September 15, 2012 is Doors Open!

As some of you know, this has indeed been a busy summer for me. I have been swamped with several projects that took me away from posting--never fear, this blog is alive and there are many more posts about local history to come so stay tuned!

Since tomorrow is Doors Open Waterloo Region, I would like to share some pictures with you as we look forward to the 1820 log schoolhouse's Open House. The volunteers are ready and we look forward to speaking with each of you.

I love this postcard and find it fascinating to ponder whether or not these young people are in any way related to Levi Carroll....

I apologize for the resolution of this photo as it was sent to me by one of the Friends of Joseph Schneider Haus who owns a copy of this print from well-known local Mennonite artist Woldemar Neufeld. I am told that the "glissoire" and other winter activities (sledding and skating) were once common sites in the park. Thank you to Mr. Neufeld for capturing this moment for us to savour and reminisce about simple pleasures.

A similar early 20th century view (from another angle) of the front of the school. Notice the pavilion in the background, as well as the tree stump (no longer there) and aboriginal grindstones (that are still there). Clearly, at one time, there were more interpretive signs on-site to help tell some of the tale of the school...

I have a challenge for kindred spirits who love history and the heritage minded folk among us: 

What would you like to see happen with the schoolhouse?

Right now, it sits prominently in the east side of Waterloo Park, near another heritage building that is also empty-the Eby farmhouse. From time to time, local school children have used the space to perform historic re-enactment plays. The school was even used as a concession stand at one point. Surely, we can put our heads together to come up with a fitting use for this important cultural and built-heritage icon?

Hope to see you tomorrow!