Low Down Articles
Echoes from the Past
Article 95 of 111
This article first appeared in the "Echoes from the Past" column of the The Low Down to Hull and Back News.
Reprinted with permission. Search complete list of Low Down Articles.
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Tit-Bits
KINGSMERE
First settler was William Jeffs, the lake being known as Jeffs Lake. He went to Meech Lake and set up a sawmill there. He later moved to Old Chelsea and occupied one of the Chamberlin houses.
An 1875 map of Kingsmere area shows the Jeffs held lots 20-A and 20-C in 1863. W. Dunlop had lot 21-A, R. Kenny was on lot 19-B, which was bought by J. Sheean in 1880. Another lot holder was a Mr. Warricker. All lots were on Range >VIII.
WOLVES & FOXES
One summer season Gardner Church Sr. (1799-1882) trapped 7 wolves near the Chelsea Railway Station. He also trapped black foxes, the pelts of which brought him $10, a good sum in those days.
MILES BARNES
The "Hermit" had 1000 apple trees, did his own grafting, sometimes 4 or 5 on one tree, "Barnes Specials". A photograph shows the hermit, with flowing white beard, rifle in hand, in the doorway of his cabin near Kingsmere with his neighbour P.M. W.L. Mackenzie King. Barnes died in 1932.
COFFEE
was not used much in the 19th century, tea being the favourite beverage of non-alcoholic content. The shantymen liked their tea hot and very very strong.
WEDDING DRESSING
used to be coloured - not always white. Miss Robb spoke of a pink bride's dress. Bride's dress designed to emphasize the S shape silhoutte in vogue in 1895... Marilyn Shouldice. Bridesmaid's dress beautiful red satin, lined with sateen.
HOMING INSTINCT
Jack Hendrick used to draw cordwood to Ottawa, leaving his home at 2:00 a.m. In Ottawa he would unload, feed the horses and start the team homeward driverless. The sleigh runners just stayed in the ruts. When the team arrived home the barking of the dogs would alert the family, one of whom would go out and unhitch them. Hendrick in the meantime took the train home, had a sleep and was ready to repeat the performance.
PICNICS
Catholics had a picnic every year... lots of Protestants came too... came in express (wagon) loads, all horses those days... a day in July, between hay and harvest, and after schools were closed.
Place constructed for food... a dining room with board walk all around... kitchen outside... tea in huge iron pots... big teapots... really strong tea... baked bean, pies... meal for .25 cents.