Bird Sanctuary Photos
This 1996 aerial photo shows the three blocks of land totaling 319-acres that Sarnia was attempting to obtain from the GTR in 1921 for a bird sanctuary and game reserve (See map BP-1 above). As shown in this photo, the property now includes:
1) The Kendal Street area.
2) The portion of Sarnia Golf Course west of Christina Street. (The Sarnia golf Club obtained a lease on this parcel from the CNR in 1925 and purchased it in 1948).
3) The residential area between Christina Street and Canatara Park.
4) Most of Canatara Park.
As map BP-1 shows in 1921 most of this 319-acre property remained in the natural state, with large woodland and wetland areas.
This photo shows the view looking southeast from the north end of Lake Chipican in 1925. The exposed mud flats which can be seen on the east side of the lake indicate that the water level was at a low stage at this time.
Bird Sanctuary 1922 items
Jan. 5, 1922, p. 2: Bird Sanctuary: Mayor Crawford reported verbally that he had received a letter from the deputy minister of the Ontario game and fisheries dept. in connection with the bird and game sanctuary at Lake Chipican which, in substance, advised that if the owners of the property requested that the land be designated as a bird and game reserve, such designation could be given. The letter, the mayor said, had been received as a result of a brief conversation by him with Premier Drury, during the latter’s visit here in the federal election campaign in which the location and advantages of the site had been described.
Alderman Cook expressed the opinion that the city should go further than what had been suggested & acquire the entire piece of land from the Errol Road to Lake Huron for park purposes. Alderman Galloway concurred in this suggestion declaring that it would be a good idea to acquire the entire stretch of property.
Jan. 9, 1922, p.1: Mayor Crawford outlines 1922 Program: Among the questions which he said should be included in the program of work for 1922 was the designation of Lake Chipican and environs as a provincial park and bird sanctuary.
Jan. 14, 1922, p.2: Experiment in Conserving wildlife (see p19)
AN EXPERIMENT IN CONSERVING WILD LIFE
Sarnia Observer - January 17, 1922 P2
People in this part of Ontario who are at present giving considerable thought to the problem of establishing a game preserve contiguous to the city of Sarnia will not be uninterested in the project of wild game conservation which has met with remarkable success at Oakland, Cal. This winter 100,000 wild ducks of all varieties are spending the season on Lake Merritt, a body of water a mile long and half a mile wide in the heart of the city of Oakland. So important is the circumstance in the estimation of the civic corporation that the city is providing an unlimited supply of corn, wheat and bread renewed each morning during the stay of the birds at Oakland. For three years, the city has carried on systematic feeding of these visitors. A part of the lake has been segregated by means of booms so that neither dogs nor boats may invade the resting places of the ducks when they desire to isolate themselves. An entire day once during the winter is devoted of the birds. It is called the wild duck festival. It is a general holiday and thousands of people congregate on the shores of the lake while children from the Oakland schools stage a program of outdoor dances and exercises in honor of the feathered tourists. Dogs, cats, firearms are barred from the park. With the intuition characteristic of wild creatures that find sanctuary, birds from as far as the arctic circle know that protection is to be found here and the winter population of the lake is annually increasing. Quite a number of birds remain there throughout the summer but the majority, following the call of nature leave in March for their summer haunts in the north extending right to the arctic ocean.
Thousands of visitors to California go to Oakland to see these birds. The latter are so tame within the protected area that they wander over the feeding ground on the lawns surrounding the lake quite unalarmed at the human beings who come to see them.
It is obvious that what has been accomplished during the winter season at Oakland can be duplicated here during the summer. The experiment of attracting wild fowl to this part of the country has been brought to extraordinary fruition by Jack Miner at Kingsville. The plan for the Sarnia wild fowl sanctuary is well under way Mayor Crawford having taken much interest in the project which has been endorsed by the Chamber of Commerce. Besides the esthetic value of giving sanctuary to wild birds here the move will give an impetus to the tendency now apparent to lessen the amount of slaughter of these creatures by hunters. The latter are beginning to feel the pain of a guilty conscience when they bring down in Labrador or in Northern Saskatchewan, a duck or a goose bearing the identification tag, placed on it at the Kingsville preserve.
Jan. 20, 1922, p.8: Naturalist Caring:“Jack Miner will give a lecture at Central Methodist Church Monday Feb. 20th.”
Jan. 21, 1922, p.1: Mayor Crawford at C of C Meeting: “An agreement with the GTR was made through which Sarnia has the first option on the natural parkland opposite the golf grounds.”
Jan. 24, 1922, p.1: Chamber of Commerce Meeting: “The Chamber will cooperate with Mayor Crawford in connection with the proposal creation of a bird sanctuary.”
Feb. 16, 1922, p.2: Jack Miner’s Coming Lecture Here (p21)
Feb. 20, 1922, p.1: Jack Miner will Lecture Tonight (p22)
Feb. 21, 1922, p.1: Jack Miner Delights Sarnians: Mr. Miner made a strong appeal for the bird sanctuary north of Sarnia. He said it was possible for his accomplishments at Kingsville to be repeated at the Lake Chipican Sanctuary which will be established next year, if those who were responsible went the right way about things.
Feb. 21, 1922, p.5: Sanctuary at Lake Chipican Seen by Miner (p23).
Feb. 26, 1922: Parks Board Meeting: Mayor Crawford read a letter commending the efforts of himself to establish a bird sanctuary near Sarnia and suggesting the forming of a Bird & Wildlife Protective Association for Lambton. Moved by Woodwark and Nelson that this board approve of the formation of such a society. Carried
JACK MINER’S COMING LECTURE HERE
Sarnia Observer - February 16, 1922, Page 2
There ought to be more than ordinary interest in the lecture to be given here next Monday evening by Jack Miner whose farm at Kingsville, Ont., is the stopping-off place for wild waterfowl in their annual migrations between the north and the south: Mr. Miner has established a countrywide reputation because of the success which he has achieved in establishing a private
sanctuary for wildlife. Birds upon which he had placed identification bands have been shot down in Labrador in northern Manitoba and in the extreme south.
The people of Sarnia are particularly interested in the subject with which Mr. Miner is familiar because of the plans made here to develop a bird sanctuary near this city. It is anticipated that a representative audience will attend the lecture.
JACK MINER WILL LECTURE TONIGHT AT THE IMPERIAL
Famous Naturalist and Friend of the Wild Birds Will Tell Sarnians His Story.
Sarnia Observer - February 20, 1922 P1
The lecture tonight in the imperial theatre by Jack Miner, the famous naturalist will probably draw a capacity audience of Sarnians who wish to hear this great authority on birds of all kinds, and especially wild ducks.
Mr. Miner is known throughout America as the greatest authority on this subject and his bird sanctuary at Kingsville has been visited by people from all over the world.
Thousands of wild ducks stop over at Mr. Miner’s sanctuary while migrating, and he has so won the confidence of these wild birds that he can walk among them without alarming them in the least.
Found in Distant Parts
Many of the birds which come to Mr. Miner’s sanctuary have been fitted with tags on their legs, and later have been seen in the far north and the far south. Thousands of bushels of corn have been distributed at Mr. Miner’s sanctuary, and the government realizing the great service which Mr. Miner has given, has granted aid for the purpose of making his reserve a place for these wild birds, where they may remain in safety.
Mr. Miner’s lecture will be most interesting, and he will show his own moving pictures to illustrate his talk. This afternoon the children of the Sarnia schools enjoyed the lecture by this celebrated naturalist, and tonight the theatre will no doubt be crowded to the doors by adults. It certainly is the chance of a lifetime for Sarnians to hear about methods which no doubt will be used at Chipican park at a later date.
There is, however, only one Jack Miner and his lecture will be a treat for everyone.
SANCTUARY AT LAKE CHIPICAN SEEN BY MINER
Naturalist Praises Location as Ideal Nesting Spot, and Promises Hearty Co-operation in the Project.
Sarnia Observer - February 21, 1922 P 5
Jack Miner of Kingsville, the well-known naturalist and bird lover who lectured at the Imperial theatre last night, inspected the site of the proposed bird and game sanctuary at Lake Chipican today in company with Mayor George Crawford and other officials and was greatly impressed with the natural advantages offered by the lake and environs for the establishment of a bird and game preserve.
“Plant some wild rice and other natural feed for wild geese and ducks in here to get them started coming, keep guns out and you will have no trouble at all in establishing a sanctuary,” said Mr. Miner.
Ideal Spot
Members of the party walked around the outer rim of the lake to the west side and during the inspection of the sparse bush and the surrounding wooded area, there the naturalist stated it formed an ideal nesting place for wood ducks and should also be popular with squirrels. He pointed out that it would not be necessary to spend a great deal of money other than that required for the services of a caretaker and for feed, and he promised to write to government officials at an early date pointing out that the city is anxious to establish a sanctuary and citing the advantages provided by nature which he had personally observed. Mr. Miner also referred to the fact that the location although much larger than the territory at Point Pelee, was, nevertheless, similar in many ways.
In the Party
The trip to the lake was made in automobiles and besides the visiting naturalist and Mayor Crawford, the party included: Rev. J. E. J. Millyard, George Wenino, chairman of the park board, George P. France, managing secretary of the chamber of commerce, J. E. B. Phelps, D. McKenzie, and J. McGregor.
LAKE CHIPICAN RECOMMENDED AS BIRD SANCTUARY
Jack Miner Has Not Forgotten to Enlist Support of Government Officials
Sarnia Observer - March 11, 1922 P1
Mayor George Crawford has received a letter from Jack Miner, Kingsville bird man and naturalist who recently visited the site of the proposed bird and game sanctuary at Lake Chipican here, in which the writer stated that although he had been very busy he had not forgotten his promise to endeavor to enlist the support of government officials in the project and had written to J. B. Harkin commissioner of national parks. J. McDonald, chief game warden, and Samuel Harris of Toronto. Mr. Miner adds that he set forth the opportunity offered here to establish a bird and game sanctuary due to the natural advantages of the location.
Mayor Crawford has also written to the commissioner of parks in connection with the project and is endeavoring to secure a quantity of wild rice seed to be planted around the shore of the lake as suggested by Mr. Miner.
Mar 11, 1922, p 1: Lake Chipican Recommended as Bird Sanctuary (see p24)
August 1, 1922: Parks Board Meeting: Mayor Crawford read some letters that he had proposed urging on the authorities in Ottawa the necessity of conserving Lake Chipican as a Bird Sanctuary.
Oct 10, 1922, p 8: Parkland Sought: A committee of the city council has been named to investigate and report on the possibility of securing as much of the land situated west of Woodrowe Road embracing Lake Chipican and environs for the city to be used for park purposes. The committee is composed of Aldermen Cook, Andrew, Barr and Galloway.
Oct 20 1922 Parks Board Meeting: Mayor Crawford reported that he was still able to report progress with the matter of arranging for the reserving of Lake Chipican as a Bird Sanctuary and asked for the co-operation of the Parks Board. He also spoke of the advisability of forming a Game Protective Association which would give the matter of a Bird Sanctuary more assistance.
26
Dec 27, 1922, p 2: Council Meeting: Mayor Crawford asked if the committee appointed had made any further progress with regard to the proposed Bird & Game Sanctuary at Lake Chipican. Alderman Cook said that he had written to the land and tax commissioner of the GTR respecting the acquirement of the territory extending around and including Lake Chipican and had received a reply suggesting that the matter be allowed to stand over for three months or so and then be taken up again in view of the fact that the new officials of the railway were just becoming acquainted with their work.
Mayor Crawford thanked the public for their support and co-operation through which much had been accomplished, including the initiation of a movement to establish a Bird Sanctuary.
Bird Sanctuary 1923 items
Jan 16, 1923: George Crawford appointed to Parks Board
Jan 24, 1923 P1: Chamber of Commerce Meeting:Mr. J. M. MacAdams suggested the city procure the area adjacent to the golf links through to the lake for park purposes.
Feb 12, 1923, p8: Mayor Cook outlines 1923: Plans Mayor Cook mentioned the proposal to secure the lands north of the city extending from the golf links to the lake as a city park. These lands had been held by the GTR for 70 years and when he had taken the plan up with the CNR recently, he had received assurance that the city would be given full co-operation when the time was opportune. He felt that an arrangement of some kind could be entered into whereby the city could obtain a lease hold on the lands for a period of years.
Feb 17, 1923, p9: Effort underway to extend park area north of the city: (see p28)
Feb 17 1923 p 4: Migratory Birds Described by Harrison Lewis: (see p29)
Feb 27, 1923: Parks Board Meeting: Moved by Gates & Newton that George Crawford be authorized to negotiate with the Dominion & Ontario Parks Board with reference to the Bird Sanctuary.
EFFORT UNDER WAY EXTEND PARK AREA NORTH OF THE CITY
The Sarnia Observer – February 17, 1923 P9
Wooded Property on West Side of Woodrowe Road to the Lake. Held by the Canadian National Railways, May be Set Aside for This Purpose – Pointed Out That This Would Make One of The Finest Natural Parks in Ontario – Would be Left in Its Natural State, The Only Change Being Erection of Roads and Driveway to the Rear.
As intimated by Mayor Thomas Cook in a recent talk before the Chamber of Commerce luncheon club, an effort is now under way, to have set aside for city park purposes the wooded area extending north on the west side of the Woodrowe Road to the lake held by the Canadian National Railways and commonly known to Sarnia Grand Trunk property.
Wonder has often been expressed as to how this territory came into the possession of the railway company. According to one of the city’s veteran residents who, through his earlier connection with the life of the municipality is in a position to give authentic information, the square mile of land was at one time, many years ago, an imperial military preserve and when the Imperial troops were withdrawn, it was turned over the government of what was then known as Canada west, with a proviso that the land or its equivalent should be ceded back if at any time later it was required.
Some years later the land was disposed of by the government to an engineer and one of the contractors engaged on the construction of the old Grand Trunk main line at, it is stated, $5 an acre, a price which, in comparison with present day realty values seem ridiculous. Subsequently after a roseate picture of Point Edward’s future had been drawn, the land was sold to the Grand Trunk Railway at a figure said to have been greatly in excess of the purchase price and the sale at the time was considered more or less of a political scandal.
After it had been in possession of the new purchasers for some little time, it was heavily mortgaged due to indebtedness incurred by the railway company. The load of this mortgage is given as the reason why the land was never disposed of by the company.
When the proposal to secure this territory for park purposes was mentioned to the veteran resident, he said that it was a scheme that he had been advocating for many years. He pointed out that if the present effort to secure the land was successful, it should be left in its natural state with all the existing trees and bushes remaining. The only change necessary, he said, was the provision of roadways and walks through the area. Another suggestion offered was that building lots be offered along the roadside of the property with a driveway at the rear. With these minor transformations, he felt that it would soon become known as one of the finest natural parks in Ontario.
MIGRATORY BIRDS ARE DESCRIBED BY HARRISON F LEWIS
Interesting Illustrated Lecture at Crescent Theatre Under Auspices of C. of C.
The Observer - Feb 17, 1923 P4
Harrison F. Lewis chief Integral migratory bird officer for Ontario and Quebec gave an interesting, illustrated lecture on Canadian bird life at the Crescent theatre last night, under the auspices of the Sarnia Chamber of Commerce.
Mr. Lewis’s duties take him all over the provinces of Ontario and Quebec and during 1922 he spent the month of July in Quebec, along the north shore of the Gulf of St. Lawrence. The few scattered inhabitants of this region are nearly all engaged in fishing and, in fact, hardly think of anything but fish.
Trade in Eggs
In previous days the innumerable small islands along this bleak shore were the summer homes of millions of sea birds. Birds’ egging was a great trade there in days past, as many as 70 schooner loads of eggs being taken from there in one season and sold for food in Halifax, St. John and elsewhere. Besides this, the native inhabitants and visiting fishermen consume a considerable quantity.
Near Extinction
To ensure the eggs being perfectly fresh, these eggers first visited each island, and destroyed every egg, returning in three or four days to gather the eggs laid in the meantime, and which were sure then to be fresh.
Naturally this practice nearly caused extermination of many varieties. Of late years it has been discontinued owing to the comparatively small number of birds, and now under the migratory bird’s convention act, they are protected to such an extent that they are becoming more numerous.
Variety of Birds
The lecturer exhibited a large number of colored plates of scenes along this picturesque rocky shore and many plates of birds themselves, their nests and eggs. Some of the birds shown were Loons, Gulls, Mergansers, Elder Ducks, Puffins, Murr Razorbilled Anks, Cormorants, Geese, Terns, Sandpipers and some such as one would hardly expect to see in that desolate region: viz, Kingfishers, Tree Swallows, Warblers, etc.
This lecture was arranged by the Chamber of Commerce, through Thomas Grace, who is an honorary warden in Sarnia and vicinity for National Parks branch.
Apr 6, 1923: Parks Board Meeting: George Crawford reported negotiations pending with reference to property for the Crown Game Reserve. Moved by Gates & Wenio that G. Crawford and TC Sloan be a committee to further negotiations with the CNR with a view to securing this property. Carried
May 7, 1923, p1: Crawford Dies: (p31)
July 10, 1923, p1: CNR President Thorton to visit Sarnia: Among the many matters of interest to Sarnia scheduled for discussion with Thorton include the project of having the wooded area to the north of the city set apart as a park.
July 19, 1923, p8: Chamber of Commerce Meeting: Chamber members will discuss with Thorton during his visit here the designation of certain areas north of the city for park purposes.
SUDDEN DEATH OF EX-MAYOR CRAWFORD AT GENERAL HOSPITAL
Sarnia Observer - May 7, 1923 P1
City is Shocked at the passing of one of its fine old citizens following serious operation for appendicitis – In his 61st year and seemed good for many more years of activity – Twice mayor of Sarnia and held many important positions in church and civic life – Forty-three years as a trusted employee of the Grand Trunk railway – Funeral will be held tomorrow.
George Crawford, twice mayor of Sarnia and a member of this year’s city park commission, died in the General Hospital about 3:45 o’clock yesterday afternoon following an operation for appendicitis. The late Mr. Crawford who would have attained his 61st birthday on May 28, was apparently in normal health on Wednesday last and attended the luncheon given at the Chamber of Commerce to the first tourists to stop at Sarnia’s touring camp this year.
On Wednesday night he complained to his family that he was not feeling well and spent a rather restless night. On Thursday he was not feeling any better and in the afternoon was taken to the hospital to undergo an operation.
Following the operation, he did not rally, and the end came yesterday afternoon.
Prior to Wednesday he had referred only a few times to an ailment which was believed to be indigestion. The funeral will be held from his late residence 163 Christina Street, South, tomorrow afternoon at 2:30 o’clock.
Active Life
The former chief magistrate of this city was born in the city of Kingston and came to the village of Point Edward at an early age with his family. Later he served the school board for that village and was a member of the trustee board of the Methodist church there.
He moved to Sarnia about 1900 and has been a continuous resident since that time. He served on the city council as an alderman in 1920 and the following year was elected to the mayor’s chair. He was again returned to the same office in 1923 and withdrew from municipal field at the end of last year.
Many Achievements
During his tenure of office, he was largely instrumental in having the free touring camp for motorists established to the north of the city and devoted a great deal of effort to have Lake Chipican set aside as a Bird and Game Sanctuary.
The completion of the soldier’s memorial monument in Victoria Park was another achievement brought about largely by the earnest effort of the former chief magistrate. His geniality and sincerity of purpose won him many friends in municipal life and when he attended the convention of the Union of Canadian Municipalities held at Winnipeg last year he was elected to the executive.
Faithful Service
The late Mr. Crawford was engaged in railway work for 43 years and was in the passenger service of the Grand Trunk railway for 20 years of that time. He was chief of the local railway engineers for many years and was known as a very capable and efficient engine driver. He was a very active church worker here and was a member of the trustee board and quarterly board of the Central Methodist church here.
He is survived by his wife and 3 sons, Arthur of Ottawa, chief director of technical education for Canada: Howard of the University of Toronto: Willard of Hamilton, 1 daughter: Mrs. Hugh McLaughlin of Detroit: 3 brothers, William H., and James S. of Sarnia and Frank of Detroit: 4 sisters Mrs. McAllister of Bay City, Michigan: Mrs. S. Kearns of St. Catherine’s: Miss Euphemia of Quincy, Illinois: and Miss Lottie of Sarnia.
The flag on city hall was flown at half-mast today out of respect to his memory.
- Dec 29, 1923, p
1: Chamber of Commerce Accomplishments of 1923
Among the projects which have not yet been brought to a successful conclusion, but which have every prospect of being brought to a successful conclusion is the acquisition of the property north of the Holmes Foundry land and west of the Lake Road known as Lake Chipican. The project is again becoming very active now the CNR officials have gotten their bearings and are taking over the various properties of the GTR.
“Bird Sanctuary” 1924 items
Jan 30, 1924, p9: Chamber of Commerce Meeting: A suggestion offered by Senator Pardee was the immediate action to secure the land north of the city limits for park purposes before any move was made to place industries thereon. He advised that this matter be taken up whole heartedly with the CNR.
Feb 8, 1924 p 11: Parks Board – C of C Joint Meeting: In connection with the proposal to secure the area north of the city from the CNR for park purposes, Mr. France said that the CNR had practically agreed not to dispose of the land in any way without giving the city a chance to procure it.
Mar 7, 1924, p1: C of C Annual Report: Among the recommendations made for future work by N E Olds, last year’s president of the C of C, was the procuring of a park site north of the city.
NOTE The next reference to acquiring CNR land for a park doesn’t appear until May 10, 1927!
No references to the Bird Sanctuary were found in paper between May 7, 1923, and Crawford’s death and June 15, 1927, when it was announced that the Bird Sanctuary at Lake Chipican had been fenced.
NOTE Concerning Sarnia’s attempts to acquire land for a Sanctuary – Park from the railway during the 1920’s, Hugo Holland made the general observation that it was his understanding, based on comments made by his father, that “the city didn’t get any land in the Canatara area during this period because it wasn’t prepared to pay a reasonable price for it and the railway wasn’t prepared to give it away for peanuts.”
Recreational Activities in Canatara Area: 1920 – 1932
During the 1920 – 1932 period, before Canatara Park was created, both Sarnia and Point Edward residents used the future park area for various recreational activities such as swimming, skating and hiking. Point Edward people usually referred to the area as the “Quarantine” while Sarnia residents called it the “Sand Hills”. Below is a small sample of the many Observer items that appeared in the 1920’s regarding these activities.
January 9, 1922, P5: Ideal skating weather prevailed on Saturday and both Little Lake and Sarnia Bay were well patronized. Little lake is the more sheltered of the two places and as a result quite a number of the less hardy skaters frequent it, but it is not on the streetcar line and is only accessible to those who have cars and the few who like to take the long walk to reach it.
January 11, 1922, P6: Moonlight skating has become popular at Sarnia Bay and Chipican Lake, northeast of Point Edward. The ice at the latter point is in excellent condition and large numbers are skating there this week.
January 2, 1923, P3: Lovers of the open air had plenty of opportunity for exercise yesterday as there was good skating on both the Little Lake and Sarnia Bay. The young people from both Sarnia and the village were present in large numbers at both skating resorts.
January 5, 1924, P8: Jack Frost’s efforts have furnished an excellent skating surface on Lake Chipican.
June 24, 1924 P5: Bathing along the local beaches has commenced in earnest. Last night about fifty Point Edward youngsters were seen along the lake disporting themselves in the water.
August 19, 1925, P5: The shores of the lake have been very popular the last week as a large number of people from Point Edward have made the trip over the sand for bathing.
July 20, 1926, P12: The hot weather made the shores of Lake Huron very popular yesterday afternoon and scores of Point Edward residents made the trip to the lake.
November 15, 1926, P10: Point Edward residents who have a penchant for hugging the fireside these balmy Sundays are missing some of the finest scenery that Mother Nature can present. The Quarantine on the northern extremity of the village is now in its glorious autumnal raiment. The beauty of the scenery is further enhanced by the glistening surface of Lake Chipican, situated in the midst of nature’s display of colouring.
May 16, 1927, P5: Twenty girls of the CGIT council, accompanied by Mrs. Sims and Miss Sadie Knowles, hiked to the sand hills on Saturday. They had their breakfast on the beach and then a nature study tramp through the woods.
May 19, 1930, P14: The trail rangers of the Devine Street United Church held a wiener roast at the beach west of Woodrowe beach courtesy of Thomas Grace.
Map BP-2: Lake Chipican Bird Sanctuary 1931 (Based on 1931 aerial photo below)
Observer, June 15, 1927, P6: “Fence Bird Sanctuary”: “Motorists who were want to get a thrill on the winding road through the trees around Little Lake in the past will have to look elsewhere this summer. This section is part of the bird sanctuary and workmen this spring enclosed the area with a wire fence. There is a gateway for the summer residents who live along the shore to the north of the road, but the road through the park is closed to everything but the wildlife of the sanctuary.”
This photo shows the laneways and cottages around Lake Chipican as marked on Map BP-2. It also indicates the various water depths in Lake Chipican, with the lightest section on the east side being the shallowest and the darkest section adjacent to the west side, being the deepest. This is verified by the 1990 Depth Survey described in Volume 10. The area with few trees on the northwest side of Lake Chipican is where both the International Park Hotel and the Quarantine Station were located.
The 1931 Aerial Photo
Observer References to Cottagers: 1930
During the 1920’s and 30’s the Observer often included items about the cottagers who lived along the beaches north of Sarnia in the summer. The following items refer to the cottagers who lived along the beach in the Lake Chipican area in the summer of 1930.
June 18, P10: Possibly the earliest residents near Woodrowe and vicinity are the Grace family. They moved to their cottage in May.
June 25, P10: Mrs..J. Parsons and son are occupying their summer residence “The Oaks” near Woodrowe beach.
June 30, P11: Mrs. H. N. Phillips entertained her niece and a few friends at the new Phillips cottage situated in front of Lake Chipican.
July 3, P11: A number of visitors from Detroit have now arrived at the beach to spend the summer. Mr. & Mrs. Symington and family of Detroit are occupying the cottage of Mr. D.J. McDougall and Mr. Mrs. Seed, and family are summering in Mrs. Cawthorn’s cottage.
Thomas Grace and the Bird Sanctuary
During World War 1 Thomas Grace, a prominent Sarnia contractor, leased the Quarantine House as a summer cottage for his family. After the war he leased a parcel of land from the railway on the dunes north of Lake Chipican where be built the cottage shown in the photo below. In 1926 he purchased this property and reclaimed a section of the marsh on it, shown on Map BP-2 above. In this reclaimed area he planted a vegetable garden surrounded by flower beds and lilac bushes. The photo shows the lane on the east side of the property, with the garden beyond. The lane on the west side of this property shown on Map BP-2, is now the northern part of Andover Lane, which he named after his hometown in England.
Mr. Grace, who was one of the wardens of the bird sanctuary, is shown in this photo wearing a white hat feeding the geese and swans with some of his family and friends on his property in the 1920’s. As noted in an Observer item below, in 1930 he released some golden pheasants into the sanctuary.
GOLDEN PHEASANT IS INTRODUCED IN CHIPICAN RESERVE
Hatching of Five Obtained by Thomas Grace – Will Be Released
Sarnia Observer - May 31, 1930 P 8
The golden pheasant, a rare bird in this district, will be added to the bird life of the Lake Chipican game preserve as soon as a setting hatched yesterday become old enough to be made free.
Last winter when ice and deep snow covered all vegetation in this district, quail were threatened with starvation in the preserve. To relieve the situation Thomas Grace, who has a summer home on the adjacent lake shore, and other lakeside residents put out feed for these birds regularly.
It was noticed then that a golden pheasant, hen bird, was among the quail. With the idea of introducing pheasants to the preserve, Mr. Grace requested and received a setting of 15 eggs from the game and fisheries department at Ottawa.
Five are Hatched
Captain C. Millard set the eggs under a Plymouth rock hen for Mr. Grace, and yesterday five birds were hatched. Pheasant eggs take from 21 to 23 days to hatch.
The young birds will be released in the game preserve and as they are strictly protected and may not be taken-or killed, they should increase in numbers. No shooting is allowed in the Lake Chipican game preserve and with the freeing of the pheasants, the tract will be kept under close observation.
The Observer Sept 15, 1930
Duck hunting is not so popular a sport in Sarnia, since the erection of the elevator, for with its coming the north bay with its shallow weedy bottom, an ideal feeding ground for ducks, was filled with the dredging’s from the elevator slips. Then also the turning of Lake Chipican into a game preserve closed another favored hunting ground.
CNR Sketch #2
Notes
Related to CNR Sketch No. 2
The attempt by Sarnia to acquire all or part of the 319-acre railway property north of the City shown on map BP-1 for a bird sanctuary and park was frustrated in 1925-27 period when much of this land was obtained by other individuals and organizations.
1) In 1925 the Sarnia Golf Club leased most of Block 3
2) In 1926 Charles White purchased the eastern portion of Block 1
3) In 1927 Merlo, Merlo & Ray purchased most of the remaining land in Block 1
Thus by August 1927 only Block 2 remained intact, and as Sketch No. 2 shows, most of it, including the Tarzanland woodlot was designated an industrial site. There’s no date on this sketch, but it must have been made sometime after April 1926 when White obtained the Lake Chipican parcel and before October 1930 when Sarnia leased the Tarzanland woodlot for a park. As noted in Volume 4, in 1930 Sarnia also leased the portion of Block 2 west of the Tarzanland woodlot, including the section marked “marsh” on the sketch, for dumping purposes. After this 45-acre landfill site, which consisted entirely of low wetlands had been filled with municipal and industrial waste, the railway planned to sell it for industrial purposes. This plan was never implemented because Sarnia acquired the landfill site in 1938, in a land exchange involving Bayview Park as described in Volume 6. (The CNR did proceed with plans to fill the marsh on the west side of Block 3 with industrial waste and then sell the reclaimed land for industrial sites. This is the area where Kendal Street in Point Edward is today, as shown in the 1996 aerial photo above).
The 13-acre parcel on the west side of Lake Chipican shown on Sketch No. 2 is the portion of the bird sanctuary leased to Captain Cawthorn in 1926.
As mentioned in Volume 3, Sarnia’s efforts to acquire a lakeside park became more urgent in 1927 when much of Sarnia Bay was filled with sand dredged from both the elevator and north slips. This resulted in Bayview Park, which had been Sarnia’s Waterfront Park since 1891, becoming landlocked. Thus, in the 1927-33 period the city tried to assemble by lease or purchase as much land as possible in Blocks 1 and 2 for a new waterfront park on Lake Huron. As recorded below, due to the hard work, perseverance, and financial assistance of a number of individuals, the city was successful in acquiring most of this land to create the outstanding multiuse park we have today.
Summary of events regarding attempts to acquire parkland in the Canatara area 1927 – 30
Developments in “Bird Sanctuary” North parkland CNR Property 1924 - 1927
In 1920 the GTR had leased parcel A-1 & A-2 to the SCPC which had a cement products factory & small gravel pit on the property.
In 1924 the CNR leased a large section of the land south of Michigan Ave. to the SGC to expand their course to an 18 hole one.
In 1926 the CNR sold parcels C, & C2 to C.A. White. The same year White sold lots in parcel C2 to various cottagers.
On March 26, 1927, a notice appeared in Sarnia paper announcing that CNR was offering to sell parcels A & B. On May 5, 1927, CNR sold all lakeshore property in parcels B & B2 to MM&R.
On May 9, 1927, a committee was organized in Sarnia to try to acquire the lakeshore property in parcels B, B2, & D for park purpose. They soon learned that all but the 340’ in parcel D had
already been sold to MM&R. In August MM&R purchased the inland sections of parcels B, & B2.
On Sept. 12, 1927, CNR sold parcel A-1 to the SCPC
In the fall of 1927 Merlo offered to sell a narrow strip of beach 1,000’ long at the northeast corner of his property. However, the CNR sand mining operation in the vicinity negated this deal.
The 1,000’ strip – marked with stripes on map – was offered to the city for $1,800 in Nov. 1927. - During 1928 & 29 the city turned its attention to trying to acquire the Lake Huron Park property. However, in Nov. 1928 the Parks Board (P.B.) wrote CNR regarding the purchase of parcels D, & E3 for park purposes.
In Feb. 1930 White offered to sell the P.B. parcel C, for $40,000. After getting an agreement with Sarnia council concerning the purchase of this property the Parks Board abandoned this idea after I.O.L. decided not to help finance the purchase of the land.
In March 1930 the CNR wrote P.B. stating that CNR would be favorable toward P.B. acquiring both parcels D & E3 for park purposes.
Oct. 3, 1930, the CNR leases parcel E3 to P.B.
On Sept. 17, 1930, the CNR had leased parcel E2 to the city of Sarnia for dumping purposes.
NOTICE
CANADIAN NATIONAL RAILWAYS CENTRAL REGION TORONTO
Sarnia Observer - March 31, 1927 P 15
It is the intention of the Canadian National Railway Company to dispose by sale of land situated at Point Edward, in the Township of Sarnia, County of Lambton, as follows:
1. Being all that parcel of land situate on the south shore of Lake Huron lying between the westerly limit of Lot 69 and a point distant Eight Hundred and Fifty (850’) feet easterly of the westerly limit of Maud Street produced and between the water’s edge and a line drawn parallel to and Four Hundred and Seventy (470’) feet northerly measured at right angles from the northerly limit of the right of way lands of the Canadian National Railway Company.
2. Being all that parcel of land situated on the south shore of Lake Huron lying between the easterly limit of the Ordnance Reserve land and a point Eight Hundred and Fifty (850’) feet distant easterly from the westerly limit of Maud Street produced and between the water’s edge and a line drawn parallel to and Four Hundred and Seventy (470’) feet northerly measured at right angles from the northerly limit of the right of way lands of the Canadian National Railway Company.
Plan and description of the above property and any other available information may be seen in the office of the undersigned.
Persons interested should send in their tenders not later than 11th April 1927, addressed to: H.A. PALMER, Right of Way Agent, Canadian National Railways Room 454, New Union Station, Toronto Ontario.
The highest or any tender will not necessarily be accepted.
H.A. Palmer
Right of Way Agent
Toronto, March 24, 1927
May 10, 1921
STRESS CLAIMS OF SARNIA AS SUMMER CITY Chamber of Commerce Organizes Selling Body to Set Forth Advantages.
AQUIRE PARK
Three Year Campaign to Advertise City as a Summer Resort
Out of an enthusiastic meeting of business and professional men of the city last night emerged the nucleus of an organization designed to “sell” Sarnia as a summer city. A committee was nominated to work in conjunction with the directors of the Chamber of Commerce in forming the “selling” body and directing the campaign. It is composed of T.C. McCobb, chairman; C.A. White, W.A. Watson, H.A. Couse, H. M. Taylor, T. H. Cook, L. H. Richards, H. M. Huston, W.T. Goodison, G.B. Storey, T.F. McNamara, W.H. Kenny and J.C. Barr. Power was given to augment the committee.
Representative Meeting
Over seventy-five men, representative of nearly every line of business and profession in the city, were present when the meeting opened under the chairmanship of F.G. Depew. The chairman stated that the purpose of the meeting was to discuss certain plans proposed for the development of Sarnia. He called upon the manager of the Chamber of Commerce, W. Eric Harris BA., to outline the contemplated plan. Mr. Harris distributed copies of a printed chart showing the program of work laid out for the Chamber and enlarged upon the possibilities of making Sarnia popular as a summer city. He stressed the fact that in developing the community as a summer resort, other factors in its growth were not being overlooked.
Four Recommendations
In concluding his address, Mr. Harris made four recommendations as follows:
1 That a 3-year campaign be entered in to for the purpose of advertising Sarnia as a summer city.
2 That the sum of $5,000 be raised this year for that purpose.
3 That the campaign for funds take place from May 25 to 28
4 That this year’s advertising be concentrated on Detroit.
Acquire Park Property
James C. Barr suggested that the city should acquire the lake shore property, east of the gravel pit, for use as a park.
A general discussion of this proposal ensued and on a motion of F.W.Willson, seconded by F.P.Dawson, a committee composed of W.T.Goodison, Peter Paton, James C. Barr, F.G.Depew and W.E.Harris was named to express to the city parks board the feeling of the meeting that the property mentioned should be acquired for park purposes, being the last available suitable property on the lake front. The proposer of the motion, F.W.Willson, was also added to the committee.
May 25, 1927 P14 Park for Sarnia: The Industrial Committee of Sarnia Council was empowered to consider the proposal & bring in a report when a resolution was presented to the city council Monday night from the local Council of Women urging that the necessary steps be taken to secure a park, preferably at or near Lake Huron.
July 18, 1927, Observer P5: Mrs. Hanna gave a talk about the need for more swimming places for children in the Sarnia area now that Sarnia Bay is gone. (Much of the bay was being filled in due to the construction of the elevator)
July 26, 1927, Observer (Pg 1) Street Railroad offer to sell Lake Huron Park: A written offer to sell Lake Huron Park to the city was revealed at council last night in a letter from the Sarnia Street Railway Co. over the signature of Col. Robert MacKenzie. The writer pointed out that it was a developed park with transportation and other facilities and set out that the company would be glad to open negotiations with the city at once. No comment was offered by any of the aldermen on the offer.
Does Sarnia Want Lake Huron Park?
Sarnia Observer - Oct 4, 1927, P2
Some time ago the city was approached by representatives of trustees for the bondholders of the Sarnia Street Railway Company with a suggestion that the former might be interested in the purchase of the Lake Huron Park recreation ground which is owned by the street railway. The financial condition of the latter renders it advisable that the park be disposed of and as it has been a popular outing place for Sarnia citizens the idea seems to prevail that the city might be a purchaser if it were proposed to add to the city parks.
Recently there have been conferences between the representatives of the bondholders’ trustees, the city council, the Chamber of Commerce and parks board. The decision appears to be that there is nothing to be gained in proceeding with the negotiations until an opinion has been obtained from Sarnia taxpayers as to whether they desire such an addition to the parks area. Accordingly, it has been decided to place cards in the hands of the ratepayers, on which the latter are asked to record their opinions as to the desirability of acquiring this park. The result of this plebiscite will guide further action on the part of the city.
It is understood that the matter of price has not been discussed as the trustees considered that there would be no use in dealing with that phase of the matter unless the city had arrived at a decision as to whether it was interested in the disposal of the property. The assumption seems to be that if the city were a purchaser the figure asked would be closer than if private interest were concerned, and the trustees would not be willing to prejudice future action by naming an amount at the outset.
The idea of obtaining a direct opinion from the people of the city on this matter seems to be sound procedure. It is a matter in which the taxpayers are vitally concerned. The city council and the parks board are simply executors for the people and the latter should indicate what they want done.
The outlook seems to be that this property, which has been an important summer playground for Sarnia people for many years, is about to be disposed of by its present owners. They need cash for pressing requirements and it is largely immaterial to them who the purchaser shall be. The city’s interest in the situation can be largely indicated by the plebiscite which is now planned. It will give the civic bodies the material on which to base further negotiations, if any.
Some time ago there was a suggestion put forward at a public meeting here that the city should acquire some frontage on the lake as a permanent playground. Unfortunately, the Canadian National Railways, which owned some desirable lands on the waterfront near Lake Chipican, had just disposed of this before they were approached by the committee that had the matter in hand. It is reported that only about two hundred feet of water frontage in that neighborhood remains with the owners of the railway.
No Definite Move to Secure Land Park Purposes
Sarnia is a Growing City, Not Well Provided With Open Spaces
Sarnia Observer – October 7, 1927
A committee named some time ago to consider the advisability of the acquirement by the city of a parcel of land lying south of Lake Chipican and west of the Woodrowe road for park purposes is still in existence, but no definite move has yet been made to carry out the suggestion, it was learned today.
Playgrounds’ advocates point out that Sarnia, as a growing city was not particularly well provided with open spaces which could be utilized for that purpose and suggested that property as close to the lake as possible would be desirable. Subsequently a public meeting was held, and a representative committee selected to study the situation but nothing concrete has since materialized.
Land Taken Up
It is understood that Merlo, Merlo & Ray, paving contractors have obtained rights on a section of the land, but city councilors state that Mr. Merlo has indicated his willingness to negotiate should the council desire to take over a portion for additional park accommodation. There is still a portion of land running along near the old-line railway tracks, running to Point Edward but it is not held as desirable for the purpose in view of the other.
Lake Huron Park
The Sarnia Street Railway Company has also offered to sell Lake Huron park to the city. No figure was quoted in the communication sent to the council, but the transportation company indicated they would only expect a fair price. This proposal, too, is still in abeyance.
To the Ratepayers
The ratification of the ratepayers will be necessary before any deal can be consummated, it is stated, and something further may be heard of the schemes before the annual municipal election in December, although there is a strong possibility that they may be left for next year’s council to consider.
Council Has Offer of Land Near Lake Chipican for Park
Canadian Observer – November 5, 1927 P1
No Definite Proposition from Street Railway Company Regarding Lake Huron Park, Claims Alderman Allen, and Matter is Allowed to Drop – Brief Report on Bridge Proposals, - Diamond Jubilee Committee Reports Surplus – Siren to be Installed at City Hall.
Ald. Allen, chairman of the industrial committee reported to the city council last night that he had been unable to procure a definite proposition from the Sarnia Street Railway Co. regarding the initial proposal that company made to sell its property at Lake Huron Park to the city, and he proposed that no further action be taken.
Ald. Allen added that another park proposition was likely to come before the council as soon as the city engineer had had opportunity to report thereon, and for that reason he expected that there would be no bylaws for procuring parks submitted at the forthcoming election.
At the close of the council meeting Ald. Allen explained to a reporter for the Canadian Observer that one thousand feet of property on the west side of Lake Chipican has been offered to the city at a reasonable price and this is the property on which the engineer will report.
Park Proposals: 1928
Parks Board Meeting: November 7, 1928
A discussion then took place regarding certain pieces of CN property north of the golf links relative to their possibilities for park purposes and on the motion of Mr. Watson, seconded by Mr. Galloway, the secretary was instructed to write to Mr. M.A. Palmer, Land Agent of the CNR, that the Parks Board were desirous sometime in the future, to acquire these tracts of property. (This probably refers to parcels D & E3 – which were eventually leased for parks purposes – see below)
Attempts to Acquire Lakeshore property for park site: September to November,1929 and January to May 1930 (PB = parks boards minutes & SO = Sarnia Observer)
1) PB (Sept 4, 1929) PB will attempt to acquire “any land along the lakeshore” for a park site.
2) SO (Nov 5, 1929, Pg 1) PB recommends that the city acquire some lakeshore property for a park.
3) PB (Nov 28, 1929) PB to ask CNR about “L-shaped” parcel in vicinity of LC for park site.
4) SO (Nov 12, 1929) City councils favor acquisition of lakeshore property for a park.
1) PB (Jan 8, 1930) PB to ask IOL president Stillman to purchase Lake Huron Park for a city park.
2) PB (Feb 5, 1930, Stillman wants more details about scheme. PB willing to pay $25,000 for Lake Huron Park
3) PB (Feb 19, 1930) PB drops Lake Huron Park proposal& decides to offer White $35,000 for his property.
4) PB (Feb 25, 1930) PB asks CNR for 316 ‘strips of their property on west side of LC.
5) SO (Feb 25, 1930, Pg 1) Council discusses acquisition of White property for park site.
6) SO (Feb 26, 1930, Pg 2) Editorial and 3rd column comments on need for park at lakeshore
7) SO (Feb 27, 1930, Pg 2) 3rd column comments on lakeshore park.
8) PB (Mar 5, 1930) CNR favourable to leasing 316’ strip as well as “first bush.”
9) SO (Mar 6, 1930) PB will attempt to get CNR property on west side of LC.
10)SO (Mar 18, 1930, Pg 1) Council discusses acquiring 200 acres along lakeshore for a park.
11)SO (Mar 19, 1930, Pg 1) City will contribute $17,500 to park purchase if given gravel rights.
12)PB (Mar 21, 1930) PB agrees to deal involving city gravel rights for $17,500 donation for White property purchase.
13)SO (Mar 20, 1930) Third Column comments supporting park acquisition.
14)SO (Mar 24/1930 Pg 2) Third Column remarks that proposed park may eventually include golf course.
15)SO (Mar 25, 1930, Pg1) No provision for park purchase in city budget.
16)PB (Apr 7, 1930) PB to contact Stillman about IOL financing purchase of White property.
17)PB (May 7, 1930) PB informed that IOL financing is not available and therefore to advise council that park proposal will be dropped.
18)SO (May 12, 1930, Pg1) Park plan dropped since PB cannot finance project.
19)SO (May 13, 1930, Pg 1) Council to ask PB why the park plan was dropped.
20)SO (May 13, 1930, Pg 2) 3rd Column comments on need for lakeshore park
21)SO (May 14, 1930, Pg 2) 3rd Column comments regarding council’s concern over abandonment of park project.
Park Proposals:1929
Parks Board Meeting: September 4, 1929
A discussion then arose regarding the advisability for the city acquiring some lakeshore property for recreational purposes for the citizens and it was moved by Mr. Watson, seconded by Mr. Germain that in view of the fact that the city owned no Lake Huron property for park purposes, the Parks Board is favorable for the city to purchase the property known as Lake Huron Park or any other land suitable for this purpose.
ASK BOARD FOR RECOMMENDATION ON PARK PROJECT
Council Discusses Acquisition of Lake Front Property by the City
Canadian Observer – November 5, 1929 P1
The question of the acquisition of lake shore frontage for public park purposes was again raised last evening when the city council received a copy of a resolution passed by the parks board in which that body expressed itself in favour of acquiring Lake Huron Park or any other waterfront property suitable for park purposes.
The communication was evidently sent by the parks board with the view of obtaining some expression of the opinion of the city council. After considerable discussion the clerk was instructed to write to the park’s board asking that body for a definite recommendation. Alderman Barr remarked that he had never heard a reasonable price mentioned at any time when the Lake Huron Park proposition had been aired. He did not think it necessary to refer a park purchase to the ratepayers, but the parks’ board had the power to acquire such property.
Favors Action
Ald. Andrew agreed that the city was losing all right of access to the lake front, and he thought some property should be acquired before it was too late.
Ald. Barr mentioned that the waterworks department, through arrangement with the ordinance department, had put cinders on the road leading to a strip of frontage west of the range lights at Point Edward and by spring this piece of lake front would be used for parking purposes. It gave a good view but was not suitable for bathing.
Ald. Carruthers expressed the belief that the citizens made good use of Lake Huron Park and he believed the council generally was in favor of securing some lake front property if it could be obtained at a reasonable price.
Ald. Steel said he understood Lake Huron Park could now be purchased from Sarnia Street Railway Company for some $10,000 less than the price of two years ago.
Ald. Cook who is a director of the Sarnia Street Railway Company said he did not think the company had ever discussed the sale of the park since the question last came up, some two years ago.
Canadian Observer - Nov 12, 1929, P2
Members of the city council have individually placed themselves on record as favoring the acquisition of lake shore property for park purposes. The aldermen at the time had Lake Huron Park or other suitable frontage in mind. The main thing is that they are thinking along the right lines and when the opportunity to acquire land at a reasonable price comes along, the council will no doubt make the necessary move. Lake shore frontage is very limited. It will be more difficult to procure as time goes by and as Sarnia grows as it is expected to grow. Sooner or later the council will have to get down to a concrete proposition. The people of the city are entitled to facilities for the comfortable and free enjoyment of the benefits of Lake Huron, but, if the present situation is permitted to continue the time will arise when private encroachment along the shore will have effectually closed the mass of people from waterfront privileges.
Parks Board Meeting: November 28, 1929
A discussion then took place relative to property under the ownership of CNR in the vicinity of Lake Chipican. Mr. Watson moved, seconded by Mr. Hunter that the secretary of the board be instructed to write to Mr. Germain, requesting him to obtain all possible details from the CNR relative to this property, both as to its purchase and rental. (This probably refers to parcel D)
Park Proposals : 1930
Parks Board Meeting: Jan 8, 1930
The question of obtaining land along the lake shore was then brought up and Mr. Watson suggested that it might be possible to interest the Imperial Oil Company in this project and as a result, Mr. Germain moved, seconded by Mr. Galloway, that the chairman, T.C. Sloan, W.A. Watson, Driscoll and Germain be a committee to interview President C.O. Stillman of IOL to find out if his company would be interested to the extent of purchasing Lake Huron Park and presenting it to the Parks Board.
Parks Board Meeting: Feb 5, 1930
Mr. Germain then reported on the meeting of the committee with C.O. Stillman. Mr. Stillman was cordial to the delegation and offered considerable encouragement but asked that further facts be obtained, and a concrete proposition be given him. On their return the committee arranged with the Sarnia Street Railway to set a price of Lake Huron Park. In reply, a price of $30,000 was given, but this figure in the opinion of the committee was too high, $25,000 being as much as they could recommend. Watson then moved, seconded by Driscoll, that the Parks Board offer the Sarnia Street Railway Company, $25,000 for Lake Huron Park, subject to the Parks Board being able to raise this money within 90 days after the Street Railway Company had accepted the offer.
Sarnia, Ontario, Feb. 19/30 Council Chamber, 4.30 P.M.
A special meeting of the Board was held on the above date at which the following members were present: Chairmain T. C. Sloan, W. E. German, W. A. Watson, C. J. Driscoll, J. Hunter, to discuss a letter from C.A. White offering to sell to the Board a block of Lake Shore property west of the Woodrow Road at a price of $40,000.
After considerable discussion into which the merits of the property for park purposes were closely examined, C. J. Driscoll moved, seconded by W. E. Germain, that the Chairman T. C. Sloan appoint two members to act with him to make C. A. White an offer of a Maximum price of $35,000 for a 90-day option, but to obtain the property at a lower price, if possible. Carried
The Chairman then appointed W. A. Watson and W. E. Germain to act with him.
The meeting then adjourned to the call of the chair.
Tho. C. Sloan
J. Newton CHAIRMAN SECRETARY
Sarnia Feb.25th, 1930 Council Chambers, 4.30 P.M.
The following members were present on the above date, Chairman T. C. Sloan, W. A. Watson, C. J. Driscoll, G. N Galloway, J. Hunter, W. E. Germain, to discuss further the Boards action relative to purchasing C. A. White’s property in the vicinity of Lake Chipican.
The Board reviewed the arrangement made with the City Council at a meeting on Feb 22 at which the City Council were favorable to raising the sum of $17,500 by direct means, if legally possible, if not to place the matter before the people by way of a By-law for their decision; provided the Parks Board were able to raise the balance required.
During the discussion the Chairman advised the Board that he understood there was an overlapping of land when the plans covering the neighboring lands were considered.
To clear this up, W. A. Watson moved, seconded by J. Hunter that the City Engineer and the Superintendent make a check survey of C. A. White’s property and the 316 foot strip said to be owned by the C.N.R. to assure the Board that the property as shown on the plans was actually there. Carried
W. A. Watson also moved, seconded by J. Hunter that a committee be appointed consisting of Chairman, T. C. Sloan, W. E. Germain, G. H. Galloway and C. J. Driscoll to go to Toronto to interview H. A. Palmer and Mr. Kingsland of the C.N.R. to see if the C.N.R. would deed to the Parks Board a 316 foot strip on the west side of C. A. White’s property, but in the event of this being refused to come to some satisfactory arrangement for the acquisition of this property. Carried
The meeting then adjourned to the call of the chair.
Tho. C. Sloan
J.
Newton
CHAIRMAN SECRETARY
Parks Board Would Acquire Lake Shore Land for Park
Project Disclosed at City Council Meeting – Left with Finance Committee –Desired Area Comprises 40 Acres
Observer - Feb 25, 1930 P1
A project of the Sarnia Board of Parks Management to acquire some 40 acres of property which will include 1200 feet of lake shore bathing frontage for development as a public park, was disclosed at last night’s meeting of the city council. This property is located immediately west of the beach road and goes back far enough from the shore to include Lake Chipican and wooded land around it.
Privately Owned
The property is privately owned and understood to be available at a cost of $35,000.
The parks board had previously submitted the plan to the city council in an informal way. The board proposes that council pass a bylaw providing one half of the purchase price and the board will raise the balance. Whether such a bylaw would have to be submitted to the ratepayers is undecided.
Last evening, Ald. Barr expressed the view that the city would be well advised to expropriate the land it wanted.
Ald. Donohue said that if it were necessary to submit a bylaw to the ratepayers, council would do it, but if it could be legally dealt with by the council itself that might be another matter. Left to Committee
The question which had been raised by a letter from the Board of Parks Management was eventually left in the hands of the finance committee.
A PARK ON THE LAKE FRONT
Observer – February 26, 1930 P2
Acquisition by the city of a lake-front location for a public park would appear to be desirable. As a city grows there is little opportunity for those in moderate financial resources to get sufficient air and sunshine without encroaching upon private property. Particularly in this case with children. In the densely populated part of Sarnia today many youngsters have no place to play except the streets.
Science has indicated that sunshine, fresh air and plenty of exercise are the chief requisites to health and happiness. The government of a city ought to make facilities to supply these requirements one of the first concerns. Adequate plots for recreation throughout the city should be provided. In a community like Sarnia, land is comparatively cheap and no representative of the people ought to be backward in championing the cause of public parks sufficient to give the population a playground. Naturally taxpayers expect that land for park purposes shall be acquired at reasonable outlay. That is a matter for discussion. A park, fronting on the water, if available at a reasonable price, would be a good corporate investment for this city.
The Third Column
The Observer - Feb 26, 1930 P2
We have always been among those who think the public is entitled to a share of the lake frontage with full privileges. We believe also such a lake park should be close in and embrace the best and most suitable property available. A lake shore park ought to have been reserved for the people of Sarnia years ago, but it was overlooked. The board of parks management hopes to rectify the omission. Its project has not yet been made public in detail and of course, location, suitability of property and its cost are vital factors to be considered before any option can be passed as to the value of the present plan.
The principle that the public should own and have full enjoyment of lake shore property is beyond criticism and the board of parks management is on perfectly sound footing insofar as the principle is involved.
The Third Column
Observer - February 27, 1930 P2
When the march of industry and drifting sand removed Bayview Park from the category of public parks Sarnia was left without a major recreation ground. We have, it is true, the Athletic ground, but that is where games are played and public sit and watch. We have smaller parks here and there in the city, but they are mostly for children of the particular district in which the parks are located. Essential as they are they do not fill the demand for a large-scale public park and bathing and picnic facilities. It may be thought we have overlooked Lake Huron Park. Not a bit of it. Lake Huron Park, however, is privately owned and may be subdivided into cottage lots tomorrow, for anything the city knows to the contrary. So, the situation is that Sarnia has not got a public park that fills the need of both the adult and the juvenile populations of the city. We merely mention this, as it seems that the public park question will very shortly become a major issue in civic policy.
Yet Sarnia has a lake shore and river front that would be the envy of ninety per cent of Ontario cities, while to enjoy them the people of this city have to go onto private property. Somehow that doesn’t seem right.
We believe that if the board of parks management, which desires a park immediately west of the beach road can convince the public the ground is suitable and the price is reasonable it can get all the support it wants for the proposition. The city of course has to cut its cloth according to measure, but Sarnia, while it may not be wealthy, is a long way from being bankrupt, and no city that is not bankrupt, ought to deprive forever the public of its right to the full and complete enjoyment of such natural assets as lakes and rivers.
Sarnia, March 5, 1930 Council Chamber, 7:30 P.M.
The following members were present on the above date; Chairman T.C. Sloan, W.E. Germaine, C.J. Driscoll, J. Hunter.
The minutes of the preceding meetings were read, and on motion of C.J. Driscoll seconded by J. Hunter were declared adopted.
The accounts were the read. W.E. Germaine moved seconded by J. Hunter that these accounts as read be paid. Carried.
C. J. Driscoll moved, seconded by J. Hunter that the motion by W. A. Watson seconded by C. J. Driscoll at the meeting of Feb. 5th instructing the Secretary to make a written offer to the Sarnia Street Rlwy. of $25,000 for Lake Huron Park be rescinded and that no further action be taken.
W.E. Germaine then reported to the Board as to the Committee’s interview with Mr. Palmer, Land Agent for the C.N. Rlwy relative to the Board’s acquiring the 316 ft. strip on the west side of Lake Chipican. The Committee met with a very favorable reception and Mr. Palmer assured them that he would recommend to Mr. Kingsland that this strip be deeded to the Park Board and would later advise the Board as to what action the C.N.R. would take. Mr. Palmer also advised the Board that the C.N.R. would not dispose of that land lying between the Railway Track and the Golf Club without first notifying the Park Board.
The Meeting then adjourned to the call of the chair.
Theo C. Sloane J. Newton CHAIRMAN SECRETARY
MAKE OVERTURES TO RAILWAY FOR PARK PROPERTY
Representatives of City Parks Board Interview C.N.R.
Officials in Toronto
Sarnia Canadian Observer - March 6, 1930, P16
A delegation representing the city parks board was in Toronto the week interviewing Canadian National Railway officials relative to the possibility of securing a parcel of land adjoining the proposed site of a new recreational grounds on the shore of Lake Huron, to the west of the present park and in the neighborhood of lake Chipican.
The delegation consisted of George N. Galloway, John Driscoll, William E. Germain and Thomas C. Sloane, and the interview was to open negotiations with the company, the better to facilitate the plan if it meets with local approval.
Seek 40 Acres
Definite action for this project was begun when the parks board submitted a letter to the city council at the meeting of February 25, explaining the proposal as being the securing of 40 acres, having a lake frontage of 1,200 feet. The communication was left in the hands of the finance committee for consideration and should come up for further action at an early date.
COUNCIL, PARKS BOARD DISCUSS LAND PURCHASE
Proposed Acquisition of 200 Acres for Park Purposes Subject of Conference
ASK FOR $17,500
Board Request Council to Finance half of Cost of Desired Area Sarnia Canadian Observer - March 18, 1930, P1
Proposed acquisition of some 200 acres of land on the lake shore road, immediately west of the Woodrow Road, for the purpose of a public park was to be the subject of an informal meeting between the city council and the board of parks management this afternoon. The matter was before the council last evening when Thomas Sloane, chairman of the board of parks management, addressed the council. Little progress was made with the subject last evening, the council, while clearly being in sympathy with the acquisition of a park, being in doubt as to the method of financing the deal.
Could Issue Bonds
The question came up with the reading of a letter from the city solicitor informing the council that funds for the purchase of a park on the lake shore could be raised by the issue of parks board debenture, repayment of principal and interest to be made out of the board’s appropriation of one mill on the tax rate, or, alternatively, out of the general fund of the city or by the submission of a money by-law to the ratepayers.
Mr. Sloane, addressing the council, explained that the board had made an offer of $25,000 to the Sarnia Street Railway Company Limited for the purchase of Lake Huron Park and this offer had been rejected. The board felt that the citizens were behind its effort to procure a single park and the council had given assurance that it too, would give support if suitable property could be obtained. On the property at present in view, the board had a ninety day option at $35,000. This property was a better buy than Lake Huron at $25,000. The board would pay half the cost of purchase if the city would furnish the other half. The $17,500 was wanted as an outright contribution by the city and as early as possible. Mr. Sloane said he was surprised at the suggestion of another meeting between the council and the parks board as he thought the matter was now all clear.
Ald. Donahue that his idea in suggesting another meeting was that he personally was not clear as to how money could be raised, and he had no idea the parks board expected a final decision this evening.
Says Approval Needed
“You are asking me for $17,500 and I’m sure you don’t want me to take that out of the one mill of your appropriation. I feel that we cannot pass a bylaw to raise the money on debentures without the approval of the ratepayers.”
“That is just the point that occurs to me,” Ald. Barr declared. “To raise it by provision in the estimates for this year, adding one mill to the tax rate that is already to be increased would be a piece of presumption on our part. We are going to have a lovely howl as it is. We can’t issue debentures unless the parks board comes to us with a request. With all the sympathy I have with the proposition I couldn’t conscientiously recommend raising the money out of the taxes for 1930.”
“Why can’t you raise it?” asked Mayor Kirby. “What do the people put you here for?”
“We want to know first just what he has to raise for 1930,” Ald. Donahue interjected. “I think this problem will work itself out. Why could we not have a meeting tomorrow afternoon?”
“Is that $17,500 all you require?” Ald. Lockhart asked of Mr. Sloane. “Do you finance the rest of it, and is the balance to be raised from your mill rate?”
“The question as to whether the $17,500 is all is ambiguous,” Mr. Sloane replied.
“No, it is direct,” Ald. Lockhart returned.
“All we ask you to do is pay the $17,500 and have confidence in the parks board to look after the rest,” Mr. Sloane replied.
Asks About Gravel
Ald. Lockhart then pointed out that the city was a large user of gravel. Could the parks board make some arrangement if this property were purchased, by which the city could obtain gravel therefrom?”
“Mr. Sloane has questioned the council’s confidence in the parks board.” Ald. O’Neil remarked. “I suggest the parks board take the council completely into its confidence, revealing the entire proposition.”
“There seems a feeling in the council that the parks board is not straight in this matter,” Mr. Sloane said, to which the aldermen quickly protested.
“We had the assurance of the council that they were behind us,” Mr. Sloane continued, “and now I think the council is quibbling about value. All we want to know, as soon as possible, is can we get $17,500?”
“I can quite imagine what will happen to a money bylaw if it is put before the people,” Ald. Barr said, “and I am satisfied that every alderman is desirous of seeing the parks board get the money.”
Decide to Meet
The outcome was a question if the parks board would be willing to meet the council Tuesday afternoon, to which Mr. Sloane agreed.
COUNCIL TO AID IN AQUISTION OF PARK LAND
Assurance of Financial Help in Project Given at Informal Session
Need $17,500
Method of Raising City’s Share to be Discussed by Finance Committee
Canadian Observer - March 19, 1930 P1
Virtual assurance that the city council will contribute $17,500 towards the $35,000 required by the Sarnia Parks management for the acquisition of property on the lake shore west of the Woodrow Road, for a public park, amounting to some fifty acres was given to the representatives of the parks board who met with the city council informally yesterday afternoon. The parks board was represented by Thomas Sloane, chairman, and C.J. Driscoll and all the city council was present, excepting Mayor Kirby, who was indisposed, and Ald. Barr and Blake. The meeting only lasted a few minutes.
To Consider Financing
Final decision as to the means of raising the city’s contribution has yet to be taken but the matter will be under consideration at a meeting of the finance committee on Thursday afternoon and council will probably be asked to confirm the arrangement at its next meeting.
With all members of the city council sympathetic to the idea of a public park on the lake shore, but dubious concerning the means of raising the money, solution appeared in sight when Ald. Lockhart asked Mr. Sloane if in return for its contribution of half the purchase price the
parks board would be willing to allow the city to obtain gravel from the property. Mr. Sloane said he felt sure the parks board would agree to this.
Ald. Harry Steele said the city was buying gravel at $1.25 a yard laid down at the dock and its gravel bill amounted to $1,400 last year. He felt a considerable saving would be affected by drawing gravel from the proposed new park and the alderman agreed that over a period of years the city would be reimbursed for its expenditure towards the cost of the park.
An Undertaking
Mr. Sloane repeated, in reply to a question by Ald. Bradley, that the parks board was unwilling at the moment to disclose its arrangement for raising its own contribution of $17,500 but he would give assurance that if it were unable to do so the council would not be asked to put up the money. In other words, if the parks board end of the financing arrangement fell through, the whole deal would be off.
Ald. Bradley asked what plans the parks board had with regard to Lake Chipican and the land about it which was at present a swamp. Mr. Sloane replied that with the lake level normal and summer weather he believed the swamp would disappear.
Ald. Donahue, who had presided in the absence of the mayor, brought the discussion to a close when he said he felt that parks board had the assurance of the members of council that the city’s share of the purchase price of the property would be forthcoming.
Sarnia, March 21st, 1930 Council Chamber, 7:30 P.M.
A special meeting of the Board was held on the above date at which the following members were present: Chairman T.C. Sloane, W.E, Germaine, C.J. Driscoll and J. Hunter.
Mr. Sloane reported on the action of the City Council at its last meeting relative to it providing $17,500 to aid it in the purchase of the C. White property, The council, in return for allotting this money, requested the privilege of getting what gavel they might need from the shore in front of the property. After considerable discussion, C.J. Driscoll moved the following motion which was seconded by J. Hunter.
That in consideration of the City Council paying the sum of $17,500 towards the purchase of the property under option from C.A. White, the Board of Park Management agree to permit the City of Sarnia to secure, during the life of the debenture covering the amount of $17,500, any gravel along the lake fronting on the said property and from any additional frontage the Board may acquire, under the following conditions:
1. The city to remove gravel only from the frontage designated by the Board.
2. Removal of the gravel to be under the direction of the Board.
3. The Boards reserve the right to sell gravel to any other purchaser, as long as the City’s requirements are not curtailed there-by.
4. It is understood that this gravel taken by the City is for Municipal purposes only.
This motion was carried unanimously.
The Board then adjourned to the call of the chair.
Theo C. Sloane
J. Newton CHAIRMAN SECRETARY
March 20, 1930 P2: Third Column: - It looks very much as if the Parks Board will procure the money it requires for the acquisition of Lake Huron shore property as a public park. The city council, by securing a gravel concession on the property has actually placed itself in a position to obtain good value for the money to be paid out, although full return of it would require some years. However, the council & board have apparently reached a working basis from which further steps can be taken. The parks Board has not yet disclosed the source from which it expects its share of the purchase price, but apparently has confidence in the ability to do so. When the whole plan is revealed, it will likely give a still more favourable complexion to the project and perhaps even reveal a first-class bargain for both the city and the board.
March 24, 1930, P2: Third Column: - It is rumored that plans of the Parks Board embrace the establishment of a municipal golf course on property it hopes it can acquire along the lakeshore. It is not of course, a plan for the immediate future, but is an idea the board is said to have in mind for carrying out when conditions permit.
NO PROVISION IN ESTIMATES FOR PARK PURCHASE
Intimation Given That Money Bylaw May Be Submitted to Ratepayers
Sarnia Canadian Observer - March 23, 1930 P1
No provision was made in the estimates, passed by the city council last evening for the $17,500 sought by the board of parks management for the purchase of property along the shore of Lake Huron
Ald. Donahue intimated that the committee had taken no action in the matter in view of the already high tax rate and also in consideration of the fact that the parks board had not yet an absolutely definitive proposition. The council, Ald. Donahue said, had assured the board of its moral support which would be given in the event of a money bylaw being placed before the ratepayers.
Mayor Repeats Views
Mayor Kirby reiterated his opinion, given at the previous meeting of the council that if council could not provide $17,500 without reference to the ratepayers there was something wrong and council was little better than useless. Certainly, the council could not go back on its word to the parks board.
The matter was dropped at this point but this morning a reporter for the Canadian Observer asked Ald. Donohue if omission of the money from the estimates meant that the lakeshore proposition must now fall through.
“We might submit a money bylaw, or we might have the money included in next year’s estimates,” was the reply.
“But could you advance the money to close a deal this year in anticipation of an intention to provide for it in next year’s estimates?” the reporter asked. “That is more than I can say just now,” was the reply.
Parks Board Meeting
April
4, 1930
Mr. Galloway moved, seconded by Mr. Driscoll that the secretary write C.O. Stillman to inquire whether he would prefer a meeting with the committee to explain the new conditions that have arisen in connection with the purchase of lake shore property or whether a written explanation would be satisfactory & that Sloane, Driscoll & Germaine be the committee to act in the matter.
Parks Board Meeting
May
7, 1930
Letters were read from C.O. Stillman, President & F. Holbrook, Secretary – Treasurer of Imperial Oil Limited, stating that their company would be unable to assist the Parks Board financially in its effort to acquire lake shore property for parks purposes. Watson moved, seconded by Germaine, that the Secretary advise the city clerk that the Parks Board wishes to withdraw its application for $17,500 & to advise them the option the Parks Board holds on the property expires on May 20th .
(This of course refers to parcel C1)
NOTE: The Parks Board were obviously counting ion I.O.L. money to finance its share of the purchase price & therefore when the board learned that the money would not be available, it was forced to abandon the park plan. The fact that I.O.L. involvement had never been made public caused people to wonder what had happened at this meeting to torpedo the plan.
PLAN FOR NEW CITY PARK IS ABANDONED
Board Withdraws Request to Council for Special Grant of $17,500
Sarnia Canadian Observer - May 12, 1930 P1
The board of parks management has definitely abandoned the project of procuring 50 acres of lake shore property immediately west of Woodrowe road intended for the purpose of establishing a city park.
At this evening’s meeting of the city council a letter will be read from J.M. Newton, secretary of the board, withdrawing the latter’s request for a special grant of $17,500 towards purchase of the property, the whole cost of which was $35,000.
Not In Estimates
When the project was mooted, the board intimated a belief that it could arrange one half of the financing if the city undertook the other half. The city council appeared at first to favour the proposition but failed to include its share of $17,500 in the estimates for the year.
The board of Parks Management could not finance such a large project out of its normal funds and has therefore definitely abandoned the entire matter.
May 13, 1930, P1: Council Meeting: Intimation by the Parks Board that it wished to withdraw its request that city council provide $17,500 as half purchase price for a piece of property west of Woodrow Road, as a site for a lakeshore park, was not accepted as final but referred to a committee to be reported on further at the next meeting. Alderman Barr asked Mayor Kirby, who is a member of the Parks Board, what had caused the change of heart. The mayor said he had not
attended the last meeting of the board, but someone apparently had thrown a monkey wrench into the proposition. He intended to ask Mr. Sloane, chairman of the Parks Board, to appear before council at its next meeting.
May 17, 1930, P2: Third Column: - City Council, when it received official withdrawal of the Parks Board request for assistance in the acquisition of a lakeshore park, did not seem disposed to accept the intimation as final abandonment of the boards plans and a committee will inquire into the reasons for the boards withdrawal. Ald. Barr seemed quite concerned about the matter & Mayor Kirby is to make a report at the next meeting. All this seems to indicate interest on the part of the council & cannot yet be said that plans for a lakeshore park are definitely abandoned.
NOTE: Nothing was said about the matter at the next council meeting so evidently council, after learning of the I.O.L. involvement, decided to keep it quiet & let the park plan have a quiet burial.
The Third Column
Canadian Observer - May 13, 1930 P2
A good many people will regret that the project of the Board of Parks Management for establishing a public park at the lakeshore has apparently fallen through. We are not concerned here with the merits or demerits of any particular piece of property but with the principle of providing part of the lakefront for park purposes while property remains available. It is a duty of this city to make provisions for posterity. If in five years from now that provision has not been made it will probably be too late to make it and future generations will be justified in reproaching those who had the power to ensure that every resident of this community has for all time the right of access to the lake shore and the use of adequate facilities for the enjoyment of the lake, with failure to exercise that power.
There is no reason to assume that the Board of Parks Management will abandon all thought of establishing a lakeside park because of failure in this instance for it is apparently anxious to ensure that Sarnia shall not in the future be known as the only lakeside city in Canada that neglected to safeguard the birthright of its children and members of the present city council are also sympathetic to the idea.
Sarnians perhaps never pause to think of the inroads made on private property at the lakeshore by Americans. We have of course, no quarrel with Canadian owners of summer homes at the beach who avail themselves of attractive offers from Detroit’s wellto-do who are anxious to provide places of retreat for their families in the hot months of the year. Neither have we any quarrels with the Detroiters who establish their summer homes near Sarnia. They are doubtless good temporary citizens and bring some grist to the local business mill, but if in twenty years from now Lake Huron lakeshore is owned from stem to stern by Americans while the people of Sarnia are shut out from suitable and adequate lake facilities the situation will be very regrettable.
And just imagine what Sarnians of the future will have to say, perhaps twenty years hence when they can only glimpse the lake through the kind permissions of the owners of private property.
The City Council has several times assured the Board of Parks Management that it views sympathetically the policy of providing suitable land beside Lake Huron for a civic park and aldermen still insist that they are anxious to do all that is in their power to back the parks board in its efforts. As we have said before it is for the parks board to determine the advantages of one parcel of property against those of another parcel and to make sure that in any deal it recommends the city is getting the best possible value for its money but it has to be remembered also that there is not a very wide choice and even that restricted choice may at any time narrow down to a point where it is a case of take what’s left or leave it.
Twenty years ago, we were informed today, the city was urged, even begged by a citizen of that time to buy the property from Exmouth Street right up to the lake for a mere bagatelle - some five thousand dollars, it is said the amount was – but either there was no money in the council or no foresight.
Today suitable lakeshore property has narrowed down to two parcels, the one the Board of Parks Management wished to buy and which it claimed was far better suited for its purpose and the other Lake Huron Park, at present owned by the Sarnia Street Railway Company Limited. What will happen in the future is problematical. It is quite likely that eventually the city will not even have an alternative choice.
Failure to carry through the latest project was not in any sense the fault of Board of Parks Management, neither, as it happens, was it the fault of City Council. At the same time, it will be too bad if the proposition of establishing a lakeshore park is permitted to lapse permanently.
Despite the trend of the modern age which to some extent takes people farther afield for recreation, a municipal body must follow the reasoning that the class of people to whom the benefits of public parks and their facilities for the enjoyment of the outdoors are concerned are of greatest advantage, are very frequently those whose circumstances do not permit them to own cars. And another angle of this aspect of the future status of municipal parks is that at the weekends especially people who own cars are beginning to wonder just where the pleasure is in driving along terribly congested pavements at the risk of life and limb or in experiencing the discomforts of dust ridden backroads. Our view is that given adequate parking facilities at points adjacent the water, there would be fewer tendencies to wander further afield and that a public park offering these facilities would attract not only those who have no motor car at their disposal but would also attract a great many of those who have.
Tarzanland Lease Signed by Board
Parks Board Meeting: Nov. 18, 1930
A special meeting of the Parks Board. A lease from the C.N.R. for a block of land with a frontage of 500’ on Michigan Ave. extending north to the C.N.R. tracks & with the east boundary being the Woodrowe Road., was laid before the meeting for consideration. The lease was for a period of 10 years at a rental of $1.00 per year. Mayor Kirby moved, seconded by Driscoll, that this lease be accepted & that the Chairman & Secretary be instructed to complete same. Mr. Germaine then moved, seconded by Watson, that this property be cleaned up immediately, by removing all debris & fallen timbers.
(This refers to parcel E3, ie: Tarzanland)
Park Proposals & Developments: 1931
1) P.B. (Jan. 7, 1931) Board to recommend to council the purchase of White property for park.
2) S.O. (Jan. 13, 1931)Council sympathetic to purchase of White property, wants a definite plan.
3) S.O. (Jan. 14, 1931)Third Column. Will be “hums & haws” from council before it comes up with the money for the proposed park property.
4) P.B. (Jan. 16, 1931)Board to proceed with plans to purchase White property for $30,000.
5) S.O. (Jan 27, 1931) Board asks Council for $30,000 needed to purchase White property. Council, “hums & haws.”
6) P.B. (Feb. 10, 1931) Board considers selling Tourist Camp property to Nelson to raise money to purchase White property.
7) S.O. (Feb. 11, 1931) Board names new parkland leased from C.N.R. (ie: parcel E3) “Woodrowe Road Park.”
8) S.O. (March 19, 1931) City Council cuts 1931 Budget – no money available for parklands.
9) P.B. (April 1, 1931) Board opens negotiations with C.N.R. concerning lease of parcel D.
10)S.O. (April 18, 1931) Board fixing up “Woodrowe Road Park.”
11)S.O. (Aug. 11, 1931) Point Edward Parks Board discusses possibility of forming a park along lakeshore “east of SCPC property.”
12)S.O. (Aug. 17, 1931) Large numbers of bathers on beach north of Point Edward.
13)P.B. (Nov. 26, 1931) Board to continue negotiations with C.N.R. for lease of parcel D.
Council Chamber, Jan. 7/31
The regular meeting of the Board of parks Management was held on the above date, the following members being present: Chairman T.C. Sloane, G.N. Galloway, J, Hunter, C.J. Driscoll, W.A. Watson, W.E. Germain.
The minutes of the preceding meeting were read, and on motion of J. Hunter, seconded by G.N. Galloway were approved.
The accounts were then read. W.A. Watson moved, seconded by C.J. Driscoll that accounts as read be paid.
W.A. Watson brought before the Board the advisability of selling to W.C. Nelson all Park Board land north of the Athletic Park to enable the board to finance a park on Lake Huron. After considerable discussion W.A. Watson moved, seconded by G.N. Galloway that the Chairman appoint a committee to wait on W.C. Nelson to see if he would be prepared to take over this property and to discuss terms.
The Chairman appointed W.A. Watson and W.E. Germain to act.
W.E. Germain moved, seconded by W.A. Watson that the Chair appoints a committee to wait on the Council to impress on them the importance of their raising this year the necessary funds to purchase Lake Shore property and to point out that, in the opinion of the Borad, the White property is the most suitable.
The Chairman appointed the Board as a whole to wait on the Council.
The meeting was adjourned.
Tho. C. Sloan
J. Newton CHAIRMAN SECRETARY
Purchase Of Property at The Lakeshore Recommended to Council By the Parks Board
Aldermen Appear Favorable to Choice of Parcel Near Woodrowe Road at Cost of $35,000Nine Bylaws Are Passed - Plant Trees on Reclaimed Land Observer – January 13, 1931 P4
The purchase of approximately 41 acres of land along the shore of Lake Huron in the vicinity of Woodrowe road for park purposes as proposed by the board of parks management was favored by the city council at its initial meeting of the year held last evening. Nine bylaws were passed including three money bylaws and five appointing city representatives to the boards of various local institutions. Edward L. Bedard, aldermanic candidate at the last municipal
election who polled the highest vote of the defeated contestants took his place at the council board to fill the vacancy caused by the death of Ald. John F. Myers. Ald. Bedard was welcomed to the council by Mayor Kirby.
Park Proposed
Members of the board of parks management, headed by T. C. Sloane, chairman waited on the council with reference to the purchase of lakeshore property for the establishment of a public park. Mr. Sloane addressed the council. He said that at the beginning of last year the board had conceived of the idea of purchasing property and knew that the city council was sympathetic. The parks board had offered the Sarnia Street Railway Company $25,000 for its land at Lake Huron Park but the offer had been rejected on two occasions. The board then turned its attention to property owned by C. A. White of this city and at the last meeting it was decided the board confer with the city council with a view to obtaining this land, which it felt was most desirable for park purposes. The parks board now requested the city to appropriate the estimate for this year $30,000 for the purchase of this property. The board would float a loan for $10,000. The original price of the land was $35,000 which would leave $5,000 of the amount apportioned by the city and the board for putting the property into shape. Mr. Sloane intimated that there was approximately 41 acres in the area. Last year an effort was made to purchase this parcel, but it did not materialize.
Mayor Favors Site
The mayor expressed the opinion that the city should have property fronting on the lake and he thought the site a good one. Ald. Barr mentioned that in 1926 a deal was put through by private individuals whereby a Mr. Merlo secured a piece of land on the lake shore amounting to between 3,300 and 3,600 feet for $5,000. Mr. Barr said the city was informed that it could get a similar deal, but no action was taken. Later Mr. Merlo offered to sell the city 1,000 feet of this land for $1,800.
"There is no use crying over spilt milk," said Mr. Barr. "If we want property today, we will have to pay for it."
Ald. Hodgins, chairman of the finance committee, suggested that the matter be left with the council who would investigate and take what action it felt was required. Ald. Bradley inquired if the parks board knew what price the Sarnia Street Railway Company was asking today for the property at the beach. In reply Mr. Sloane said that the street railway company had been offered $25,000 for the land on two occasions but both offers had been rejected. The negotiations had not continued further.
Ald. Barr presented a motion seconded by Ald. Hodgins that, in view of the fact that the council was in sympathy with the proposal, the board of parks management place the proposition in writing before the council with a definite plan and the exact amount of financial assistance they required. The motion was adopted.
Council Chambers. Jan. 16/31
A special meeting of the Board of Park Management was held on the above date to consider ways and means to further the purchase of Lakeshore frontage.
The following members were present – Chairman T. C. Sloane, W. A. Watson, W. E. Germain, C. J. Driscoll and J. Hunter. Mayor A. Kirby was also present.
V. J. Scott, representing the Sarnia Street Railway, addressed the Board in regard to selling them the Lake Huron Park property. He quoted a price of $16000.00.
W. A. Watson moved, seconded by C. J. Driscoll that the Board of Park Management make application to the City Council for $30,000.00 and to grant a Park Board Debenture Issue for $10,000 to purchase and improve the C. A. White property at Lake Huron, and if such request is granted, that the Board purchase this property for $30,000 with clear right and title over the entire property and without privileges to any outside parties.
Moved by W. E. Germain, seconded by C. J. Driscoll that the offer from the Sarnia Street Railway Co. submitted by W. J. Scott for the sale of Lake Huron Park for $16,000 by taken under advisement. Carried. The meeting then adjourned.
Theo C. Sloane J. Newton CHAIRMAN SECRETARY
Jan 14, 1931 – p2: Third Column: - Glad to see the public park germ is still active in the Parks Board and city Council. We said last year that part of Lake Huron frontage ought to be reserved for the people of Sarnia for all time to come and the same holds true for this year. But there will be hums and haws in the city council before that $30,000 is placed in the estimates if the 1931 council is anything like its predecessor.
Jan 27, 1931 – p5: Lakeshore Land Purchase again before Council: The proposed purchase of property along the shore of Lake Huron in the vicinity of Woodrow Road for park purposes was before city council last night when plans showing the proposed land were placed before council, along with a common communication from the secretary of the Parks Board, J. M. Newton. The board asked the council to furnish $30,000 for the purchase and to authorize the board to issue debentures for $10,000.
The chairman of the finance committee, Alderman Hodgins said the council was not yet in a position to deal with the matter, because the estimates of the year had not been considered. Alderman Barr asked that the plans be left in the city clerks’ office so that the aldermen could study them.
MAP P1
Lakeshore Park Plans 1931
Map P1: Lakeshore Park Plan: 1931
Map P1 shows the lakeshore park that would have resulted from the Park’s Boards’ land assembly plan in 1931, which included the following three parcels:
1) Parcel E3: the 18-acre Tarzanland woodlot that the Park Board leased in 1930 from the CNR. In 1931 it was named Woodrowe Road Park and is outlined in brown.
2) Parcel D: The L-shaped parcel that included 340 feet of shoreline and the west side of Lake Chipican, as well as a strip of land between Merlo, Merlo & Ray property and the mainline tracks. The Parks Board was attempting to lease this 38-acre parcel outlined in green from the CNR. The Cawthorn cottage was in it, marked “S”.
3) Parcel C: The White property that included all the land between Woodrowe Road (Christina Street) and Lake Chipican except the lots obtained by the cottagers in 1926. The Parks Board was recommending that the City purchase this 41-acre property which had 1,280 feet of shoreline from Charles White for $30,000. On map P1 it’s colored red. To help pay for this property, the Parks Board considered selling the Tourist camp land which was located on the present-day site of the County Buildings. (Jail, Courthouse and Registry Office). This eight-acre parcel had been acquired by Sarnia in 1927 from T.H. Cook. It was the northern portion of the property that Cook had obtained from the CNR in 1926. (See Map L: Volume 4)
NOTE: Sarnia also had a lease from the CNR on the 45-acre landfill site at this time, but it was for a city dump, not parkland (Parcel E2).
Parks Board Meeting: Feb 10, 1931
Mr. Watson reported on his interview with W. C. Nelson relative to selling him the Tourist Camp Property. Nelson was prepared to lease the property for one year at a rental of $100 with a one-year option to purchase at $12,000. Mr. Germain moved, seconded by Watson, that the matter be left over until the Parks Board had definite information from the city council in relation to the purchase of the C A White property.
February 11, 1931, P5: Woodrowe Road Park: The committee in charge of Woodrowe Road Park is W.A. Watson (chairman), C.J. Driscoll and W.E. Germain. It was acquired last year and situated north of the Sarnia Golf Club. (Sarnia had obtained a lease from the CNR, dated Oct. 3, 1930, for the 18.8-acre “Woodrowe Road Park”, now known as the Tarzanland woodlot in Canatara Park).
March 19, 1931, P1: City Council Cuts –1931 Budget: No money available for new parkland along lakeshore.
April 18, 1931, P5: Parks Board Active in Fixing up Parks: The Board has an interest in several acres of wooded property immediately north of the golf links. On this property are two tulip trees that are extremely rare in this part of the province. They are very tall and have a circumference of more than 12’.
April 1, 1931: Parks Board Meeting: Move by Driscoll, seconded by Sloan that the secretary open negotiations with the CNR to lease the L-shaped piece of land west of Lake Chipican (i.e.: parcel D).
August 11, 1931, P10: Consider Park Site: The Point Edward Parks Board held a special meeting yesterday evening when they visited the beach east of the SCPC property and discussed the possibility of forming a park in the vicinity. No definite discussion was reached.
August 15, 1931, P5: Mrs. Hanna Tells Benefits of Playgrounds: Mrs. Hanna gave a talk outlining the need for more parkland and playgrounds for Sarnia’s youth.
August 17, 1931, P5: Hundreds Seek Relief at Beaches: Large number of bathers were at the beach north of Point Edward today.
November 26, 1931: Parks Board Meeting: Driscoll moved, seconded by Watson that the Parks Board negotiate through Mr. Germain with the CNR for the leasing of the 316’ of lake frontage adjacent to the west boundary of the C.A. White property. (This refers to parcel D).
Park Proposals and Developments: 1932
1) SO (Jan 12, 1932) Point Edward wants to annex area north of village.
2) PB (March 2, 1932) Captain Cowthorn will be allowed to keep his cottage on parcel D.
3) SO (March 8, 1932) City to sign lease for CNR land near Lake Chipican (ie Parcel D).
4) PB (April 14, 1932) Cawthorn will be allowed to lease his cottage on parcel D to C.W. Stratton.
5) SO (May 4, 1932) Parks Board intends to leave new parkland near Lake Chipican in its natural state.
6) PB (May 4, 1932) Board to charge rental of $25.00 to Stratton for use of cottage on Parcel D.
7) SO May 7, 1932) Mosquito problem at new parkland near Lake Chipican.
8) PB (June 8, 1932) Stratton will be given a 2-year lease on cottage on Parcel D.
9) SO (June 9, 1932) SCPC wins claim of $7,865 as well as rescission of contract from MM&R.
10)SO (June 20, 1932) Beaches north of Point Edward extremely popular with area residents.
11)SO (June 30, 1932) Boys warned about swimming in front of SCPC property.
12)SO (July 14, 1932) Barr advises Board that MM&R property can be purchased for $20,000. Barr given authority to secure an option on this land (ie parcel B1 & B2)
13)SO (July 20, 1932) Hundreds of area bathers came flocking to the bathing bench north of Point Edward.
14)SO (July 21, 1932) Large number of area residents are finding splendid facilities in the wooded area east of the SCPC plant at Point Edward.
15)PB (July 29, 1932) Board decides to go ahead with purchase of MM&R property.
16)PB(Aug 12, 1932) Board decides to recommend to council that MM&R property be purchased for parkland, Mrs. Hanna contributing $10,000 toward the purchase.
17)SO (Aug 13, 1932) Board to purchase 53 acres.
18)SO Aug 15, 1932) Proposed Park Discussed.
19)SO (Aug. 16, 1932) Outstanding citizen to pay half the cost of proposed parkland.
20)SO (Aug. 16, 1932) People going to see the new parkland damage SCPC fences.
21)SO (Aug. 16, 1932) Interest keen in new parkland.
22)SO (Aug. 17, 1932) A park on the lake!
23)SO (Aug 17, 1932) Ratepayers vote against parkland.
24)SO (Aug 18, 1932) Third Column: Need for parkland.
25)SO (Aug 23, 1932) Council approves purchase of 53 acres (i.e. parcels B1 & B2.)
26)SO (Aug 24, 1932) An Advantageous Decision!
27)PB (Sept 6, 1932) Plans for roads into new parkland.
28)SO (Aug 26, 1932) First public excursion to new parkland.
Jan 12, 1932, p12 Point Edward would Annex Land Area: An old matter between Sarnia Township & Point Edward appeared when Councilors Stevenson, Manore & McDonald of the Village interviewed the township councilors suggesting that the village annex the land north of the old GTR main line tracks & west of Woodrowe Road. Several years ago, the township asked the village to take this area over, but the suggestion was turned down by Point Edward at the time. Since then, the area has become productive & has been improved. The matter was left over for further consideration by Sarnia Township authorities.
Parks Board Meeting (March 2, 1932): When the lease now being negotiated with the CNR for lake shore property adjacent to Lake Chipican, is completed, the Board will advise Captain Cawthorn that he will not be disturbed.
May 8 1932 p12 Would Sign Lease: The mayor and city clerk were authorized by the City Council last evening to sign a lease of land in Sarnia Township now owned by the CNR. Alderman James Newton said that all preliminary arrangements had been made & the leases were ready to sign. The strip of land is close to Lake Chipican and is required by the Parks Board.
Parks Board Meeting (April 14, 1932): The Board will inform Captain S. Cawthorn that he will be permitted to lease to C W Stratton the cottage located on the land at Lake Chipican recently leased by the Parks Board from the CNR, and that Captain Cawthorn will be held responsible to the Board.
Germain advised the Board that the lease for 316' frontage near Lake Chipican had been completed and the lease deposited with the City Clerk. There is approximately 38 acres, the rental is $1.00 per year plus taxes.
May 4, 1932, p5: The city council has secured a lease on a piece of property owned by CNR north of Point Edward, near what is known as Lake Chipican. The Parks Board plans to leave this area in its natural state & it may be used for park purposes by the public.
Parks Board Meeting (May 4, 1932): The Board decided that a rental of $25.00 / year will be charged for the use of the ground connected with Captain Cawthorn's cottage near Lake Chipican. NOTE: When Sarnia obtained a lease on the land where his cottage was situated and the public started to use the area for parkland, Captain Cawthorn sold the cottage to Cliff Stratton)
May 7, 1932 p2 Third Column:- The Parks Board is to open as a public park some land in the vicinity of Lake Chipican, leaving it in its natural state, except, we hope, for the mosquitoes.
Parks Board Meeting (June 8, 1932): The Board received a letter from C W Stratton asking for information regarding a lease of property at Lake Chipican. The Board will grant him a lease for two years.
Photo is page 101
June 20, 1932, p 10: Beaches Popular: Yesterday the water fronts were thronged with bathers seeking relief from the extreme heat. Especially popular was the beach north of Point Edward where people from both the village & Sarnia were attracted by the sunny sands & inviting blue waters.
June 30, 1932, p5: Boys Land in Trouble: Boys who go swimming should be careful not to get on the SCPC property. That was the lesson 4 fellows from the north section of the city learned from Constable Peters, who was called to the property when the youthful quartet were seen jumping into the deep water & rather treacherous current in the immediate vicinity of the company's dock. Owing to the fact that there are many bad holes in the front of this property, the management has endeavored to prohibit swimming there. People must do their swimming from the public beaches nearby & not from SCPC property.
Parks Board Meeting: (July 14, 1932): Mayor Barr advised the Board that the lakeshore frontage west of Lake Chipican could be purchased from the Bank of Commerce for $20,000. Germain then moved, seconded by Driscoll that the Board secure an option on this property at the above figure. After considerable discussion the chairman requested an expression of opinion as to whether the members were favorable to this purchase. All signified their approval & Germain moved, seconded by Driscoll that Mayor Barr secure an option on the property on behalf of the Parks Board at the above figure (This refers to the 53 acres contained in parcels B1 & B2, formally owned by WSGC & John Ray)
July 20, 1932, p10: Flock to Point Edward: The present heat spell is establishing the popularity of the new bathing beach north of Point Edward which is the resort of hundreds of bathers from the city & district.
July 21, 1932, p14: Bathing at Point Edward: Large members of bathers from Sarnia & Point Edward are finding splendid facilities in the wooded area east of the SCPC plant in Point Edward. This year there are more people going in swimming at this spot than ever before & this area is becoming very popular. Last evening there were about 200 bathers there.
C.W. Stratton, proprietor of “The Store with the Orange and Blue Front” at 148 North Victoria street, who today announced important expansions in his wholesale & retail electrical and tires sales and service in this city and Lambton County.
Council Chambers, July 29,1932
The following members were present at a special meeting of the Park Board to discuss further the advisability of purchasing certain lands at the Lake Shore, known as the Quarantine Grounds, - Chairman, G.N. Galloway, Mayor J.C. Barr, W.E. Germain, W.A. Watson, T.C. Sloan, J. Hunter, C.J. Driscoll.
Mayor Barr spoke in favour of purchasing the property and gave the history of the negotiations to the present. The Bank of Commerce had priced this land at $30,000, but this was considered too high. They then revised their price down to $20,000 which he considered a fair price for the property. He had been in touch with Mrs. W,J, Hanna who had offered to put up $5,000 immediately and another $5,000 during the next 5 years.
W.A. Watson was in favour of purchasing the land but only on condition that Mrs. Hanna gave a legal undertaking to supply the money as above.
T.C. Sloan was personally in favor of the acquisition of the property but considered that this was no time to expend the money. He had stated that the original purchaser had obtained the property for $16,800 and that in his opinion the price of $20,000 was too much. Also, that the financial condition of the city at present time should be considered. He was desirous that the Board go slow in the matter.
C.J. Driscoll was in favor of the purchase as it was the only remaining piece of Lake Shore property available.
J. Hunter was in favor of purchasing the land for the same reason as Mr. Driscoll.
W.E. Germain moved, seconded by J. Hunter that this land be purchased at $20,000 provided that Mrs. Hanna guarantees to give $5,000 now and a further $5,000 during the next 5 years and that Mayor Barr be authorized to interview Mrs. Hanna and ask her for the guarantee. This motion carried.
The meeting then adjourned to the call of the Chair.
G.N. Galloway
J. Newton CHAIRMAN SECRETARY
Map P2 – Plan of Proposed Park
Notes Relating to Map P2: Plan of Proposed Park
This map dated August 2, 1932, is from the city archives and shows outlined in green the “Lands of L.A. Merlo” which the park board was proposing that the city acquire for parkland. The 66.7foot right-of-way leading to this parcel at the foot of Alfred Street in Point Edward is colored pink. To the west was the Sarnia Cement Products Company 12.3-acre parcel and to the south and east was the 38-acre L-shaped parcel leased to the city from the CNR.
Notice the notch in the March 27 shoreline of Lake Huron at the western end of Merlo’s 52.7acre parcel. This indentation undoubtedly resulted from the 1925-26 Huron Sand and Gravel Company’s operation since their loading dock was located at the point where the shoreline turns abruptly southward.
Evidently, a rough survey of this area had been made since the map appears to show the approximate extent of the wetland at the time, marked in yellow-green. The marsh in the ball diamond area was recorded as being 330 feet wide with a water level 4.3 feet above that of Lake Huron. The marsh in the animal farm area was 420 feet wide with a water level 5.5 feet above Lake Huron, while the level of Lake Chipican was 4.7 feet above that of Lake Huron.
Council Chambers, Friday, Aug. 12, 1932
At a special meeting of the Board of Park Management held on the above date to consider the purchase of property at the lake Shore for Park purposes the following members were present: - Chairman, G.N. Galloway, Mayor J.C. Barr, W.A. Watson ,W.E. Germain, T.C. Sloan, J. Hunter, C.J. Driscoll.
A deputation from the Taxpayers and Home Owners Association were present and was requested by the Chairman of the Board to have its Spokesman address the Board.
Gordon Logan thereupon spoke in protest to this purchase as public opinion was against it; that the city was not in a financial position to make the purchase and that the property was not suitable for the purpose.
Mr. W. Byrnes, as President of the Association also spoke against the purchase, basing his protest on the same grounds as the previous speaker. The deputation then withdrew.
W.A. Watson moved, seconded by C.J. Driscoll that the Sarnia Board of Park Management purchase the property in the Township of Sarnia, being part of Lot 69 in the Front Concession of the Township of Sarnia, being part of the Military Reserve, which property is bounded on the west by the Sarnia Cement Products Co., on the south and east by the Canadian National Railways Company’s lands which and is at present under lease to the Board of Park Management of the City, and on the north by Lake Huron, having a frontage, following the shore line of approximately 2650 feet, at and for the sum of $20,000 - $10,000 of which has been donated by Mrs. W.J. Hanna; and that the Chairman of the Board of Park Management do forward to the Municipal Council of the Corporation of the City of Sarnia, a request under sub-section 5 of the section of “The Park Act” that the Municipal Council of the Corporation of the City of Sarnia raise the remaining one-half of the purchase price, namely $10,000 and further that the purchase of the said property be subject to the city obtaining the consent of the Ontario Municipal Board to the issue of the debentures for the sum of $10,000. The motion was then put to a vote and carried as follows: -
For - Chairman, G.N. Galloway, Mayor J.C. Barr, W.A. Watson ,W.E. Germain, J. Hunter, C.J. Driscoll. Against: T.C. Sloan,
The meeting then adjourned.
G.N. Galloway J. Newton
CHAIRMAN SECRETARY
City Parks Board Purchases Tract Near Point Edward Fifty-Three Acres Acquired at Low Cost for New Pleasure Centre
Sarnia Canadian Observer – August 13, 1932, P5
Negotiations by which the Sarnia Board of Park Management will acquire approximately 53 acres of land with 2650 feet frontage on Lake Huron north of Sarnia Cement Products Company property at Point Edward, were completed last evening according to an announcement made today by George N. Galloway, chairman of the board Although the name of the company from which the land was bought was not divulged. It was announced that the price involved was $20,000. The land, it is understood, will be used for park purposes and development will be made as finances permit.
To Seek Bond Issue
The deal was the culmination of extended negotiations between the Board of Parks Management, the mayor and council and interested parties. The purchase of the land had been the subject of discussions for several weeks and it was partly instigated by an interested citizen who offered $10,000. The offer after due consideration was accepted by the board and negotiation were completed. As this situation now stands the board will make application to the city council to issue debentures for $10,000 to cover a period of years. The cost to the citizens has been estimated at less than 8 cents per person per year for 10 years.
With the acquisition of the land, Sarnia is assured of a gravel supply. The land has been recognized as an adequate gravel source and in future civic construction gravel can be obtained from city property at no cost to the city. It has been estimated by officials that the amount of gravel that can be utilized from the land will more than pay for the price of the land. It has also been pointed out that the removal of gravel would in no way destroy the beach.
For several years the parks board has leased from the Canadian National Railways land with 316-foot frontage on the lake. With the new property, there will be nearly 70 acres available for a park site. There will be nearly 3,000 feet fronting on Lake Huron and citizens are assured of one of the finest bathing beaches along this section of the lake and river it was said.
The popularity of this land as a bathing resort is evidenced by the large number of people who go to this property. This summer more and more people found delightful bathing facilities in this area.
PROPOSED PARK MADE SUBJECT OF MUCH DISCUSSION
Not Considered Large Expenditure Necessary to Make it Fully Suitable
Sarnia Canadian Observer – August 15, 1932 P5
Proposed purchase by the Sarnia Board of Parks Management of more than 53 acres of partially wooded land in Sarnia Township on Lake Huron, north of the Sarnia Cement Products plant at Point Edward, as announced on Saturday, was the subject of much comment in the city today. There appeared to be an impression with some people that a large expenditure would be necessary before the land could be suitable for park purposes. An official of the parks board told a reporter for The Canadian Observer today that the land in its present state is ideal for a natural park. It is the belief of the board, he said, that very little work would be required to put the property in first class condition, and this would be done only from year to year as the boards finances permit.
There has also been an impression that a road would have to be built. However, there is a road leading to the property from Albert Street, Point Edward and there is also a road running through the property. There would only be a little work needed to put the road in good condition for motor travel.
The Third Column
Aug. 16 p2
“During the week an announcement was made of a proposal to acquire lake front property as a city park with half of the cost of purchase to be subscribed by a citizen who prefers to remain anonymous. Many of the finest & noblest deeds are done by those who shrink from the glare of publicity & care not a whit for personal credit. Sarnia ought to be grateful.”
Is Private Road:
“Walter Reid of the Sarnia Cements Products Co. today informed The Canadian Observer that people going to the beach property at Point Edward which it is proposed to acquire as a municipal park are using a private road owned by the company & are damaging the gates & fences. Mr. Reid added that the company had no objection to the public using the road provided, however, that no damage is done.”
Public Interest in Plan for Lake Front Park Keen
August 16, 1932 –Canadian Observer
City would have one of the finest Public Playgrounds in Province – Citizens of Sarnia is providing ten thousand dollars, half the purchase price – Gravel supply for all time.
The Sarnia Parks Board is now dealing with the proposal to obtain a lake front park for which the city has secured the option. The property, which is located on Lake Huron, just east of the Sarnia Cement Product’s Co. plant has an estimated frontage of 2500 to 3000 feet on the lake and would give the city approximately 90 acres of parkland in that area. As the parks board has already several advantageous leases of railway lands in the same block, it would have one of the finest parks in Ontario.
Splendid Sand Beach
There is a wide sand beach which is already largely patronized by citizens, fully a thousand people being there on their holidays when the weather is hot. The back part of the block is heavily wooded providing ideal conditions for picnics.
The price at which the property is offered to the city is $20,000, and a Sarnia resident has undertaken to provide $10,000 as a gift toward the purchase price. The city would be obligated for only $10,000 for which ten year debentures would be issued. The annual cost to the city including interest would be about $1,300 which is about 7 cents for each $1,000 of civic assessment.
City Gravel Supply
Another important feature is that there is an inexhaustible supply of gravel on the property, and it is estimated that the cost of the park would be reimbursed eventually from the gravel of which the city uses in normal times from $4,000 to $5,000 worth a year.
At various times the city has attempted to secure a lake front park but invariably a hitch occurred. It is admitted that the present financial situation is the only obstacle, but the advantageous terms on which the property can be secured renders it advisable that definite action should be taken.
The fact that a private citizen will provide half the cost is an opportunity that might never recur. If the city secures the property, it solves for all time the problem of providing the community with an ideal recreation ground which would serve this part of the province for many miles in all directions and it would be advantageously capitalized for excursion parties to Sarnia, since it is served by the Canadian National Railway.
Improve it Gradually
It is understood that it is not the intention of the Parks Board to make any elaborate plans for improvements at the present time for aside from bettering the road into the property it could be left as a natural recreation ground until the resources of the board are such as to warrant further improvements.
Citizens Visit It
Since the project has been made public many citizens who had previously only a vague knowledge of the location have viewed the property and have been greatly impressed with its possibilities as a public playground. In that respect, it would prove one of the finest community assets possible in providing access to the water for those who cannot afford to own private property on the lake shore.
Association to Discuss Project of Public Park
Meeting Called This Evening to Consider Parks Board Proposition August 16, 1932 –Canadian Observer
Members of the Taxpayers and Homeowners Association have been invited to attend a meeting this evening in the public library for the purpose of discussing informally the proposed purchase of land in Sarnia Township north of Point Edward on Lake Huron by the Sarnia Board of Park Management for park purposes.
The meeting has been called by the president, W. Byrnes who will preside. It is understood that no special speakers have been invited to speak on the subject and the matter will only be discussed. There is however a possibility that the association will go on record whether in favour or opposed to the project.
A Park on the Lake
August 17, 1932 –Canadian Observer
To ensure open spaces where its citizens may seek inexpensive recreation is one of the embarrassments of cities, especially since the charge is oft repeated that communities are notoriously lacking in vision with regard to future requirements along that line, and that they are callus with respect to children who have no place to play except on the streets.
Sarnia is now going through the process of securing a park on the lake front. It is a property which meets all requirements of a public recreation ground while at the same time it contains deposits of gravel that would supply the city for all time with that material. The cost of the park will be repaid out of this natural resource.
But further, the price of the land, estimated at 2,800 feet on the lake front, is $20,000 of which $10,000 is being furnished by a public-spirited resident of this city who evidently appreciates the boon that this recreation ground will be to thousands of children and adults who may not have the means to provide themselves with private ownership at the waters of the lake or the shade of a wooded retreat.
No city can make a mistake in providing breathing places for its population. Many communities have neglected this essential in city-building, but today it is more than ever regarded as the duty of the city to do its part in keeping children off the streets by supplying them with adequate facilities for fresh air, exercise and communion with nature. No excuses that make dollars and cents their foundation is acceptable in the debate on this subject.
Sarnia is on the threshold of an opportunity to obtain a park location that is admittedly of exceptional advantage. The only doubt rises from the general financial situation. There are many demands for money. If it were not that the prospects of the project that is now before the city were so linked up with urgent necessity of the immediate future, it would be an easy matter to give a negative answer to the whole proposition. The fact that the community can assure itself of a permanent lake frontage of almost 3,000 feet with a recreation area of nearly 100 acres presents an opportunity that can scarcely be turned down. It is safe to say that the city can justify any action it may take to acquire this property on the terms which have been indicated. It is fairly certain that any failure to do so would be grounds for criticism from the best element in the community which recognizes its responsibility towards those who are restricted in many of the privileges of existence. It is a case where an investment of $10,000 looks like an excellent throw in favor of the health and well-being of a section of the population that looks to the community for that boon.
Lively Gathering of Ratepayers Narrowly Votes Down Project
Majority of One Against Purchase is Recorded After Spirited DiscussionMayor Barr Explains Plan and Defends Parks Board PolicySmall Attendance at Meeting
RESOLUTION NAMES OBJECTIONS TO CAPITAL EXPENDITURE AT THIS TIME
Sarnia
Canadian Observer – August 17, 1932
Between 20 and 25 men were present at the public library last evening at a meeting of property owners, held under the auspices of the Sarnia Taxpayers and Home Owners Association, at which the chief topic was the proposed purchase of land for a city park. After Mayor James C. Barr had described the negotiations conducted by the Board of Parks Management for the purchase of the tract of land north-east of the Sarnia Cement Products plant on Lake Huron, the meeting discussed the plan for nearly an hour and a half and the audience voted 12 against the proposal and 11 in favor of it.
Lively Meeting
The meeting was one of the liveliest in which municipal politics have been discussed. After listening to the statements of Mayor Barr and the comments of members of the audience it was quite evident that the opinion was divided over the proposed purchase. Those who favoured the expenditure were in the minority, but they upheld their views in the face of strong opposition. On the other hand, those who opposed the move said so in no uncertain terms and some even went so far as to criticize the administration of the city’s affairs. One speaker pointedly
remarked, “It is high time that reckless expenditure of money should be stopped,” while another criticized the council’s, “grab-bag system of falling for every project that is offered.”
At times the meeting became unruly, everybody apparently wanting to speak at once and on one occasion it was several minutes before the chair was able to restore order. At no time was there absolute silence and little conversations between members were in progress all the time.
At close of the meeting the chairman, with the assistance of the secretary, again endeavored to put the motion against the purchase. However, an amendment sponsored by William Menzies was put first and here further difficulties were encountered. Nine voted for the amendment and ten favoured the resolution. As there were several who did not vote the chairman again asked for a show of hands. This time 12 voted in favour of the resolution and 11 upheld the amendment.
The Resolution
The resolution reads as follows:
“This association objects to the expenditure of public money upon the project on the grounds that the price of $20,000 is excessive and unwarranted and that the necessary development of the property as a park will entail additional capital expense; that the property is unsuited for the purpose of a park; that the purchase of the property by the city under present conditions is unwise and uncalled for and that had the proposal merit in the foregoing respects there is no present or even future need for the purchase of the property and no public demand.
The association concurs in the intention of the city council to abandon under present financial conditions, the resurfacing of Front Street (which is badly in need of repair) but in contrast cannot appreciate or assign any reason or excuse for the needless purchase of this undeveloped property and condemning, as it does, the expenditure as reckless views the purchase with gravest concern.
“The association also believes the Parks Board will not embark upon the undertaking against the advice of the city auditors and in defiance of the city council and therefore asks that the council likewise record its opposition.”
Chairman Explains
Shortly after eight o’clock, Wilfred Byrns, president of the association, took the chair and announced that the meeting was open for discussion. He said that it had been called to discuss the proposed purchase of land for park purposes and at the request of several members of the organization, the meeting had been arranged for informal discussion. For a few minutes no person volunteered a statement and the chairman in an effort to get the discussion started called on Mayor Barr to express his views.
The mayor readily came forward and offered to discuss the matter from start to finish. He said that he had not come with the intention of making a speech, but rather to answer any questions which might arise during the meeting. He also expressed regret that exaggerated statements relative to the parks boards plans had been circulated in the city.
G.W. Longley, Richard Street, said he had heard various stories, and he wanted the truth. Mr. Longley’s sentiment was echoed by others and the mayor accordingly launched into a lengthy review of the project.
Six Years Ago
Back in 1926 and 1927 while he was in the council, the mayor said he had been given to understand that the property, for which the Sarnia Board of Parks Management had negotiated, was for sale. On inquiry, the mayor said, he found that it had been purchased by Merlo, Merlo & Ray Company. Three months ago, the mayor continued, he received confirmation that certain interests in the city were endeavoring to secure the west half of the property. In explanation
Mayor Barr said that the latter section was about 1,000 feet long while the eastern section was approximately 2,000 feet. The former was recently acquired by the Canadian Bank of Commerce and the eastern division was in the hands of a trust company. A short time later the mayor said, he was in conversation with a citizen, and the talk drifted to the possibility of securing the land for a park site. The idea was so enthusiastically received by the resident in question that $5,000 in cash was immediately offered to help pay for it. The mayor then talked the matter over with the local manager of the Bank of Commerce with regard to the purchase of the entire property of about 55 acres. Before the bank could make an offer to sell the property, it had to get the trust company to make an offer on the east part. This was duly received, and the word came back to the city that the land could be secured for $30,000. The mayor said he refused the offer and would not suggest the purchase at such a high figure.
Comes to Rescue
The public-spirited citizen who had offered the $5,000 increased the offer to $10,000, but the mayor still contended that the prices was excessive. The bank then asked what the city would offer and Mayor Barr said he quoted $15,000. It was now the bank’s turn to refuse the offer and the offer was turned down. However, after extended negotiations the bank offered the land for $20,000 and the price was considered by the parks board and accepted. The city, the mayor said, had an option on the land and unless it was accepted now, there would not be a further offer. In regard to the rumors relative to the price the mayor mentioned that it had been common talk on the streets that the city could purchase the land for $9,000. This was incorrect, the mayor asserted, as that amount represented the offer of a Sarnia firm for only 1,000 feet of the property.
A section of land near this tract had been leased by the parks board from the Canadian National railways for some time, the mayor continued and with the new section there would be about 90 acres of partly wooded land fronting on Lake Huron available for a park. As the situation stood now the parks board would accept the offer and ask city council to issue debentures for $10,000, repayable in the next ten years. This would cost $1,300 a year at seven cents for every $1,000 of assessment.
Gravel Supply
In reference to the gravel supply on the land the mayor said that a few years ago the C.N.R. sent engineers who found that the gravel extended to a depth of 16 feet. Then they struck marl and going still deeper found more gravel. The mayor remarked that those present at the meeting would not see the day when this gravel supply would be exhausted. From a financial standpoint, it was an inopportune time to purchase the land even for gravel. However, industrial and economic conditions were not going to remain as they were at present and in the future the city would have to do paving and construction work. With an adequate supply owned by the municipality, the city would save money. The $10,000 spent now for the land while it would increase the tax rate to the extent of eight cents for every $1,000 assessment would be returned in years to come through the saving in gravel costs. For the Exmouth Street drain the city paid $2.25 a cubic yard for gravel and $1.60 a yard for the construction of the Lochiel Street sewer and the Russell Street paving. This cost could be greatly reduced, the mayor contended.
In summing up his remarks Mayor Barr reiterated his previous statement that he did not think the purchase of the property would be a burden on the taxpayer. He said he was one of the largest property owners in the city and he knew what it was to pay taxes. He believed that the return from the gravel supply would more than repay the purchase price.
Many Questions
Following his remarks, the mayor was besieged with questions. One ratepayer enquired if it was legal for the Board of Parks Management to negotiate for land outside the municipality to which the mayor replied that the board could purchase land within a ten-mile radius.
Another man asked if the consent of the people had to be secured before an expenditure was made. In reply the mayor stated that the law provided that the parks board was entitled to one mil of the tax rate. As long as the board made its yearly debenture payments and kept within its appropriation it was not subject to a vote of its electors.
If the council refused the request to issue debentures, had the board the right to buy the property, another taxpayer asked. According to law, the mayor answered, the council could not refuse the one mil contribution. If an individual offered to pay one-half of the cost the law said that the council should assist that person, he added.
Angus Stonehouse, who said he represented the workingman, started the fireworks when he stated that the people today are looking for lower taxation. He asserted that the workingmen were receiving lower wages than they were in 1926 and they were not desirous of seeing their taxes increased, even by eight cents a year.
“What we’re looking for is a reduction of eight cents and not an increase,” Mr. Stonehouse emphatically remarked. “We are fighting right now to pay our taxes and it appears to be a fight against the moneyed people of Sarnia. It’ll take thousands of dollars to put the land in shape for a park, and where is all this money coming from? The city has enough parks now, and we don’t need any more. Look at Bayview Park – all there is there is a dance hall.”
Meets Opposition
The mayor, to whom these remarks were directed, asked the speaker how long he has resided in the city. His reply was ten years. The mayor then remarked that years ago during the winters people used to skate up to Michigan Avenue in Point Edward. There was a good bathing beach up to the park, but when the sawmills came the beach was ruined and the park fell into discard. Regarding the workingman and his taxes, the mayor said he was just as vitally interested in lower taxes as any citizen.
“When I advocate the parks proposition, I am not thinking of next year or the year after, but of the future,” the mayor asserted. “I am thinking of the time when prosperity will return and the revenue from the gravel will counterbalance the cost of the property.”
Peter Langan concurred in the view of Mr. Stonehouse and expressed the opinion that it was a “crime” to spend money under such stringent conditions. He said he was opposed to any move to buy the land. He, like others, was struggling to pay taxes and he did not want them to be increased.
The view of a number of the audience was expressed by Gordon Logan, secretary of the association, who opposed the proposal.
“I am here to say that I am against any move to purchase this land,” Mr. Logan said amid cries of “Hear, Hear.” I am not hear to argue with the mayor as I recognize in Mr. Barr a faithful alderman and mayor, and he has done much good for the city. At this meeting he has endeavored to justify the expenditure of $10,000 by remarking that the city will in return receive a substantial gravel supply. He admitted that the cost of gravel on certain works was $1.10 a yard and as far as I know there is not likely to be any scarcity of gravel in Sarnia, regardless of whether or not it is advisable for the city to engage in the gravel business.
Sees No Necessity
“Mr. Barr has asserted that there are no public parks suitable for summer resorts with the exception of Bright’s and Crinnian’s Groves and Lake Huron Park. He has hinted indirectly that
these might close, but there is no immediate possibility of that, as these parks are operated for the public, by individuals, for personnel gain. I cannot see why it is necessary for the city to operate a public bathing beach. The property is undeveloped, and there is no good road leading to it. A large sum would be needed to put the park into shape for a park. In my judgement, based on business experience, I doubt if there is any tract of land within a reasonable distance of Sarnia worth one-third of $20,000 today. There is no call for the property and to the man in the street the proposition is out of the question. The matter has not been discussed before and I cannot understand why it is being considered in the face of the municipal audit and survey which recommended that no capital expenditure be made this year. The report went even so far as to recommend the shelving of the Front Street paving proposition. You know cities have gone bankrupt, and Sarnia has an overdraft in the bank. Someday, if we are not careful, we may find that the bankers will refuse to carry any further loans,” Mr. Logan concluded.
Speak in Favor
William Menzies, who arrived late at the meeting, and who listened to a portion of the discussion, said he had just come from the place, and he reported that there were hundreds of Sarnians bathing there. He said it was an ideal spot suitable for picnics, splendid for bathing and the gravel supply would warrant the expenditure. He expressed himself as being in favor of the parks board plan.
V.C. Huntley asked the mayor where the money was to come from, to which the mayor replied it was not the intention of the board to develop it all in one year.
The mayor asked for permission to speak again and took Mr. Logan to task for his statement that the property was not worth the money. The mayor asserted the lake frontage was not sold by the acre but by the foot and no land along Lake Huron in this section could be purchased for less than $25 a foot. There were, he said, some exceptions, and there might possibly be land north of Crinnian’s Grove which was being offered this year for less than that amount.
Mr. Longley, who spoke earlier in the meeting said Sarnia was a fine city but regretted that it was being badly handled. He expressed opposition to the plan and on the grounds that the taxpayers had too great a burden already without any additional taxation.
At this point in the meeting the secretary read the motion and was seconded by W.B. Stewart. Before the motion was put Mr. Menzies moved an amendment that the association support the Sarnia Board of Parks Management. Neither the amendment nor the motion was put and the chairman, Wilfred Byrnes, launched an attack on the proposal.
Chairman Makes Attack
Mr. Byrnes said he had visited the site and found two swamps which were suitable for celery gardens, rather than a park.
“It’s no place for a park, how are people going to pay for it? Citizens are losing their property because they can’t afford to pay taxes. Some are sacrificing their life insurance policies to keep from starving. We’ve been following the grab-bag system long enough and it’s time for a change.”
“What did the governments do last year to help us?” Mr. Byrnes asked, “Promoted public works which cost the city more money and where are we today? Ald. Lockhart, chairman of the finance committee of the city council says the city will be approximately $475,000 in debt by the end of the year,” Mr. Byrnes said.
“You can’t get a statement from Ald. Lockhart to that effect,” answered the mayor, as he pounded the table with his fist.
“You bet I can,” shot back Mr. Byrnes. “And I’ve got it right here.” From his pocket the speaker took a clipping from the Canadian Observer which was a report of the finance committee of the city council written by Ald. Lockhart and sent to the Board of Education. The sentence referred to by Mr. Byrnes read as follows:
“The arrears of taxes on December 31, 1931, amounted to $315,149.61 (not including vacant land returned or paid o treasurer). After allowing a liberal estimate for tax collections for the period June 30 to December 31, 1932, the outstanding taxes on Dec. 31, 1932will amount approximately $478,000, an increase over the 1931 outstanding of about $180,000.”
The statement brought laughter from the audience, but the mayor did not offer any comment. He did however remark that he contended the land would be ideal for a playground, with its shady trees. Two swamps, the mayor argued, are not as bad as described by the chairman.
Teddy Lane, who said he had resided in Point Edward for several years asserted that he knew the property and he did not believe it was worth the money. He claimed it was not fair to ask the citizens to spend money for a park where there was an appeal being made for finances with which to assist needy families during the coming winter.
Support From Mr. Andrew
George A.C. Andrew opposed the resolution. He said he was in favour of the land purchase as it would afford a desirable bathing spot – the only one within a short distance of the city. He said he had had municipal service, and he knew what it meant for a city to have a gravel supply. Mr. Andrew also remarked that the city did not own one foot of land on the lakefront which was suitable for a bathing beach.
Mr. Logan reminded the mayor and council that when they were spending the city’s money they were dealing with the resources of a “crippled people.” He ventured the statement that one-third of the taxpayers were unable to pay their taxes.
The amendment to the motion was put to a vote and it was lost by a majority of one.
The Third Column
August 18, 1932 –Canadian Observer
One gathers from the meeting at the library the other evening that all will not be plain sailing for the parks board in its proposed acquisition of lake shore property for a public park. Some say the land is too high priced, some that it is no good, others that we don’t need a park anyway, while others combine all the objections. Wouldn’t there have been a storm if the proposition of the park board was that it had to pay the whole of the $20,000 in cash for the land. As it is half of it is a most generous gift and we searched the discussion in vain for a reference of appreciation of the great generosity of the anonymous donor.
.........
Someone once asked Carnegie how he made all his money, and the reply was “I bought in bad times and sold in good times.” And we doubt if anyone helped out the great steel magnate with half of the ante.
........
Sarnia with two miles of waterfront bordering it hasn’t yet been able to reserve a portion of this for the use of its citizens. We suggest that the record is probably unparalleled in coastal cities. Personally, we feel a blush of shame every time we look across the St. Clair to Lakeside & Pine Grove PUBLIC parks.
The Board of Parks Management has established small parks within the city for the enjoyment of the public and particularly for the enjoyment of children who can play where cars don’t rush to and fro at dangerous rates of speed. It is now interested in providing a place where the public can enjoy the air from the lake and bath in safety. Nothing wrong with such an objective, surely. And with half the cost of purchase paid.
As for the value of the prosed deal it is enough for us that the proposition has been sold to Jim Barr whose record shows that he doesn’t by any means bite at every apple that his handed to him in the form of proposed capital expenditure. Besides there are men on the Parks Board who if they didn’t know land values by this time certainly ought to. And especially if they are given a fifty percent margin of safety through the generosity of an anonymous citizen.
So-far-as present council is concerned its record is certainly not one that would induce ratepayers to suspect that it would authorize a capital expenditure that it did not believe was justified or that did not constitute a good business deal for the city. We can’t offhand recall an instance where it has spent a nickel that would have been better saved. If it is not the most parsimonious council this city has ever had then it has been grossly misrepresented in every report of its transactions.
It hasn’t yet endorsed the new parks project but if it does then we for one will be ready to accept its judgement without question.
Gradually private interests are acquiring a stranglehold on the whole of the waterfront. Give them a while longer and the residents of Sarnia won’t even be able to take a look at the lake without the kind permission of someone. And if in the future years the city decides that it has to acquire waterfront facilities for its populace then it will have to pay plenty for them.
Council Approves Purchase Lakeshore Property
Observer August 23, 1932, p5
Approval of the proposed purchase by the Sarnia Board of Parks Management of a tract of land fronting Lake Huron and containing more than 50 acres to be used for park purposes was given by city council last evening when a bylaw authorizing the issue of $10,000 debentures for ten years was passed. The council’s actions culminated extended negotiations between the board of parks management and interested parties whereby the offer of $10,000 of Mrs. W.J. Hanna to be used as half of the purchase price has been accepted. The land is understood to be bought for $20,000.
At a meeting of the parks board several weeks ago negotiations were completed for the purchase of the land north of the Sarnia Cement Product Company property in Sarnia Township. The land has an area of approximately 53 acres and there is a frontage of 2,680 feet on Lake Huron. It is the intention of the board to utilize the land for a public park and although the area is regarded as a natural park site and is a popular rendezvous for bathers, development will be carried out from year to year as finances permit.
Is Not Opposed
The park’s boards request for debentures was not opposed by any member of the council and it was quite evident that a majority of alderman favoured the purchase. The bylaw authorizing the debentures was introduced by Ald. Homer Lockhart, chairman of the finance committee. It was given readings in committee of the whole and finally adopted by council without comment. Early in the meeting the council chamber was filled with spectators the majority of whom represented citizens interested in the proposed land purchase. Included were Mrs. S.L. Poussefta, Miss Harriet Gorman, Miss Winnifred Gorman, Mrs. D.W. Rennie, Miss Ida McIver, Mrs. C.H. Belton, Mrs. H. Turnbull, Mrs. J.B. Pardee, W.D. Ferguson, H.O. Tredwell, F.P. Dawson, George A.C. Andrew, Harry Phillips, Dr. W.G. Hunt, R.S. Bulman, A.W. Mills, Captain W.F. Howell, Charles A. White and William Menzie.
Association Opposed
The only opposition to the proposal came from the Sarnia Taxpayers and Homeowners Association in the form of a resolution which read as follows:
“This association objects to the expenditure of public money upon the project on the grounds that the price of $20,000 is excessive and unwarranted and that the necessary development of the property as a park will entail additional capital expense: that the property is unsuited for the purpose of a park; that the purchase of the property by the city under present conditions is unwise and uncalled for and that had the proposal merit in the foregoing respects there is no present or even future need for the purchase of the property and no public demand.
“The association concurs in the intention of the city council to abandon under present financial conditions, the re-surfacing of Front Street, which is badly in need of repair, but in contrast cannot appreciate or assign any reasons or excuse for the needless purchase of this undeveloped property and condemning, as it does, the expenditure as reckless, views the purchase with gravest concern.
“The association also believes the parks board will not embark upon the undertaking against the advice of city auditors and in defiance of the city council and therefore asks that the council likewise record its opposition.”
Represents Taxpayers
F.P. Dawson in addressing the mayor and council said that he was the spokesman for a group of representative taxpayers who were attending the meeting in support of the proposed purchase of land. He said the park board had apparently given the matter fullest consideration and the opinion of the delegation was that the purchase of the land was a wise step.
In substantiating his assertion, the speaker mentioned that the taxpayers would undoubtedly appreciate the fact that the land could be bought at a particularly low price. This fact did not stand-alone Mr. Dawson said, but was supported by the fact that the tract of land contained a substantial gravel supply which would be available to the city for many years. The saving to the city in gravel costs would, the speaker believed, more than repay the cost price of the land.
From that standpoint of a park, it was the opinion of the delegation. Mr. Dawson continued that the site was ideally situated. There was nearly 3,000 feet of sandy beach, the area was in close proximity to the city and transportation facilities are available for those who had to use public conveyances.
Apart from these things there was a distinct cultural advantage in the acquisition of the land for a public park. As an example, Mr. Dawson referred to the building of the Collegiate Institute & Technical School and remarked that the school was an educational asset to the city so was the proposed park an asset for Sarnia.
Asset for City
A public park would enable citizens to enjoy the waterfront Mr. Dawson added. As years went by development of the property would make it one of the most complete in the country and residents of Sarnia would have all the advantages given by parks which were found only in larger cities.
In conclusion Mr. Dawson said he believed there was a growing sentiment in favor of the park. He said the delegation was sincere in its thoughts and he asked that city council give full consideration for the proposal of the parks board.
George A.C. Andrew also spoke in support of the project and mentioned that the city should not lose sight of the generous offer of Mrs. Hanna. He also mentioned that Sarnia did not have one foot of parkland on the waterfront since Bayview Park had fallen into disuse. The fact that the land was desirable as a park site was shown by the large number of people who found it an ideal spot for bathing. The gravel deposits are also a consideration not to be lost sight of he said.
Mr. Andrew also mentioned the generosity of Mrs. Hanna in providing the city with playgrounds which were greatly appreciated by the children. If the project were defeated he said, in conclusion, it would be a notice to Mrs. Hanna to cease her activities and direct her efforts in other channels probably outside of the city.
Tells of Playgrounds
Miss Pat Palmer, who for two summers has been in charge of the city’s playgrounds was present and also spoke in support of the project. She briefly mentioned that during the past summer there were more than 700 children in attendance at the various playgrounds. The parks were appreciated by the boys and girls, she said, and this was evident by the fact that they took particular pride in the equipment and in care of the premises. She expressed the opinion that a public park on a body of water would be a further step in providing adequate recreation facilities for citizens.
Under the heading of bylaws, the matter was again brought up when Ald. Lockhart introduced the bylaw calling for the issue of debentures. Its approval was heralded with applause from the delegation.
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AN ADVANTAGEOUS DECISION
Observer August 24, 1932, p2
The city council has disposed of the matter of a lake front park purchase in a manner that ought to be entirely satisfactory. It passed the resolution authorizing the parks board to proceed with the acquisition of the property forthwith. By this measure the City of Sarnia will acquire a beach frontage of approximately 2,800 feet on Lake Huron east of the Sarnia Cement Product Co.’s plant, at a cost of $20,000, one half of which is subscribed by a public-spirited citizen. Thus, the city becomes owner of a park containing from fifty to sixty acres for an actual outlay of $10,000. It pays between three and four dollars a frontage foot for Lake Huron beach. Comparing this price for what is asked for other frontage on the lake gives an idea of the advantageous deal which Sarnia has made for an ideal recreation ground for its citizens. It has taken a step that solves its problem of public access to water facilities for the people for all time. Furthermore, it provides the city with a supply of gravel, a competent utilisation of which will return the $10,000 paid for the property within a few years.
Leases which the parks board has made with the Canadian National Railways give an additional forty acres adjoining the new park. There is thus a playground of magnificent area. There are other avenues of exploitation that are promising. Lambton County has no recognized playground offering facilities for recreation to be compared to this lakefront area. It is served by a line of railway over which excursions from other communities could be organized. There is a demand in this part of Ontario for such a recreation ground and the resourcefulness of the parks board can be put to work on a project that would make this park a boon to an area not circumscribed by the boundaries of the city of Sarnia.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR FROM FORMER SARNIAN
Robert W. Hitchcock – New York,
N.Y.
Editor Canadian Observer :…… In summing up the news in your paper this year, I notice where your city council was offered fifty acres of Lake Huron Beach front for the small sum of twenty thousand dollars, and a lady, who in the last few years has done more in kindness and good deeds to help your city than anyone up there, offered to pay half the cost, yet a good many of your citizens claim it was a waste of money and time to take up the offer. My! My! , you people up there must be slow to see a bargain: you’d pay that in New York for twenty-five feet of ocean front. I know you have lots of nice parks. What good are they in the summer? In a few years you will wish you had all of Lake Huron front where you can get a cool breeze from the lake and a chance to jump in on a hot day. Instead of holding back on such an offer, I think your city should give thanks for having ladies like the donor living up there who in the kindness of her heart is trying to help the poor children of your city. What I think your city needs up there is some of those gentlemen on Front Street woke up to the needs of your city.
Parks Board Minutes: September 6, 1932
“Moved by W.E. Germain, seconded by W.A. Watson that the secretary requests the C.N.R. to open a right-of-way across their tracks at Alfred Street, Point Edward to connect with the rightof-way north of these tracks to give public access to the land leased by the board from the C.N.R. and land recently purchased from the Bank of Commerce.”
NOTE: When the park first opened in 1933 the main entrance was off the north end of Alfred Street. The only access from the east was through the narrow right-of-way in the McDougall and Phillips property. However, this east entrance was blocked whenever the Phillips gate was closed.
Observer Articles August – December 1932
August 26, 1932 p5: “what is probably the first public excursion to the new civic park on Lake Huron was made today by Charles McFee when he assembled about 50 kids & transported them by bus free of charge, to the beach which has just been acquired by the city.”
Sept. 27, 1932, p5: “City council, last evening, authorized the mayor & clerk to sign an agreement for the purchase of land at Point Edward for a park site in accordance with the formal request of the city solicitor. The mayor said that there are several minor matters to be considered concerning the title but that the agreement for sale had been signed by the former holders of the property.”
Dec. 28, 1932, p3: “The city council last evening authorized the city treasurer to sell $10,000 in debentures, under bylaw, to provide for the city’s share of the purchase price of the lake shore property which was acquired this year & which will be used for a public park. The finance committee was also empowered to arrange with the Bank of Montreal for an advance of $10,000 which will be paid as the city’s share of the price.”
Parks Boards Minutes Feb. 3, 1935
In view of Mrs. Hanna’s request, the recently acquired park will be named Canatara Park.
Mr. James C. Barr & the History of Canatara Park.
In 1921, Alderman Barr was one of the Sarnia citizens proposing to have the area around Lake Chipican declared an official bird sanctuary. In August of that year, he was among those accompanying H. F. Lewis, Chief Migratory Bird Officer for Ontario & Quebec, on an inspection of the Lake Chipican area. In 1922 he was on the Sarnia council committee which examined the possibility of obtaining land around Lake Chipican for a city park.
In Jan 1931, Alderman Barr presented a motion before Sarnia Council supporting the Parks Board's request to buy 41 acres of the White property around Lake Chipican for a park. At that meeting he mentioned that "in 1926 a deal was put through by private individuals whereby a Mr. Merlo secured a piece of land on the lake shore amounting to between 3,300' & 3,600' for $5,000" (Actually it was 2650' for $7,700) "The city was informed that it could get a similar deal but no action was taken. Later Mr. Merlo offered to sell the city 1,000' of this land for $1,800"
Unfortunately the city also took no action on this offer, since a few years later, in 1931, 1280’ of shoreline was going to cost the city $30,000. As Barr said at this time "There is no use crying over spilt milk. If we want property today, we will have to pay for it." However, $30,000 was considered too much by most councilmen & the idea of purchasing lake shore property for a park was again dropped.
In 1932, after becoming Mayor, Barr learned that the Bank of Commerce was offering to sell the 53 acre Merlo & Ray property for $30,000. After some negotiations, he was able to get the bank to revise its price downwards to $20,000. In July 1932 Mayor Barr advised the Parks
Board of these facts & the board asked him to secure an option on this property. He then got in touch with Mrs. Hanna who agreed to contribute $10,000 toward the purchase of the land for park purposes. With this agreement he helped convince both the Parks Board & City Council to finally purchase lake shore property for a park. Then on Aug. 22, 1932, Sarnia Council, despite the objections of some citizens, approved the purchase of the Merlo & Ray property. Further negotiations carried on by Barr & the city solicitor resulted in the CNR releasing all its claims to the property in Dec. 1932. Thus, Mayor Barr played a key role in negotiating for the land, in making the financial arrangements & in building support for the purchase of the original 53-acre parcel in Canatara.
However, his commitment to Canatara Park did not stop there. From 1937 to 1954 he served on the Parks Board and throughout this 20-year period he was intimately involved in all facets of the growth & development of the park described in the following pages.
(Sources used in the description of the Barrs contribution included observer articles & board minutes.)
MAYOR-ELECT OF SARNIA
Sarnia Canadian Observer - December 8, 1931, P1
Ald. James C. Barr was elected mayor of Sarnia, yesterday for the second time in a long period of service for the city. Ald. Barr has good precedent for office for his father, the late David Barr, was mayor of Sarnia in 1905 and 1906 and served many years as an alderman. Ald. James Barr was first elected to the council in 1921 when he was chairman of the railway committee and served on the waterworks committee. The latter has since become his specialty. He was returned in 1922, 1923 and 1924. He again headed the waterworks committee in the first two of these three years and was chairman of the finance committee in 1924. In 1925 he was elected mayor and in this year, he was instrumental in having a bill passed by the Ontario legislature reducing the council from 14 to 8 members. Mr. Barr dropped out in 1926 but his rest
was a short one for the next year he was elected to the hydro commission. He returned to the council in 1928, 1929, 1930 and 1931, in each year occupying the chairmanship for the waterworks committee.
Death Takes Jas. C. Barr
Sarnia Canadian Observer - November 2, 1962, P13
One of Sarnia's oldest and most prominent sportsmen and citizens died this morning in St. Joseph's hospital following a heart seizure suffered last evening at his home, 301 London Road.
James C. Barr, 86, whose municipal experience ranged widely, was a former mayor of the city and longtime chairman of the Hydro Commission during his active days. He was still keenly interested in all matters pertaining to Sarnia after his retirement.
BORN IN SARNIA
Born in Sarnia on the site now occupied by the Hambone Restaurant, Christina south, the son of David Barr, he was educated in Sarnia; he started at an early age in the jewelry store founded by his father in 1872. On the death of his father in 1909 he took over the jewelry business which he operated until his retirement in 1950.
He was first elected to city council in 1920. In 1925 won the mayoralty race and was instrumental in having the number of councilors reduced from 14 to the present eight-man setup. He was re-elected mayor in 1932, the year negotiations began on the Canatara Park project, which seemed impossible until the late Mrs. W. J. Hanna agreed to subscribe - $10,000 if the city would find a balance.
Following his appointment in 1933 to Boards of Parks Management he served in that capacity until its amalgamation with the Sarnia Recreation Committee in 1954. At the time of his death, he was serving his 19th year on the Hydro Commission of which he was chairman on three occasions.
He was a life member of the Sarnia Golf and Curling Club and Victoria Lodge AF and AM and a member of St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church. He is survived by his widow, the former Alma Daisy Mavity, who is presently confined to St. Joseph's Hospital, a daughter Mrs. Maurice (Jessie) Chilton, two grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.
Mr. Barr is at Stewart Funeral Home where service will be held Monday afternoon at 3 o'clock with Rev. D. St. Clair Campbell officiating. Burial will be in Lakeview Cemetery.
MAYOR SHOCKED
Mayor Iven Walker said: "I was greatly shocked to learn of the death of Mr. Barr, a man who through the years has been a great inspiration to me. As a former mayor he was a man who was always thinking for the betterment of this city.
"During the past four years I have enjoyed working with him on the Hydro Commission."
Hydro Commissioner John T. Barnes, (chairman) had this to say of his fellow Commissioner James Barr: His contributions to city life were tremendous. We will miss him greatly in the city of Sarnia as a whole and Hydro particularly.
"It was through his efforts and that of the late Mrs. W. J. Hanna that the city acquired Canatara Park." He was responsible for a great deal of improvements on Sarnia Water Works at Point Edward while he was a member of City Council. This was his pet hobby.
"He will be a hard man to replace. He had a depth of memory which no one can fill. His administration ability in my mind was tops."
FAIR-MINDED CITIZEN
Charles Phelps, Manager of Sarnia Hydro Electric System "Jim Barr was a fair-minded citizen. He loved to argue, but regardless of how hot it became he never held a grudge. He had a terrific memory for figures and delighted in tripping up councilors and hydro commissioners with the remarkable feat. His memory for names and happenings of bygone days was canny for a man him age. He will be missed in the city's municipal life as he was well informed on all civic matters."
Jack Newton formerly of the Sarnia Parks Board said "I have worked with Jim Barr for many years on the Parks Board. He was a conscientious worker and will be missed greatly throughout the city. He was a public-spirited citizen and will be hard to replace."
Bill Miller, Sarnia Jeweler "I have known Jim Barr for many years and have always …
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