Lucan-Biddulph Villager June 2022

Lucan-Biddulph Villager June 2022

Lucan Biddulph Villager JUNE 2022 ISSUE 1

Not Your Mother’s Craft Show – May 7, 2022

Sheena Clark of Bearly in Business works hard to find new vendors to add to the veteran vendor lineup. The annual Mother’s Day Not Your Mother’s Craft Show first started in 2015 and has been growing ever since. This year was the first year the show ran on both Saturday and Sunday. “We are very proud of how big it’s becoming,” says Sheena. “Taking a leap from making crafts to taking part in a craft show is worrisome for new vendors. To go from friends and family liking what you make to showing your work to complete strangers and hoping they want to buy it is very scary. We try to make it low stress for everyone.” Each morning of the show, Sheena announces how many vendors are brand new and asks everyone to check in with each other to see who’s new and who needs support. She also hands out door prizes throughout the day. Sheena’s family members come and help too. She even had family fly in from England to help for the weekend. “My sisters and parents come to every show to support it. It’s a huge undertaking, but we love it,” Sheena explains. Even local teens get volunteer hours by helping vendors load and unload their wares.

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LUCAN BIDDULPH VILLAGER

Issue 1 - June 2022

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Council Communications Hello everyone,

On behalf of Lucan Biddulph, it is my pleasure to congratulate the Lucan Biddulph Villager on its inaugural edition being published in our community. It is exciting to be the newest member of your successful locally owned and operated publications. The Villager highlights local small businesses and provides an additional resource for communities to learn more about where they live. The commitment to sharing local stories on community history, and highlighting small business and community events will be appreciated by our residents, and we are sure they will read it cover- to-cover every month. At the heart of any thriving community, you will find good people and good businesses which Lucan Biddulph has! Our community has come together in times of celebration and challenging times. I look forward to your publication reflecting all of our strengths every month. With this is inaugural edition, it is a good time to encourage our residents and visitors to come discover Lucan Biddulph once again. Take a tour of the Lucan Area Heritage & Donnelly Museum, shop at our local retailers, dine-in or order takeout from one of our many restaurants and don’t forget about Lucan Summerfest this July 22 & 23, 2022. Follow along our social media pages Discover Lucan Biddulph and Lucan Summerfest to keep updated on all the current events happening and how you can be a part of it all! This is also an important year for our Lucan Biddulph Community Memorial Centre as it is undergoing a renovation and revitalization that will benefit all residents with many fantastic upgrades throughout the Community Centre. Again, on behalf of the Township Council and staff, our residents and local businesses, congratulations on this inaugural Lucan Biddulph Villager community publication. Remember to shop and support local! Sincerely, Cathy

Cathy Burghardt-Jesson, Mayor 519-227-4491 [email protected] www.lucanbiddulph.on.ca

Hours Tue-Fri 9am-5pm Sat 9am-3pm Service and Sales of high quality pre-owned Harley Davidson motorcycles

PUT SOMETHING POWERFUL BETWEEN YOUR LEGS 519-227-1331

33656 Denfield Rd., Lucan www.hogtowncycles.ca

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LUCAN BIDDULPH VILLAGER

Issue 1 - June 2022

Hello Readers! My name is Tami Martin. As Managing Editor, I’m very excited to share our first edition of the Lucan Biddulph Villager magazine with you. Villager Publications is a 100 percent locally owned and operated enterprise, employing local graphic designers, writers, advertising consultants — and a local printer, as well. The line-up of Villager magazines focuses on local entrepreneurs, artisans, volunteers, legions, service organizations (Optimists, Lions, etc.), schools and churches — the people who are so passionate about their neighbourhoods. We engage and support communities, endeavouring to deliver informative and entertaining content that will make a real difference.

Tami Martin Managing Editor

Publisher Barb Botten was born and raised in Byron and felt her community could benefit from a publication that helped promote local businesses, all while delivering interesting articles about people, history and current events. Thus, Villager Publications was launched in 2015 with the Byron Villager. An enthusiastic response to that first Byron Villager edition led to additional publications, including the Hyde Park-Oakridge Villager, Hometown Strathroy-Caradoc, Hometown St. Thomas, Ilderton and Area Villager, Komoka-Kilworth-Delaware Villager, Lambeth Villager, Port Stanley Villager, Pride Villager, Real Living (a quarterly Elgin magazine about rural agricultural living), Wortley Villager, and for the 55+ community, Boomers & Beyond Elgin County. The Lucan Biddulph is now lucky number 13 under the Villager umbrella. The majority of these magazines are distributed ten times a year to homes in their respective areas via Canada Post, with additional copies available at various pick-up locations. For further reach, each edition is posted online at www.villagerpublications.com, and also shared on social media. In order to continue to capture the essence and history of our communities for posterity, copies are also kept in the archives room at the central branch of the London Public Library. I have personally been involved with print media since the late 1980s and was honoured when Barb asked me to join the Villager team. I hope you enjoy reading our first edition of the Lucan Biddulph Villager and will support our local advertisers appearing in this publication. It’s their participation that enables us to offer this new magazine to you. Locally owned businesses build strong communities, linking neighbours in a web of economic and social relationships, all while contributing to local causes. We would love to hear from you as well, so if you have an event, story suggestion, or something historical you’d like to share, please feel free to contact me at [email protected] or Lynne Williams, our Content Manager at [email protected]. We welcome your ideas! Tami

Lucan Biddulph Villager Issue #1 June 2022 Your local community connector The 100% locally owned and produced Villager is published ten times a year with thousands delivered free to area residences, set out at local venues, and posted online at www.villagerpublications.com Publisher: Barb Botten P.O. Box 134, Lambeth Station Ontario N6P 1P9 [email protected] 519-282-7262 Managing Editor: Tami Martin [email protected] Content Manager : Lynne Williams [email protected] Graphic Artist: Jon Botten Copyright @ 2015 Villager Publications. All rights reserved. This magazine or any portion thereof may not be reproduced or used in any manner whatsoever without the express written permission of the Publisher. Information presented has been compiled from sources believed to be accurate at the time of printing however the Publisher assumes no responsibility for errors or omissions. Do you have a Lucan Biddulph Neighbour of Note? Do you do cultural cooking? We’d love to hear from you. Contact Tami at [email protected] Replica of the Donnelly’s log cabin located at the Lucan Area Heritage & Donnelly Museum on Main St., Lucan.

Back in the day

Cover photo and article sugggestions welcome!

The Little Ausable River in Biddulph Township Photo credit: Photo courtesy of Wendy Boole from the collection of Hulda May (Culbert) Carscallen.

Start of the London-Lucan Road Race 1888

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LUCAN BIDDULPH VILLAGER

Issue 1 - June 2022

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of its own. The population within the next year grew to 1,200. On January 1, 1872, Lucan became a municipality of its own. The years that followed were up and down, and as the railway declined, so did Lucan. It seemed Lucan’s luck had run its course. As motor-vehicle use increased, however, Lucan began to prosper again thanks to the London-Goderich Road running through its middle. In recent years, the town has grown into a thriving community of over 3,000 people, proving that it is truly Lucky Lucan.

Lucky Lucan Comes a Long Way By Lynne Williams

Lucan was incorporated as a village in 1872, but its story begins at least 200 years before settlers arrived in what became Biddulph township in the 1800s. According to historian Terry Culbert, Lucan’s main street may have once been a “heavily travelled trail by First Nation people” dating back to the mid-1600s. Fast forward to 1826. John Galt’s Canada Company purchased 1.1 million acres of unsurveyed land in Upper Canada from the British Government. This land became known as the Huron Tract. Galt’s first task was to build roads into the Huron Tract. He finished the Huron Road by 1827 and started surveying another that ran from Clinton south to the Proof Line Road in London township. This second road, known as the London-Goderich Road, was instrumental in the establishment and survival of Lucan. A small group of Black settlers from the United States came along this newly surveyed road looking for a safe place to live free from persecution. By 1832 a small colony of 32 families had settled along the London- Goderich Road from Little Ausable River south past present- day Lucan to the Biddulph-London township line. The fledgling settlement was called Wilberforce after the British abolitionist William Wilberforce. At its height, Wilberforce had approximately 200 people, mills, general stores, and at least two churches. They built the first school for the area, which Black and white children attended. However, lack of funding, harsh weather, and disease caused many families to return to the United States or move to other parts of Upper Canada. By 1835 only 20 families remained in the area, and the settlement continued declining. As Wilberforce dwindled, Irish settlement expanded. John McDonald, a surveyor for the Canada Company, acquired several Wilberforce lots. He renamed the area Marystown after his wife before moving to Goderich. From the 1840s onwards, Marystown grew. The first post office opened in 1860. New businesses started, like Sylvanus Gibson’s Sash and Door Factory and the Central Hotel. In 1859, the Grand Trunk Railway (GTR) was building its mainline in Marystown, with the first train running in 1860. Marystown was poised to become a railway boomtown. However, when an application was submitted officially registering the post office, another, older, Marystown was found to exist. The new upstart village would have to change its name. How the townsfolk chose Lucan for the new name is a matter of debate. Jennie Raycraft Lewis’s version is the most colourful. She relays a detailed tale of how Thomas “Dublin” Hodgins, a former Reeve of Biddulph, came to the rescue. He suggested calling the village Lucan after the area where he grew up in County Dublin. According to Lewis’s account, Thomas said, “Sure, this place remoinds me of me home in Ireland, [. . .] Call the town Lucan and ye’ll niver be sorry.” The name stuck, and as luck would have it, the village experienced steady prosperity and growth. In 1870, a petition was presented to Biddulph Council requesting that Lucan separate and form a council

Picture of Little Ausable with bridge Photo credit: Photo courtesy of Wendy Boole from the collection of Hulda May (Culbert) Carscallen.

Picture of Lankin’s Harness Maker, circa 1910 Photo credit: Pioneers to the Present: Biddulph Township, 1850–2000, 1998.

Picture of Lucan Train Station Photo credit: Grand Trunk Railway: Publisher: Warwick Bros. & Rumsey, ca. 1909

Sources: Lucan: Home of the Donnellys, Terry Culbert, 2005. Sure An’ This Is Biddulph, Jennie Raycraft Lewis, 1965. The Luck of Lucan, Jennie Raycraft Lewis, 1967. Pioneers to the Present: Biddulph Township, 1850–2000, 1998.

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Lucan Legion, fixture in Lucan since 1953 By Kelly O’Connor Branch 540 Royal Canadian Legion Lucan has been a fixture in our community since 1953 and its current President is Royal Canadian Navy veteran Kelly O’Connor, other Executive officers are 1st Vice President Jeff Cook, 2nd Vice President Gary Melvin, Treasurer Gail Lewis and Secretary Tara Klisht. The branch is open Fridays 5 to 11 p.m. and Mondays 5 to 9 p.m. with all community members welcome to attend; contrary to some beliefs, you DO NOT have to be a member. Our beverages and food are priced well below general community standards and very affordable to most. In addition to dine-in, we also have takeout available by calling ahead 519-227-4751, our bartender Gail will be happy to accommodate you. Fish and chips have recently been added to the menu, we offer lightly breaded haddock one piece for $7.25 and two pieces with fries for $10.75, how’s that for a bargain? By patronizing the Lucan Legion branch you are enabling us to donate to various veterans programs and community groups; during the past four years we have donated more than $50,000 to the Homeless Veterans Program, the London Military Family Resource Centre, the military PTSD Service Dog Program, a London Air Cadet Squadron, Huron-Middlesex Army Cadet Corp, Jessica’s House, Lucan Scouting and Guiding, Parkwood Hospital Veterans Care, Camp Wood Eden for children with disabilities, the Lucan-Biddulph volunteer fire dept, as well as the Ailsa Craig and Area Food Bank to name a few. The Lucan Legion will have a very large footprint during Summerfest July 23, we will have an outdoor beer tent with local keyboardist/vocalist Don Harvey playing from 12 to 3 p.m. and the Shelly Rastin band performing from 3 to 6 p.m.. In the meantime, check out our open mic music jamborees every second Wed. from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. Thank you for your past and current patronage, if you’re new to Lucan and have never been into the Legion, COME ON DOWN! Lucan Legion 136 Market St, Lucan, ON (519) 227-4751

We Serve: Lions Clubs through the Pandemic By Samuel Cassady

“We serve” is the simple motto of Lions International. With more than 1.4 million members globally, Lions International is about “leading by example, building relationships and improving the world through kindness” (www.lionsclubs.org). Individuals, communities, businesses, and service clubs alike have faced many challenges throughout the pandemic. The Lucan District Lions Club was no exception. Zoom meetings have taken their toll, as has the inability to engage with our communities at the events we hold so dear – both our community events and the noble charitable initiatives we support. Despite the challenges, the Ilderton Lions Club offered Friday take-out wing-nights; Thorndale continued Turkey Bingos; Exeter’s Catch the Ace game saw winnings of $13,000; Santa Clause parades marched on as best they could. The Lucan District Lions Club adapted to online sales for our Classic Car Draw (winitcar.com), enabling the club to maintain regular donations thanks to the generous support of our community. In 2022, the Lucan District Lions Club will be donating $100,000 to the Lucan Community Center renovations, as well as $10,000 each to SARI Therapeutic Riding, VON Middlesex- Elgin, and the Children’s Hospital at the London Health Sciences Centre. The club has also allocated $10,000 for the relocation of Ukrainian refugees and $5,000 for BC flooding relief. Last but not least, the club has donated thousands of pounds of food thanks to the support of our Halloween and Christmas food drives. Donations are only possible with the support of our communities, and we thank our resilient friends and neighbours for their dedication. Together we serve. Please look forward to Lucan Summerfest 2022 and the full slate of Lion community events in 2022-23!

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Issue 1 - June 2022

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SummerFest 2022 by Lisa DeBoer SummerFest 2022 By Lisa DeBoer

Everyone knows summer is all about the outdoors and festivals! Lucan Biddulph SummerFest is the biggest little community festival of the season featuring two concert events on Friday, July 22nd for Rock Night, while Saturday, July 23rd is all about country music. BUT it’s not just about the music! The Lucan Biddulph SummerFest FREE daytime event, located at the Market Street Park on July 23rd from 9am to 7pm, will have you following your nose and enjoying delicious treats and eats from one of the many food vendors, and quenching your thirst at the Lucan Legion while watching live bands at their outdoor patio. Visitors can shop at the many merchandise vendors, watch the live dog stunt shows by the Ultimutts, enjoy buskers, play at the family friendly inflatables and games and participate in nerf wars. This year, Lucan Biddulph SummerFest has partnered with Great Escape RV to add the Rock Night Concert to the weekend festival and we are excited to announce that Sloan and I Mother Earth will be performing at the Lucan Biddulph Community Memorial Centre ball diamonds on Friday, July 22nd. This year, Lucan Summerfest has partnered with Great Escape RV to add Rock Night Concert to the weekend festival and are excited to announce that Sloan and I Mother Earth will be performing at the Lucan Biddulph Community Memorial Centre Ball Diamonds on Friday, July 22nd. On Saturday, July 23rd our Country Concert will feature Canadian Superstar Country star, Tebey with special guests River Town Saints, David Boyd Janes and Brian John Harwood. Make sure to get your Lucan Summerfest concert tickets now at Ticketwindow.ca before they sell out. Both concert events are +19 admission. Lucan Summerfest would like to thank the following sponsors for being a part of this year’s event. On Saturday, July 23rd, our country concert will feature Canadian country superstar, Tebey with special guests River Town Saints, David Boyd Janes and Brian John Harwood. Make sure to get your Lucan Biddulph SummerFest concert tickets now at Ticketwindow.ca before they sell out. Both concert events are +19 admission. Lucan Biddulph SummerFest would like to thank the following sponsors for being a part of this year’s event: Gold: Great Escape RV, Langford Lumber Home Building Centre, Pro Mechanical Truck Repairs, Visit Middlesex, Quadro Communications, Tim Hortons Silver: Lucan Optimists, Lucan Legion, Radcliffe Real Estate Team, Glavin Coating & Refinishing Gold – Great Escape RV, Langford Lumber Home Building Centre, Promechanical Truck Repairs, Visit Middlesex, Quadro Communications, Tim Hortons, Silver – Lucan Optimists, Lucan Legion, Radcliffe Real Estate Team, Glavin Coating & Refinishing, Bronze – CarStar, MacEwan Gas, Murals In Metal Everyone knows summer is all about the outdoors and festivals! Lucan Summerfest is the biggest little community festival of the Night and Saturday, July 23rd is all about Country music. BUT it’s not just about the music, the Lucan Summerfest FREE daytime event located at the Market Street Park on July 23rd will have you following your nose and enjoying delicious treats and eats from one of the many food vendors and quenching your thirst at the Lucan Legion while watching live bands at their outdoor patio. Visitors can shop at the many merchandise vendors, watch the live dog stunt shows by the Ultimutts, enjoy buskers, play at the family friendly inflatables and games and can participate in nerf wars.

Bronze: CarStar, MacEwan Gas, Murals In Metal See you at Lucan Biddulph SummerFest! Past Summerfest Photos See you at Lucan Summerfest! Past Summerfest Photos

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Ilderton and Area Villager

LUCAN BIDDULPH VILLAGER LUCAN BIDDULPH VILLAGER

Issue 1 - June 2022 Issue 1 - June 2022

through university selling park model RVs. When an opportunity arose on the corner of Highways 4 and 7, south of Lucan, Justin chose a new road. Great Escape RV marked their tenth anniversary in March. When asked what makes him proudest, Justin doesn’t hesitate. “How the business has grown. I started as a one-man show. Now we have 15 employees, including a summer student.” Justin also has a new service manager, Alex Zekany, who brings 24 years of RV experience to the team. The RV industry has also grown in the last 10 years. “One of the upsides of COVID was it introduced RVs to a huge new market of people who might never have considered them before,” explains Justin. With traditional travel curtailed, road trips became one of the few ways people could get away during the pandemic. Coupled with rising cottage prices, many people have turned to the RV lifestyle as a recreational alternative. “Not everyone embraced it,” admits Justin. “But there are many who fell in love with the RV way of life, and that will positively impact the industry for years.” Committed to helping that industry flourish, Justin volunteers for ORVDA. He works on their education committee, which is developing an RV technician apprenticeship program that will hopefully launch soon. This is exciting news for the industry according to Justin. “Our technicians at Great Escape RV are certified, but this program will offer a new accreditation path for young trades-oriented students.” Justin has seen other leaps in the RV industry as it catches up with the needs of the people embracing this lifestyle. One such

Crossroads Lead to Fulfilling a Dream By Lynne Williams Ten years ago, Justin Boyd found himself at a crossroads in his career. Having completed university and now working in the insurance field, it seemed Justin’s path was set. But he felt restless. “I’ve always wanted to build something I could call my own,” says Justin. “I did not feel that I, personally, could do that in a corporate job.” Justin grew up immersed in the RV world. His father worked as the Ontario Recreational Vehicle Dealership Association (ORVDA) executive director for years, and Justin put himself

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LUCAN BIDDULPH VILLAGER

Issue 1 - June 2022

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jump is incorporating environmentally sustainable technologies, such as solar panels, into new RV designs. This June, the Winnebago FLX model, which is a fully “off-grid” RV, will be on the Great Escape RV lot. “These models have the capacity to run up to five days without a constant source of power,” explains Justin. Besides supporting the RV industry, Justin and Great Escape RV also contribute to the Lucan community in many ways, including sponsoring the Lucan Irish hockey league, the Firefighter’s Association, and of course, Summerfest. This year Great Escape RV is the lead sponsor, and they are hosting Rock Night. Great Escape RV will also be hosting their annual Open House on June 3, 4, and 5 as part of their anniversary celebrations. After a two-year hiatus, Justin is excited to bring the event back, but with a twist. “We’ll have the usual BBQ, but this year we’re planning live music around a campfire.” Justin and Great Escape RV hope to be part of the Lucan community for many years to come. With the first 10 years behind him, Justin has a wide-open road ahead to continue building the dream that started at a crossroads. To learn more about RVs or the RV technician apprenticeship program, contact Justin Boyd at greatescapervcanada.com.

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People at the heart of Lee Campbell Esthetics By Lynne Williams

Lee Campbell operates Lee Campbell Esthetics, located at 169 Main St., Lucan, where she offers an array of esthetic services, from pedicures and manicures to eyebrow and lash tinting. Creating a space that feels like home is important to Lee. “It’s a welcoming place for people to come,” Lee says. “When I work with someone, they often share what’s happening in their lives. I love that they feel safe to do that.”

Lee started working as an esthetician in 1992. However, twists in her life led her away from the industry for several years. Then, in 2014, Lee faced a breast cancer diagnosis. “It changed me,” she explains. “It made me slow down and look hard at my priorities.” Lee returned to her love for esthetics, upgraded her skills, and was soon in business again. Lee joined Jana Froats at her salon in Lucan in 2016 and eventually transitioned the business into her own when Jana retired. Lee doesn’t just see clients in her salon. “I believe everyone deserves to feel taken care of,” explains Lee. “If someone has mobility challenges, I’m happy to go to them.” Lee is often a gift for someone’s special occasion. But it is the gift of her clients that she cherishes most. “If I can provide a listening ear and send them off looking fantastic, I’ve done my job!” To see all the services offered by Lee Campbell Esthetics, go to: leecampbellesthetics.com. To see samples of Lee’s work, look on Instagram: leecampbellesthetics, or Facebook: Lee Campbell Esthetics. Photo credit: Lee Campbell

Hey Lucan Friends, Stay tuned for something exciting at Lace Boutique this Summer! Can’t wait for you to see! Open Wednesday - Saturday 10:30am - 3pm 213 Main St., Lucan Visit our website laceboutiquefashions.ca

Page 10 LUCAN BIDDULPH VILLAGER Issue 1 - June 2022

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A Town by Any Other Name . . . By Lynne Williams Making an investment with This Oak House by Whitney South When Marilyn Moore first opened This Oak House back in 1998 — it was meant to be. She had been looking for a new, unique business venture, and importing Amish-made solid wood furniture to the London area certainly fit the bill. “If I gave you the whole history of the business, you could write a little book,” Marilyn said with a smile. “It’s just been great. People know us and contact us from all over. It’s a great feeling to know customers appreciate the kind of quality we offer.” Granton owes its origin and name to the Grand Trunk Railway (GTR)’s mainline that ran through its midst. The GTR began building the line in 1857, but another ten years would pass before Granton would exist officially. Once the GTR line opened, hints of a village began at the confluence of four farms belonging to Andrew Grant, his brother James and neighbours William Levitt and Charles Foreman. Each owned four 100-acre lots that formed the area that would become Granton. As a family-owned Canadian company, Marilyn and her son and partner Dan have prided themselves on offering a large selection of solid wood furniture for the bedroom, office, kitchen, living room, dining room, kids’ rooms, and more. Customers can choose from a variety of pieces showcased throughout the 3,500 sq. ft. showroom, or have a piece made to order by selecting the type of wood, stain colour and hardware. All furniture at This Oak House is finished using the finest stains and catalyzed varnish, which withstands moisture and will continue to protect the surface for years to come. By 1866, the area’s population had increased, and more efficient transportation was needed to move produce, mail, and people. Since the railway cut across his land, Alexander successfully petitioned the GTR for a passenger flag station to be established on his property. Alexander applied a year later to build a permanent railway station. With that prospect, however, came the dilemma of naming the burgeoning hamlet. The Amish pass down their traditional methods through the generations of furniture makers. It’s those quality methods and principles that ensure the pieces they produce last for decades. What’s more, Marilyn maintains it’s the builders themselves that really set the products sold at This Oak House apart from the crowd. “We do have quite a unique product,” she said. “There are tons of styles to choose from, from elegant to modern to rustic.” It’s that special edge which has continued to bring customers back to This Oak House – now more than ever. O rChards esH Local PUMPKINS b SQUASH b SEASONAL PRODUCE rup b Apple Cider b APPLE CIDER Vinegar ms b Peanuts b JERRY RADER PIES & MORE Historians tell how the Grants called the village Granton on a registered survey of their land required for the new station. William and Charles, who also surveyed their land for the station, registered theirs under the village name of Awmik—an indigenous term meaning Beaver. It came down to a draw and Beaver (Awmik) won. The local GTR superintendent had the final say, however. He chose Granton—not to favour the Grants, but rather after his birthplace All rentals are for a seven day period. “This gives renters time to complete their project, and maybe also take the opportunity of having a bin in their driveway to clean up other home, basement, garage and yard items,” says Brent. “You order – we deliver – you fill the bin – we take it away!” To learn more visit bearcreekbins.ca, call (519) 859-8799, or visit Bear Creek Bin Rentals on Facebook. As proud members of the Coldstream / Ilderton area where they are raising their four school-aged children, Brent and Helen strive to deliver old-fashioned friendly service with modern conveniences like on-line booking, and social media outreach. “All of our bins have walk-in barn-style doors for easy access with a dolly or wheelbarrow,” explained Brent. “Our bins are narrower than most which make them ideal for residential use, and our compact truck has the maneuverability to fit in tight spaces.” Available in four, seven, or fourteen yard sizes, Bear Creek Bind Rentals has a bin to accommodate a variety of projects from renovations and demolition, to spring cleaning, or even removing dirt or gravel from your yard or garden. 23778 RICHMOND STREET NORTH Just 10 minutes from Masonville at 15 Mile Road OPEN ALL WINTER 7 DAYS A WEEK! Monday-Friday 9-6, Saturday 9-5, Sunday 12-5 RICHMOND STREET NORTH Just 10 Minutes from Masonville at 15 Mile Road 519-666-0286 APPLES MAPLE SYRUP preserves APPLE CIDER APPLE CIDER VINEGAR HONEY JAMS PEANUTS JERRY RADER PIES Gift Baskets & more 200 YEARS OF TRADITION BAKED INTO EVERY BITE Made from scratch daily, and whenever possible, from local, organic ingredients. C runiCan O rChards FresH Local Apples b PUMPKINS b SQUASH b SEASONAL PRODUCE Maple Syrup b Apple Cider b APPLE CIDER Vinegar Honey b Jams b Peanuts b JERRY RADER PIES & MORE OPEN ALL WINTER 7 DAYS A WEEK! Monday-Friday 9-6, Saturday 9-5, Sunday 12-5 RICHMOND STREET NORTH Just 10 Minutes from Masonville at 15 Mile Road 519-666-0286 OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK Monday – Friday 9-6 Saturday 9-5 • SUNDAY 12-5 519-666-0286 • crunicanorchards.com Located on site at the historic Arva Flour Mill 2042 Elgin Street, Arva • (519) 601-6455 Check in often to see what’s baking! Wednesday to Friday 10am – 5pm Saturday 9am – 4pm arvamillhousebakery.ca C runiCan O rChards resH Local les b PUMPKINS b SQUASH b SEASONAL PRODUCE le Syrup b Apple Cider b APPLE CIDER Vinegar ey b Jams b Peanuts b JERRY RADER PIES & MORE C runiCan Bear Creek Bin Rentals provides local bin rental option by Cathy Wood “When planning some home renovation projects of our own, we noticed there were very limited options for bin rentals in our area,” said Helen Farmer of Bear Creek Bind Rentals. “Companies we contacted were all charging additional service fees to come to our area or were just too busy to even respond to our requests! This led to the creation of Bear Creek Bin Rentals.”

in Granton, Scotland. The permanent station was approved, and Granton was born. The village prospered until the 1940s when motorized vehicles began replacing trains as a transportation method. Granton station closed in 1956, marking the decline of the town as a commerce centre. However, a determined residential community still exists, and a modern-day Awmilk street sign is a gentle reminder of a town by another name. Sources: Sure An’ This Is Biddulph, Jennie Raycraft Lewis, 1965. Pioneers to the Present: Biddulph Township, 1850–2000, 1998. LIVE BEES • HONEY • CANDLES BEEKEEPING EQUIPMENT, LESSONS AND MORE www.earthandhoneybee.com Picture of Granton Train Station Photo credit: Photograph courtesy of Middlesex Centre Archives 2016.0037

Handcrafted Amish Furniture Cowboy Cauldrons available now from Campfire ninja! The Region’s ultimate supplier of everything campfire!

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To advertise here please contact [email protected] Page 10 Ilderton and Area Villager • May 2021 Page 8 Ilderton and Area Villager • June 2022

Hyde Park-Oakridge Villager Issue 57 December 2022 www.villagerpublications.com Managing Editor: Cathy Wood [email protected] Advertising: Tami Martin 519-851-0961 [email protected] Nippy Watson [email protected] Publisher: Barb Botten Villager Publications, P.O. Box 134, Lambeth Station Ontario N6P 1P9 [email protected] 519-282-7262 Graphic Artist: Cathy Wood

Adam Higgs and Melissa Ozaruk “We bee keeping” by Rick Young What started out as a hobby with two beehives in 2017 eventually evolved into a fulltime business for Ilderton residents, Adam Higgs and Melissa Ozaruk. Since 2019, the husband-and-wife team has operated Earth + Honeybee, a full-service, one-stop apiary. “We wanted to have a hobby we could do together. Once we got our first two hives we were hooked and began growing our apiary to the size it is today,” says Adam. “The name Earth + Honeybee is the meaning of our names turned business name. Adam means ‘red earth’ and Melissa means ‘Honeybee.’ The plus sign in the middle is a little nod to when we first started dating and we would write A + M on each other’s papers at school,” says Melissa. “When we decided to open our beekeeping business we couldn’t have come up with a better name.” Earth + Honeybee sells a wide range of products and services related to beekeeping, including raw honey and natural candles. “We complete both processes from beginning to end. We will never add or adulter our honey or beeswax in any way, as we honor the natural products that come with taking care of the bees,” says Melissa. Back in the Day Photographed November 20, 2016 during that season’s first snowstorm, this Ford truck has seen many first snow falls in its 70 years. Before it’s “semi-retirement” to be on display at the Crossings restaurant on Hyde Park Road for a time, it had worked on a farm near Wallaceburg. Does anyone know more about it’s history? Please write in!

New

Melissa and Adam at the Ilderton Farmers Market

Welcome to the Hyde Park-Oakridge Villager! We support local arts, entrepreneurs, business, organizations and more by bringing historical and current neighbourhood people and passion to print. You are invited to share stories, photos, event information and to advertise. The 100% locally owned and operated Hyde Park Oakridge Villager is published ten times a year with thousands delivered free to area residences and is an ideal way to reach your local market. NEVER MISS ANOTHER ISSUE OF VILLAGER! Now you can read your local community magazine at villagerpublications.com and at the Archives room at the Central Branch of the London Public Library

Starter Kits and Workshops are available. “We offer a beginning beekeeping course that offers information like pests and diseases, hive management and what to expect in the first year of beekeeping,” says Adam. “In the past, we have also offered a Hive Split/Queen Rearing course teaching the basics to splitting a hive and how to create queens for future colonies, and an End of Season Management course that talked about what to do with the hives before winter’s arrival and how you can care for the bees during the winter months. These courses may open back up as the season progresses.” The couple have been selling their products at the Ilderton Farmers Market since 2019 and at Suni’s Convenience and London’s Artisan Bakery. At present they do not have a store- front location but are looking for more opportunities to have their honey, candles, and other products in more locations. “We would like to expand to other farm store locations, health food stores and grocery stores,” says Melissa. “We love the Ilderton area,” say Adam and Melissa. “We were welcomed into the community through the Ilderton Farmers Market. Everyone has been supportive, and kind and we enjoy interacting and talking bees with everyone we meet or welcome back.” For more information about Earth + Honeybee and its products and services, visit: www.earthandhoneybee.com and follow them on Facebook and Instagram.

Drop in for all your dog, cat, O rChards FresH Local Apples b PUMPKINS b SQUASH b SEASONAL PRODUCE Maple Syrup b Apple Cider b APPLE CIDER Vinegar Honey b Jams b Peanuts b JERRY RADER PIES & MORE C runiCan 226-377-6311 • [email protected] Call us for all your residential needs, housekeeping and repairs. C runiCan O rChards FresH Local Apples b PUMPKINS b SQUASH b SEASONAL PRODUCE Maple Syrup b Apple Cider b APPLE CIDER Vinegar Honey b Jams b Peanuts b JERRY RADER PIES & MORE

The apiary caters to hobbyist and professional beekeepers – in short, anyone who wants to take the time and dedication it takes to care for their bees. The couple caution would-be beekeepers that “it is a lot of work and isn’t for the person who wants to set it up and forget it. That harms the bees and any surrounding beekeepers.”

small animal food & supply; as well as chicken & horse feed Ruff Trax Pet Supply 13229 Ilderton Road, Unit 103, PO Box 15, Ilderton, ON NOM 2A0

To advertise here please contact [email protected] To advertise here, please contact [email protected] To advertise here, please contact [email protected] 23778 RICHMOND ST N (519) 666-0286 • crunicanorChards.com 519-857-2385 OPEN ALL WINTER 7 DAYS A WEEK! Monday-Friday 9-6, Saturday 9-5, Sunday 12-5 RICHMOND STREET NORTH OPEN ALL WINTER 7 DAYS A WEEK! Monday-Friday 9-6, Saturday 9-5, Sunday 12-5 RICHMOND STREET NORTH Just 10 Minutes from Masonville at 15 Mile Road 519-666-0286 APPLES MAPLE SYRUP preserves APPLE CIDER APPLE CIDER VINEGAR PEANUTS HONEY JAMS JERRY RADER PIES Gift Baskets & more C runiCan O rChards FresH Local Apples b PUMPKINS b SQUASH b SEASONAL PRODUCE Maple Syrup b Apple Cider b APPLE CIDER Vinegar Honey b Jams b Peanuts b JERRY RADER PIES & MORE OPEN ALL WINTER 7 DAYS A WEEK! Monday-Friday 9-6, Saturday 9-5, Sunday 12-5 RICHMOND STREET NORTH Just 10 Minutes from Masonville at 15 Mile Road 519-666-0286 M-F 9-6 • Sat 9-5 Sunday 12-5 Just 10 minutes from Masonville

Page 12 LUCAN BIDDULPH VILLAGER Issue 1 - June 2022 Page 12 Ilderton and Area Villager • May 2022 LIVE BEES • HONEY • CANDLES BEEKEEPING EQUIPMENT, LESSONS AND MORE www.earthandhoneybee.com Page 2 Hyde Park – Oakridge Villager • Jan-Feb 2022

The Little Hamlet That Had Big Plans By Lynne Williams In 1844, Patrick Flanagan came to the crossroads at what is now the juncture between Clandeboye Drive, Denfield Road and Richmond Road. Here, Flanagan built the first hotel and store, marking the spot that would become Clandeboye. However, the village would not be known by that name for another 31 years. Flanagan’s Corners, as it was first known, flourished. By 1857, it had four hotels, three general stores, mills, cabinetmakers, blacksmiths, shoe and dressmakers, and even a photograph gallery. Villagers were calling the hamlet the Village of Ireland, a name that has been “retained in township records ever since,” according to historian Jennie Raycraft Lewis. When the London Huron Bruce Railway (LBR) opened a line running through the village in 1875, agents for the LBR called their station Clandeboye Station, rebranding the hamlet once again. An 1878 map (Page’s Historical Atlas of Middlesex) shows that the village had big plans for expansion. Planners had even earmarked a proposed site for a new Grand Trunk Railway (GTR) station in anticipation of a second railway coming through town. The GTR missed Clandeboye by a few miles, and the hamlet with its big plans began a slow decline. By the mid-1900s, businesses were closing. Buildings that were once grand hotels, stores, or mills were either destroyed by fire, demolished, or renovated into residences. In 1987, Flanagan’s original store, which had been sold numerous times and was now Carter’s General Store, was sold one last time. The new owner renovated the building into a two- apartment residence. Driving through Clandeboye today reveals a picturesque residential hamlet. The bustle may be gone, but it’s clear this little hamlet that had big plans also had deep roots and continues quietly at the crossroads where it began.

Picture of Patrick Flanagan Photo credit: Ivey Family London Room, London Public Library, London, Ontario, Canada Sources: Sure An’ This Is Biddulph, Jennie Raycraft Lewis, 1965. Pioneers to the Present: Biddulph Township, 1850–2000, 1998.

Read our complete line-up of Villager Publications online at www.villagerpublications.com

Introducing our newest addition to Villager Publications! Lucan Biddulph Villager

Page 13

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LUCAN BIDDULPH VILLAGER

Issue 1 - June 2022

Directions: 1 - In a small bowl, stir together the graham cracker crumbs, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Add melted butter and mix well. Press into the bottom of an 8- or 10-inch Tupperware container (full Snack Store Rectangular container). Chill until firm. 2 - In a medium bowl, beat together the cream cheese and lemon juice until soft. Add whipping cream and beat with an electric mixer until batter becomes thick. Add the white sugar and continue to beat until stiff. Pour into the chilled crust, and top with fruit pie filling. Chill for several hours or overnight.

No-bake Cheesecake – Great for Father’s Day! By Jenn Pennington-Overholt, Jenn’s Tupperware in Lucan Ingredients: 1 ½ Cups - Graham Cracker Crumbs 1/3 Cup - Packed Brown Sugar ½ TSP - Ground Cinnamon 1/3 Cup - Butter, melted 2 (8oz) Pkgs - Cream Cheese 2 TSP - Lemon Juice 2 Cups - Heavy Whipping Cream 1/3 Cup - White Sugar Fruit Pie Filling for Topping Lucan Farmers Market – Lucan Library – 270 Main Street Lucan

The Optimist Club of Lucan By Lisa Ansems

The Optimist Club of Lucan is a group of dedicated volunteers who wish to spread hope and positivity to our community. The Optimists strive to meet the needs of young people in the community, by providing hope and positive vision. Optimists bring out the best in youth, our communities and ourselves. The Optimist Club of Lucan hosts seasonal events such as the Granton and Lucan Easter Egg Hunts, the Granton and Lucan Canada Day Bike Rodeos, and previously hosted the Kid Zone at Baconfest. From sponsoring and hosting community events, to helping to fight childhood cancer, to running the Optimist Thrift Store, the Lucan Optimist Club responds to the special needs of our local community. The Lucan Optimist Thrift store is located at 188 Main Street and continues to accept clothing and gently used items as donations. All funds raised at the thrift store go back into the community. The club is always eager for new members and can provide high school students with their required volunteer hours. For more information, please visit: https://lagloor.wixsite.com/ lucanoptimists or email [email protected].

Every Sunday Morning - May to October from 9am-12pm Support Local and come and visit or join the Farmers Market! New vendors are welcome, no cost to set up. Opening Day Vendors List:

BFF Baked Treats Brooklyn’s Bedding Carol White – Quiches Crest Centre Bakery Daisy & Rose DDknits Denise Word Forever Remembered Gelmoments Handmade by Shikha Heathers Farm & Craft

Heaven’s Keepsakes Honey Bee Good Leather Art

Shivers Coffee Cart Sunset Gourmet Sweetshop 31 This to That Tisket Tasket Uncle Dad’s Pizza Urlife Watkins/Epicure Wholesome Pastures Yummy Treats

Marg’s Ceramics Pacalaca Farms Penelope’s Pots Pick of the Litter Pink Zebra Robyn’s Design Scentipity

Pennington’s Bin Boss Gutter cleaning

134 Main Street, Lucan 519-227-4245

House Side Cleaning Garbage Bin Cleaning Deck & Concrete Cleaning and more!

Locally owned & operated (519) 639-0034 [email protected] Check FB for pricing

www.nevinsautogroup.com

Page 14 LUCAN BIDDULPH VILLAGER Issue 1 - June 2022

To advertise here please contact [email protected]

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