The Pioneer Log Cabin located on the grounds of the North Lanark Regional Museum has always been a popular tourist destination for many years. The cabin has not only local historical importance, but is architecturally an excellent example of rough-hewn log settler’s home. The construction is typical of log homes found across the Ottawa Valley in the early half of the 19th century.
Sadly, the cabin has been closed for almost three years owing to its state of disrepair and accessibility issues. Major repairs were required to preserve the exterior and to maintain the cabin and its contents in a safe condition.
The cabin was originally built circa 1840 on Lot 15 Concession 11 of Ramsay (near the present Almonte Roundabout), by the William Wylie Family who resided on that lot from 1837 to 1853. The building was also owned by the Lockhart Family for several generations, and finally by the Thurston Family. It was donated originally to the town of Almonte. A few years later they decided that they did not have use for it and the North Lanark Historical Society in 1983 by Don and Britt Thurston and moved to its current location. The historical society set up a committee in 1983 to oversee the cabin project, with members Grant Anderson, Helen Davidson, Stewart Drummond, Ernie Giles, Victor Kellough, Dawn Leduc, Frances McLean, Norman Paul, Jean Steel and Gerry Willard.
They cut the ribbon!!!
Stones for the fireplace and chimney came from the local Don Duncan farm. The cabin was rebuilt over the next two years with funds from a New Horizons Grant and volunteer labour from the NLHS. It opened as part of the museum in the summer of 1985 and has since been a popular attraction for visitors of all ages.
With files from The Millstone and the North Lanark Regional Museum.
Yesterday was the GRAND REOPENING OF THE HERITAGE CABIN
In an age where I constantly am faced with watching one older building after another torn down for new development –yesterday gave me great joy to see this building loved and finally restored. The fact that every step of the way was organized by a group of seniors from conception to end made my heart proud.
We Celebrate
Alex!!
Amy!!
DONATE
All donations will be recognized and issued a charitable tax receipt. Donations may be sent to the NHLS by regular mail or you can donate online electronically.
Donations can be made online or by cash or cheque in-person at the Museum or by mail:
North Lanark Regional Museum
P.O. Box 218
Almonte, ON
K0A 1A0
Cheques can be made payable to the North Lanark Historical Society
All you need is love, some elbow grease, and never give up. Thank you to all who did. May developers one day realize heritage matters.
Mississippi Mills Councillors John Dalgity, Bev Holmes and me Linda S…. Councillor for Carleton Place..
Now take the kids and family to visit this amazing log cabin
Admission fee is by donation
VISIT US
We’re on the outskirts of the pretty little village of Appleton, about 10 minutes from Almonte. The collection is always available for researchers by appointment.
HOURS
Weekdays 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Also open weekends starting in June
CONTACT
- 647 River Rd, Almonte, ON K0A 1A0
- 613-257-8503
- nlrmuseum@gmail.com
The Lanark Era
Lanark, Ontario, Canada24 Dec 1918, Tue • Page 8
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