Arlene Stafford-Wilson's Blog, page 6
October 8, 2024
Irish Graveyards
Drawing: Rory O’Shaughnessy, “Ireland Reaching Out”
Irish Graveyards
Some of the older Irish graveyards date back to medieval times, and often there are structures or ruins of the old churches around which the graveyard and parish evolved. Commonly known as graveyards, burial grounds or cemeteries – the word “cemetery” was adapted by the early Christians from the Greek word “koimerterion” meaning sleeping place or dormitory.
There are a small number of seventeenth-century tombstones, also known as tapered grave-slabs and also some mural plaques found at a number of Irish graveyards. This type of monument was more commonly placed by the wealthy members of the parish and are likely to be located at the residences of the various religious orders. It was not uncommon for many people to have a simple stone or a cross, (not inscribed) marking their grave.
Tomb Types
Like many things in life, the type and construction materials implemented in a tomb were often a reflection of a family’s wealth or position in the community. Some types of tombs were more historic in nature and were unique to a specific time in history when that particular type of tomb was in fashion.
Altar Tomb – A rectangular, raised tomb, commonly used by early Celts
Bale Tomb – Resembles a chest tomb, with a rounded top
Barrel Tomb – Has a curved top which may or may not extend to the ground
Chest Tomb – Resembles a large trunk or container
Hip Tomb – A rectangular box with a hip roof added to the top.
Table Tomb – Appear to be a stone table, and normally supported by 6 legs
Pedestal Tomb – A tomb placed on a pedestal
Family History
For family historians, a search through a graveyard can be a rewarding experience if you’re lucky enough to find the markers you’re looking for. In some cases grave markers with names of families who no longer live in the community might be found. Some of the families left the area because of mass-emigration, death through famine, or changes in the political, religious or social evolutions in the community. These events can provide challenges for local genealogists searching for the gravestones of a particular family.
Yew Tree
The yew tree is a common sight in an Irish graveyard. The ‘tree of death’, or Yew, is a slow-growing, long-living tree, common in many parts of Europe. An older yew will often hollow out in the center, then send down a shoot which begins the growth of a new tree, or a tree within a tree. The ancient Druids worshipped the tree, and often buried their dead beneath a yew. When the newly-converted Christians in Ireland began to bury their dead, the bodies were often added to existing pagan cemeteries, which always had at least one yew tree on the grounds. The Christian clergy eventually incorporated the planting of the yew and its ability to generate new life, as a symbol of the resurrection.
Wrought Iron
Markers and Fences
At one time wrought iron was a common material used throughout Ireland, and many grave markers and fences surrounding tombs were created by talented local blacksmiths. The old English term ‘wrought’ is the past tense of a Medieval word meaning ‘to work’, and in this case the white-hot metal was forged with a hammer.
Wrought iron fences were built around individual graves or family tombs.
Some families chose a stone curbing around a tomb.
Ledger Stones
A ledger stone was a flat stone and had an inscription about the deceased, and often displayed symbols related to their profession, their religion, or their affiliations to a group. These stones were sometimes placed on the top of Chest Tombs.
Grave Symbols
Memorial stones may help us with our family history research through their unique individual markings. Some have vocational symbols, depicting the type of work done, or a family coat of arms, or perhaps a Masonic symbol indicating lodge membership. In the case of a Masonic Lodge symbol further information may be found in the local or national lodge records.
Gravestone with Masonic Order Symbols
Obelisk
Obelisk markers are usually found on family burials or those of people of high social status, and they also tend to stand out more in the cemetery and are easily located. The advantage of the shape is that it provides four engraving surfaces, rather than just one, as in a standard headstone. The shape and height also relates back to the Celtic pagan worship of the sun god. In more modern times this shape was favoured by familes wanting to display their wealth or power.
Celtic Cross
The religious denomination of the deceased can often be established through the types of religious symbols used on their memorial. Usually, resurrection symbols are more frequently associated with Catholic memorials while mortality symbols are used more commonly on a Protestant grave marker.
A symbol of Christianity, the Celtic cross first appeared in the 8th century. Legends say that Saint Patrick introduced the Celtic Cross to Ireland and that the circle within the cross symbolizes the pagan sun, or the old beliefs, and the cross represents the conversion to Christian beliefs by the early Irish Celtic people. The circle was a powerful symbol to the ancient Irish people, and it was considered a sign of strength and many rituals were performed while standing in a circle. Several ancient monuments, such as Stonehenge were constructed in a circle, because the unbroken formation was believed to hold magical powers. It’s been thought that St. Patrick incorporated the circle within the cross knowing it was a meaningful symbol to the Celts.
Catholic Grave Symbols:
The letters “IHS” may be engraved on a cross. These letters represent – Iesus Hominem Salvator (Jesus Saviour of Mankind). The Greek letters Alpha and Omega can also appear on a gravestone to symbolize the beginning and the end.
“IHS” carved in the centre of the cross
Protestant Grave Symbols:
One of the most common symbols on Irish Protestant (and some Catholic) gravestones is a simple three letters: “R.I.P.”, in Latin: “requiescat in pace“, in English: “Rest in peace”. The letters represent a longer prayer which is:
“Eternal rest grant unto him,
And let perpetual light shine upon him;
Rest in peace.”
Amen.
The Clasped Hands
In the eighteenth-century there was a “Great Awakening”, when Protestantism began to change their focus to salvation and a personal relationship with God. The symbol of the clasped hands were often accompanied with words: “farewell”, “goodbye,” and “until we meet again.” The carved hands were almost always portrayed as right hands and they represent a husband and wife sharing a last handshake. One hand is usually flat and loose, its fingers extended, which may be interpreted as either a final embrace, or the deceased leading the living to follow them.
Many of the Irish Protestant graves have what was known as “mortality symbols”, which were thought to remind people that life is fleeting, and to seize the day. The skull and crossbones are probably the oldest mortality symbols found in Irish graveyards. Often an hour glass is combined with the skull and crossbones symbols to signify time running out, or sometimes a winged death’s head also indicating that life is short.
This is the gravestone of a man who was a wood-cutter, and bears the symbol of a Forrester with an axe in his hand, as well as Adam and Eve beside the Tree of Life.
The symbols of the skull and the hourglass were known as ‘mortality symbols’, and were a reminder that a lifespan is brief. The hourglass, crossbones, bell, and skull are frequently seen together on 18th-century gravestones. The bell symbolized the church bells that rang to call the people to a funeral. These symbols were more commonly used on Protestant grave stones.
Some gravemarkers were engraved with rhymes or messages:
“Remember me as you pass by,
As you are now so once was I,
As I am now you soon must be,
Prepare for death and follow me.”
Burial Records
Note that burial records, also known as ‘plot books’, as well as maps of Irish graveyards are usually more recent in origin. The majority of records of historic graveyards in Ireland go back no further than the early twentieth century, with only a few dating to the nineteenth century.
A page from the burial records of Mount St Lawrence Cemeter, County Limerick
Local History
When possible, it may be best to find someone with local knowledge to identify individual family plots. While a local historian may not be able to confirm all individuals buried in the grave they may be able to assist with other important information such as where the family lived and what other families they are related to within that parish. Local guides and historians may be able to trace back people and events over a long period of time, so should never be overlooked as a source of information.
If you have Irish ancestry, Irish graveyards and their markers can provide a wealth of information for those researching their family history. From the ancient pagan symbols, to the more modern symbols and markers used today, the gravestones represent a physical link back to our forebearers, and they provide us with clues to who they were, and how they lived.
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Arlene Stafford-Wilson
Honorary Life Member Lanark County Genealogical Society
Lanark County Pioneer Families Humanitarian Award
Francois Bregha Storyteller Award
Association of Professional Genealogists, APG
Author of: “Lanark County Kitchen”, “Lanark County Christmas”, “Lanark County Comfort”, “Lanark County Collection”, “Lanark County Calling”, “Lanark County Classics”, “Lanark County Connections”, “Lanark County Calendar”, “Lanark County Chronicle”. “Lanark County Kid”, and “Recipes and Recollections”.
New for 2024:
“Lanark County Classrooms: Remembering Our School Days”
“A delightful collection of stories and memories from former students and teachers, spanning the 1940s through the 1980s, from small-town, village and the rural one-room school-houses, across Lanark County.”
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October 7, 2024
Almonte: Ghost of the Mill
Mill of Kintail – Toronto Public Archives photo
Who is the Ghost of the Mill?
Over the course of many years of the mill’s history there have been reports of certain strange events, and to this day remain unexplained.
Some of these reports include lights flickering, footsteps, noises, and certain areas of the building are particularly active.
The Baird Family
Originally known as Baird’s Mill
Mill of Kintail
Located about ten minutes from Almonte, the Mill of Kintail was built the early 1830s by Scottish immigrant, John Baird. He was a shrewd business man and through his skills and hard work, he had a gristmill, a general store and a homestead, in nearby Bennie’s Corners. He and his family lived at that location for years, but his offspring had no children of their own and when his last daughter died in 1900, the family line ended.
The Baird family had already lost ownership of the mill because of a legal dispute with his neighbours in the 1860s, and the building was abandoned. The property was no longer maintained, and not long after that, Baird passed away.
Tait McKenzie
Basketball Inventor James Naismith (left) and Robert Tate McKenzie at the Mill
photo: Mississippi Valley Conservation Authority
Robert ‘Tait’ McKenzie was a well-known doctor, Almonte native, and also known for his artistic talents as a sculptor. In 1930, he returned to Almonte, his hometown, for a local celebration. During his visit he was approached by members of the community and asked whether he would be interested in purchasing the old mill as a summer home. The locals knew that the site was his old stomping ground where he played with his childhood friend, James Naismith, inventor of basketball.
After some thoughtful consideration, he realized that the property was the perfect spot for both his art studio and a retirement home for he and his wife, Ethel. Although he and Ethel purchased the property and used it mostly as a summer home, McKenzie died suddenly in 1938, and Ethel sold the property in 1952 to Major James Leyes.
May 5, 1938, p. 1., “Almonte Gazette”
Ethel McKenzie
Ethel McKenzie
In 1952, Ethel McKenzie passed away, and was buried beside her husband, Tait, in St. Peter’s Churchyard.
November 11, 1952, p. 1, “Almonte Gazette”
St. Peter’s Churchyard, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Museum Built
The Leyes family decided to establish a museum on the site, which became the R.Tait McKenzie Memorial Museum. Many distinguished guests visited the site over the years, and were always impressed by the history of the place, as well as the beautiful landscape surrounding the property.
December 11, 1952, p. 1, “Almonte Gazette”
Whose spirit is haunting the Mill of Kintail?
Ethel’s Room
Over the years paranormal researchers have identified one of the ‘hot-spots’ in the mill located in what’s known as ‘Ethel’s Room’, named for Tait McKenzie’s wife. The room contains some artifacts that were owned by Ethel during her years at the mill. It’s been reported that the piano stool is often pulled out when the Curator arrives in the morning. Others have noted that the computer shuts off by itself and suddenly comes back to life on its own. In a live-feed video that was set up in the room overnight, the light came on in the middle of the night, then turned off again, although the building was locked and no one was there.
On many occasions staff and visitors to the Mill have experienced doors opening, closing, and locking by themselves, furniture moving in the night, unexplained noises in the floorboards and stairs, knocking, chilly drafts, and motion sensors being triggered when the building was closed.
On Dec. 4, 2019, Elliot Luijkenaar, and Eric Oickle, from ‘Phantoms of Yore’, an Ottawa-based paranormal group, spent from 7 p.m. until 2 a.m. conducting an investigation into the presence of spirits at the Mill of Kintail.
Ethel McKenzie’s room, at the Mill of Kintail
The paranormal investigators set up an electromagnetic field (EMF) meter, an REM Pod, a thermal imager, an electronic voice phenomena recorder, a video camera with the capabilities of infrared and night vision, and a spirit box.
The team later reported that some of their equipment had in fact been activated, and they believed that the energies came from more than one person. They also heard someone say the name, “Nick”, and heard footsteps at the same time. There was a sudden temperature change in the studio and it turned very cold. At that time their EMF meter was quite active, particularly when it was positioned near the staircase.
The team was so convinced of their findings, that they offered the public an opportunity to take part in one of their evening sessions at the mill. Participants attending the paranormal workshop would be shown how to use the tools of the trade; join in discussions, and enjoy a historical presentation.
As far as the staff of the mill, it’s been reported that they are content to spend their time with a visit from an occasional spirit, and claim they are friendly, though noisy at times.
Preserved for
the Future
In the 1970s the deed to the mill was transferred to the Mississippi Valley Conservation Authority and they have maintained the mill and surrounding property beautifully ever since.
Whether or not you believe in the possibility of ghosts at the Mill, it is a lovely spot to spend the day, taking in the museum’s rich history, as well as the beauty that surrounds the property. The Mill of Kintail is surely one of Lanark County’s gems, and well worth a visit, to do some exploring, and maybe make some new memories, spending time in this historic and beautiful site.
Arlene Stafford-Wilson
Arlene Stafford-Wilson
Honorary Life Member of the Lanark County Genealogical Society
Member of the Association of Professional Genealogists
Lanark County Pioneer Families Humanitarian Award
Francois Bregha Storyteller Award
Author of: “Lanark County Kitchen”, “Lanark County Christmas”, “Lanark County Comfort”, “Lanark County Collection”, “Lanark County Calling”, “Lanark County Classics”, “Lanark County Connections”, “Lanark County Calendar”, “Lanark County Chronicle”, “Lanark County Kid”, and “Recipes & Recollections”
New for Fall 2024: “Lanark County Classrooms: Remembering Our School Days”
“A delightful collection of stories and memories spanning the 1940s through to the 1980s, from former students and teachers, in small town, village, and the rural one-room schools, across the county.”
October 6, 2024
Ottawa Valley Poltergeist
This eerie tale began in the autumn of 1889, on a farm, owned by George Dagg, and his wife, Susan, located in Clarendon, 10 kilometers from Shawville, Quebec.
George and Susan had three children at that time, Eliza, age 4, Mary, age 3, and baby John. The Dagg family had also taken in a young girl, 11-year old Dinah. Like many orphans from the U.K. at that time, she was brought to Canada, and these children were often placed in farm homes, where they could help out.
When Dinah was present, there were often unexplained, spontaneous fires — eight occurring in a single day. Objects – a water jug, butter tub and wash basin ‘flew’ around the property controlled by an “invisible agency.” Stones were thrown through windows, a harmonica played on its own, and an empty rocking chair, rocked back and forth.
Family members and neighbours heard a deep gruff voice, sounding like an old man, in the house and outdoors, and the voice answered questions, and was heard by all.
It all began on September 15, 1889…..
Percy Woodcock, 1879Was it the farm-hand, Dean?
Dinah Burden McLean, the adopted orphan from Scotland, taken in by the kindly Dagg family, was blamed for the disturbances, and eventually was sent away to Fairknowe Home, in Brockville. Fairknowe Home was an orphanage, and at the time Dinah was sent there, it was called The National Orphan Homes of Scotland, and later the building housed a division of the Brockville Children’s Aid.
Seventeen farmers and community leaders, including local politicians and clergymen, signed witness statements to the unusual sightings, and voices heard at the Dagg farm, in the fall of 1889.
We, the undersigned, solemnly declare that the following curious proceedings, which began on the 15th day of September, 1889, and are still going on, on the 17th day of November, 1889, in the home of Mr. George Dagg, a farmer living seven miles from Shawville, Clarendon Township, Pontiac County, Province of Quebec, actually occurred as below described.
1st, That fires have broken out spontaneously through the house, as many as eight occurring on one day, six being in the house and two outside; that the window curtains were burned whilst on the windows, this happening in broad daylight whilst the family and neighbours were in the house.
2nd, That stones were thrown by invisible hands through the windows, as many as eight panes of glass being broken; that articles such as waterjug, milk pitcher, a wash basin, cream jug, butter tub and other articles were thrown about the house by the same invisible agency; a jar of water being thrown in the face of Mrs. John Dagg, also in the face of Mrs. George Dagg, whilst they were busy about their household duties, Mrs. George Dagg being alone in the house at the time it was thrown in her face; that a large shelf was heard distinctly to be played and was seen to move across the room on to the floor; immediately after, a rocking chair began rocking furiously. That a washboard was sent flying down the stairs from the garret, no one being in the garret at the time. That when the child Dinah is present, a deep gruff voice like that of an aged man has been heard at various times, both in the house and outdoors, and when asked questions answered so as to be distinctly heard, showing that he is cognizant of all that has taken place, not only in Mr. Dagg’s family but also in the families of the surrounding neighbourhood. That he claims to be a discarnated being who died twenty years ago, aged eighty years; that he gave his name to Mr. George Dagg and to Mr. Willie Dagg, forbidding them to tell it. That this intelligence is able to make himself visible to Dinah, little Mary and Johnnie, who have seen him under different forms at different times, at one time as a tall thin man with a cow’s head, horns and cloven foot, at another time as a big black dog, and finally as a man with a beautiful face and long white hair, dressed in white, wearing a crown with stars in it.
Signed,
John Dagg Portage du Fort, PQ.; George Dagg, Portage du Fort, PQ; William Eddes, Radsford, PQ; William H. Dagg Port. du Fort; Arthur Smart, Port. du Fort; Charles A. Dagg, Port. du Fort; Bruno Morrow, Port. du Fort; Benjamin Smart, Shawville, PQ.; William J. Dagg, Shawville, PQ.; Robert F. Peever, Cobden, Ont.; Robert H. Lockhart, Port. du Fort; John Fulfrid, Port. du Fort; George H. Hodgins, Shawville; Richard F. Dagg, Shawville; George Blackwell, Haley’s, Ont.; William Smart, Portage du Fort; John J. Dagg, Portage du Fort.”
Noted by the Lombard family – a strange sound of crawling and scratching in the attic, solely focused above the original house.
Eliza Jane, age 4, the Dagg’s daughter, died mysteriously, during the time of the poltergeist’s visit.
Grave of Eliza Dagg, daughter of George and Susan Dagg. She passed away in a mysterious accident, during the time of the poltergeist on the family farm. (local lore is little Eliza was playing near a cauldron of soap, her clothing caught fire, and she burned to death)
After the disturbances of 1889, the lives of George Dagg and his family returned to normal, for the most part. George became one of the most prominent farmers in the region, and served as a Councillor for Portage from 1918-1922. Popular, and well-respected, he ran for Mayor in 1922, and was elected. He served as Mayor of Portage for 16 years, right up until his death, in 1938.
The old-timers say that the poltergeist vanished, and appeared like a streaking flame, as it finally left the Dagg farm, after three long months, of troublesome behavior.
The Dagg House, as it appears today. Local people and curiosity seekers still drive by this property, and local teens have been known to walk through the yard at night, on a dare.
Would You Dare to Visit at Night?
Exploring the Supernatural: The Weird in Canadian Folklore
1955. R.S Lambert’s book Exploring The Supernatural: The Weird In Canadian Folklore was published, which includes a chapter of what took place at the farm in 1889.
…..
The Ghost that Talked
The Dagg poltergeist was the subject of 1957 National Film Board movie, “The Ghost That Talked.”
“In the fall of 1889 a mysterious presence took up residence in the Dagg farmhouse in Pontiac county, Québec. This dramatization based on the first-hand report by Canadian artist Percy Woodcock shows that ghosts and poltergeists are as common in Canada as in the Old World.”
March 10th, 1957, 30 min.
…….
Fairknowe Home
For more information on Fairknowe Home, orphanage in Brockville: “The Village, A History of Quarriers” , by Anna Magnusson, 1984.
…….
Arlene Stafford-Wilson
Member, Association of Professional Genealogists
Member, Lanark County Genealogical Society
Lanark County Pioneer Families Humanitarian Award
Francois Bregha Storyteller Award
Author of: “Lanark County Christmas”, “Lanark County Comfort”, “Lanark County Collection”, “Lanark County Calling”, “Lanark County Classics”, “Lanark County Connections”, “Lanark County Calendar”, “Lanark County Chronicle”, “Lanark County Kid”, & “Recipes & Recollections”, “Lanark County Kitchen: A Maple Legacy from Tree to Table”
New for Fall 2024:“A delightful collection of stories and memories from former students and teachers, spanning the 1940s – 1980s, from schools in small towns, villages, and the rural one-room schools across Lanark County.”
October 4, 2024
The Witch of Plum Hollow
The readings always began the same way, with her visitors climbing the rickety wooden stairs to her cramped attic reading room. She motioned her guests to sit across from her, at a small pine table. A fresh pot of tea sat on the table, along with two cups. She’d pick up the pot, shake it vigorously, and pour a cup, watching as the leaves slowly sank to the bottom. Next, she swirled the tea around, poured the liquid back into the pot, then instructed her visitor to do the same.
Jane Elizabeth Martin Barnes was a beautiful young woman, when she arrived in North America. She left her home in England after refusing to marry a man twice her age. Her father, a Colonel, had instructed her to wed his friend, an unattractive middle-aged soldier, and Jane would have no part of it. Instead, she fell in love with a handsome young man, Robert Harrison, and they left Britain together, married, and had a son.
Sadly, Robert died shortly after they settled in Ontario, and Jane was left alone to raise their baby.
Jane had a lovely slim frame, fair complexion, and bright eyes. It wasn’t long before she began to date again, and a young shoemaker, David Barnes, won her heart. They married, and settled near Lake Eloida, not far from Plum Hollow, about fifteen miles south of Smiths Falls, in Leeds & Grenville, Ontario. Jane and David had a large family – six sons, three daughters, and Jane took in three neighbourhood orphans after their mother passed.
Jane’s husband David, was a bit of a wanderer, and he left her, abandoned the children, and moved to Smiths Falls. After her husband left, Jane’s son Williston ‘Ton’, and his family, moved into the little cabin with Jane, to offer her support.
David Barnes, Jane’s estranged husband, moved in with their son Samuel Barnes, who had a home in Smiths Falls, and who later became Mayor.
Samuel Barnes was among several other prominent business leaders who brought about the incorporation of the ‘Smiths Falls, Rideau, and Southern Railway Company‘, in January of 1898. The purpose of the incorporation was to construct and operate railways in, through and from the Town of Smiths Falls, in the County of Lanark.
The other members were James Maitland Clark, John Reeve Lavell, Alpheus Patterson, Richard Alexander Bennett, Matthew Ryan, Robert J. Brodie, Adam Foster, Robert Hawkins, George T. Martin, and Alexander Gray Farrell, all of the Town of Smiths Falls.
Samuel married Agnes Chalmers, and they had a large family of 10 children. Their youngest was Roy Barnes.
Roy Barnes in 1947, Grandson of Mother Barnes (Witch of Plum Hollow)
Jane, in need of an income to raise all of their children, began to read tea leaves.
In the late 1800s, telling one’s fortune by reading tea leaves became very popular.
In those days, loose tea was used, and so the leaves at the bottom of the cup often formed shapes or patterns, and these were interpreted by the fortune-teller, to predict future events.
Loose tea was measured into a tea pot filled with boiling water. After the tea was consumed, the loose leaves lay at the bottom of the cup
Then, the fortune-teller, or tea-leaf-reader, would interpret the meaning of the individual’s leaves.
Many believed that the position of the leaves in the cup itself, had meaning.
The images of the leaves in the cup were often matched with a series of standard symbols, used by many in the trade.
News of Jane’s accuracy in her predictions spread quickly, and she had visitors from neighbouring towns, cities, provinces, and even visitors from the northern states.
One of her most famous customers was the future Prime Minister of Canada, John A. MacDonald.
“As promised, we shall, here and now endeavor to do justice to the memory of a lady of the old school, who truly had as keen and as well trained and as thoroughly disciplined an intellect as anyone of our day and generation in our beloved native county. We refer to our long ago departed and much respected fellow citizen, who was early known as “Mother Barnes”, who as her years increased was usually designated as “Old Mother Barnes” and who was unjustly, and with crude irreverence, spoken of by those who knew her least as “The Witch of Plum Hollow.” The Old Farmersville folk never called her by such a name, nor did any of her neighbours who knew her best, for all who were intimate with her respected her and treated her with deference. It is true that she had a sharp tongue, but the only folk who ever felt its stinging lash were those from far distant parts who at times came into her presence with boisterous demeanor. She was pre-eminently fitted to handle just such a case and in a few crisp quietly spoken, even gentle words, she promptly put the culprit in his place and engendered in his heart and mind an infinitesimally small estimate of his own worth and importance in affairs terrestrial and in divine matters of the spirit world. Such a smart visitor went away dazed and with a deep realization of the fact that here in the backwoods of Canada was a personality which dominated everyone and everything in a manner far transcending that of any of the national orators, preachers, politicians, lecturers, phrenologists and other celebrities then the vogue in New York, London, Paris. This characteristic, and her native ability to see right through everyone, and even turn their minds and thoughts inside out, after a few moments’ conversation: these two God-given attributes made Mother Barnes famous and compelled the people to beat a track to her door to her little tea studio up under the eaves, for many long years.
If anyone wishes to make a shrine of the old home of Mother Barnes, which would be a fitting way to perpetuate her memory, he can easily locate the house by turning north from Main Street, Athens, at Sydney Taplin’s old corner, now owned by Mrs. Avis Daniels Harte. He should then proceed along Elgin Street, past the Area Parish Memorial Park on his right, and so along Livingstone Avenue, past the Villa to the Guide-board corner. Here, he should turn neither to the left along Wright Avenue to Plum Hollow, nor to the left along Robeson Avenue to Hard Island. He should keep straight ahead north along Eliada Parish Avenue to Mother Barnes Avenue, which is the town-line between Yonge and Kitley. There, on the southwest corner is Mother Barnes’ old home, Lot 13, Concession 11 Yonge. Mother Barnes Avenue runs from Atkins Lake, north of Rockspring, through Eloida, all the way to Soperton.
Mother Barnes was born Elizabeth Martin. She was a dearly loved daughter of Col. Martin, of the British Army, but when she came of age, she ran away with the man of her choice, Sergeant Robert Harrison, coming to America in a sailing ship which took six weeks in crossing. Thus, having disobeyed the wishes of her parents, she was a stranger to them during the rest of her pilgrimage below, true to the then prevailing mode in English families of the military, clergy, and gentry class. Elizabeth ‘Jane’ Martin, and her husband settled in Cobourg, Upper Canada, where one son, Robert Harrison Jr., was born to them, who in later life became Colonel Robert Harrison, commanding officer of a regiment from Kansas in the American Civil War. Col. Robert Harrison died in Kansas, and his mother in her home, at the corner of Mother Barnes and Eliada Parish Avenues, had his pictures in full regimentals. After the death of her husband, Robert Harrison, the elder, Mother Barnes, then known as Mrs. Elizabeth Martin Harrison, married David Barnes, an American, by whom she had nine children. John and Thomas died in youth. Next came Lucy, born in 1837, who married Joseph Haskin, of Plum Hollow. They moved to Modale, Iowa, travelling in a covered wagon. After the death of her husband, Lucy married a cousin of our dear old neighbour, Horace Brown, of Farmersville. She last visited her Athens cousins in 1906 but died some years ago. Next, came Samuel Barnes, a blacksmith, who married Agnes Chalmers of Montague, near Smiths Falls, a cousin of our old chum, Will Chalmers. Their daughter, Mrs. Lily Barnes, still resided in Smiths Falls when the record was made a few years ago. It was in the home of Mrs. And Mrs. Samuel Barnes, Smiths Falls, that David Barnes, husband of Mother Barnes, died. The next child was David Barnes, also a blacksmith. He went to Iowa in early life and died there. Next came Margaret, who married Arthur Robeson, of Sharbot Lake, where she died. Next came George of Athens, who married Clare Kyo, of Watertown, N.Y., and died young. Next, came Williston Barnes, of Eloida, who married Lydia Compo. Last came Jane Elizabeth Barnes, (Janie) born March 1st, 1847, who was the wife of our very popular old neighbour, Charlie Wing, of Farmersville. Mrs. Wing died Nov. 10, 1910. In one of our stories we described the home of Mr. and Mrs. Wing, on Elgin Street, which was one of the neatest, best kept and most attractive in the village. An adopted daughter of Mother Barnes and her husband David was Bella Sheldon, who was the wife of our cheerful old neighbour, Erastus Livingston.
And now we feel better, for we have completed a pleasant task, which has confronted me for a long time. We wanted to do justice to Mother Barnes, but it is not until now that we have been able to get around to it. We think that our good friend, Prof. Fred Lawdon, of the Historic Sites and Monuments Board, should see to it that the site of the old home of Mother Barnes is suitably marked for the enlightenment of posterity. Canada has never had as one of its citizens a lady of stronger character or keener intellect than Mother Barnes and this brief story of her life, which will be permanently preserved in the Canadian Archives, should be called to the attention of posterity by a suitable marking of the place of her residence and the centre of her activity, her old home near Lake Loyada (Eloida). Thus, Elizabeth Martin, a daughter of the gentry of England, lived among us for three-quarters of a century. What did she think of us? If she had put her impressions in the form of a book, it would now have an enormous sale.”
She predicted the location of money stolen from a resident of South March
During Jane’s time telling fortunes she was able to find missing objects, missing farm animals, and even missing people. Jane’s predictions were so accurate that even the police called on her to assist them from time to time. She even had a few very famous customers, in the many decades of her practice, in that little cabin in the country.
As the decades passed, news about Jane’s gift for predicting continued to spread far and wide, and there were often carriages lined up down the road near her little cabin.
“It was alleged by many, that Mrs. Barnes could tell all about a person, a hair from whose head was presented to her.”
Young people went to Jane, to ask advice on their love lives, and she was able to predict who they would marry. If any of the neighbours misplaced anything, they walked to Jane’s little cabin and she would tell them exactly where to look. Farmers went to Jane when their cattle or horses wandered off, and she always directed them to precisely the right spot. Business people consulted Jane for advice on their professions, and politicians sought her advice on elections and policies.
“The walls in the little room downstairs, were closely covered with the names of people from Canada and the United States, who had come to have their fortunes told.”
Eloda Wachsmuth, of Navan, Ontario, purchased the cabin in 2005, and invested $35,000 to restore the home, using much of the original logs and lumber in the restoration. Eloda wanted to preserve the history of Jane Barnes, so that she would be remembered.
By the fall of 2007, the cabin was restored, and it was Eloda’s intention that it would be open to the public, so they could learn about Jane Barnes and her years spent as a well-known fortune-teller.
Mother Barnes, as she was affectionately referred to in Leeds, lived a long life, and passed away, at the age of 90, in that same little cabin, where she had shared her predictions over the years.
Jane is buried at the Sheldon Cemetery
When Jane passed, she was buried in an unmarked grave.
Plum Hollow cheese-makers from 1924-1974, Claude and Ella Flood, erected a stone in memory of ‘Mother Barnes’. (note: the dates on the stone are incorrect)
Robert J. Harrison Jr. 1829-
John Barnes 1831-1832
Margaret Barnes 1832-1891
Thomas Barnes 1833-1857
Lucy Barnes 1836-1929
Samuel Barnes 1837-1922
David Barnes 1840-1923
Williston Barnes 1845-1920
George Barnes 1846-1906
Jane ‘Janie’ Barnes 1847-1910
Bella Sheldon 1853-1935
Descendants of Mother Barnes:Jane had a large family, including three adopted children.
Her son David Barnes died in infancy, age 1, and her son Thomas Barnes lived only until age 24.
Her eldest daughter, Margaret ‘Maggie’ Barnes, at the age of 52, married James Robinson.
Her daughter, Lucy Barnes married Metcalfe Peer, Joseph Haskin, and Alva Brown
Her son, Samuel Martin Barnes married Agnes Chalmers
Her son, David Barnes married Fannie Ryel
Her son, Williston ‘Ton’ Barnes, married Lydia Compo
Her son, George W. Barnes married Clarissa ‘Clara’ Kio
Her daughter, Jane, married Charles Wing
Other surnames in ‘Mother’ Barnes family: Bell, Joynt, Cooper, Goodwin, Williams, Buchanan
………………………………….
Discover the fascinating story of Jane Barnes, and her years as a local fortune-teller. Find out about some of Jane’s most prominent and famous customers. Who were the high-profile movers and shakers who sought Jane’s advice on a regular basis? Read about a grisly murder case that perplexed police, and was finally solved by Jane. Who was the famous and controversial newspaper publisher who sent his wife to ask Jane’s predictions because he didn’t want to be seen visiting a ‘fortune-teller’. Learn about the case of a poltergeist in Quebec, where the family seeks Jane’s help in solving the violent and frightening haunting of their house. Discover these stories and more, in the book:“Lanark County Calling: All Roads Lead Home”, the complete story of Jane Barnes, a gifted lady, also known as – ‘The Witch of Plum Hollow”
Arlene Stafford-Wilson
Honorary Life Member, Lanark County Genealogical SocietyLanark County Pioneer Families Humanitarian AwardFrancois Bregha Storyteller AwardMember, Association of Professional GenealogistsAuthor of : “Lanark County Christmas”, “Lanark County Comfort”, “Lanark County Collection”, “Lanark County Calling”, “Lanark County Classics”, “Lanark County Connections”, “Lanark County Calendar”, “Lanark County Chronicle”, “Lanark County Kid”, & “Recipes & Recollections”, “Lanark County Kitchen: A Maple Legacy from Tree to Table”New for Fall 2024“Lanark County Classrooms: Remembering Our School Days”
“A delightful collection of stories from former students and teachers, spanning the 1940s through to the 1980s, in towns, villages, and the rural one-room school-houses in Lanark County”
* * *
September 22, 2024
Photos – Book Launch in Perth
It was the last official day of summer, September 21st, and the weather couldn’t have been better, with warm sunshine, clear skies, and many residents and visitors were strolling along the historic main street in Perth.
What a busy day! It was a wonderful turnout at The Book Nook in Perth, for the book launch of, “Lanark County Classrooms: Remembering Our School Days”. The day marked “an even dozen”, with this latest book being number 12 in the Lanark County series.
The book is a collection of memories and stories spanning from the 1940s through to the 1980s, in small towns, villages, and the rural one-room school-houses – a tremendous variety from 48 local authors.
Many thanks to all of the former students and teachers who contributed their special school-day memories so they may be preserved for future generations. Being among the last generations to attend school before the dawn of modern technology, it is important to share and record our stories and precious local history.
Book Launch!
It was a busy day in Perth, with many local events taking place, and the crowds along Gore Street were filled with many people supporting the town and shopping local.
A brief moment in front of the store with owner, Leslie Wallack, before the busy afternoon of signing books and visiting with old friends and new ones as well.
The streets were filled with many people catching up with friends and former classmates outside the store, enjoying the beautiful warm weather.
One of our earliest visitors to the store was Marlene Springer, Carleton Place native, who shared her memories in the book of: Victoria School, Prince of Wales School, Caldwell School, and the Carleton Place High School.
JoAnne Cavanagh Butler, shared her story of attending S.S. # 4 Bathurst, at DeWitt’s Corners. JoAnne’s parents owned Cavanagh’s General Store, and all of the families in the area were frequent visitors. Like many general stores of yesteryear, it was a community gathering spot, a place to stop and chat with neighbours, and pick up last minute supplies before heading to Christie Lake.
Shirley Kerr Scott attended S.S. # 5, Bathurst Township School at Christie Lake, and shares her story in the book. At one time the school was on her uncle, Bert Kerr’s property, on Lot 6, Concession 2, and like many properties in the area, the Tay River ran through it.
Diana Barrie stopped by on behalf of her sister, Shirley Barrie Armstrong, one of the book’s contributors. Although they lived in Drummond Township, they attended school in Bathurst, on the 6th Concession. Like many of the schools in Lanark County, they had a traveling music teacher, Mr. Greenlaw, who visited once a week and led the class in song.
The Book Nook kindly provided delicious candies, shortbread, and assorted cookies for all to enjoy.
Many former students will remember Mrs. Thelma Dunlop, who taught school in Lanark County from 1961 through to 2017. I remember Mrs. Dunlop when she taught at Glen Tay Public School, and how much she was respected and admired by her many students over the years. A heartfelt thank-you to Mrs. Dunlop for your many decades in the teaching profession. Your positive influence to the many lives you touched will be with us for years to come.
Ethel Nagle, former student of S.S. # 1 Dalhousie School in Poland shared some wonderful memories in the book. Although Ethel wrote that her teacher, Mrs. Bernice Barr, was one of her favourites, she and her brothers, Richard and Art often played hooky from school, lighting a campfire in a nearby field. They were also known for letting local farmer, Herb Hart’s cows out so they would wander into the schoolyard. Naturally, Ethel and her brothers would get a little extra time off school to herd the cows and bring them back to the field. Wonderful memories Ethel!
It’s always a pleasure to have time to chat with Julia Crosbie James. Many will recall the Crosbie’s general store in Flower Station. Julia shared her memories of attending school at S.S. # 4 Lavant Township, where each day began with singing, “God Save the Queen”, and saying, “The Lord’s Prayer”. Julia has written some wonderful family history, and has contributed articles published in, “The Lanark Era”.
It was a hoot sharing some laughs with former P.D.C.I. classmate, Erin O’Neil Borthwick. If you think that Erin has a mischievous look in the photo below, it serves as a reminder of the many shenanigans we might recall from back in the 1970s. Erin kindly shared her memories of attending some of the wonderful old one-room school-houses in Drummond Township, like S.S. # 17 in Innisville, S.S. # 16 in Prestonvale, and S.S. # 13 at Drummond Centre.
It’s always nice to chat with one of members of the Chaplin family. Rona Chaplin stopped by, and picked up a copy of the new book. Our father worked for many years delivering milk in Perth for Chaplin’s Dairy in Glen Tay, and so the two families have much history in common.
It was fun spending a few moments with former classmate, Wayne Ashby. His story on S.S. # 12 Bathurst in Fallbrook, and S.S. # 15 Bathurst, the 9th Line School, offer us a rare glimpse into the days where students took turns hauling water into the school from an outdoor hand-pump, and stoking the old wood stoves.
The Miller family traveled from out of town and stopped by to say, ‘Hello’. This branch of the Miller clan descends from the original owners of our former home, the Stafford house, on the Third Line of Bathurst.
It’s always fun to have a chance to speak with avid historian, Doris Quinn. Doris has been researching and documenting the history of Ferguson’s Falls for many years. The Quinn family descends from the legendary ‘Seven Bachelors of Ferguson’s Falls’. These were seven young men who left Ireland and settled in Drummond Township and made a pact that if each and every one of them were not successful that they would all return back to the Emerald Isle: Patrick Quinn, John Quinn, James Carberry, William Scanlan, Terrence Doyle, John Cullen and James Power.
My husband, Kevin, who is usually on the other side of the camera. Many thanks to him for his help at the book launch, for carrying 120 copies of the new book to the store, and for a busy afternoon taking photos of the event.
Thank-you Marina Quattrocchi for sharing your wonderful memories of your school days in Smiths Falls at Central School, St. Francis de Sales School, and the Smiths Falls District Collegiate. Back in the 1970s, Marina participated in a protest at the high school because the girls at that time were not allowed to wear pants to school. She said many of them had cold legs walking to school in skirts and dresses on those bitter winter mornings. The protest was a great success, and from that time forward the girls were allowed to wear pants to school – just one of Marina’s fascinating recollections from her school days in Smiths Falls.
Carol-Ann McDougall stopped by with a delicious gift of her strawberry jam, homemade, at her lovely lake house on the shores of the Big Rideau. It’s always a pleasure to see Carol-Ann and have a chance to chat about local history.
It was great fun speaking with journalist, Laurie Weir, from Weirview Media, who stopped by and took some photos with the latest additions to her camera equipment. Laurie lights up a room with her smile, and the photos she captures so artfully after many decades of story-telling are a treasure, and so important in documenting our local news and what will some day become our local history.
What a delight to have a chat with former Third Line neighbour, Steve Scott. Steve’s parents, Bill and Wilma owned the farm a few fields from ours, and we saw them frequently, not just at school, but at Calvin United Church each Sunday as well. Steve fondly recalled our mother’s prize-winning baking, and I remembered the wonderful Hallowe’en treats from the Scott family, shared generously with all of the neighbourhood children.
After a busy afternoon, the Book Nook owner, Leslie Wallack and I had a chance to pause for a brief chat, as we reminisced about the previous 11 book launches held at their bright and welcoming store. Thank-you Leslie, and the Book Nook staff, Rhoda and Mark for hosting the very busy book launch.
The Story-Tellers
Many thanks to the former students and teachers who shared memories of their school days, preserving this history for future generations:
Lorraine Allen, Shirley (Barrie) Armstrong, Wayne Ashby, Helen Blair, Erin (O’Neil) Borthwick, David Bromley, Judy (Curry) Burnham, JoAnne (Cavanagh) Butler, Grant Chaplin, Margery Conboy, Diane (Crawford) Cox, Martha Craig, Katie (McFarlane) Davies, Eric Devlin, Marilyn (Walker) Devlin, Earl Alexander Donaldson, Sharon Dowdall, Diane Duncan, Joanne Ewart, Beverley Ferlatte, Richard Frizell, Karen Fulton, Anne Graham, Susan Hanna, Heather (Bell) Harry, Julia James, Muriel James, Keith Kerr, Marilyn Lucas, Cynda McAdoo, Tom McEwen, Rosetta McInnes, Everett Milotte, Edythe Moulton, Jayne Munro-Ouimet, Ethel Nagle, Roy Paul, Marina Quattrocchi, Rose Mary Sarsfield, Shirley (Kerr) Scott, Debi Cavanagh-Sparks, Marlene Springer, Ivy (Whyte) Stearns, Ron Thornbury, Opal (Lindop) VanAlstine Kluge, Shirley (Code) Warr, Dave White and Don White.
Arlene Stafford-Wilson
Honorary Life Member, Lanark County Genealogical Society
Member, Association of Professional Genealogists
Lanark County Pioneer Families Humanitarian Award 2023
Francois Bregha Storyteller Award
Author of : “Lanark County Kitchen”, “Lanark County Christmas”, “Lanark County Comfort”, “Lanark County Collection”, “Lanark County Calling”, “Lanark County Classics”, “Lanark County Connections”, “Lanark County Calendar”, “Lanark County Chronicle”, “Lanark County Kid”, & “Recipes & Recollections”
September 20, 2024
Weather Lore & Sayings
Weather – It’s one of our favourite topics of conversation, and has an effect on all of us, every day of the year. It dictates the way we dress, what we carry with us, and whether we schedule an activity or not. As Canadians we can’t wait for those first signs of spring and the melting snow, then in the summer we plan important family gatherings when the weather is warm and sunny, later, the fall ushers in a cooler more colourful change, and then there are the challenges of getting around during the winters months.
Farmers are more concerned with the weather, and discuss it more often, than any group of people I’ve met, and this becomes abundantly clear when you spend your youth in a rural area. Will there be enough rain, or too much rain, will a drought destroy hard work and money invested, will it be dry enough to harvest? These things are a constant source of worry for a farmer, and have a huge impact on whether it will be a financially successful season, or a fiscal disaster.
Our Dad had many of his own sayings about weather that he shared from time to time. He grew up on a farm in Drummond Township in the 1920s, then later did his own farming on the Third Line of Bathurst. Having spent so much of his life out in the country, he had also participated in countless conversations on the subject, and maybe had picked up a few weather sayings along the way.
Red Sky?
“Red sky at night, sailor’s delight,
Red sky at morning, sailors take warning”
Is it true that a bright pink sky at sunset means fair weather the next day?
Dew on the Grass
“When the dew is on the grass,
Rain will never come to pass.
When grass is dry at morning light,
Look for rain before the night.”
Circle Around the Moon
“If a circle forms ‘round the moon,‘Twill rain soon.”
Leaves Turn Their Backs
“When leaves turn their back
‘tis a sign it’s going to rain.”
Birds Fly Low
“If birds fly low
expect rain and wind below.”
Moon Colours
“Pale moon rains; Red moon blows.”
White moon neither rains or snows.”
Wind Direction
“When the wind is in the east, it’s good for neither man nor beast.
When the wind is in the north, the old folk should not venture forth.
When the wind is in the south, it blows the bait in the fishes’ mouth.
When the wind is in the west, it is of all the winds the best.”
Rain Before Seven
“Rain before seven,
clear before eleven.”
Quick Storm
“The sharper the blast
the sooner ‘tis past.”
Sore Joints
“When your joints begin to ache,
rainy weather is at stake.”
Barometers
“When the glass falls low, prepare for a blow;
when the glass is high, let your kites fly.”
Bright Moon
“Clear Moon,
frost soon.”
Clouds
“When clouds appear like towers,
the Earth is refreshed by frequent showers.”
Sun Dog
“A Sun Dog at play
Rain is on the way.”
Cows
A cow with its tail to the west, makes weather the best;
a cow with its tail to the east, makes weather the least.”
Bee Hives
“When the bees crowd out of their hive, the weather makes it good to be alive.
When the bees crowd into their hive again, it is a sign of thunder and of rain.”
Flies
“If a fly lands on your nose, swat it till it goes.
If the fly then lands again, it will bring back heavy rain.”
Candlemas (Feb. 2nd)
“If Candlemas Day, be bright and gay, saddle your horse, and go buy some hay
If Candlemas Day be cloudy and rough, stay by the fire, you’ll have enough.”
Roosters Crowing
“If the rooster goes crowing to bed;
He’ll certainly rise with a watery head.”
Ladybugs
“When Ladybugs swarm,
Expect a day that’s warm.”
Cat’s Ears
“When kitty washes behind her ears,
we’ll soon be tasting heavens tears.”
Frogs
“Frogs will sing before the rain,
but in the sun they’re quiet again.”
Stars
“When the stars being to huddle,
the earth will soon become a puddle.”
Leaves
“If autumn leaves wither and hang on the boughs,
it foretells a frosty winter and much snow.“
Hornet’s Nest
“See how high the hornet’s nest;
‘Twill tell how high the snow will rest.”
Snow
“If snow begins at mid-day
Expect a foot of it to lay.”
Corn Husks
“When the corn husks are thick ‘tis very clear,
The winter will be long and the weather severe.”
Onion Skins
“Onion skins very thin,
Mild winter coming in;
Onion skins thick and tough,
Coming winter cold and rough.”
Cicadas/Heat-Bugs
“If you hear the first song of the Cicadas today,
Then frost is just six weeks away.“
Dark Clouds
“When clouds look like black smoke
a wise man will put on his cloak.“
Weather Lore, Sayings, and Rhymes:
There are many sayings and lore related to the weather that have evolved over the years, some of them passed down through the generations, and some have been around so long that we have no idea of their origins. What we do know is that the reason these old sayings, old wives-tales, and expressions have been around this long is because many of them are true.
Long before there were weather apps for your phone, or Doppler radar, or the local forecasts, our ancestors were busy observing their natural surroundings. Through their observations, they noticed that animal behavior, clouds, and other elements of nature gave them some important clues about the weather to come.
Their weather folklore was often in the form of ‘sayings’, simple rhymes and anecdotes, and these were passed down from generation to generation.
Much of this old weather lore has been passed down through our families, and remains with us today.
Arlene Stafford-Wilson
Member, Lanark County Genealogical Society
Member, Association of Professional Genealogists
Lanark County Pioneer Families Humanitarian Award
Francois Bregha Storyteller Award
Author of “Lanark County Christmas”, “Lanark County Comfort”, “Lanark County Collection”, “Lanark County Calling”, “Lanark County Classics”, “Lanark County Connections”, “Lanark County Calendar”, “Lanark County Chronicle”, “Lanark County Kid”, & “Recipes & Recollections”, and “Lanark County Kitchen: A Maple Legacy from Tree to Table”
New for Fall 2024:
“Lanark County Classrooms: Remembering Our School Days”
“A delightful collection of stories and memories from former students and teachers, spanning the 1940s through to the 1980s, schools in small towns, villages, and the rural one-room schools across Lanark County”
Book Launch: Saturday, Sept. 21st, 12 noon to 3 p.m. at The Book Nook, 60 Gore St. E., Perth, Ontario
September 18, 2024
Elmcroft Mansion, Smiths Falls
Elmcroft was built in 1895, by Senator Francis Theodore Frost, President of the Frost & Wood company, manufacturers of farm implements. His father, Ebenezer Frost, founder of the company, settled in Smiths Falls in 1839 and opened a shop known as the Agricultural and Implement Works. Later, they began manufacturing stoves and plows, and grew into one of the most successful agricultural manufacturing companies in Canada.
Elmcroft – photo: William James Topley – family photo album – taken between 1890-1910
Elmcroft, 1907, photo: private family collection
The beautiful Maria Powell Frost, wife of Senator Frost, – photo: taken in Ottawa, 1873
Maria Eliza Powell Frost was born in Madrid, St. Lawrence County, New York, married Francis Theodore Frost on June 3rd, 1868.
Photo: Maria Frost in her later years. Maria was known for her service to the church and her support for local charities. For many years she taught the primary class of the Sunday School at St. Paul’s Presbyterian Church. She was elected to the National Council of Women of Canada and held that position for many years. She also represented the Smiths Falls Chapter at the Quinquennial Congress of the International Council of Women held in Toronto, Ontario, in 1909.
1915 Senator Frost sitting at Elmcroft Mansion, photo: JJ Kerfoot family album
Executives of Frost & Wood on the lawn in front of Senator Francis Frost’s home “Elmcroft”. Charles Frost, President, is seated on the far left. c. 1907
Elmcroft, featured in the March, 1911 edition of The Canadian Horticulturalist, highlighting its 27 ft x 15 ft Canna flower beds
Elmcroft – Senator Frost’s Home, Smiths Falls, OntarioIn 1901, Senator Francis Frost, 57, and his wife Maria, 54, lived at Elmcroft, along with Maria’s mother, Mary Powell, 84, and their two servants, Elizabeth Nolan and Mary Dillon, both age 28.
Sir Wilfred Laurier, the Prime Minister who appointed Francis T. Frost to the Senate, visited Elmcroft to enjoy tea with the Frost family
In July of 1907 a jewel thief entered Elmcroft and stole all of the Frost family’s opulent jewelry. The value of the jewels was so significant that the story of the burglary was featured in the Toronto Globe newspaper.
A share certificate from the Frost & Wood Company
The Frost & Wood company as it appeared in 1924
ELMCROFT TODAY
Elmcroft B & B
In 2008 Ken and Cathy Thom purchased the home known as Elmcroft, at 89 Chambers St., for $200,000. and after two years of extensive renovations, they opened the Elmcroft B & B in April of 2010.
photo: Tonia Kelly, Smiths Falls This Week, Metroland Media, March 31, 2011
The Smiths Falls Municipal Heritage Committee recommends that four mansions — all located on Chambers Street East — be designated as “Heritage Properties of Interest.”
The Frost Mansion Row includes:
Charles B. Frost Mansion
57 Chambers St. E.
Charles Beriah Frost, Vice-President of Frost & Wood Co.- (1840-1909)
(the property at 57 Chambers St. is already designated a Heritage Property of Interest. It has been divided into 11 separate apartments)
57 Chambers St. E.
The grand house at 57 Chambers St. E. was originally built for Abel Russell Ward who is considered the founder of Smiths Falls. His house was the largest and finest in the village at the time it was built. Abel Russell Ward owned the property until 1881 when it was sold to Charles B. Frost, and it remained in the Frost family for many years. It was designated a Heritage Property in 1983.
Edwin Frost Mansion
65 Chambers St. E.
65 Chambers St. E. – built in 1905 for Edwin Frost, currently owned by Joseph Murray
Edwin James Frost (1863-1921), son of James Trussell Frost and Jeannette Stinson Frost, Treasurer of Frost & Wood, married Laura Osborne Meighen (1873-1920). They had no children. The house, built in 1900, passed to Laura’s sister and her husband. This home has been divided into 7 apartments, owned by Joe Murray.
McKimm Mansion
69 Chambers St. E.
69 Chambers St. E. – photo: courtesy of Douglas McEwen, Nov. 2021
69 Chambers St. E., side view, photo: courtesy of Douglas McEwen, Nov. 202169 Chambers St. E. was built in 1895, home of George Frederick McKimm. McKimm married Helen Elvira ‘Nellie’ Frost, daughter of James Trussell Frost and Jeannette Stinson Frost. George was Founder and Editor of “The Rideau Record”. The local newspaper, established in 1887, played an important role in local politics, and later became “The Record News”. McKimm played a pivotal role in securing funding from philanthropist, Andrew Carnegie, in 1902, to build the Smiths Falls Public Library.
Senator Frost’s Mansion
Senator Francis ‘Frank’ Theodore Frost (1843-1916)
89 Chambers St. E.
89 Chambers St. E., photo: courtesy of Douglas McEwen
Elmcroft Mansion Timeline
Senator Frost’s Mansion was originally built in 1895 as a three-storey mansion in the Queen Anne revival style. Senator Francis T. Frost, the son of the founder Ebenezer Frost, and later President of Frost and Wood, a farm equipment company operating in Smiths Falls for 116 years. Frost was the first mayor of Smiths Falls, became the MP for North Leeds and Grenville and in 1903 was appointed to the Senate during the Laurier government.
The grand home once boasted two halls, a dining room, two staircases, a library, and stables. It was said that the home was so massive, that a freight car load of coal was needed every winter to heat the building.
After the death in of Senator Frost in 1916, his wife, Maria, inhabited the house for roughly 10 years, until she left. The house stood vacant until 1938, when the Founder of Rideau Beverages, a bottler for the Coca Cola Company, J. Clark Ketchum, bought Elmcroft. Because of extensive water damage, Ketchum removed the top floor of the home and added a garage, however, the house still retains many of its original stately ground floor features. At one time, the building housed Dr. Penny’s medical practice.
Groundskeeper’s House
97 Chambers St. E.
97 Chambers St. E., Smiths Falls –
The Carriage House located at 97 Chambers St. E is considered a significant heritage property because of its connection with its adjacent property, Elmcroft. It was the residence and workshop of Senator Frost’s full-time groundskeeper.
The carriage house, as it was called, stored all of Senator Frost’s horse drawn carriages on the first floor. They entered and exited where the veranda has been built on the end of the building.
Mansion Row Map
The homes of ‘Mansion Row’, Chambers St. , Smiths Falls, ON
These stately homes were all originally built and owned by immediate descendants of the Frost family, the founders of the Frost and Wood Company.
Senator and Mrs. Maria Eliza Frost relaxing on the grounds at Elmcroft
If you’re visiting Smiths Falls, be sure to drive along Chambers Street E. and enjoy the beauty of these historic mansions.
New Book – Fall 2024:
“Lanark County Classrooms: Remembering Our School Days”
“A delightful collection of dozens of stories and memories from former students and teachers, spanning the 1940s through to the 1980s, from small towns, villages, and the rural one-room schools in Lanark County”
* * *
Arlene Stafford-Wilson
Honorary Life Member Lanark County Genealogical Society
Lanark County Pioneer Families Humanitarian Award
Francois Bregha Storyteller Award
Member, Association of Professional Genealogists
Author of: “Lanark County Christmas”, “Lanark County Comfort”, “Lanark County Collection”, “Lanark County Calling”, “Lanark County Classics”, “Lanark County Connections”, “Lanark County Calendar”, “Lanark County Chronicle”, “Lanark County Kid”, & “Recipes & Recollections”, “Lanark County Kitchen: A Maple Legacy from Tree to Table”
September 16, 2024
Hometown News Reviews “Lanark County Classrooms”
“…we are among the last generations to attend school before the dawn of technology…”
“As readers turn the pages, they may find themselves reminiscing about their own school days…”
* * *
To read the article in the digital version of, “Hometown News”, September 2024 edition, click on the link below:
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Book Launch:
“Lanark County Classrooms”
For those not able to attend the book launch, signed copies may be pre-ordered from The Book Nook in Perth, by calling 613-267-2350,
Or online:
Lanark County Classrooms – Release September 21
Arlene Stafford-Wilson
Honorary Life Member, Lanark County Genealogical Society
Member, Association of Professional Genealogists
Lanark County Pioneer Families Humanitarian Award 2023
Francois Bregha Storyteller Award
Author of : “Lanark County Kitchen”, “Lanark County Christmas”, “Lanark County Comfort”, “Lanark County Collection”, “Lanark County Calling”, “Lanark County Classics”, “Lanark County Connections”, “Lanark County Calendar”, “Lanark County Chronicle”, “Lanark County Kid”, & “Recipes & Recollections”
September 13, 2024
Pant Barn Dances
Rock and Roll and blue jeans were the iconic symbols of an unforgettable era, and of the youth of the 1970s. Loud rumbling muscle cars and long hair parted in the middle, set against a backdrop of pounding drum-beats and wailing guitars. Denim pants and blue-jean-jackets were the unofficial uniform at the Perth High School, and rock music – loud and heavy was the soundtrack of the times.
In a timely business decision, an enthusiastic 21-year-old kid from Smiths Falls, Perry Weagle, opened a blue-jean store called The Pant Barn, at 51 Foster St., in Perth, Ontario, in 1972. He also began to organize rock concerts. In the years that followed, he brought in some of the biggest rock and roll acts in Canada to play at the Farrell Hall, and later, the Community Center, in Perth.
His hugely popular store sold all of the latest styles in denim jeans, as well as the much-coveted tickets to his rock concerts, known as ‘Pant Barn Dances’.
The clothing store, and the concerts were enormously popular throughout the 1970s and 1980s, and teens were bused in from Almonte, Brockville, Carleton Place, Smiths Falls, to name a few.
Oct. 26, 1972, p. 6, “The Perth Courier”
Levis Blue Jeans ad – 1972 
The Pant Barn, 51 Foster Street, Perth, Ontario
Lee Jeans ad, 1973
Aug. 24, 1972, “The Perth Courier”
Nov. 2, 1972, p. 4 “The Perth Courier”
Popular Teen Dances
Jan. 25, 1973, p. 8 “The Perth Courier”
Octavian – 1973
Apr. 5, 1973, p 9. “The Perth Courier”
Terry Dee & More Comes to Perth
July 26, 1973, p. 9 “The Perth Courier”
Octavian and Larkspur
Dec. 13, 1973, p. 20, “The Perth Courier”
Feb. 21, 1974, p. 6 “The Perth Courier”
May 9, 1974, p. 7 “The Perth Courier”
2,000 Teens attend April Wine Concert
May 9, 1974, p. 7, “The Perth Courier”
May 16, 1974, p. 6, “The Perth Courier”
“Youth Glad to Have Something to Do.”
July 18, 1974, p. 19, “The Perth Courier”
Original members: Skip Prokop: drums and vocals, Paul Hoffert: keyboards and vibraphone, Ralph Cole: guitar and vocals, Grant Fullerton: bass and vocals, Vic “Pinky” Dauvin: percussion and lead vocals, Ian Guenther: violin, Don Dinovo: violin and viola, Don Whitton: cello, Leslie Schneider: cello, Freddy Stone: trumpet and flugelhorn, Arnie Chycoski: trumpet and flugelhorn, Howard Shore: alto saxophone, Russ Little: trombone
Aug. 8, 1974, p. 10, “The Perth Courier”
Canada’s Most Popular Band
Lighthouse
Aug. 8, 1974, p. 12 “The Perth Courier”
Aug. 15, 1974, p. 8, “The Perth Courier”
Oct. 3, 1974, p. 8, “The Perth Courier”
Oct. 10, 1974, p. 6 “The Perth Courier”
The StampedersThe Stampeder’s First Hit Single – “Carry Me”
Oct. 10, 1974, p. 6, “The Perth Courier”
Nov. 7, 1974, p. 6, “The Perth Courier”
Nov. 21, 1974, p. 13, “The Perth Courier”
Mar. 27, 1975, p. 13, “The Perth Courier”
May 22, 1975, p. 16, “The Perth Courier”
Apr. 22, 1976, p. 17, “The Perth Courier”
May 27, 1976, p. 18, “The Perth Courier”
June 17, 1976, p. 7, “The Perth Courier”
‘A Foot in Coldwater’ – 50th Pant Barn Dance
‘A Foot in Coldwater’ – the Pant Barn’s 50th rock concert – July 15, 1976, p. 9 “The Perth Courier”
‘A Foot in Coldwater’, article from “The Perth Courier”
July 15, 1976, p. 9, “The Perth Courier”
Dec. 9 1976, p. 10, “The Perth Courier”
55 Dances in Two Years
Pant Barn June 30 1977 p 15 “The Perth Courier”
July 11, 1979, p. 16, “The Perth Courier”
April 16, 1980, p. 17, “The Perth Courier”
Apr. 23, 1980, p. 12, “The Perth Courier”
April 30, 1980, p. 13, “The Perth Courier”
promotional photo – 1979Max Webster: Kim Mitchell – guitars and lead vocals, Terry Watkinson – keyboards and vocals, Mike Tilka – bass and vocals, Paul Kersey – drums and percussion, Pye Dubois – lyrics
May 7, 1980, p. 31, “The Perth Courier”
Rowdy Crowd Gathers at Corner of Gore and Foster St.
May 7, 1980, p. 1 “The Perth Courier”
Charges Laid Following 13 Liquor Seizures
May 7, 1980, p. 2 “The Perth Courier”
Discover the unforgettable concerts, the rock and roll, and go behind-the-scenes with the bands, all the special memories – With stories and anecdotes from Perry Weagle, and former staff of The Pant Barn and the Perth Community Center. The story that captures the memories – “The Legendary Pant Barn Dances”, part of a collection of short stories in “Lanark County Comfort: Homespun Tales to Warm Your Heart”
* * *
Arlene Stafford-Wilson
Honorary Life Member, Lanark County Genealogical Society
Member, Association of Professional Genealogists
Lanark County Pioneer Families Humanitarian Award
Francois Bregha Storyteller Award
Author of : “Lanark County Kitchen”, “Lanark County Christmas”, “Lanark County Comfort”, “Lanark County Collection”, “Lanark County Calling”, “Lanark County Classics”, “Lanark County Connections”, “Lanark County Calendar”, “Lanark County Chronicle”, “Lanark County Kid”, & “Recipes & Recollections”
Haggart Mansion
Haggart House, located at 41 Mill Street, Perth, Ontario, was formally recognized for its heritage value in 1984, and a commemorative plaque was attached to the entrance gates. One of the grandest homes in the town, the history of the early occupants, the Haggart family, is one filled with both triumph and tragedy.
Haggart House, as it appeared in the early 1900s
photo: Parks Canada
photo: Parks Canada
John Haggart Sr.
John Haggart Sr. arrived in the Perth, Ontario, in the 1820s from Breadalbane, Scotland. He was a stonemason, and worked on both the Rideau Canal and Welland Canal. He also constructed Chaffey’s Locks, and operated a four-mill business on the Tay River.
He formed a partnership with George Buchanan in 1832, and he had acquired a lease to operate Alexander Thom’s grist mill in Perth, on what came to be known as Haggart’s Island in the Tay River.
By 1840 he had erected a group of carding, flour, and sawmills and a finely crafted stone house of Regency design.
He married Isabella Graham, native of the Isle of Skye, Scotland, in January of 1836, near Kingston.
John and Isabella Haggart had five children:
John Graham Haggart (1836-1913)
Duncan Archibald Haggart (1838-1851)
Norman James Haggart (1839-1840)
Mariam Anne ‘Mina’ Haggart (1840-1879)
Isabella (Haggart) Millar (1846-1917)
Hon. John G. Haggart
Hon. John G. Haggart, Minister of Railways and Canals — photo: Library & Archives Canada
John Graham Haggart was the eldest child of John Haggart and Isabella Graham. He was educated in Perth, and after the death of his father he abandoned his studies and focused his attention on the management of the family’s mill. Through several successful business partnerships, he established the Perth Mills, and in 1870–71 the flour mill was rebuilt and he converted it to roller-mill technology. By 1896 he had also become President of the Tay Electric Light Company Limited.
He entered politics and was elected Mayor of Perth, and later was elected as a Member of Parliament representing Lanark, and also served as Postmaster General.
He married Caroline Douglas, and they had two children, one who died in infancy, and Duncan, a young law student, who died at age 22 from typhoid fever.
Hon. John G. Haggart, Postmaster General – photo: Library & Archives Canada
“Haggart left all of his property
to his widowed sister, Isabella (Haggart) Millar.”
Duncan Archibald Haggart (1838-1851)
The second child born to John Haggart Sr. and Isabella (Graham) Haggart, Duncan Haggart, died at the age of 12 years.
Jan. 10, 1851,”The Perth Courier”
Norman James Haggart (1839-1840)
The third child of John Haggart Sr. and Isabella (Graham) Haggart, Norman Haggart, died in infancy
Mariam ‘Mina’ (Haggart) Bell (1840-1879)
Mina Haggart, was the fourth child of John Haggart Sr. and Isabella (Graham) Haggart. In 1866, she married James Bell, a banker, at the family home, Haggart House.
Mina and James Bell had eight children:
Mariam ‘Minnie’ (Bell) Armour (1867-1950) Twins: Norman and Amy (1870-1870) who died of pneumonia, Louise (1871-1941), Alice Mary (1873-1949), Graham (1874-1929), George (1876-1906) and Agnes (Bell) Stone (1878-1949)
Mina died, in 1879, at age 38, from double pneumonia.
Isabella (Haggart) Millar (1846-1917)
Isabella Haggart, their fifth child, was born in 1846. She married in 1868, at the age of 21, to James Morton Millar, a Chicago businessman, and they lived first in Perth, later in Chicago, then retired in Perth. They had no children, and he passed away in 1889, age 47. After James died, Isabella moved in with her brother, John Graham Haggart, who was Postmaster General at that time.
“The late Mrs. Isabella Millar, Perth, left many bequests of from $5,000. to $10,000 to relatives and institutions, and gave her home, the late Hon. J.G. Haggart’s place to Perth to be used as a home for returned soldiers.”
1 Oct 1917, “The Ottawa Journal”
Minnie (Bell) Armour (1867-1950)
In 1923, after serving as a convalescent home for soldiers returning from WWI, the house was returned to the family. When John. G. Haggart passed away, he left the house to his sister Mina (Haggart) Bell.
When Mina passed in 1917, the house was willed to her eldest daughter, Minnie (Bell) Armour.
Haggart House Dedicated
Heritage Building in 1976
In 1976, Haggart House was the home of Judge Edward Shortt. He and his family moved to Perth in 1964.
Judge Edward Shortt (1915-1978) took possession of the old stone mansion in 1965, purchasing the home from the son of John Haggart’s nephew.
At that time there were a total of 11 rooms in the house, with 12-foot ceilings. When Judge Shortt purchased the house, he was told that some of the furnishings were quite old. The bookcases in the library were built by an English cabinet-maker, whose previous job was making coffins. A small table was brought back from the Spanish-American war, and the original wooden desk used by John Haggart was still functioning.
Oct. 18, 1976, p. 21, “The Ottawa Journal”
Martin Family
Following the death of Judge Edward Shortt, in 1978, his widow, Willa (Dole) Shortt (1913-2005), remained in the house until the 1980s, when the property became too difficult to manage by herself.
Mrs. Shortt advertised the house for sale, and it was purchased by David and Connie Martin. David owned Randall’s Paints in Ottawa, along with his two business partners, since 1976.
Over the years the Martin family did extensive work on the house. They renovated the kitchen, added a new cedar roof and a copper roof on the front porch. They also replaced old plumbing and wiring and added two new furnaces – one to heat the upstairs and one for the downstairs. They added a garden room with heated tile floors and large windows. They built a pergola, a deep koi pond, and designed large flower beds with perennial gardens. They also replaced the old carriage house with a new garage designed in the same style. The doors of the carriage house were narrow, built for horses and the stone pillars holding the iron gates at the road were moved farther apart to allow cars and construction vehicles onto the grounds.
Jamie Shortt, son of Judge Shortt, shared some stories with the new owners about his time living in the house:
“And there are, of course, ghost stories. There’s a body buried in the back yard in a grave with a stone frame around it – allegedly a stable boy who got kicked in the head by a horse.
When the Martins first moved in, they’d get up in the morning thinking they’d left a radio or TV on because they heard voices mumbling downstairs.
Jamie Shortt told them he had heard the same sounds when he was growing up. One night, he and his sister had both dreamed that they saw a woman going up the attic stairs. And a workman who stayed in the house swears he saw a woman in the window.”
Early in 2004, the Connie and David had a new granddaughter, living in Ottawa, and they wanted to be closer to her, and so put the house up for sale. At that time, it was listed as having 6,000 square feet, a library, living and dining rooms, fully renovated kitchen, a garden room, five bedrooms, four bathrooms and a billiard room. Their original asking price for the mansion and 2 1/2 acres of gardens and lawns was 1.2 million dollars.
June 26, 2004, p. 85, “The Ottawa Citizen”
July 10, 2004, p. 86, “The Ottawa Citizen”
Bartleman
Although the specific dates are unknown, during 2008-2009, James Bartleman (1939-2023), former diplomat and Lieutenant Governor of Ontario, and his wife, Marie-Jeanne, were living at Haggart House with their three dogs. In 2008, they participated in a Christmas House Tour.
Nov. 15, 2008, p. 95, “The Ottawa Citizen”
Haggart House was included with nine other distinctive homes, decorated for Christmas, as a fund-raiser for literacy programs.
Into the Future
Although specific dates of ownership are not known, Scott Reid, MP, and his wife, Robyn Mulcahy, became owners of Haggart House, and were recognized for their work on the home.
In 2017, Perth Mayor, John Fenik, right, presented a “Heritage Perth Architectural Conservation Award”, to Robyn Mulcahy, wife of Lanark-Frontenac-Kingston MP Scott Reid, in recognition of their restoration work on Haggart House. The specific improvements were the installation of a new cedar shake roof and the extensive landscaping maintenance of their home.
photo: Desmond Devoy, “Inside Ottawa Valley”, Feb. 10, 2017
A Proud History
And so, through the years, the Haggart House has a long and storied history in the town of Perth, from the early days of the first occupants – John Haggart Sr. , his wife, Isabella Graham, and their children.
Through the decades there were members of the Haggart family who experienced tremendous success, and at the same time, other members of the family who suffered a series of tragic losses.
This elegant home remained in the Haggart family until it was sold to Judge Edward Shortt in 1965.
The Haggart House is one of the architectural gems in the town of Perth, and its history and proud tradition elevate it as one of the many remarkable homes in Lanark County, with a uniquely interesting story to tell.
Arlene Stafford-Wilson
Honorary Life Member, Lanark County Genealogical Society
Lanark County Pioneer Families Humanitarian Award
Francois Bregha Storyteller Award
Member, Association of Professional Genealogists
Author of : “Lanark County Christmas”, “Lanark County Comfort”, “Lanark County Collection”, “Lanark County Calling”, “Lanark County Classics”, “Lanark County Connections”, “Lanark County Calendar”, “Lanark County Chronicle”, “Lanark County Kid”, “Recipes & Recollections”, and “Lanark County Kitchen: A Maple Legacy from Tree to Table”
