comm as fee and
lots of disease.
Down the St.Lawience they
stopped at Port Hope.
Hardship was in stone
eh how would they cope?
They last their possessions
when the boat up set.
A few belongings aaved,
but the t gotwet.
Where to settle they
had to decide,
The surveyor's arks in Mta
s the place to provide.
They settled on Lot Five
Concession Seven.
Pr party at last must have
1j felt like M1ea en. At
That youngest son
his name
was Bert.
Flaying thesheaves
he was an expert.
.Turn of the century
was a changing time.
A new
way of farming
- shift in paradigm.
To Toronto markets
carting their produce.
To sell to the locals
for their as entail use.
A cellar fullof cots
turnips and peas.
0£f to the canning
factory before they free
The next one In line
was Bert's son Lorne.
FoluaSAiliings coo.
A log house was built
south of the lane.
Wenot sure of this,
but there the lilac rema
A full day's work
as clearing the land.
Dawn a on enormous tdusk,
as mons aemana.
Joseph's youngest s
Elijah Elijhis name.
Took over this lande
o they proclaim.
Team up the horses,
to till tsol
Planting some seeds
ws a tremendous toil. v
rThe thresher and whippet
Mode being replaced.
ern inventions were
winning the race.
With new
equipment
camegovernment guide -lines
Taxes, quotas
were
a time of the signs.
The farm operation
turned to raising holsteins
Lorne's son urray
ed the milking routines.
Times axe changing
there may be a day.
An airport, a dump
or a
v highway?
Asyou look over this land
give a little prayer.
And thank our fore -fathers
for a heritage of fresh air
AV:
LEAPER
Thomas Leaper emigrated from Yorkshire, England in 1830. After living in various places he
settled east of Claremont on the 9th. Conc. In 1832 he married Ann Wallace and became a
faithful worker of the Bethel Church. His family were: Mary, Thomas, Ann (Mrs. Law), William
and Susannah.
William was in the contracting business and it was he, who built the rink that was so popular
both for skaters and curlers in the early 1900’s.
Lehman – Wesley and Arvilla Lehman were married on Nov. 12th. 1919. Arvilla was the former
Arvilla Hill and she was born in North Dakota on Feb. 6th, 1897. The couple took up residence
north of Claremont in 1929 where they farmed.
Around 1950 they retired and moved into the village of Claremont across from the public school.
In addition to being a mother and housewife, she was an enthusiastic community worker.
During the war she assisted the Red Cross and was a Life Member of the Ladies Auxiliary.
Wesley was a Handyman doing cement work and small carpenter jobs.
They are survived by two sons, John who married Rowena Redshaw, Bruce who married
Joan Craig and Alvin killed in action World War II.
John and Rowena had four children: Robert who married Barbara Empringham, Alvin who
married Nancy Janice (Mrs. Steve Cosgrey), and Gordon who married Brown.
LINTON – Edward Linton and his wife, Ellen Middleton came to Claremont before the turn of
the century. They had three daughters: Vera (Mrs. Eugene Martin) who farmed at
Claremont, then moved to Kendal, Ontario; Sadie (Mrs. Norris Hardy) who lived in
Claremont and later retired in Port Perry; and Dorothy (Mrs. Irwin Purdy) of Lindsay.
Illustration: Mr. and Mrs. Cliff Reynolds
50th Wedding Anniversary, February 18, 1972
Linton- Peter Linton was born January 2nd, 1865. He married Mary Bentley and settled in
Claremont where two sons, Levi Peter and John Lockwood Linton were born. Levi married
Annie Shepherdson, daughter of William Shepherdson (section foreman in Claremont). Mr.
and Mrs. Shepherdson had emigrated from England to Canada and settled in Claremont on
William St. (where James Peddie later lived). They had a family of eight children; Emma,
Annie, Mary, Ethel, Minnie, Maggie, Marshel and William (who was killed in World War I).
Levi also became a section foreman on the C.P.R. He and his wife were the parents of seven
children; Laura (Mrs. Clifford Reynolds), Merle (Mrs. Orville Cox) now deceased, Margaret
(Mrs. Ernie baker), now deceased, George (died in infancy), Stanley (married Reva Cooper),
Doris (Mrs. Harold Hopkins) and Earl (married to Marie Sadlemire).
Clifford and Laura had two sons; James and Douglas. James married Maisie Robinson and
they had children Douglas married Carol Craig and they have children Clifford Reynolds had
four sisters; Mrs. Olga Yeaman, Mrs. Thelma Woodburn, Isobel, and Mrs. Evelyn Evans.
Clifford died May 25th, 1982.
Harold and Doris had one son Terry, who married Betty Evans daughter of William and
Aldine Evans. They had two children Jody and Clifford and Laura lived on the corner of
Wellington and Victoria Streets.
LYNN - Daniel Lynn came from England in the early 1800's. He married Sarah Catharine
Wilson of Gwillimbury Township, York County. They farmed in Uxbridge Township for several
years, then moved to the Claremont area. They had seven children: Annie (Mrs. Nathan Linton),
Edward (married Esther Hardy), Mary (Mrs. George Bentley), Frederick (married Viola
Middleton), Percy (died in World War I) - his twin died in infancy, and Robert.
Fred worked for different farmers in the area. His family included: Irene (Mrs. Charles Redshaw),
Bernice (Mrs. Bruce Douglas), Gordon (who worked for many years on the Roads Department
of Pickering Township), and Murray (who married Elaine Edgar).
Mrs. Daniel Lynn became a Life Member of the Baptist Mission Circle in 1932 and was one of
its Faithful supporters.
McAVOY - James McAvoy purchased Lot 3, Conc. 7 in 1839 from J.S. MacAulay. His son
Robert later took over this farm and it is now occupied by Ellesmere Nurseries.
Christopher McAvoy and Mary Kerr emigrated from Ireland in 1830 and settled in Whitby
Township. They worked among the Quakers for a few years and in 1845 settled on Lot 8,
Conc. 8. This land was later owned by William Arbuckle and then by his children, Eliza,
William Arthur and Ethel.
Mr. and Mrs. Reginald Hoskins became the owners in 1947. They had six daughters: Linda,
Janetta, Margaret, Ruth, Ann and Susan. Ruth (Mrs. Gordon Taylor) still lives in the
Claremont Area.
T. C. McAvoy, son of Christopher and Mary lived on Lot 8, Conc. 7. Later, Irving McAvoy and
his wife owned and operated the farm. They had five children: Kathleen, Norval married
Olive Thompson, Frank married Margaret Briscoe, Bernice (Mrs. Jack Ward) and Mary
(Mrs. Jack Tulley). Norval and Olive had two children: Barbara and Neil; Frank and Margaret
had three children: Brenda, William and Fay; Bernice
McAvoy - Cont'd. - and Jack had three children: Shelley, Nancy and Brent who was killed in an
unfortunate accident at his home in 1980; Mary and Jack had four children: Steven, Michael,
Kevin and Lisa.
Irving and Mary McAvoy had another son John who died in infancy. Mary died in 1935 and
Irving died in 1971. This farm was in this family over one hundred years when his daughter
Kathleen sold it in 1973 to Robert "Bobbie" Baun, the well-known hockey player.
MIDDLETON - James and Almira (Rawson) emigrated from England and settled on Conc, 5,
Uxbridge. Their son, Sylvester (Vex) married Ruth Marson, who was born in Thwing, England
and came to Canada at the age of thirteen. Their family settled on the 6th. of Uxbridge. When
their children were quite young they came to the Claremont area, living on the 9th. Conc., and
also in North Claremont. They had a family of six children: Andrew (deceased), James,
Malcolm (Mac), Viola, George and Aldine. They were very ambitious people working for many
of the farmers and Claremont residents for 50c per day. Through their perseverance and hard
work they were able to over-come great hardships.
Mrs. Sylvester Middleton had four sisters: Hannah (Mrs. Arthur Thornton, Louisa (Mrs. Oscar
Barber), Henrietta (Mrs., William Linton) and May (Mrs. Wm. Catherwood).
Malcolm and Maud had four children: Joan (Mrs. Madill) of Stouffville, Marian who married
Stanley Benson, Grace who married Donald Benson, both of Claremont; and Kenneth who
married Benson.
MIDDLETON - Charles Middleton emigrated from Yorkshire, England to the United States.
There he married Jane Carlyle and they came to Canada about 1845. They settled first in
Uxbridge Township, where Mrs. Middleton died in 1873. Charles moved to Claremont and
remained there until his death in 1909. Their two daughters were:
Mrs. Pugh and Mrs. Joseph Readman of Claremont.
George Middleton settled on lot 13 Conc. 7, in 1855. He married Maria Horsley and they had
ten children: James, John, Richard, Mary (Mrs. Thomas Gauslin, Lot 14, Conc. 7), Jane,
Elizabeth, Matilda, George, Hannah and William, George Sr. came from England when he was
only twelve years old,
George Jr. carried on the Middleton farm and married Georgina Barnes. Their family were:
George, John, and Ada (Mrs. Lorne Ham). John married Jessie Beelby in 1939 and remained
on the farm. In 1961 the farm was sold to W. Gordon Duncan and John moved to Ashburn
where he died.
MANTLE - David Mantle and Hannah Brillinger were married in 1853 and settled in Altona,
Ontario. They had a large family one of which was Albert who married Adelia Pilkey, daughter
of Joseph Pilkey who lived on the eighth Concession. At first Albert and Adelia lived in part of
the house, later owned by Dr. Tomlinson, then they moved to William Street, Claremont. Albert
was a very active man excelling as a stone-mason and later in life he kept bees.
Their family included: Hazel (Mrs. Nelson Sanderson), Ina (Mrs. Dorian Woodburn) and Olive
(Mrs. Harry Jarvis)
Hazel and Nelson had four children: Evelyn (Mrs. Jack Duncan) of Orillia, Thelma (Mrs. Robert
Hockley) of Sunderland, Joan (Mrs. George Childs) of Little Brittain and Reginald (who
married Olive), of Brockville.
Nelson worked for the C.P.R. for a number of years, then he served in the Armed Forses
during World War I and upon returning he worked for Russell Construction Company of
Toronto.
Hazel died in her 89th. year, Nov. 9th, 1988.
MADILL - Henry Madill settled on Lot 20, Conc. 7, Pickering in 1862. He was the son of
Benjamin Madill, who came to Canada from Ireland around 1837. Henry married Phoebe
Sharrard and their children were: Joshua, James (Lot 19, Conc. 7), Joel, John, Wixon, Ann
and Sylvanus.
James H. Madill and his wife Juliet Churchill had four children: Phoebe, Kate, Hattie and
Fred. Hattie married Frank Ham and they had five children: Lorne who married Ada
Middleton, Hilda (Mrs. George Middleton), Myrtle (Mrs. Walter Baker), Nora, and Marie
(Mrs. Donald McCullough). They lived on Lot 21, Conc. 7, Pickering. Fred married Mabel
Bunker and lived on Lot 20, Conc. 7, until they retired to Claremont. Fred died in 1973. They
had two sons, Kenneth and
Ross. Ross farmed on the Brock Road near Brougham, then Moved to Stouffville. Kenneth
lived at Marmora and had five children: Mrs. Fay Graves, Oshawa; Darlene (Mrs. Hiram
Harmon) of Altona;
MADILL - Cont'd. - Bonny (Mrs. Mrs. Ronald Hare) and Wayne
and Neil of Marmora.
Mrs. Madill died March 3rd., 1976.
MORLEY - Fred and Verna Morley looked after the Post-Office in Claremont for many years.
Verna was the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Josiah Evans and spent all her life in the community
with the exception of two years at Norwick following her marriage. She was a Life Member
of the Baptist Mission Circle.
Fred and Verna had five sons: Gordon of Kitchener, Joe of Ottawa, Victor of Brantford,
Wilfred of Stouffville and Kenneth is deceased. They also had two daughters, Jean (Mrs.
Harvey McLean) P.E.I., and Gladys (Mrs. George Stallan) California. Verna also had one
brother, Fred who ran the creamery in Claremont and two sisters Zella (Mrs. Fred Appleton)
and Jean (Mrs. Clifford Pilkey).
Victor Morley married Beth Sutherland and they had five children! Keith, Ronald, Guy, Craig
and Tracy. Victor passed away suddenly Feb. 11th, 19.
Verna passed away Dec. 2nd, 1970 and Fred moved
to Stouffville.
MIDDLETON - James Middleton and his wife were born in England and emigrated to
Canada. They bought the south half of Lot 20, Conc. 8, in 1863 from Joseph Bell. Their
daughter, Rebecca married Matthew Beelby and they bought the farm from her father in
1876. Their family included: William, Mary Jane (Mrs. Edward Graham), Alice, Frank,
Kirkwood, Elizabeth (Mrs. Thomas Graham), Frederick and John. Their son, John married
Florence Pickett and they had one son, Robert who now resides in Claremont. Later John's
first wife died and he married Mary Ashenhurst. To this marriage was one daughter,
Kathleen (Mrs. Robert Haslam). Frank Beelby married Frances Hood and they raised two
sons, Ernest and Fred, Ernest married Elsie Carter and they farmed on the 6th Conc,
Pickering. They had five children Edna (Mrs. Russell Hodgson), Murray, Kenneth, Orval and
Clarence who married Shirley Taylor. They have two children: Donna and James.
Robert died in 19 , and his wife May moved to Stouffville Their children were: Donald,
Phyllis, Mary and Linda (Mrs. Lorne Michell.
McFarlane – Bacon - Britton
Lot 20 Concessions 9
On November 23, 1802, a petition was considered by a committee. It read: Abraham
Townsend, Pickering yeoman, praying for land as a settler, recommended for two hundred
acres subject to settling duties. Abraham Townsend and his wife, Statty (Statira Keeney)
came to Canada with his sister Deborah, brother-in-law, Joseph Wixson, sister ELizabeth
and her husband Anthony Hendrich, before 1800.
Three children, Gamaliel, Amy and Eliza Townsend, were born on this land.
Gamaliel lived in Pickering until 1815, then moved to Ohio. Who lived on lot 20 from then until
1848 when John Strathern, his daughter Agnes Strathern and son-in-law James McFarlane
settled here from Glasgow, Scotland, is not known.
James McFarlane's children were John, Marion, Margaret and David Strathern. David
Strathern McFarlane married Mary McDonald (daughter of Graham McDonald, Claremont).
Their children were Agnes, Sara, Mary, John, Charles, David, Walter and James (born 1869).
James McFarlane married Adelia Dowswell in 1896. Their children were Jean, Wallace,
and Douglas.
There was a log cabin on the highest land west of the brick house that now stands. It took
three years to build the brick house. It has 1876 written on it. The front verandah was built in
1905. It also has two side verandahs on the back section.
James McFarlane usually kept 20 cattle, and had a peacock. He had an evaporator in a
shanty for maple syrup. They held sugaring off for all of Claremont.
James McFarlane went west in 1910 and took up land in Peace River district in British
Columbia in 1911. Joe Evans, the father of Fred Evans who still lives in Claremont, worked the
land. People who rented the land were Neal, James Underhill from 1916 to 1917 and Roy
Morgan from 1918 to 1921. Mary and Jack were born here.
In 1922, Tom and Hazel Bacon (nee Watson) with their six children, Bertha, Hazel, Alice,
Douglas, Don and Myrtle, decided to purchase the 200-acre McFarlane farm from James
McFarlane and moved there from the second of Uxbridge at Garabaldie. The farm was
purchased for $15,000. It had a wooden overhead bridge over the railway tracks to get to the
north fields. The bridge was in poor repair and the timbers weak, so it was demolished about
1924.
At this time the house had a large shed at the rear with a well in it and a privy connected at the
northeast.
A large elm tree graced the west lawn and the clothes line was attached to it. The house inside
contained six bedrooms upstairs and two downstairs. In the front part of the downstairs was a
dining, pantry, living area and front hall, front stairway, cellar stairs and outside cellar stairs. In
the back section was kitchen, pantry and washroom and back stairway.
The two barns were in shambles. The old barns were replaced in 1923 by the new structure
with a silo and cement stables, with three rows of stanchions and horse stalls. Hired help
was necessary besides for the building of the barn. Milk cows, young stock pigs, sheep and
16 horses for horse power were kept in the barn. The orchard east of the house contained
between 75-100 trees. The north orchard had pears, red and blue grapes and cherry trees.
The big barn raising brought hundreds of people together to be fed. In the house the ladies
were turning out cakes and pies by the dozens. In the summer bread was bought daily from
Dave Taylor’s bake shop in Claremont. Mrs. Bacon baked in the winter herself and she made
butter and sold it to Claremont dwellers. Fowl was the main resource in the fall. Meat was
cured and vegetables and fruit preserved.
A lane ran through the center of the farm, over the tracks to different fields and to the bush
where 300 maple trees were tapped each spring.
There was a rock garden along the side of the 9th Concession. Plants were brought by Bertha
Bacon from different places she travelled.
In 1925, the house was remodelled. An archway was built between the front west bedroom
and the living room making it into one room. An artificial fire place and a centre chimney was
built by Harry Found. The pantry and north east bedroom was made into a winter kitchen. A
furnace was installed and electricity was put in around this time. The bathroom was put in
upstairs in the front hall.
Donald Bacon ran the farm from 1934 to 1947. From 1947 to 1949, Walter and Bessie Death
owned the front 90 acres for which they paid $12,500. The rear 75 acres was sold for $100.
and acre. Donald Bacon kept the middle 35 acres.
Edward Norton owned the front 90 acres from 1949 to 1950. Joseph Symes moved here in
1950 with his wife Florence (Tindall) and daughters Erla and Shirley. Mary was born after
they moved here.
Illustration: McFarlane’s (now Home of Ellis Britton) Lot 20, Conc. 9. Built in 1876.
Ellis Britton from Agincourt, Scarboro, Ont., bought the farm in July 1955 and moved here in
April, 1956 with his wife, Dorothy (Miles), and daughters, Dorell and Marion. Their son, Lorne
was born in 1960, Don Bacon sold 15 acres of his property to Ellis Britton, and 20 acres to a
group of men (Hayward, Parker and Neale). These men then bought Mr. Bakers 75 acres.
Ellis Britton kept and raised registered Holstein cattle.
Illustration: Claremont Hotel
Pallister – John Pallister married Elizabeth Keast and settled on Lot 23, Conc. 8, Pickering
Township. Their granddaughter, Mary Wilson married Thomas Sanderson of Box Grove, in
Markham Township, and their family included: Edith (married Bert Ham and later Widmer
Millar); Etta (married Ivan Benson), Fred, Nelson (married Hazel Mantle), Lewis (married
Gladys Middleton), Maud (married Maitland Anderson), Harold (married Gertrude Swalwell),
Mabel (married Ivan Benson after Etta died).
After farming at Brougham and at Underhills, west of Claremont, Thomas Sanderson
purchased the Claremont Hotel in 1919. He had already obtained the livery business so he
moved the horses and equipment to the hotel and carried on the business under one roof. He
remained as proprietor of the hotel until, in 1937, it was destroyed by fire.
Nelson’s family include: Evelyn, Thelma, Joan and Reginald. Maitland and Maud Anderson had
three sons: Earl, Ray and Ernest, (See Anderson). Nelson was employed by the C.P.R. for a
number of years, as were most of the young men of the area. Then he served in the Armed
Forces during World War I and upon returning, he worked for Russell Construction Company of
Toronto, until his death (This company erected the Bloor Street Viaduct in Toronto).
NIGHSWANDER The earliest owner of the Nighswander property was Edgar Cliffe who
owned the old wollen mill and built the house nearby. In 1902 this property was purchased by
Enos Nighswander and then made into a grist mill.
In 1926 Peter Nighswander installed cider and apple-butter equipment and this was used for
many years.
The south half of Lot 31 was owned by Samuel Nighswander, the buildings were located near
the ninth Concession and later Martin Nighswander purchased it. He built a house and barn up
on the hill west of the pond – this was where Enos, Peter and Harvey were born and raised.
The north half of Lot 31 was owned by Martin Sr. In 1912, David Nighswander moved there
and his sons were born and raised there until 1966.
Illustration: William Palmer 1879-1962
Palmer – Samuel and Sarah (nee Money) Palmer emigrated from England to Canada in 1852
and they settled on Lot 25, Conc. 8, Pickering. Mr. Palmer was a cabinet maker and in later
years they retired to Claremont. Their family included: Sarah Ann (Mrs. Richard Burton,
seventh Concession), John (a shoemaker in Claremont), Samuel, Mary, Ann William and
Shackel (both shoemakers in Claremont). William married Nellie Gregg and in later years
lived on Wixson Street in Claremont.
COULTIS:
William Coultis emigrated from Yorksire in 1828, settled first in Scarboro then in Pickering. He
bought the south half of Lot 11, Concession 8, from the Canada Land Company. His son
George married Mary McDowell in 1840. He bought the south half of Lot 2, Concession 8, then
in 1857 he bought the north part of the south half of Lot 2 Concession 8. He was one hundred
year of age when he died. George’s on, William H. Coultis married Dorcas Vernon and they
farmed the above acreage.
Their sons Frank, Blake and daughter Alberta still live there. Frank recalled his grandfather
telling him that the squatters who had settled in this area were sometimes paid as high as
$300 to get off the land. The pioneers, in clearing the land of hardwood, beech, and maple,
cut through logs two feet thick with an axe. Ths first houses were shanties with one slanting
roof shingled with grooved smaller logs fitted together alternately with convex and concave
sides up. Fireplaces had chimneys made of wood lined with blue clay. The house on the
south farm is over one hundred years of age. The crown deed of the south farm, written on
parchment, is still in their possesion
xander Morgan, son 0WilliamMorgan and Marg -
was born r Edinburg¢,Scotlaxul on San. 6th., 1825.
para of age, he and his parents emigrated to Canada.
ot
weeks on the water they reached Quebec. A slow,
ey Up the St. Lawrence brought then o Muddy York
into). They first settled in Markham, where he and
tool: UP the trade of blacksmithing. Hie father had
tools, anvil, bellows etc. from Scotland - in all
d 2,800 pounds. At twenty-two years of age he came
¢, married Elizabeth Sherrard and becems well known
of blacksmithing.
family- included: Melissa (Mrs. William Evans) Mar_.
me. David Raub), William Thowaa, Rachel (Mrs. James
eabeth (Mrs. Magnus Henderson), Duncan, John, and
Jm6e,-AGF. AIe+andu M01911 (111, ElvIba4
Donc=n''loi'la;l his wife -.d famdly of n me
:arn the me rsec{i on of t1e Rrocs Roza n c'•
ll 'orid to%nline. he became the ❑erden of Ontario I
4Lc election of Reeve Morgan of Urbtidge Toc.•nship,
mell-deserved honour to to I nuiici.-alit=, ose it
rciienc d for tweet; -nine -ears. At the close of the
_eC o;:nt} Council fm the peer 1'15, Yr. lior an
I'd old -headed cane by G. D. Conant, then Reeve
This onto is now I- the possession of his ixeat-i o
hftar living: on 1`a trope -t.- noa,--u b} 111r.
Lot 2O, Cone. , his son,Roy and 6s.s wifeMar+aeret I
settled On the Moriz.n bo-estead. In fact, fine
11 Vlf rml
Tta: later retired in Claremont.Hr, and
t_adtnochild-en - Jeck and ys•' (Mrs. Hoz'ard
Jrc:. narri ad 1'a. r-: Phillips of Hioo,lhall, , h 11
o!4ldrell, ferald, c en4, Suave end m inald.
W..reret, daughter of Duncan and Sarah Moran,
pa 1, who .predeceased be, in 1(`46. The lived in 01,—
'Cr
fo., ears in Le':efleld,-Toro.iio and Yinmount,
and dairy business. Mar , eget left L
area^i irec+v ."de in Os!.a, mere she married Ponies',
„ e died in 1c54.
Other members of thecDdncan For on family incl
('Ire.. 'lillizru Fe.—sic,.), Alet., llo.n , Jennie, Laura, Ii
Cor e Mor;an earned Janet Bowes and the' C.
I.e C,T.R. Station. Their son, Ma; nus married filL
T'lemplo,ed 'ry the Canadian Pacific Railway.
eir -featly included Harold and Murray.
AUUrION SALE
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Hr. Ca4H.1'IL ET
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WILSON'S HOTEL, CLAREMONT
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Terns vvA yutmvlm mule boo im the Ca,
i
THWUS PoVCflEP.Euelievra.
Illustration: Mrs. Ed Gibson, Mabel Gibson (daughter), Mrs. Lyman Pilkey (Sophia) Sister
PILKEY — Peter Pilkey (Peletier) and his wife moved from Riviere du Loup, Quebec, to
Leslieville near Little York in 1800, and later settled in Scarborough. He fought in the War of
1812.
Their son Charles, and his wife Jane Forfar, moved to Lot 18, Conc. 7, Pickering, in 1840.
They endured all the poverty and hardships that went along with pioneer life but managed to
overcome them. They became wealthy and owned several farms in the area. Their family
included: Archibald, John C, Joseph, William, Jane, Thomas, David, Agnes, and Henry.
In 1839, Charles bought 140 acres of land, parts of Lots 16, 17, and 18, Conc. 7, Pickering,
known as Maple Lane Farm. This land was originally a grant from George III to the Hon. M.
Emersley, a member of Governor Simcoe's cabinet, in 1798. Any person could apply for
farm lots of 200 acres but United Empire Loyalists and military claimants were given special
consideration.
On November 22, 1837, an Indenture made between "Edward Buckly Wynyard Esquire,
Colonel of Her Majesty Grenadier Guards and Richard Warner of Mortimer, Berks County,
England, Esquire Captain of her Majesty fifth Regiment of foot ... of the first part; and Joseph
Warner of the Township of Pickering, Province of Upper Canada ... of the second part"
records the sale of the property, which also included the house.
This property remained in the Pilkey name until January 1896, when it was sold to Edward E.
Pugh for $8,425. The Pugh family retained possession until 1962, when it was bought by Mr.
and Mrs. Reginald M. Brophy. They have restored the old farmhouse and, with the addition
of a large wing, have transformed it into a spacious eighteenth century dwelling
Charles Pilkey also owned Lot 14, Conc. 7, which in later years was purchased by George
Gosling (later changed to Gauslin). Then in 1893, Thomas Gauslin became the owner and
he and his son Leslie, operated it until 1930, when Thomas died. Leslie married Lila Slack,
daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Albert Slack and they had two sons, Gordon and Earl. Gordon
married Lillian Graham and they farmed on Lot 12, Conc. 8. In 1965 Leslie sold his farm to
Messrs. Corson and Howes, and the Gauslins retired to Stouffville. Earl is now in the
auctioneering business in this area.
Charles Pilkey also owned the W.P. Jones farm about the same time.
Charles and Jane had nine children: Archibald (who lived on the Gauslin farm, and then went
to Buffalo), John, Joseph, William, Jane, Thomas, David, Agnes and Henry. Joseph married
Mary Carruthers and their family were: Elizabeth, Luther (Lot 18, Conc. 7), Lyman
(pumpmaker in Claremont), Adelia (Mrs. A. Mantle), Mary (Mrs. Whiting), Alice (Mrs. Fred
Pugh), and Jennie.
Luther Pilkey and his wife, Liza Mitchell, had six sons: Clarence (Saskatchewan), Clifford
married Jean Evans (Toronto), Leonard married Mary Norton (Uxbridge), Stanley, Russell
married Mabel Slack (Leask-dale), and Raymond married Violet Todd.
The descendants of these families living in the area are the two daughters of Raymond and
Violet (Todd); Pearl, who married Ivan Taylor, and Georgina who married Hilliard Stiner,
both living on the Brock Road north of Claremont; Earl and Allan are sons of Russell and
Mabel Pilkey. Earl, who lives in Claremont, married Shirley Etcher and they have four
children: Larry, Terri, Lenni and Tracey; Allan married Louise Goldthorpe, and lives in
Markham, they have two daughters, Debbie and Heather.
Illustration: The Home of Mrs. Harry Porter - Built in 1890
WARD - (Jamieson). - The William Ward homestead (Lot 4, Conc. 8) was sold in 1910 to
Victor Jamieson and his wife, Nellie Burnett who were married in 1900. Her father, Leonard
Burnett, had farmed 330 acres southwest of Greenbank and became Federal Member of
Parliament for South Ontario in 1896. Her mother was Sarah Dryden, who was born and
brought up on the Dryden Farm, northeast of Brooklin, recently owned by the Kahn Brothers.
Victor and Nellie had two sons, Burnett and Ray. The present house was built by Richard
Ward in 1867 and this farm came to be known as "Shady Nook Farm". Ray died suddenly
in 1926 at the age of nineteen and Burnett carried on with the farm. He married Lillian Parrott
of Ashburn and they had three children. Marean (Mrs. Richard Ward) of Claremont,
Donald, who married Shirley Empringham and is still on the farm, and Mary-Jean (Mrs.
Duncan Martin) of Pickering. Mary-Jean died suddenly in 1973.
Law- Robert Law with his wife, Sara McKnight came from England around 1840. He
acquired a Crown Grant of land on N1/2 Lot 27, Conc. 8, Pickering. Their son. Joseph
married Ann Leaper and regained on the farm. They had two children William and Mrs.
Frank Spoffard, whose husband was well known as a music teacher for many years. Their
daughter Annie (Mrs. Harry porter) has the "Crown Grant” of this farm along with the
"Indenture” to Robert Law of four acres of land, signed by "Joseph Wixson Junr. " and
Abigail Wixson. Mrs. Porter still lives in the house on Wixson Street, built in 1890. Her
great grandfather had purchased the land in 1853, from the original settlers, the
Wixsons. The farm changed hands many times and was last operated, as such, by Harold
Catton, now of Stouffville, Ontario. It is now in the expropriated area.
REID — Samuel Reid came from Suffolk, England, to Canada in 1837. He worked first for
John Hamilton at Weston. Later he worked on a farm in Markham Township and then moved to
Pickering, settling on Lot 16, Conc. 8. This property was a crown grant to Farrand-Elmsley in
1799. Later Samuel Reid passed it to his son John, who lived on the old, Joseph Wixson
property, just north of the bend on the Brock Road.
Richard Ward then became the owner and he built the present barn in 1899. During the
construction of this barn, Will Palmer fell from the roof and lived to tell about it. In 1909,
Richard's son Evans, married Margaret Macklem and they took over the farm. Their family
included: Elizabeth (Mrs. Allan Fryer), Kenneth (married Kathleen Rea), and Marjorie (Mrs.
Edward Ginger). Mrs. Ward died about 1924. Then Evans married Elizabeth Slack and they
farmed on this property until their retirement to Claremont in 1949.
Robert and Muriel Torrance then purchased the farm and moved from Cherrywood. They had
four sons: John, James, Kenneth and Allen. In 1970, Whitehall Development Corporation
bought it and the Torrances moved to Lakefield. It is now occupied by N. Bos and family.
In 1916, G.M. Forsyth built a new home and operated the farm located in north Claremont.
Then in 1946, it was sold to Edgar Ward who married Mary MacKinnon. They had one son,
Keith.
RICHARDSON — James Richardson came from Cumberland, England, and settled on Lots
24 and 25, Conc. 9. He married Jane Law (daughter of Robert Law), and their family
included: James, Robert, Hannah (Mrs. William Michell), Sarah (Mrs. Henry Michell), Mary
(Mrs. John Rawson), and Ann (Mrs. H. Cooper). After Jane died, James married Mary
McBeath and their son George, occupied the farm. Later, Edward Hoover and his wife
became the owners and they built a lovely new home on their farm which is now in the
expropriated area.
RUSSELL — George Russell and his wife emigrated from Scotland. George died in 1867
but his wife lived in Claremont for many years. Their son John settled on Lot 15, Conc. 7,
and they had seven children: David remained on the farm; another son, James, was a well-
known miller in Claremont.
David's family included: Milton and Arthur of Markham ,Alleda (Mrs. Dougherty), Jessie
(Mrs. Norman Burton), Nellie (Mrs. Allison), and Charles.
The Russell homestead is now occupied by Mr. and Mrs. Leslie Parker.
SADLER — Thomas Sadler came from the neighbourhood of Stockton-on-Tees, England,
in 1833, and settled first with his brothers, John and William, on the fifth and sixth Concessions
. Then in 1842, he moved to Lot 9, Conc. 9, Pickering. His wife was Jane Hughes and their
daughter, Jane, married Richard Wilson. In 1869, Richard and Jane settled on S1/2 Lot 4,
Conc. 8, which had previously been purchased by George Jones in 1829. In 1905, George
Wilson (Richard's son), married Margaret Jones, who was a dressmaker in Uxbridge and
received a salary of twenty-five cents a day. They purchased the farm at this time and their
family included: Lloyd, Paul, Norman, Kathleen, Gordon, Helen and Earle. Lloyd married
Doris Galbraith and they are still on the home farm with their son Kenneth.
SANDERSON — John Pallister married Elizabeth Keast and settled on Lot 23, Conc. 8,
Pickering Township. Their granddaughter, Mary Wilson married Thomas Sanderson of Box
Grove, in Markham Township, and their family included: Edith (married Bert Ham and later
Widmer Miller); Etta (married Ivan Benson), Fred, Nelson (married Hazel Mantle), Lewis
(married Gladys Middleton), Maud (married Maitland Anderson), Harold (married Gertrude
Swalwell), Mabel (married Ivan Benson after Etta died).
SCOTT — Robert Scott emigrated from Cumberland, England, in 1838. He settled first at Lot
32, Conc. 9, and then on Lot 34, Conc. 7, Pickering. Robert married Alice Jones and they
had one son John, who later lived at Atha.
SCOTT — William Scott was born in Scarborough and in 1861 he married Elizabeth Miller
and settled on Lot 12, Conc. 8, Pickering Township. Their family included: Helen, Agnes
(Mrs. Peter Macnab Sr.), William George (who became Warden of Ontario County in 1920),
Janet, Mary, Robert and David (storekeeper in Claremont).
William later bought Lot 22, Conc. 8, and moved there. In all, they owned four properties in
Pickering Township. Besides the ones already mentioned, they owned two farms on the
eighth Concession.
Lot 22, Conc. 8, (known as Spruce Grove Farm) was purchased from William Scott by his
son, William George. Then, a Mr. McCallum whose wife operated a millinery shop in
Claremont, became the owner.
In 1920, Mr. and Mrs. James McCullough came to Claremont from the Nipissing District and
settled on this property. They had eleven children, three of whom became teachers, two
nurses, and two business girls. Three of the boys were farmers and one son, Lyman,
became Forestry Superintendent for Ontario Hydro in North Bay.
James McCullough farmed here for fifteen years and then sold it to his son, Donald, who
married Marie Ham. They remained there for several years, then moved to Don Mills, and
now lives in Newmarket. Mr. and Mrs. McCullough Sr. lived on William Street in the Village
of Claremont, from 1935 to 1950. He was an elder and staunch member of Claremont
United Church for many years.
Richard and Jean Whittington then purchased the farm. They had two children, Carole (Mrs.
Gordon McDowell) and David. The farm has since been divided into smaller parcels of land
and sold to the Federal Government.
Lot 12, Conc. 8, was originally part of the Toronto Purchase made with Farrand-Elmsley in
the year 1799. Then Frank Linton purchased it in 1832. While Mr. Linton owned it, the Finian
Raids were taking place (the Fenians were a group of Irish fanatics who hated the English
and set out to conquer Canada and in time do away with England). The house at that time
was north of the barn and Mr. Linton, having received word that they were coming up the
sideroad, made several holes in the walls, placed guns through them and as he loaded, his
two daughters fired them. The Fenians believed it to be a whole army ahead and made a
hasty retreat.
When Isaac Linton arrived to take up homesteading on the lot across the road, he began
cutting down trees. Frank heard him and immediately told him that he was on the wrong
property. Isaac had become mislead by the bend in the road at the eighth Concession.
The Ellis family rented the farm in the 1880's. Mr. Ellis died there, and his wife and family
moved to Toronto.
William George (W.G.) Scott took over the farm. In 1911, he left the farm to institute the
Langstaff Industrial Farm, and William Ormerod and family rented the Scott property. They
remained until 1917, when W.G. returned to both his farming and political activities.
PUGH – (WIDLER) – Lot 12, Conc. 9, Pickering was originally the property of Edward Pugh,
son of Hugh Pugh Sr. Then Emanuel Slack became the owner. He married Alma Lewis and
they had four children, Cecil who married Libbie Wallace, Bertha (Mrs. John Coates), Perry
and Edith. Around 1915 Emanuel sold the farm to his son-in-law John Coates, whose family
included, Alma (Mrs. Robert Fuller), Floyd, who married Alice Phillips, David, who married
Alma Redshaw, James and Harold.
Cecil Storry then owned the farm. He married Annie Found and although he lived on Lot 23,
Conc. 8, he bought many other pieced of property. His family were: Andrew, Betty, Jean and
Mary.
In 1946 he sold the farm to Earl McMullen and his wife, the former Evelyn Armstrong. The lived
there for several years, then moved to Claremont. Their family included Murray (a veterinarian
in Windsor), Stanley, (who married Mary Schneider) a Mechanics Teacher who now reside
east of Claremont, Erma (Mrs. David McComb) of Castleton, Charlene (Mrs. Howard Davis)
and Sheila (Mrs. Robert Smith). After Earl’s death Evelyn lived on the farm with her daughter
Erma.
The present owner of this farm is W.P. Wilder. The stately old stone house, which was built
around the middle of the nineteenth century, has been remodeled and is very impressive with
its tennis court and swimming pool, offering a delightful contrast between the old and the new.
Illustration: Mrs. Sylvanus Sharrard (nee Ruth Wixson)
SHARRARD - James W. Sharrard was born in 1783 and first took up farming in Markham
Township and then near Stouffville. About 1812 he came to Pickering and settled on Lot 21,
Conc. 6. He was especially well known as an effective preacher of the gospel. He had nine
children, one of whom was Sylvanus who married Ruth Wixon (daughter of Joshua Wixson).
Sylvanus was a prominetn temperance worker; his wife, known as "Grandma Sharrard", was
one of the original members of the Claremont Baptist Church and taught Sunday School until
she was well over fourscore years. She was ninety-six years of age when she died. Their
family included Mary (Mr. John Barry), Phoebe (Mrs. Madill) and Abigail (Mrs. Joseph Wixson).
Nathanial Sharrard (brother of James came to Pickering in 1831. He had nine children, one of
whom was Mrs. William Cowie Lot 26, Conc. 7).
Illustration: Residence of Alexander Waddell – Lot 11, Conc. 9, Pickering (now the Property
of Ross Heron).
WADDELL – (HERON) – William Waddell emigrated from Scotland in 1835, and with his
wife, Catherine Thomson, and family of eight children, settled on Lot 11, Conc. 9, Pickering.
Mr. Waddell was elder of the Presbyterian Church for sixty-three years and it is said that he
walked from his home to Kingston Road, in South Pickering, to attend church. His daughter,
Isabella (aged 14 years, 7 months) was buried on their farm part of which became Claremont
Union Cemetery.
His son, Alexander, was born in 1821 and lived on the old homestead until later years when
he retired in Stouffville. He fought in the Fenian Raids and was commissioned ensign in
1856 and captain in 1857 in the Fourth Battalion of Ontario Militia. He married Agnes
Somerville. In 1863, the stone house, which is still standing, was built by James Walker.
“Contract for stone house- Glen Sharrard, Dec 16, 1863
Alexander Waddell Esq.
To
James Walker (Builder)
To Building a House Contract----$355.00
Exter Worke------------------------- 6.00
Two Hundred Feet of Lumber 2.00
Total----------------------------------$363.60
His second son, William spent his life in Pickering and married Sarah Edward. A third son
was named Thomas.
Arthur Prouse bought the farm in 1920. He and his wife had several children. Ella (Mrs.
Tom Hammond) was the only one to remain in the area.
Levi Hopkins became the owner in 1950 and he and William Eckardt took the bush off for
lumber. Then, in 1952, Lou Sherry purchased the property for $12,500. A great deal of
money was spent on renovating the buildings and the grounds, and with more additions and
changes by the present owner, Ross Heron, it is now a lovely estate.
Illustration: The Underhill Home
UNDERHILL — Robert Underhill came from Devonshire to Canada about 1857. He settled first
at Bowmanville and afterwards east of Pickering. He married Annie Salton and they settled on
Lot 23, Conc. 6, and Lot 23, Conc. 7, Pickering. In later years he retired to Claremont (later
Milroy's Funeral Home).
His son, James, a former Reeve of Pickering Township, lived on the farm where the Claremont
School now stands. His daughter, Clara, was born there. In 1905, his wife died and because of
his ill-health, he purchased the house opposite this (where Lehmans now live). The farm was
sold to Joseph Borland.
In 1912, they bought Lot 21, Conc. 9, Pickering, (200 acres). This farm has a unique history. In
1828, it was patented by the King's College. Three years later a twenty-one year lease was
granted to Allan Granger, pertaining to the east half and in 1834, a Poll Deed was secured.
Note -(a Pickering Township lot is 80 x 400 rods - Many were divided lengthwise 40 x 400 rods
E & W half - called "a long 100"). This gave him a conditional ownership. His equity conveyed
by will, was invalidated in 1847.
The McFarlanes purchased the property in 1856 and retained it until in 1881 the Macnabs took
possession; 1912 — James Underhill; 1934 - Frank Carson; 1973 — south half expropriated
by the Crown for International Airport. Frank and Clara Carson have four children: Keith,
Murray, Aubrey and Barbara.
WADDELL - William Waddell emigrated from Scotland in 1835, and with his wife, Catherine
Thomson and family of eight children, settled on Lot 11, Conc. 9, Pickering. Mr. Waddell was
Elder of the Presbyterian Church for sixty-three years and it is said that he walked from his
home to Kingston Road, in South Pickering to attend church. His daughter, Isabella (aged 14
year s, 7 months) was buried on their farm part of which later became Claremont Union
Cemetery.
His son, Alexander was born in 1821 and lived on the old homestead until he retired in
Stouffville. He fought in the Fenian Raids and was commissioned Ensign in 1856 and Captain
in 1857, in the Fourth Battalion of Ontario Militia. He married Agnes Somerville. In 1863, the
stone house, which is still standing, was built by James Walker.
His second son, William spent his life in Pickering and married Sarah Edwards. A third son
was named Thomas.
Arthur Prouse bought the farm in 1920. Their children were: Ella (Mrs. Tom Hammond), Lorne,
Milton, Edgar, Doris, Verna, Hilda, Gladys, Isobel, Russell and Victor (killed in World War II).
Ella remained in Claremont, marrying Tom Hammond and they had five children: Alfred,
William, Robert, Glen and Gwen. Glen married Karen Blow and they had two children:
Melissa and Tom. Gwen married George Ingram.
Levi Hopkins became the owner in 1950 and he and William Eckardt took the bush off for
lumber. Then, in 1952, Lou Sherry purchased the property for $12,500. A great deal of
money was spent on renovating the buildings and the grounds, and with more additions and
changes by a later owner, Ross Heron, it became a lovely estate.
Mr. and Mrs. Heron had two daughters, Darlene and Gail. He had a construction company
for awhile but this did not last & he also went into the making of ceramics. He finally sold the
stone house, barn and fifteen acres to Peter Palmer, who sold antique furniture. In 1989 it
was sold again for approx. three-quarters of a million dollars and Mr. Palmer purchased the
Wm. Palmer home on Wixson Street from Mr. and Mrs. John Auld.
Farm - Elmer Wilson - N1/2 L 6 Conc. 8 Pi
A & B Enterprises began as a partnership between Mr. J. Anonby and a silent partner, Mr.
Ottar Berger, in the summer of 1963. The company began by importing and distributing
stainless steel cook-ware. They added several other lines, including hand-made ceramic
flower plaques, created by a well-know local artist, Peter Meyer.
Mr. Anonby bought out his partner and changed his lines over the years, dropping the stainless
steel and replacing it with pewterware.
The company was incorporated under the name of A & B Enterprises of Claremont Limited in
1971, and added Mr. Wm. Earle Cook of Claremont, to the staff.
Mr. Anonby is well known by the better Jewellers and Gift Stores across Canada and has been
dubbed the Pewter King of Canada by some of his fellow importers.
Illustration: Alice Peddie, Aldene and Mrs. Dorothy Britton
Sec. Treas. President.
In Sept. 1973, Tuesday 18th., Mrs. W. R. Evans was made a life member of Claremont
Women’s Institute. Here she is being presented with her badge and certificate.
Seventeen members and friends gathered on this occasion to have a. picnic and meeting
at Gull River, guests of Aldene at the family cottage.
Our distinguished member was well deserving of this honour as Aldine as a bride was given
a complimentary membership in Claremont Branch in 1932.
Mrs. W. R. Evans opened her home for her first meeting in August 1933. This was a girls
meeting when 24 girls were present. Entertainment was supplied by Margaret Johnson and
accompanied by Isobel Johnson. A duet "Perfect Day" was sung by Alma Pugh and Marjorie
Ward.
Our records show Aldine has been a consecutive member for 41 years and is still very active.
She has acted as Sec. Treas., District Director and at present Public Relations Convenor.
Many meetings and euchres have been held in her home over these numbers of years.
MRS. ALICE PEDDIE
.S o is "There is magic in a word of praise-, and one of our ladies here to -day
a great deal of praise for all that she has done for our organization. To -
u a 16th., 1982, we are honouring Alice Peddie, a member of our Institute for
e rs, with a Life Membership Pin and Certificate.
.Lce Peddie has been an active member of our organization for many years. she
e ident from 1954 until 1956; Secretary from 1968 until 1977 and Curator along
aura Johnson when Mrs. McIntyre was President in 1947; along with various other
'eddie, the former Alice Bator lived most of her life in Claremont attending
is.t Public and Continuation schools. She later took a course in nursing and after
? her R.N. at Port Hope, she nursed at Uxbridge Cottage Hospital.
me rried Jim Peddie in 1938 and they had two sons Willard and Fred. She was involved
cited Church organization and became am Elder in Claremont United Church, always
with church dinners and banquets whenever time would permit.
.o zd to Whitby approximately eight years ago. and Alice is still very active in St.
"cited Church, Whitby, but finds time to return to our W.I. meetings. She is very
sted in crafts, an ardent bowler, likes travelling and playing bridge.
1 lead a privilege to present Alice with this honour.
Nice things should come to nice people it's true
And that means lifes best should be coming to you.
Good Health,.
r Good Luck
Good Cheer
r May they be yours abundantly and meet the future happily.
Lillian M. Gauslin.
Claremont, April 18, 1984.
Dorothy Louise Miles was born in Markham -- many, many years ago I — and received her
education at Milliken Public School and Markham High School. That was followed by a
Bachelor of Arts Degree from the University of Toronto in 1946.
After graduation she was employed by The Hudson's Bay Company until 1953.
By that time she felt that Ellis Britton needed help and they were married that year in Milliken.
Three years later Dorothy, Ellis and their two daughters, Dorell and Marion, moved to
Claremont to the former Bacon farm. Here, a son, Lorne, was added to the work force.
Shortly after coming to Claremont she joined the Women's Institute. This was a natural
move, having been interested in 4-H work and Junior Farmers.
Over the years Dorothy has willingly contributed to leadership through the office as
President, and convening Standing Committees both at the Branch and District level. In fact,
had it not been for her tireless efforts, our branch would not have been able to continue. For
this, we are sincerely grateful.
Dorothy is also the District Safety Representative for the Ontario Federation of Agriculture.
She has always been ready and willing to help in the community, especially in the church.
Her extensive travels have helped to broaden her viewpoint of life.
Dorothy also has a green thumb and she freely shares her garden produce.
If we see a broad grin on her face, we know she has recently seen that little charmer
grandson, Aaron.
All this, as you may guess, is leading up to showing our appreciation for her years of
service.
Dorothy, it is indeed a privilege to present you with a well-earned Life Membership in the
Claremont Branch of the Women's Institute.
Illustration: Claremont Crewel Feb. 19th., 1981 Claremont, Ont.
Winners – Poster Contest-Claremont Sesqui-Centennial-June 1988 (with Mrs. S. Ellis Britton,
Pres. Women’s Institute)
Illustrations:
Watt home: A four-year-old replica of original Claremont houses.
Newman home: A fish pond is located on this estate property.
Masonic Hall: Built circa 1865, the building was restored and reopened in 1985.
McBryde home: A classic Victorian home built circa 1890. It was owned for many years by
Harry Porter, the local barber, and his wife Annie, a school teacher and librarian.
Taylor home: Lake Ontario can be seen from this home. It has been updated and restored
during its 140-year span.
Bigalke home: A stately Victorian home built in 1893. The present owners would like to
complete the restoration of this home soon.
Claremont Offers Tour homes
The Village of Claremont is 150 years old. As part of the community’s sesquicentennial
celebrations, a tour of home ranging from the Victorian to the modern will be held Sunday,
June 5 from 1 to 5 p.m.
Seven houses will be visited. Included in the tour is the Masonic Hall which dates to 1865
when it was used as Claremont’s town hall. It was purchased by the Masons in 1901.
Tour tickets are available from Andrea Graham, Claremont, (649-2604), or from the Town of
Pickering Office, Brock and Kingston Roads, (683-2760 Ext. 246)
The cost is $10, with a group rate (10 or more) of $8.
Part of the proceeds will go towards constructing a reproduction of the Claremont bandshell
gazebo at the Pickering Museum Village.
Included in the tour are the following - the Horne home, (Cleeve and Jean), Conc. 8; the Watt
home, (Ken and Teresa), Wellington Street; the McBryde home, (Doug and Eilidh), Wixon
Street; the Bigalke home, (Peter and Wendy), Old Brock Road; the Taylor home, (Brian and
Lara), Sideline 4 and the Newman home, (Bill and Molly), Salem Road and Sideline 6.
Afternoon tea will be served at the Claremont Masonic Hall, Old Brock Road.
Participants in the tour may choose their own route. Maps will be provided.
The tour is for adults only, with no pets allowed. Smoking is prohibited.
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LEAPER – Thomas Leaper emigrated from Yorkshire, England, in 1830. After living in various
places, he settled east of Claremont on the 9th. Conc. In 1832 he married Ann Wallace, and
became a faithful worker of the Bethel Church. His family were: Mary, Thomas, Ann (Mrs. Law),
William and Susannah.
William was in the contracting business and it was he, who built the rink that was so popular
both for skaters and curlers in the early 1900’s.