The Canatara Park Binders, Chapter 6 (Lambton County Archives)

Chapter 6

Canatara Park, 1933 - 1949

- MAP Land Assembly 1932-33

- Initial preparation of parkland

- MAP Park 1933

- Summer events 1933

- McDougall property history 1933-51

- Summer events 1934

- Parks Board Minutes October 1934 – June 1935

- Summer events 1935

- Tarzanland History 1936-38

- Summer events 1936-37

- MAP Land Assembly 1938

- Summer events 1938

- Pavilion Construction 1938-39

- MAP Park 1939

- Summer events 1939

- MAP Landfill area 1939

- MAP Leases and purchases from CNR since 1938

- MAP Sarnia area 1940

- Pavilion Destruction July 1941

- Parks Board Annual Report 1943

- Parks Board Annual Report 1944 Future land assembly plans

- IOL dump problems 1941-44

- Parks Board Annual Report 1945

- Summer events 1946

- Park Photos 1947

- Picnic Shelter opened 1948

Parks Activities & Issues: 1933 – 1939

In the 1930’s the Parks Board concentrated on providing the basic park facilities such as roads, waterlines, washrooms, benches and picnic tables. A refreshment booth and bath house were built in 1933 and in 1939 a large brick pavilion was opened overlooking the west beach. During the summer months a park caretaker, policeman, refreshment booth manager, bath house overseer and lifeguard were hired by the board.

The park grounds were improved by eradicating the poison ivy in the picnic areas and reclaiming the marsh in the ballfield section of the park, where four softball diamonds were laid out.

Once a week free bus service to the park was available to Sarnia children during the summer months.

Twice a week the Canadian Steamship Lines provided a picnic in the park for their passengers. For these “Boat Picnics” a large tent was erected near the refreshment booth.

Between 1933 and 1936 the Parks Board strictly enforced the dress code that required men to wear a top section of their bathing suits.

During the 1930’s 79-acres were added to the original 53-acre park. These additions included the Lake Chipican bird sanctuary and the Tarzanland woodlot. The 45-acre landfill site was also acquired during this time, but it was used for dumping purposes until 1967.

The city removed sand and gravel from the eastern section of the Canatara beach. The sand was placed on the city roads during the winter and the gravel was used for construction purposes. In 1935 the Sarnia Cement Products Company was permitted to remove gravel from the western section of the beach.

During the 1930’s the Parks Board had to deal with the problem of oil seeping into both Lake Chipican and the Tarzanland Woodlot from the sludge dump. In 1937 a fatal accident occurred when a car hit one of the railcars being shunted into the dump.

Other issues that the Parks Board dealt with included removing the Stratton cottage and keeping the laneway open through the McDougall and Phillip’s property.

All these activities and issues are described in greater detail below.

MAP – P3

Notes relating to Maps (P3) Land Assembly 1932-33

17762 - on July 20, 1932, Ray conveyed parcel outlined in orange to Sarnia for $1 and other valuable considerations.

17763 - October 30, 1932, The Windsor Sand & Gravel Co. Limited conveyed parcel outlined in pink to Sarnia for $10 & “other valuable considerations”.

17776 - on December 27, 1932, CNR agreed to release its sand removal rights as set out in agreement #17357 for $1. With this agreement Sarnia gained complete control of the original Merlo, Merlo & Ray Property.

17941 - on August 30, 1933, B. M. White conveyed parcel marked blue to Sarnia for $1. “This conveyance is upon the condition that the grantee do use the lands conveyed for park purposes and that the said grantee do open a road on the easterly limit of the parcel hereby conveyed leading from lot 25 to Canatara Park & entering the same at the continuation of the 12’ right of way near the northwest angle of the said parcel. Said road to be opened within four years from the date hereof, otherwise the lands hereby conveyed are to revert to the grantor.”

The roadbed for this road was laid from 1933-37 and the road itself opened in the spring of 1938 (dark brown on Map P3). The original plan was to locate the road along the eastern and northern edge of the former White property (shown red on map) but this idea was abandoned when the Phillips and Mrs. McDougall refused to sell their land south of the 12 foot right of way (marked green)

17942 - on August 31, 1933, B. M. White conveyed parcel outlined in yellow to Sarnia for $1,200. Mrs. Hanna gave $1,000 toward this purchase.

DECIDE TO CALL NEW LAKE SHORE LAND “CANATARA PARK”

Sarnia Canadian Observer - March 6, 1933, P3

The Sarnia Board of Parks Management today announced that it had considered a name for the section of land recently acquired at the lake shore by the city for a public park and had decided to call the park, Canatara, an Indian name quite familiar to students of Indian history. Canatara is pronounced Kan-a-tara with the emphasis on the “tara”.

The selection of the name is particularly appropriate as it is an Indian word which means Lake Huron. According to Indian lore it is a word of the Iroquois tongue, and it has been used by several Sarnians as the name of summer homes.

This week the parks board will commence clearing the land. Relief labour will be used, and it is hoped to have the area in suitable condition by next summer.

Addendum: Canatara is an Indian word which means “Blue Water”. It was chosen by a Sarnia woman, Mrs. W. J. Hanna, who donated money to the City in 1932 toward the purchase of property beside Lake Huron.

MINUTES OF PARKS BOARD MEETINGS

February 3, 1933, Committee appointed to manage Canatara Park to consist of W. E. Germain, C. S. Driscoll and W. A. Watson. Board has received a letter from Harris, Hall and Kruse, Landscape Architects, requesting the privilege of submitting plans for improvements at Canatara Park

March 1, 1933, the Board has received letters from A McCrea of Sarnia and Walter Burdette of Point Edward, applying for permission to install refreshment booths at Canatara Park. These are to be held in abeyance until the Board decides on a policy regarding refreshment privileges at Canatara.

May 4, 1933, The Board has received a letter from B. Dunlop of Sarnia asking permission to erect and operate a refreshment booth at Canatara Park. Applications for caretaker at Canatara has been received. H. N. Phillips is requested to leave unlocked between daylight and darkness the gate he has erected at the east entrance of Canatara Park (Note: This gate was across the 12’ right of way through the MacDougall-Phillips property. For more details, see below)

June 6, 1933, Board authorized Canatara Park Committee to hire a policeman/caretaker, as well as a lifeguard at Canatara Park. In addition, they should allot refreshment privileges. The Board has received a letter from the Lambton Historical Society requesting that the Board endeavor to preserve the wildflowers in Canatara Park.

Observer May 5, 1933, P3 To Build Road to Canatara Park: City engineer Angus Smith was engaged in surveying the land at Canatara Park in preparation for making a road from Alfred Street across the CNR tracks into the park. Before permission can be granted to cross the tracks, a profile and survey of the plans must be forwarded to the government. It is expected that the survey will be completed shortly and that actual work on the road will be started soon.

PREPARE RESORT FOR BIG INFLUX IN HOT WEATHER

CLEANING UP IS BEING CARRIED OUT BY RELIEF MEN AND SERVICES INSTALLED

EXPECT TO BUILD ROAD IN SHORTLY

Sarnia Canadian Observer – May 17, 1933, P3

There is much activity at the present time at Sarnia’s new Canatara Park on Lake Huron, the property being the scene of the principal activity of the Board of Parks Management this season.

For some time, past from 15 to 25 men, furnished by the relief department, have been at work daily clearing up the property and putting it into shape for the fullest enjoyment when the hot weather arrives. Good progress is being made, Jack Newton, secretary of the board said today

INSTALL WATER SERVICES

Water services and toilets are being installed and a considerable amount of cleaning has been done. It is not expected that the board will be able to afford bathhouses this year, but full service of this kind will be provided eventually.

The board is awaiting official authority from the Board of Railway Commissioners to build in the road from Alfred Street, Point Edward to the park. This will be a gravel road, crossing the Canadian National Railways and the railway board has already intimated that it will have no objection to the taking of the road over the track.

MANY VISITORS

Already and despite the generally unfavorable weather, large numbers of people have visited the park and displayed the keenest interest in the work being done. It promises to be the most popular resort of the immediate district when the hot weather arrives.

The usual work is being done by the board in the other parks of the city and Athletic Park is reported to be coming along nicely.

History of the Ballfield Site in Canatara Park

As noted above, the first detailed maps of the Canatara area, produced in the 1850’s show a small lake or pond surrounded by a marsh in the future ballfield area. Local residents report that during years of high-water levels in Lake Huron, such as the 1928-29 period, a small marshy pond still existed in this area.

During normal water level years, such as 1932, the marsh vegetation expanded to fill most of the open pond surface (e.g. see Map P). Thus, in the summer of 1932 when Sarnians visited the proposed park site they found “two swamps (sic), which were suitable for celery gardens rather than a park (the other “swamp” is the present animal farm site).

In 1933 the water level in Lake Huron was at a low stage and consequently the marsh in the future ballfield was generally dry. Thus, it was relatively easy to clear out the marsh vegetation and grass in the northern section for a playfield. During the remainder of the 1930’s, Lake Huron levels were relatively low, and the grassed or “improved” section was gradually extended southward. By 1939, the northern 2/3’s of the present ballfield site had been grassed and the marsh restricted to the southern 1/3. (see Map T) However, during the early 1940’s, lake levels rose above normal and consequently the ballfield became constantly flooded with several feet of water and marsh vegetation again began growing on the site. In 1943-44, thousands of cubic yards of fill were used to build up the elevation of the ballfield several feet and thereby reduce the flooding problem.

Observer June 10, 1933, p 3. About 20 workers are busily engaged in getting Canatara Park on the shores of Lake Huron ready for the crowds of 1933 pleasure-seekers. They are under the direction of Jack Newton, Secretary of the Parks Board and are installing water and sanitary

facilities, as well as setting up sun shelters for tired Sarnians, who if they patronize the place as well this year as last, will make the Board feel that acquisition of the property was a good piece of business and that the citizens appreciate it. The tract of land that is Canatara Park comprises a plot of about 100 acres and extends easterly from an extension of Alfred Street, Point Edward for about 3000 feet and includes one third of Lake Chipican. (This figure of 100 acres incorporates 52.7 acres owned, the 38-acre L-shaped parcel and the 18.8 acre “Tarzanland” lot).

Parks Board Meeting May 4, 1933 Board to purchase 8 shelters from H.C. Watson for $50.00 (These were sheltered benches to be placed along the upper beach – see in 1935 photo below)

MAP – Q

NOTES RELATING TO MAP (Q): CANATARA PARK 1933

Canatara Park opened in the spring of 1933 with the main entrance off Alfred Street in Point Edward. The main road ended at the north end of the ball field, which was still a low, wet area. The picnic and bathing area was confined to what is now the western side of the park. (marked with red lines on Map Q) The only building in the park was a refreshment booth located at the west side of the park, marked “R” on Map Q. The washrooms were in the L-shaped leased parcel, marked “W” on the map.

Access to the park from the east was gained by going down Parson’s Lane (Now Charlesworth Lane), up Andover Lane, along the 12’ right of way through the McDougall property, and then westwards over the old laneway just south of the dunes to the developed part of the park. Toilet facilities were located south of the concession stand in the parcel leased from the CNR (marked yellow-brown).

The Stratton cottage was located near the northwest corner of Lake Chipican, marked “S” on Map Q

The park area included 74.2 acres (52.7 acres from the original 1932 purchase and 22.5 acres of the White property added in August 1933). In addition, the Board leased 56.8 acres; so the total area of land owned and leased in 1933 was 131 acres.

The boundary of parcels owned by the city is outlined in orange. Low, wet marshy areas within these parcels is colored yellow green.

OBSERVER REFERENCES TO CANATARA PARK: SUMMER 1933

May 25, p3: Celebration of Victoria Day: “Yesterday was perhaps the first picnic day of the year and by the number of picnic parties that trekked to Canatara Park and other spots along the lake shore, there were hundreds of Sarnians who found pleasure away from home. There were also the few venturesome people who elected to take the first dip in the cool waters of Lake Huron, and they reported that the water was a little too cold.”

May 31, p 12: Move Building: “The Sarnia Parks Board moved the Ladies’ rest building from Bayview Park to Canatara yesterday. In taking the building down St. Clair Street, Point Edward, the asphalt was damaged in several places.”

June 12, p 3: Throngs visited beaches yesterday: “the temperature hit 95 degrees F on Sunday. Canatara Park had its quota of picnickers and bathers. Swimmers reported the lake water was unusually warm for this season of the year.”

June 21, p 8: Canatara Park to be Popular: “Canatara Park, the municipally owned park will be the rendezvous of many Sarnians who will find added facilities this summer.

Last year this section was popular with bathers as there was an excellent sand beach for a long stretch. This season, however, the Parks Board has seen fit to erect a number of shaded benches for the convenience of bathers and they add to the comfort of those who frequent the park.”

Canatara is particularly attractive for picnics inasmuch as there are good picnic grounds with shade trees. There is a large area suitable for picnics open to the public.

One feature of the new park is its proximity to the city. Although situated on the lake shore, it offers the advantage of accessibility and is but several minutes’ walk from Point Edward. Motorists are able to take their motor cars into the park, although at the present time the road is not in good condition.

June 28, 1933 p 2: The Third Column:- “visited Canatara Park last evening for the first time. Our comment is that the adult and juvenile population of this city ought to be eternally grateful to the lady whose interest made this splendid venture possible for the city.”

June 30, 1933, p 14: Build Bathhouse: “The Parks Board started work on a complete bathhouse at Canatara Park today. The house is to be suitable in every way for the changing of clothes and is expected to be ready in about a week.”

July 1, 1933 p 2: The Third Column: - “We have heard some criticism of the lack of facilities at Canatara Park. It must be remembered that the Parks Board has had the park for less than a year. It has been limited both with regard to time and money. Much has been done already, but progress is necessarily slow. If people only have patience, they will one day realize what an asset they possess in this playground.”

Drowning Fatality Mars Dominion Day

Bruce Huggett, Thirteen Years Old, Loses Life

Near New Canatara Park

Swimming at Danger Spot Near Old Hulks, Sarnia Township

Lad Is Caught by Undertow – Companion, Raymond Dionne Is Rescued By Trio

Point Edward Man, John Corbett and Two Girls Bravely Attempt Rescue

Sarnia Canadian Observer – July 3, 1933 P3

Other material concerning the park in 1933 is in note 23 of Addendum A.

Bruce Alexander Huggett, aged 13, son of Kenneth Huggett, East Street Sarnia township lost his life by drowning Saturday afternoon while swimming in Lake Huron at a point immediately beside the Canatara Park bathing beach. A companion Raymond Dionne, aged 10, who also got into difficulties and almost drowned, was rescued by John Corbett, 110 St. Clair Street, Point Edward, assisted by Miss Edith Pyette, Michigan Avenue, Point Edward and Miss Virginia Workman, of Detroit. A third companion of Huggett, Robert McRae, East Street, managed to extricate himself from the danger point. Much admiration was expressed for the action of Corbett and his companions who unquestionably averted a double tragedy.

Although hundreds of bathers were within a short distance of the point at which the fatality occurred, only three swimmers were close enough to notice the difficulty into which the three lads had got themselves and to attempt the rescue.

Beyond Park Limits

Members of the Board of Parks Management today expressed regret at the accident but pointed out that the board felt it could not be blamed, as although the actual point of the tragedy is outside the limits of the park, signs had been erected warning the public against bathing in the water about the old vessel hulks where, it is understood, there is a strong undertow.

Frequent visitors to the park, the three lads set out Saturday afternoon to play on the sands. Each was clad in a cotton bathing suit and Bruce Huggett was the only one of the three who could swim. The beach in front of the park was crowded with bathers and the lads decided to get away from the crowd and play by themselves.

They went to the short stretch of beach which extends from the vessel hulks to the pier of the Sarnia Cement Products Limited. In front of this short stretch of beach, the water is more dangerous than in the stretch fronting the new park. The current in its sweep along the shore, is forced back in little undersurface whirlpools and if there is a roll on the lake at all, there is also. an undertow. The lake was a little rough when the boys went out. They got out to their necks and the currents and crosscurrents swept them off their feet. Dionne cried for help, while McRae, sensing danger, returned to shore.

Was Struggling

Mr. Corbett, who was sitting on beach with the two girls, heard the cries and he and his companions went to the rescue of the lads. Dionne was struggling frantically when they reached him, but they managed to bring him to shore. It appeared at the time that Huggett was swimming fairly well. Mr. Corbett returned to bring Huggett in but in the meantime, he had disappeared, and Corbett lost the location. Meanwhile the alarm had been passed along the beach and three boats were taken out. Fred Hurst, 308 Michigan Avenue, who heard the siren of an emergency truck from the Sarnia Fire Department which had been called, got into a fish boat and set out for the park from Point Edward. As this boat passed the scene of the tragedy, Hurst saw the body of Huggett on the sand beneath eight feet of water. He dove overboard and brought the body ashore after it had been immersed for about fifteen minutes.

Dr J.A. Bell, city physician pronounced the lad dead, but resuscitation efforts were continued for almost a half hour. Dr. R.G.R. McDonald, coroner, arrived and ordered the removal of the body in Phillips Brothers’ ambulance. Dr. R.G.R. McDonald said at noon today that he did not think it necessary to call an inquest, but he would discuss the matter with the crown-attorney regarding the question of making it impossible for children to bathe in the danger zone. Jack Newton, son of Alderman James Newton, who is employed as lifeguard at the beach

and who also assisted in the search for the boy, was at the opposite end of the beach at the time of the mishap. He told police that the water at the point where the tragedy occurred was very treacherous. Some of the bathers, who frequent the park, say that there are other sections of the beach which have a strong undertow when the water is rolling, although such is not the case when the lake is calm.

Police Opinion

Robert J. Whiting, provincial constable, who was called to the scene, along with Detective Frank McGirr and Constable W.F. Simpkins, city police department, said that in his opinion the beach should have better supervision and that the dangerous spots should be roped off. Dr. MacDonald concurred in this opinion. The regular beach area is not considered dangerous under normal conditions, and it extends for several thousand feet, there should be plenty of room for reasonably safe bathing it was pointed out.

Bruce Huggett and his three sisters have been living in London for some time but came recently to Sarnia Township to visit with their father. The funeral will be held Tuesday at 7:45 A.M. from the residence to Our Lady of Mercy church, where service will be held at 08:00 A.M. with internment at R.C. Cemetery.

Board Regrets Fatality – Point to Restrictions

W.A. Watson, chairman of the Board of Parks Management this morning sincerely regretted the drowning fatality of Saturday.

“We feel, however, that the board cannot be held responsible for its occurrence,” Mr. Watson added. “We have caused signs to be put up warning the public against the treacherous water by the old wrecks and have instructed the lifeguard to be particularly careful about watching that particular spot. In future the guard will be on duty nearer to the wrecks and there will be more signs put up. We cannot emphasize too strongly the folly of swimming near the wrecks and hope that parents will warn their children about swimming outside the limits set by the board.”

The Third Column

The drowning at Canatara Park on Saturday was a most regrettable occurrence and one that most likely will be the subject of an inquiry. Apart from the loss of human life, the circumstances of the drowning are such that some erroneous impressions may get about. Actually, the drowning was outside the park property.

A glance at the layout of the shore will convince even one who is unfamiliar with the bottom conditions that the environs of the old vessel hulk ought to be put out of bounds even if it is not actually on the park property.

In any event, it is evident that there will have to be definite regulations and restrictions against the use of the danger spot adjacent to the park beach; otherwise, parents will feel that they cannot allow their children to use the beach. We understand that there was a young man acting in the capacity of lifeguard, but he was at a point further east, where most of the children bathe, at the time of the accident near the old vessel hulk. No doubt, at the inquest or coroner’s inquiry, the matter of safeguards against swimming at this point will be brought up.

Children have to be protected against themselves and especially when they are disporting near dangerous water. There is always the temptation to go a little further than the other fellow, to go where one is not supposed to go. There will always be children who are not under adult supervision and unless the most thorough precautions are taken, there will be accidents.

Most people feel that in the new park the city has an undeniable asset. It brings the lakeshore in close proximity, and, for that reason, everyone will be anxious that steps be taken to allay doubts and fears that must be created by the accident of this weekend. We are not suggesting that there has been fault or even neglect, but a bathing beach of this kind must be made as safe as it is humanly possible to make it, or it at once comes under the suspicions of parents. Nothing can be left to chance.

We feel that the first to recognize this will be the responsible authorities. It is sufficient even that a child is bathing at a point where it ought not to be. The point is that someone in authority must be present to see that a child DOES NOT bathe where it ought not to. At every bathing beach, difficult as is the task, children must be protected against themselves.

We are all anxious that the facilities at the new park be enjoyed to their fullest extent. The Board of Parks Management is equally anxious to make the new park a success and we do not doubt for a moment that the whole situation will be reviewed and that wherever it is at all advisable to restrict juveniles’ bathers, that restriction will be put into effect

OPEN BATHHOUSES AT CANATARA PARK

Full Facilities for Bathers now Available

The large crowds at Canatara Park, yesterday, found to their delight that the bathhouse is now open and that changing into swimming attire is no longer the embarrassing matter that it was previously. The house is equipped with an office where bathing suits and towels can be rented, and valuables left for safe keeping.

The structure consists of 22 compartments: 12 for men and 10 for women. These compartments can be rented for a small sum. Two plank sidewalks laid from the grove to the beach facilitate the walking to and from the shore. It is also announced that there have been three drinking fountains installed throughout the park. One is in front of the bathhouse.

Members of the parks board report that the crowds using the park are ample proof of its popularity and that the safeguards taken for the protection of the swimmers are appreciated by the bathing public of Sarnia.

July 18 P2: The Third Column: - “Now that the Bathhouse has been established at Canatara Park, that resort promises to become more popular than ever. The city was unquestionably fortunate to secure the park. Someday it will be a far greater asset than it is at the present for it can be steadily improved”.

July 24 P10: Unemployed Picnic: “The regular week picnic for the children of the unemployed in the city will be held on Wednesday at Canatara Park. Transportation is being provided by the

Sarnia Bus Co. Lunches for the children are being provided by various organizations in this city”.

July 31 P3: Sarnia Population Flocks to Lake Shore: “Sarnia sweltered in the hottest weekend since 1922 it is believed, when the thermometer rose to a high of 98℉ Sunday afternoon & turned in the hottest performance of an exceptionally hot summer. At Canatara Park yesterday over 2,000 people were gathered at one time & the majority were in the water.”

Aug. 3, Page 3: Beachers Petition for Sarnia Water: “Ald. Bedard mentioned that water would be piped to the beaches from the Sarnia water plant at Point Edward by extending the present line to Canatara Park, on to the resorts. When the new park was opened, a 4” main was laid from the Point Edward plant to the new bathhouse.”

NOTE: The one event which most people remember about the first year of Canatara Park is the grounding of a huge pleasure cruiser on the beach – noted in the next pages.

Palatial Detroit Cruiser is Aground at Canatara Park, Scores of People Visit Scene

Sarnia Canadian Observer – August 14, 1933, P3

Measures have been taken today to release the $65,000 pleasure cruiser “Pastime” owned by Ralph C. Wilson of 7070 Balfour Avenue, Gross Point, which went aground on the beach at Canatara Park, early Sunday morning. The pounding of the waves throughout Sunday broke holes in the port side of the vessel and it shipped water badly.

Commencing late last evening, Lamb Brothers, contractors, attempted to salvage the vessel. Along with a crew of men they worked throughout the night assisted during the early morning hours by bright moonlight. The heavy pounding of the waves subsided last evening. Plans were being made at noon today for a tug to assist in the operations.

On Weekend Cruise

According to the three colored members of the crew who were interviewed aboard the badly listed vessel by provincial police and a reporter for The Canadian Observer, the ship was on a pleasure cruise for the weekend. Twelve passengers comprising the immediate family and a few friends of Mr. Wilson were aboard the boat and the party planned to spend Sunday on Lake Huron returning to Gross Point today.

Late Saturday afternoon the boat attempted to put in the harbor of the Sarnia Cement Products Limited but got crosswise of a sandbar. It was freed by the boat of Dr. O. B.

Pokerny of the Sarnia Yacht Club. The vessel then anchored in about ten feet of water. With a heavy sea rolling on Sunday morning following Saturday night’s storm, the crew took soundings at 4 a.m. and the depth was practically unchanged. One hour later the boat was beached, the anchor apparently not holding in the loose sand of a sandbar.

Are Brought Ashore

The occupants were brought ashore by coastguardsmen summoned from Port Huron and during the afternoon the stranded ship attracted hundreds to the park. Negotiations for salvaging the vessel were completed on Sunday night and workmen proceeded to use a ginpole with which to raise the prow while pumps were manned to lift the water from the hold. William Lamb, who was in charge of the operations, said this morning that he did not expect to have the boat free before this afternoon.

Aug. 15, 1933, P2: The Third Column: “A pleasure boat valued at $65,000 went aground at Canatara Park. “Gee, what some of us could do with that much money!”

Aug. 15 P3: Yacht “Pastime” is Still Aground: “The pleasure yacht, Pastime, owned by R.C. Wilson was still aground today off Canatara Park, more firmly held in the sand than she was either Sunday or yesterday. Efforts of contractors to raise the boat were unavailing yesterday.

Aug. 16 P3: Continue Effort to Release Yacht: Captain H.B. Reid of the Sin-Mac Lines was at Canatara Park today with the barge Elcanor and the tug Champlain endeavoring to free the yacht Pastime. It was expected that the yacht would have to be lifted by the derrick of the Elcanor & carried over the sandbar which formed on the other side of the ship. The work was expected to be finished sometime today”.

NOTE: The saga of the “Pastime” continued into 1934.

July 10, 1934, P3: The yacht Pastime which for the past year has been beached in the north slip is being prepared for launching. The $65,000 yacht went ashore at Canatara Park during the night of Aug. 12, 1933, in a north wind and despite the efforts of several contractors remained in the beach until the efforts of Sin-Mac Lines dragged it off with their heavier equipment. Because of the inability of the owner to meet the bill for salvage, the wreck was claimed by Sin-Mac Lines. During the beaching of the craft, the tail shaft and the keel were damaged & it is now intended to do the necessary repairs.

Aug. 23 P12: Relief Picnic: The Central Welfare Association reported today that a large number of children of the unemployed attended the weekly outing at Canatara Park.

Sept. 5 P3: Point Edward Resident Dies of Heart Attack: John Wilkie was found floating in the marine basin of the SCPC. He had been sitting on the ground underneath the small dock on the east side of the basin when the heart attack occurred. (NOTE: This dock was where Colby tiedup his fishing vessel. He also had a small fish shanty & icehouse located at the southeast corner of the gravel basin. He leased this small area from the SCPC during the 1930’s.)

Sept. 12 P10: Mrs. Hanna Speaks at Council Meeting: Mrs. Hanna wants the city to hire The Davey Tree Expert Co. of Canada to offer advice about maintaining the health of trees along boulevards & in city parks.

Sept. 19 P10: End of Bathing: The past few weeks of cool nights has lowered the temperature of Lake Huron to the extent that few people are bathing these days. The Parks Board has announced

that the bathhouse at Canatara Park has been closed for the season. Lifeguard service has also been dispensed with. MAP- R

“Battles” Over the McDougall Property 1933 – 1951

Notes Relating to Map R

The laneways at the northeast corner of Lake Chipican in 1932 are shown in grey.

In June 1933, during the negotiations with C.A. White for his Lake Chipican property, the Park Board agreed to construct a road – shown as dotted orange line along the eastern edge of the Lake Chipican marsh. According to the agreement dated August 30, 1933 (registry number 17941) this road was to enter Canatara Park “at the continuation of the 12’ right-of-way near the northeast angle” of the conveyed parcel. However, to construct the road as laid out in this agreement, the board needed to buy two parcels of land from Mr. H.N. Phillips – coloured pink –and one parcel from D.J. McDougall – coloured purple. After some negotiations, the Board received a letter in Jan. 1934 from Phillips “offering to exchange the land south of the right-ofway through his Lake Huron property for the gore of land at the west end of his lot (marker

green) and advising that Mrs. McDougall will dispose of her property for a small consideration. In June 1934, the board asked that legal papers be completed to formalize this agreement.

However, Mr. Phillips & Mrs. McDougall refused to proceed with this deal, since they never did sell the land in question to the Board. The city was consequently forced to reroute the road through.

the north at the northeast corner of Lake Chipican – marked as solid red line on map. Until this road was completed, Philipps signed a lease (see Map R) which allowed park users free access through the 12' right of way and in return the Board agreed to allow him to use the gore to the west of his lot.

However, the board continued to have problems with Mrs. McDougall who, according to the board minutes of March 30, 1936 “was erecting a fence around her property which narrowed the right of way through this property to Canatara Park to a dangerous width.” The minutes continue: “After discussing previous actions taken by the board to have this right of way widened without success, the city solicitor was told to advise Mrs. McDougall that the board's previous offer of $100.00 to purchase that section of her property lying between the north limit of the right of way and the south limit of her property is open for one week from date. In the event of this offer not being accepted by that time, expropriation proceedings will be started.” Apparently, some compromise was arrived at since this is the last mention of Mrs. McDougall's property in the Board minutes.

However, in 1938 when the re-routed road was opened, the “battle” with Mr. Phillips flared up again. During the previous several years, Phillips had built a cottage and outhouse on the gore to the west of his lot and now the Board wanted him to remove these structures. To protect its ownership of the gore, the city had a lease drawn up covering this property and, in March 1939, sent Phillips a notice of cancellation of the lease. In July, Phillips acknowledged the lease cancellation, but insisted that this permitted him to restore the fences and gates around the 12' right of way through his property; however, the Board refused to allow the construction of gates to block the right of way and instructed Phillips to remove his buildings from Canatara Park property. For his part, Phillips refused to remove his buildings until he was permitted to restore his gates.

This stand-off continued for the next ten years. The Chairman of the Parks Board, W. E. Germain, drove through the 12' right of way several times a year to make sure it remained open while Mr. Phillips defiantly refused to remove his structures from the park. This feud finally petered out in the early 1950s. The last mention of it in the board minutes occurs in June 1951 when the board once again notifies Phillips to remove his outhouse from Canatara Park property.

Note: The “battle” over the McDougall property flared up again in the 1970s when Mr. Phillips' daughter, Mrs. Parish, wanted to sell the land.

M.E. McDougall Clerk and Treasurer

Sarnia Observer - Aug. 10, 1988 P6

Mrs. McDougall was made Treasurer of the Village in 1932. She assumed the duties of Clerk in 1934 and since that time has occupied both positions. Needless to say, that she has a vast amount of work to do in connection with the building of the bridge at Point Edward.

Notes relating to Map R: Phillips Leases to City

18236 / 18237 “In pursuance of the short form of leases act between Harry N. Phillips and Margaret J. Phillips (lessors) and City Sarnia, the lessors lease the city certain parcels of land (coloured yellow on Map R. To have and to hold for a term of five years from July 31, 1934, paying every year during said term to lessors the sum of $1.00.”

“And it is further agreed by the parties that the city may use the parcels for the purpose of passageway or road and make such changes and alterations to the parcels as may be necessary to render the parcels suitable for such purpose.”

“This agreement may be terminated by either party giving the other at least 60 days’notice in writing to do so.”

“And it is hereby agreed that upon the termination of the tenancy created, the city will replace the fences along the south and west limit of the lands described and will replace the corner post, at the easterly and westerly limits of the 12 foot right of way shown on the green hereto annexed. (See Map R)

“And it is further agreed that the city will endeavour to keep the parcels free from dust as long as they are used for the purpose of a road or passageway.”

“Agreement signed July 31, 1934, and registered February 8, 1935.

July 5, 1934, page 3: “Strange 'Snake' at Canatara Park”: Yesterday at Canatara Park, some bathers found a large snake at the edge of the beach. “Bringing the snake away from the water, they proceeded to examine it. It was a dirty white colour, about 4 1/2 to 5' feet long and of the thickness of a small broom handle. No head could be discerned on the creature but on one end there was a small black clot, which bathers took to be the mouth. The caretaker at the beach house at the park took command of the strange prize, with the intention of turning it over to a naturalist in the city, in the hope that some classification might be found for it.” (It was an eel).

July 9, 1934, page 10: “Relief Picnic”: The first of a series of picnics for children of relief families will be held at Canatara Park on Wednesday. The transportation is being provided by the Sarnia Bus Co.

July 11, 1934, page 2: “The Third Column”: - “According to what we hear, Canatara Park is proving to be more popular than even the best hopes of the park authorities. Point Edward buses carry large numbers to the park every day and from the north end of the city, many children trek there daily. It is a splendid playground, fully justifying its conception.”

July 23, 1934, page 3: “Young Bittern”: Yesterday a young bittern with an injured wing was found in the south section of the city. Mr. Newton, chairman of the park board, stated that a colony of bitterns was to be found at Little Lake and the bird was taken there and set free to join its kin.

“Canatara Park Mecca for Crowds of Perspiring People at Weekend”

Sarnia Canadian Observer – July 20, 1934

Canatara, Sarnia's newest park, yesterday was the mecca for sweltering Sarnians and people of this district. Probably the largest crowd yet to visit the park was there yesterday. Trippers came in throngs by car, bus, on foot, and in motorboats and sailboats, invading the park like a conquering army and taking over the excellent facilities offered for obtaining relief from the heat. The beach was crowded with people indulging in games, swimming, getting tanned and other forms of amusement. Many were the sore backs of those who, heedless of the discomfort associated with acquiring a tan too quickly, lay exposed to the sun's rays all afternoon before realizing that they were getting an overdose. Away back from the beach, many picnics were held under the cool shade trees which abound in the park.

“Boys'

Band Plays”

The Sarnia Boys' band presented musical selections during the afternoon and gave a concert in the evening.

Scenes like this prove that the park is a decided acquisition to this city and show that an outlet for city dwellers to the beach in proximity to the city is appreciated and in popular demand.

Many improvements have been made in the park this year, including the opening of a road through from the beach road and oiling of the road through the park. Abroad expanse of green lawn in the middle of the park is an attractive spot which is being improved continually.

“Children

Popular

Bathed Before Lifeguard Came on Duty at Canatara”

Beach Perfectly Safe if Ordinary PrecautionsAre Observed

Sarnia Canadian Observer –Aug. 7, 1934 P3

The bathing at Canatara Park is as safe as at any public beach in the country but, naturally, there must be some cooperation by parents and by the children, Jack Newton, secretary of the Board of Parks Management said today, in commenting on the rescue of three children who got into difficulties in the water, yesterday morning.

The incident occurred before 10 a.m., the hour at which the lifeguard goes on duty. Children ought not to be allowed to go bathing before that hour, Mr. Newton said. The guard is on duty until dusk. Another factor to be born in in mind is that the length of the bathing beach is 3,000 yards and that it is desirable that bathers do not spread themselves out too much, but rather remain in the congested part of the beach, where they can be more easily watched by Cliff Burden, the lifeguard.

Children can go out 150 feet with safety at Canatara beach and there are very few public beaches where more ideal bathing conditions prevail, Mr. Newton said. The patronage at the park this year has been enormous.

Three Brought to Shore after Getting out of Their Depth

Sarnia Observer –Aug. 10, 1934, P3

Three children went out beyond their depth in Lake Huron off Canatara Park yesterday and were brought to safety by M. C. Cunningham. They were Kathleen McCrae, Margaret Grass and Frank Scriber. The incident happened before 10 o'clock in the morning, at which hour the lifeguard comes on duty.

Apparently, the youngsters were in wading about 50 yards east of the wreck. They were staying close together and dogpaddling out from shore. When they tried to reach bottom, they couldn't and became panic stricken and screamed. Mr. Cunningham, who was the only adult on the beach at the time in that proximity, waded out to them and pulled them back onto the beach where it was found that they were suffering more from fright than from the effects of immersion.

“Reasonable Modesty is Rule at Local Beaches, Official States”

Board of Parks Management Insists on Proper Decorum at Canatara Park Few Complaints

Are Received This Year

Sarnia Canadian Observer - August 10, 1934, P3

There must be a reasonable modesty in the bathing and beach attire of those who patronize Canatara Park, Jack Newton, secretary of the Board of Park Management, said today, when questioned on the subject by a reporter for The Canadian Observer. The park authorities have been allowing a fair amount of latitude with regard to the beach clothing worn by pleasureseeking Sarnians, because of its appreciation of the fact that there are many changes in the fashions.

Must Cover Torso

“We insist that the torso of the body be covered,” Mr. Newton said, when asked what was meant by reasonable modesty in bathing suits. “We are referring directly to young boys and men who roll the tops of their bathing suits down, so that they are actually cavorting around our beach in trunks.

There is nothing very attractive about the hairy chest of a youth and we insist that the boys use the shoulder straps of their suits. We do not care so much about how much of the upper regions of the back are open to the glaring sun or whether there are stylish holes under the arms, but we insist that the suits be worn as they are designed to be.

“Trying to enforce bathing attire is a troublesome job, and our bylaws merely point out that the suits be worn as they are made, with the exception that, trunks alone are taboo,” Mr. Newton continued.

And the Girls

“What about the girls?” the reporter asked.

“Oh, some of them wear suits that are somewhat abbreviated, but they seem to be the accepted style and the girls usually manage to keep covered up fairly well,” he replied.

Chief W. J. Lannin said there was no bylaw in the city governing bathing attire, chiefly because there were no public bathing beaches within the city; however, boys who had gone swimming in the river, very much in the raw, had on occasion been offenders.

Lambton County municipalities bordering along lake and river have not found it necessary to establish any bathing bylaws but as far as the provincial police are concerned, nude bathing parties are taboo. Last year, there were several reports of bathers disporting themselves

in the lake without apparel, but so far this year there have not been any reports of this nature received by the authorities.

August 13, 1934, page 3: “IOL Picnic”: “More than 3,000 people attended the annual IOL picnic at Canatara Park on Saturday. The picnickers ranged themselves throughout the park watching the various sports, roaming around in bathing suits or merely taking it easy on a park bench, listening to the music of the Lambton Regiment band or the Sarnia Boys band which played alternately all afternoon.”

August 13, 1934, page 10: “Unemployed Picnic”: “An international picnic under the auspices of the Sarnia Labour and Unemployed Council was held in the CNR grounds just south of the tracks on the Beach Rd. on Sunday. About 75 persons attended and heard the various speeches.”

From the Minutes of the Parks Board Meetings

October 19, 1934, Board was unable to erect a shelter at Canatara Park at present time due to lack of funds.

December 10, 1934, Board to interview William Guthrie MLA, relative to having the road through Canatara Park constructed by government relief labour

June 23, 1935, Board to interview Board of Works to get their assistance in building the the roadbed through Canatara Park.

April 5, 1935, Cliff Stratton to be permitted to use the cottage at Canatara Park for 1935 at $25.00 rental; however, he will be notified that no further extension will be granted and that he must remove the cottage byApril 1, 1936. (NOTE: the Board leased the land to Stratton where his cottage was located for four years, from 1932 to 1935. It was removed in 1936.)

June 14, 1935, Board to accept application from Owen Lockhart for Bath House privileges at Canatara Park

June 14, 1935, Board gives Mrs. Hanna permission to develop the land leased from the CNR, north of the golf links (ie Tarzanland) on the understanding that the Board will be put to no expense.”

Letters to The Editor

The Canadian Observer June 28, 1935

There is a bit of woodland directly north of the golf links and west of the Woodrowe road which, since earliest childhood, has been one of our chief joys and inspiration.

The small footpath leading through the trees was bordered on one side by a deep, swampy place, filled with great variety of trees, wildflowers, ferns, while its beauty was enhanced by many an old tree-stump covered with moss, the songs of birds and flash of butterfly wings and over all the felt spirit of nature in one of her rare and precious moods. Those of us

who knew and loved best this prized bit of our early Sarnia heritage were rejoiced when we learned it had been acquired by the city as a part of public property adjoining Canatara Park. We assumed, alas, it would be left in its virgin loveliness, without the clumsy hand of man to rob nature of her priceless moods. Some signs and the law rigidly enforced were all that was needed. But one part of this place has been denuded of much of its spirit now. Asystem of cleaning up and improving nature, if not ruining entirely, threatens to take away the message of the place. Surely in this one spot alone man might let nature express what he himself never can, of the mind of God, and not rush in to where angels fear to tread. Somehow when we try to teach nature good housekeeping and tidiness carried too far, her shy spirit leaves and a dull, uninteresting thing remains. More people than will ever be known have felt the depth of nature and been helped in the spot we mention.Avaluable feeling of ownership must not be taken away from the ones who have not the money to buy large tracts of land themselves. If nothing else escapes, leave this spot untouched.

Frances M. Flintoft

June 27, 1935

Greatly Improved, Canatara Park is Resort forYoung and Old EVERY FACILITY FOR PICNICSAND BATHING

Sarnia Canadian Observer – July 9, 1935, P3

Sarnia with its group of pleasant parks is especially proud this year at Canatara Park, the thickly wooded playground two miles north of the city with a Lake Huron waterfront, 3,700 feet long. Great shade trees, complete picnic facilities, a sandy beach and facilities for rest make Canatara Park a summer haven for families, organizations, and groups which go out to picnic and obtain relief from the heat.

Given the original Indian name for Lake Huron, Canatara Park, with its 125 acres of recreational ground, represents an investment of $40,000, part of which was generously donated by Mrs. W. J. Hanna and the balance by the City of Sarnia. It is controlled by the Board of Parks Management of which C. J. Driscoll is chairman. The Canatara Park Committee is composed of W. E. Germain, chairman, Mr. Driscoll and W.A. Watson.

Many Improvements

Yesterday afternoon, Mr. Germain and Mr. Driscoll made a tour of the park, in company with a reporter for The Canadian Observer It is a delight to the regular as well as to the occasional visitor to see the improvements that have been made in the three years the park has been open to the public. Four years ago, the area was virgin woods with plenty of weeds and undergrowth. Today, it is a large spacious playground, equipped with all necessary facilities yet retaining its natural attractions. As time passes, there will be even greater improvements.

At the entrance to the park from Point Edward (it is on the northeast corner of the village), there is a flower bed island about which the buses, which maintain a regular and convenient schedule for the benefit of visitors to the park, make their turn.

Stopping his car, Mr. Germain pointed out the first group of the 80 large, conveniently placed picnic tables in the park. There are ample lavatories, women's restrooms, first aid stations, and hot and cold running water facilities. Even water fountains are conveniently located.

“Mr. Stevens is being sent here by the provincial department of agriculture, to assist us in

eradicating poison ivy. There is some of it here but it will be all gone soon. Farmers with weed problems are invited to see Mr. Stevens while he is here,” Mr. Germain said.

Loud Speaker System

Agroup of reporters were listening to the loud-speaker's broadcast of the All-American baseball game at Cleveland. This system is installed near the refreshment stand of Irvine Lewis. More tables, a roped-off racecourse for picnic races and a ball field which will accommodate six softball games and is level, well-kept and with velvety grass, was being used by children at practice.

After noting the ample parking space for cars, attention was directed to the laying of an asphalt and mulch walk, 10 feet wide and extending from the playground to the beach. It will replace the original board walk. Recently planted trees will shade this new walk to the beach.

The bathhouse, operated by Owen Lockhart, has 22 stalls, the use of each being chargeable at the low rate of 5 cents, while checking of clothes costs 10 cents, rental of bathing suits 10 cents and rental of towels 5 cents. Even comfortable chairs can be rented.

Asked who was the lifeguard, Mr. Driscoll pointed proudly to his son, Jim, a well-built, good-looking lad with a dark coat or tan. The park patrolman is Earl Jeffrey.

On the wide beach, there are eight sheltered seats recently surrounded by clusters of willow trees. It was noted that part of the bank had been removed and much of the beach will be levelled off to give more space on the sandy shore.

Quail in Woods

In the woods, there are five pairs of government quail, whose distinctive call could frequently be heard. There are also red and black squirrels and chipmunks. An effort is being made to secure some pheasants. Despite the fact that the birds have been brought in purely for the pleasure of the public, a large number of quail were killed last year by hunters and even trees were chopped down. An effort will be made in the future to stop such practices.

Surrounding Little Lake, two new roads are being built, both connecting with the beach highway and thus affording a double entrance to the park on the east. As the park grows, much land not now extensively used will be prepared as picnic ground.

The Northern Navigation Company is using the park for its patrons' picnics and family reunions and church outings are also keeping the park busy. Even yesterday, it was a busy place. People who have not yet visited the park are invited to do so.

July 6, 1935, page 12 “Gravel Supply”: Representatives of practically every municipality in Lambton and Kent Counties met at Point Edward to discuss the gravel supply situation at the ordnance gravel pit at Point Edward. The townships of northern Kent and Southern Lambton have no gravel supply of their own and for some time have been obtaining it from Point Edward. The supply of medium-sized gravel in the ordnance lands threatens to run short and the meeting was for the purpose of discussing the quality of gravel which could be used in its stead. (Note: Obviously this problem would not have arisen if Merlo and Ray had proceeded with their 1930 plan to excavate the huge quantities of gravel in the Canatara area.)

July 12, 1935, page 3: “BathingAttire”: There has not been quite as much agitation about bathing attire this year as there has been in other years. Most lakeshore resorts and down river points have placed no particular restrictions on the use of trunks only. Canatara Park officials, however, still insist that tops be worn as well as trunks.

July 18, 1935, page 12: “Poison Ivy Demonstration”: Considerable interest is being taken by Sarnians in the announcement of the Parks Board that it will have a demonstration in Canatara Park with spraying apparatus which will be used to kill poison ivy. Mr. Stevens, weed eradicator, will use a spray gun and a solution of sodium chlorate.

This view looks west along the west beach around 1935. Notice that large sections of the Gladstone wreck are still above the surface of lake Huron.At “A” the boiler can be seen & at “B” is the cluster of wooden piles that was used by the gravel barges for docking beside the Gladstone.

Canatara Park Regulations to be Obeyed Test Case Brings Explanation From Court

Sarnia Canadian Observer – July 22, 1935 P3

Improper bathing suits formed the basis of a trial in Magistrate C. S. Woodrow's court today, when Sidney McCrea, 136 Savoy Street N., was brought into court by city police, charged with wearing an improper bathing suit in violation of the bylaw of the Sarnia Parks Board.

According to the evidence given in court, McCrea was wearing a bathing suit rolled down to the waist. Signs posted in Canatara Park, where the offence took place, warn that trunks and rolled down bathing suits must not be worn. Not agreeing to or disagreeing with the provisions of the bylaw, Magistrate Woodrow had this to say to the accused.

“People who are going to use public facilities, where there are regulations laid down for their operation, must conform to them. If the Parks Board says that they are not to bathe in trunks or rolled-down bathing suits, they must not do so, or they will lay themselves open to the penalty provided for in the bylaw.

“I presume this case was brought by the Parks Board primarily for the purpose of putting this principle before the people who use the park. There is nothing against you,” the magistrate continued, speaking to McCrea. “You are only one of a number. I will impose no penalty. I hope that the facts of this case will be given to the public.”

July 23, 1935, page 3: Are Eradicating Poison Ivy:According to officials of the Parks Board, the spraying of poison ivy at Canatara Park is expected to meet with success. Mr. Stevens, of the provincial department of agriculture, is doing the work and predicts that within a week after spraying all the ivy upon which the solution has been put will be killed; however, he will not complete the spraying of all the ivy at the park as the cost in one year would be prohibitive. The Parks Board intends to carry on at a later date when their own employees will do the work after being shown by the expert eradicator.

July 30, 1935, p 12: CausedApprehension Heavy black smoke billowing over the IOL refuse grounds on the Point Edward Road (ie MichiganAvenue) north of the city caused apprehension among citizens that fire was doing damage in that vicinity today at noon. Firemen of the city reported, however, that the burning of the refuse is well under control at all times and there is no danger of the fire spreading to surrounding territory.

August 6, 1935, p 17Awell-attended concert was given by the Sarnia Boys Band in Canatara Park Sunday afternoon.

August 23, 1935, p 12At the monthly meeting of the Parks Board last evening, it was stated that Canatara Park was being especially well patronized this summer.

From City Hall, December 20, 1935

The regular monthly meeting of the Board was held this date with the following members present: Chairman C. J. Driscoll, J. Hunter, W.A. Watson, W. E. Germain, and G. N. Galloway

The minutes of the preceding meeting were read and, on the motion of J. Hunter and seconded by G. N. Galloway, they were adopted.

The accounts were then read. G. N. Galloway moved, seconded by J. Hunter, that these be paid as read. Carried.

The Canatara Parks Committee reported on an agreement entered into with the Sarnia Cement Products Ltd. in relation to the removal of gravel from the lake shore fronting on Canatara Park, the main points being as follows: -

1. The Sarnia Cement Products Ltd. to be allowed to remove surface gravel from along the lake shore between the wrecks on the west to the easterly limits of the property and extending southerly from the water's edge for approximately 75 feet, but not greater than will permit re-filling by the wash of the lake.

2. This right not to interfere with previous rights granted to the City of Sarnia

3. The Sarnia Cement Products Ltd. to pay to the Board of Park Management 10¢ per yard for all such gravel taken, payment to be made monthly and delivery tickets to be delivered to the Secretary of the Board weekly.

4. The Board may terminate this agreement at any time.

Moved by W.A. Watson, seconded by G. H. Galloway that this agreement be ratified, and that a letter be sent to the Sarnia Cement Products Ltd. to this effect and authorizing them to prevent unauthorized persons from taking any gravel or sand from Canatara Park. Carried.

G. N. Galloway moved, seconded by W. E. Germain that the meeting adjourn. Carried

C.J. Driscoll J. Newton

C. J. Driscoll J. Newton Chairman Secretary

Minutes of Park Board Meetings: Tarzanland

March 19, 1936: The Board was to obtain a special bank account to deposit grants received from CSL, ear-marked for the proposed shelter at Canatara Park. The Board was to advise CNR that the Board would not welcome any change in their lease with CNR covering the section of land north of MichiganAvenue, as they wish to develop it eventually for park purposes. (Note In August 1936, the city obtained a five-year renewal of the lease on this 18 acre “Tarzanland” parcel. In early 1937, a developer approached Point Edward officials with a project to create a housing subdivision in the Tarzanland parcel. Point Edward approved the project and attempted to get CNR to cancel Sarnia's lease on the land. The CNR refused to cancel the lease, however, and within a year Sarnia was able to obtain Tarzanland as part of the trade for Bayview Park. Needless to say, this series of events didn't please Point Edward officials. OnApril 25, 1944, Reeve Ross of Point Edward wrote a long letter to the Observer editor in which he details all the ways that his village had been “shafted” by Sarnia over the past decade. Among many other things, he states this on page two: “In 1938, the city of Sarnia was given some 18 acres of land in Point Edward along Woodrow Road between MichiganAve and the CNR tracks to compensate them for the loss of Bayview Park. Ashort time before this, Point Edward had received applications from interested parties to build some substantial homes on that same property, so that in giving this land to Sarnia, Point Edward lost the taxes thereon and, in addition, $80,000 in assessment value on the proposed homes.”)

Parks Board Meeting: May 14, 1936

Aletter from JackArcher was received asking permission to put a number of riding ponies for the season at Canatara Park. The request was not granted.

Aletter was received from C.W. Stratton asking for permission to occupy the cottage at Canatara Park for the weekends. The request was not granted but the Board offered to purchase the building for a maximum price of $125.00 plus $25.00 due on rental to the Board.

Mr. Lowrey was granted refreshment privileges at Canatara park.

Canatara Park To Be Opened

Summer Season Will Be Commenced on Saturday Better Roads In Sarnia Canadian Observer - June 23, 1936, P3

John Newton, secretary of the Board of Parks Management, announced today that Canatara Park will open for the summer on Saturday. Alifeguard will be in attendance on the beach, the bathhouse and refreshment booth will be open and the whole park will be available for picnics.

Considerable improvement has been made in the park since last fall. The road leading through it fromAlfred Street, Point Edward, to the edge of Lake Chipican has been paved with asphalt and the road leading into the park from the beach road is now ready for traffic. Three softball diamonds have been laid out and a running track has been rolled.

Organizations that contemplate holding picnics at the park should get in touch with a member of the Board of Parks Management to make reservations and thus prevent conflicting schedules.

June 25, 1936 P2: Letters to the Editor: Spare the Wild Flowers : “If so many thoughtless people continue to pick such huge bunches of the beautiful wild flowers now growing on the lakeshore and roadsides near Canatara Park, it will be only a few years until nothing will be growing there but poison ivy. Perhaps your interested readers could suggest something that could be done about it.” Maud Hanna

June 25, 1936, P16: Damaged Trees: “It is said that lightning never strikes twice in the same place, but at Canatara Park one can see four well-smitten oak trees near the Cliff Stratton's cottage which is situated along the roadway beside Little Lake at the east entrance to the park. Two trees close together were virtually stripped of bark from the branches down; one about two feet in diameter is split and broken through the whole trunk. On a third tree about 50 feet away and another about 100 feet to the east, great strips of bark are torn off. The Stratton Cottage is unoccupied. The trees were struck during a recent storm.”

July 13, 1936. P3: Sarnia Moved to the Lake Shore: “The beach at Canatara Park yesterday and Saturday resembled pictures of beaches in large metropolitan areas. Thousands of people cluttered the shore, seeking relief from the heat. The water near shore was almost lukewarm and many stayed in swimming for hours.”

July 16, 1936. P14: Outside Trucks Required: “So many trucks were required to handle the earth excavated from the Capital Theatre site that some had to be brought in from nearby municipalities.”

Note: This earth was hauled to Canatara Park where it was used to construct the roadbed for Lake Chipican Drive see page 54 for details.

July 25, 1936. P14: Welfare Picnic: “More than 150 children of families on relief are guests at a picnic being held at Canatara Park this afternoon. Asplendid program of races and other attractions have been arranged.”

July 25, 1936. P14: New Road Progressing: “Work on the new roadway into Canatara Park from

the lake road is progressing. The northeast corner of Lake Chipican has been filled in to swing the roadway from the rear of private summer homes. It may be ready for traffic next year.”

July 27, 1936, P3: Parking Section is Marked Off at Canatara Park: “The Board of Parks Management has erected distinguishing parking signs along the south side of the roadway in Canatara Park between the bus turn around and the baseball diamond. The signs have set about 25 feet from the road. Parking is permitted between the signs and the road but not inside them. The parking is supervised by the park police.

July 27, 1936, P12: Grass Dries Up: “Canatara Park is showing the effects of the prolonged drought. The ball diamond at the park has all the life burned out of it.”

July 27, 1936. P12: Fine Crop of Bullrushes: “This year's crop of bullrushes at the northern end of Lake Chipican, bordering the roadway leading into the park from the east is unusually luxuriant. Some of the reeds have already reached a height of over six feet.”

July 29, 1936, P14: Canatara Park: “This park was acquired in 1932 and comprises approximately 150 acres with a lake frontage of some 3,000 feet. It was the last area of wooded land and lake frontage available to the citizens of Sarnia and provides all that is desired in the matter of safe and adequate bathing facilities, recreation, and picnic grounds, and a campus adequate to meet the requirements of the city for years. The development and beautification of the park is being carried on year by year. Within this park is included the entire area of Little Lake.

The Board also controls the property in the corner of the Point Edward Road and Woodrow Road, extending to the old CNR line to Blackwell. This piece of virgin forest, possibly the last virgin forest within Lambton County is leased from the CNR. The Board has made no improvements in this area yet but contemplates doing so to the extent of removing dead and fallen trees. It does not intend to do anything that might destroy the natural character of this beautiful, wooded lot.”

July 29, 1936, P10 (3rd section): Canatara Park: “The park has an extensive beach, patrolled by lifeguards, four softball diamonds, modern beach house facilities, a bus stop and tables and benches for picnickers. The park is an ideal spot with lovely grounds and large shade trees. Here visitors have an excellent view of the marine traffic and can see freighters pass up and down the lake.”

August 4, 1936, P3: IOL Picnic: “Anine-year-old youngster drowned in Lake Huron while attending the IOL picnic at Canatara Park.”

August 10, 1936, P12: Swim in River: “Point Edward's more proficient youthful swimmers have deserted Canatara Park for the deeper waters of the river where bathing trunks are not taboo.”

August 12, 1936, P12: Lake Drying Up: “Little Lake has dried up considerably this summer and is now only a fraction of its former size. Some claim the lake is drying up because the water level of Lake Huron is lower, but others say there is no connection between the two. They attribute the shallowness of the lake to the hot dry weather.”

Note: Both these conditions are contributing factors.

Council Renews Lease on Canatara Park with C.N.R.

Sarnia Canadian Observer –August 18, 1936, P3

On the recommendation of the finance committee, the city council last evening instructed the mayor and clerk to sign renewal of a lease between the Canadian National Railways and the Board of Parks Management for use of railway property required for Canatara Park.

The renewal is for five years, and provision is made for a further renewal, providing the company does not require the use of the property. The forms were submitted to the council by H. A. Palmer, right of way agent for the railway.

Clay is Purchased from Theatre Site

Sarnia Canadian Observer –August 18, 1936, P3

The sale of clay from the property of the proposed new Capitol Theatre to the Sarnia Board of Parks Management to complete a road at Canatara Park was discussed in the city council meeting last evening.

Ald. George Silk enquired which members of the parks board made the deal for the purchase of the clay.

In reply, Mayor W. T. Crompton explained the committee which administered Canatara Park saw fit to purchase dirt from the theatre property and about 2000 yards were purchased for $250. The committee's action was approved by the parks board, the mayor explained.

The explanation was apparently satisfactory toAld. Silk whose only comment was that it was “a bad deal to sell property for $100 and pay $250 for dirt from it.”

August 20, 1936, P3: City Pays for Hauling Dirt: The $250 which the parks board paid for 2,000 yards of dirt from the excavation work on the site of the proposed Capital Theatre was the cost involved in the extra haul of dirt from the city limits to Canatara Park. The dirt was used in making a foundation for the new road into the park. The money was not spent for the dirt itself but was the cost of the added haul from the city limits to the park, more than one mile distant.

August 24, 1936, P3: Lake Huron Oak Trees are hit Hard by Summer Drought: “Prolonged hot weather and unusual drought conditions are reported to have practically wiped out the acorn crop along the lake shore this year. Oak trees that have borne nuts in abundance have very few acorns. According to an authority on trees, the reason is lack of moisture and extreme heat of the past few months.”

August 26, 1936, P3: Boat Bus hasAccident: Twenty-nine passengers of the steamer Harmonic of the CSL escaped injury when a large bus, owned by Charles McFee, in which they were being taken on a picnic to Canatara Park during a stop-over in the city, was involved in an accident.”

August 29, 1936, P14: Smoke Nuisance: Dense black smoke from the dredges operating in Reid's Harbor, north of Point Edward, is causing a great deal of annoyance to residents in the neighbouring districts. With a breeze off the lake, the soft coal smoke blankets the entire surrounding sections.

Aug 29, 1936 (Pg 14): Bathers Dwindle: “The ranks of the bathers at Canatara Park are thinning noticeably. From now on, swimming loses its appeal although some notators take their dips in the lake almost until the winter freezes up.”

Sept 11, 1936 (Pg 14): Bath House Open: The booth and bath house at Canatara Park will be open until Sunday, September 20, it was announced today.

Minutes of Parks Board Meetings.

Oct 21, 1936, Board receives $200.00 from CSL towards proposed shelter at Canatara Park.

Feb 9, 1937, Point Edward is trying to get CNR to cancel the city’s lease on Tarzanland property. The city sent a letter to CNR that it wants to retain the lease on this land.

May 13, 1937, Board allotted refreshment privileges to E.F. Gough for 1937 for $200.00. Lloyd Duncan is appointed policeman at Canatara Park. Owen Lockhart is given Bath House privileges.

City’s Playgrounds, Parks to Be Officially Opened

Friday will See All in Active Operation for the Summer Supervisors Are Appointed by Board Sarnia Canadian Observer – June 30, 1937, P3

Sarnia’s playgrounds and parks will be officially opened on Friday. Jack Newton, secretary of the Board of Parks Management said today. They will be operated on until fall.

J. Ralph Knox, public school teacher, who successfully completed the Russell Street playground which became popular last summer for its amateur entertainments, will again be in charge. Dorothy Rintoul will be the supervisor at Tecumseh Park and Ruth Hodgins will direct the activities at the Hanna playground. A supervisor has yet to be appointed for Gordon Park in the north ward.

Canatara Park

Canatara Park, the city’s largest playground and beach resort on the shores of Lakes Huron, has already been opened for the season but, the attendance has been small because of the cool weather. This summer Lloyd Duncan will be the constable in charge. The refreshment concession has been granted to E.F.Gough while Owen Lockhart has the bathhouse privileges. A lifeguard is to be appointed shortly.

That Canatara Park will be a popular place this summer is indicated by the advance bookings for picnics and family reunions. Today, Parker Street United Church Sunday school was to hold its annual outing and other churches have made reservations for picnics during the next few weeks.

Road Asphalted

This spring the new road into Canatara Park was asphalted and is said to be in excellent condition. The grounds have been cleaned and buildings repaired. First aid supplies have also been placed in the restrooms.

Kiwanis Arrange for Lifeguard

Boat Off Canatara

Sea Scouts Craft Will Patrol Shore Off Playgrounds on Friday, Which is Children’s Day

Sarnia Observer – July 10, 1937, P3

Extending their work among boys and girls of the city and district, the Sarnia Kiwanis Club last evening made arrangements for a lifesaving patrol boat to be on hand off Canatara Park on Friday of each week throughout the summer. Each Friday the children of the city go to the park for the day and are under the supervision of the athletic directors of the various playgrounds of the city.

Sea Scouts Co-Operate

At the instigation of Dr. A.G. Campbell, arrangements were made with R.G.B. Finlay, scoutmaster of the Sarnia Sea Scouts, for the use of the Sea Scout boat and several of the Scouts on Fridays. The boat will be taken to Canatara Park and will patrol the water in the vicinity throughout the day for the purpose of rendering aid if the children get into difficulty in the water. On the motion of W.F. Howell. Seconded by Jack MacDonald, it was decided to vote $25 to take care of the expenses of gasoline for operating the boat.

Dr. J.A. Drummond, delegate to the International Kiwanis convention held at Indianapolis in June, gave a report of the convention.

Kiwanis Camp

Discussion on the holding of the Kiwanis Boys camp at Hillsboro this summer followed and the club approved the action of the directors in selecting the new site. It is planned to send about 20 boys to camp for ten days or two weeks.

Oppose Removal of Vessel Hulk From Canatara Park

Would Interfere with Condition of Bathing Beach, City Informs the Department of Marine

Sarnia Canadian Observer – July 20, 1937, P3

On the recommendation of the finance committee the city council last evening concurred in the action of Mayor Fred Pelling in protesting against any permission being given for removal of parts of the wreck of the Gladstone beached on Lake Huron at the northwest end of Canatara Park. The mayor’s action was taken at the suggestion of the Board of Parks management, which strongly objected to the removal of the hulk.

Several weeks ago, the clerk received a communication from the Director of Marine services for the Department of Transport in which it was stated that E.J. Coughlin and E. Hall, 539 North Christina Street, had requested permission to remove spikes and steel from the Gladstone hulk at Canatara Park. While no intimation was given as to the use of steel and spikes it is believed they were to be sold for the metal.

Affects the Beach

The mayor referred the matter to the parks board and the secretary, Jack Newton, reported the board strongly opposed the request as the good condition of the beach is entirely dependent on the wreck remaining in the position it occupies. The removal of the bolts would allow the wreck to disintegrate, and the sand beach would soon be washed away, it was said.

Mayor Pelling conveyed to the marine department the parks board’s attitude and on behalf of the city also opposed interference with the hulk.

In a subsequent letter to His Worship the department suggested that spikes and steel which had become detached together with a portion of the top of the wreck could be removed without affecting the bathing beach and he asked for the council’s opinion. This communication was referred to the parks board and the matter was left with the finance committee to convey to the Department of Transport the board’s opinion.

Ownership Obscure

Ald. William Donahue asked who owned the wreck, but no person could give the information. Ald. John T. Barnes said it was his opinion that the wreck was placed in the present position to serve as a breakwater to protect the bathing beach. If the bolts were removed the hulk would probably fall apart and break up with the result that the beach would not be in as good condition.

July 14, 1937, P3: Poison Ivy: Canatara Park is comparatively free of the weed, according to Jack Newton, secretary of the Parks Board. Years ago, the area abounded in poison ivy, but when it was made into a park, most of the ivy was killed. There is now practically no trace of it in the main section of the park. The weed can be found in some of the outlying sections, Mr. Newton added.

Aug 9, 1937, P3: IOL Picnic at Canatara Park: Between three and four thousand people attended the OIL picnic Saturday afternoon. The novelty miniature marathon race from city hall to the

park, a distance of 2.5 miles, was won by Jack Wilson with a time of 17-1/2 minutes. The greasy pole climbing contest stumped most of the competitors.

Aug 11, 1937, P12: New Canatara Sign: A new sign directing visitors to Canatara Park has been erected on the Beach Road just south of Woodrow Beach” (ie: the corner of Charlesworth Land and Christina St. today)

Aug 16, 1937 P12: Coating Beach Road: A sealing coat is being placed on the Lakeshore Rd. from the Point Edward Road to a short distance beyond Woodrowe Beach. The coat consists of a layer of liquid asphalt and chipped stone rolled into the surface.

City

Would

Build

Park Around Waterworks at Point Edward Council To Ask for Lease Of Portion of Ordinance Reserve For Purpose – Aim to Protect The Plant

Sarnia Canadian Observer – August 11, 1937

The city council last evening decided to ask the Department of Mines and Resources for the lease of a section of the ordinance reserve in Point Edward on which to establish a park surrounding the city waterworks plant.

The Resolution

The resolution sponsored by Ald. John T. Barnes and seconded by Ald. A.W. Tenant is as follows: Whereas it has been drawn to the attention of the municipal council that the site of the city waterworks plant at the mouth of the St. Clair River is being encroached upon by dredging in the vicinity of the plant and whereas it is desirable to safeguard the water supply of Sarnia, Point Edward and Sarnia Township, and whereas it is desirable to lease an additional portion of the ordinance reserve in order to establish a waterworks park, therefore be it resolved that the council request the Department of Mines and Resources that the city be given a lease of certain blocks of land and that portion of Fort Street between the C.N.R. tracks and the water’s edge of Lake Huron in Point Edward, provided, however, that any such would contain a clause protecting the wireless station range lights and other marine requirements and that a copy of this resolution be forwarded to the Hon. T.A. Carrera, Minister of Mines and Resources and Ross W. A. Gray, K.C., M.P. and to the reeve of Point Edward.

Mr. Gray In Favor

Ald. Barnes explained that the city leases certain lands of the ordinance reserve for one dollar a year and he felt the council should endeavor to secure a little more land to protect its waterworks plant. The alderman intimated that Mr. Gray would support the request.

Mayor Pelling said it would do no harm to ask for more land but he doubted if the city would get it because of the wireless station and other marine equipment which is located in the area concerned. The council, however, endorsed the resolution.

Canatara Park Is Enjoying Its Best Season Since Inception

Reputation of Lake Shore Playground Spreads Afar And Many Organized Picnics Are Held – No Fatal Accidents This Season

Sarnia Canadian Observer – August 11, 1937 P3

Canatara Park is enjoying the best season since its inception a few years ago and its increasing popularity is attributed to its excellent bathing facilities and attractive picnic grounds. Reputation Spreads

This summer thousands of people have enjoyed the many facilities provided at Canatara. Jack Newton, secretary of the Sarnia Board of Parks Management, said today that more people have patronized the park this year than ever before, which is accounted for by the fact that the reputation of Canatara as an ideal bathing spot and picnic park has been carried to distant points by visitors. An example of this is the many Sunday school and church picnics which have been held this summer. While some organizations made reservations, others came unannounced and although the parks board has no record of the number of outings held there, it is known that reunions of families residing in Michigan and Ontario and church picnics from Sarnia and Lambton Count have been very many. On Tuesdays and Saturdays, passengers on the Canada Steamship Line boats enjoy several pleasant hours at the park. The visitors bask on the beach and stroll through the grounds and at noon are served with lunch. This service is provided by the steamship company, but park employees and officials endeavor to make the visitors stay as pleasant as possible.

No Major Accidents

The absence of major accidents and the lifesaving and first aid facilities are factors which assure parents that children can enjoy swimming and bathing without risk. A certified lifeguard constantly patrols the beach while members of the St. John Ambulance Corps are on hand to give first aid if required. The parks board has also medical equipment which is in charge of the park constable. This summer there have been no major accidents and no drownings, although hundreds of people swim daily. This record is not exceptional as since the park was established a few years ago there have only been one or two fatal accidents. Constant care is taken to protect patrons.

The asphalt road which was completed this year has made the park easily accessible by motor car. There is also ample parking accommodation. Clean restrooms, hot and cold water, picnic tables with seats attached are facilities which make the park attractive. A spacious bathhouse is conveniently located near the beach and there is a tuckshop near the road. There is a large area for sports and nearby are four softball diamonds.

Each year the parks board provides additional new equipment, and it is anticipated that in a few years Canatara will be one of the best equipped public parks in Ontario.

Aug 18, 1937, P3: City Commences Experiment with Free Bus Rides: City Council will provide transportation to Canatara Park for children 13 years of age and younger. These afternoon buses were to pick up children at four parks and take them to Canatara and return them later in the afternoon. If the experiment is successful, it is expected that the service will be provided on Wednesdays and Fridays.

Alderman Donohue suggested to the city council, Monday night that the city provide transportation because many children could not take advantage of the park since they had no way of getting there. Although it was late in the season, the alderman thought the council could lay the foundation for a transportation system next year.

Aug 20, 1937, P3: More Free Trips to the Beaches: Announcement was made today that the industrial and transportation committee of the city council will continue to provide accommodation to Canatara Park for children 13 years of age and younger. The first trip was made on Wednesday, and it was reported that hundreds of children took advantage of it. The buses were forced to make two trips. This free service was repeated today, and it was announced that it will be continued on Wednesday, August 25th and Friday August 27th. Buses will leave Russell Park, Germain Park, Hanna Playground, Tecumseh Park and Imperial School at 1 o’clock and will return from Canatara Park at 4.30 and 5 o’clock.

Refreshment Booth Photo - 1937

This view looks east toward the ballfield.

Sept 11, 1937, P3: William Guthrie, MLA, revealed that the provincial government had plans to take over Bayview Park and establish a series of parks from Sarnia to Wallaceburg along Highway 40. The project would be similar to the Niagara Park system and would be administered by a commission appointed by the Minister of Highways.

Oct 19, 1937, P14: The city council last night said it was agreeable to the Ontario Department of Highways acquiring a piece of land near Bayside Park to be used in connection with the approach to the bridge, provided that the City’s title from the CNR to the adjacent land is not jeopardized. The adjoining land is leased by the Parks Board.

October 26, 1937, P3: William Guthrie, MLA, anticipated that by spring, negotiations would be completed to enable the province to take over Bayview Park as a tourist camp site. The Department of Highways he says plans to construct from the bridge to Exmouth St. on the west side of the city park, a forty-foot pavement with a boulevard in the center.

Dec 2, 1937, P11: J.C. Barr, running for Hydro Commission in elections. Mr. Barr said he was criticized for supporting the Canatara Park purchase but said the amount of gravel the board of works had obtained there was sufficient in itself, to show whether or had been a wise purchase or not.

Sludge Dump & Fatal Accident: November 1937

According to several people who worked at Imperial Oil in the 1930’s and 40’s, the CNR dump cars used in the early 1930’s were flatbed cars with wooden planks forming the sides. Whenever several of these cars were filled with oil saturated clay or “sludge” at the refinery, they were moved by a CN locomotive that was taking a collection of railcars to Point Edward. The several dumps’ cars would be shunted into the dump siding where they would sit until twelve or more had accumulated. A work crew from the refinery would then be sent out to the dump to unload the sludge into the marsh. This was done by removing the planks from the side of the cars & shoveling the sludge out. A team of horses with a road scraper were used to level the piles of sludge beside the tracks.

Starting in the mid 1930’s steel gondola cars were used to transport the sludge and a bulldozer to level the piles. As recorded in the Observer articles below, on November 3, 1937, an automobile traveling west on Michigan Avenue crashed into one of the steel dump cars as it was being shunted onto the siding in the sludge dump.

Dies of Injury

Automobile Ran into Train

Fred Lukowski, City Shoemaker, Companion of Johnston in Car, Is Critically Hurt

Sarnia Canadian Observer – November 4, 1937, P3

Norman S. Johnston, aged 32 years, city insurance agent and son of Sheriff Albert J. Johnston, died at the Sarnia General Hospital at seven o’clock this morning and Fred Lukowski, aged 34, shoemaker, 110 S. Mitton Street, is in a critical condition, from injuries they received last evening when Johnston’s car crashed into the side of a slow-moving freight train on Michigan Avenue, east of Point Edward.

Drove Into Side of Train

The accident occurred at 10:05 o’clock when Mr. Johnston was proceeding west in his car with Mr. Lukowski as a passenger and drove into the side of an Imperial Oil dump car which was being switched into the Point Edward dump. The train was moving slowly in a northerly direction and only two or three cars had crossed the roadway. Both men were rushed to the hospital.

The injuries of Johnston were described as follows: left eyeball destroyed, fracture of the skull and fractures of the nose, right thigh, left forearm and right wrist. He also had severe cuts about the face and arms.

Fred Lukowski, whose condition is critical, but reported to be a little better today, has concussion, a fracture of the right kneecap and possible internal injuries.

A postmortem was performed on the body of Mr. Johnston this morning and an inquest has been ordered. However, the date for it has not been set.

Heard Train Whistle

Residents of Point Edward stated today they heard the whistle of the train about the time of the accident and police learned that the brakemen had tried to flag the Johnston car as it approached the crossing.

The impact was so severe that the automobile was completely wrecked and a heavy angle iron on the dump car was sprung more than four inches. The train, composed of between 13 and 15 mixed cars, was proceeding from Sarnia to Point Edward and at the time of the accident, the several dump cars were being pushed into the dump.

The train crew, assisted by motorists and police, took the two injured men from the wrecked automobile and as soon as possible they were removed to the hospital. Lukowski was removed in Robb’s ambulance while Johnston was taken to the hospital in a car driven by William Cooke of Point Edward, who arrived immediately after the accident. Chief Gilbert Hummel of Point Edward and provincial constables R.J. Whiting and Andrew Grant investigated the accident but were unable to explain how the driver failed to see the train in time, there being no obstruction to a view at the crossing. It is thought possible the fact that this track is not often in use may have led the driver to take it for granted, there was no risk.

“When we arrived at the crossing the train crew were trying to get the men out of the car,” Glen Dennis of Point Edward, a passenger in Mr. Cooke’s car, said today. He was

accompanied by Fred Mars of Point Edward, and they had driven north on the road parallel to the railway track back of the fairgrounds.

Stopped Within Car Length

The train stopped within a car length of the point of collision. In was in charge of Conductor James Baxter and Engineer William Barclay, Thomas Dunford and C.J. Knight were brakemen.

Both men were unconscious when admitted to the hospital, but Mr. Johnston regained consciousness before he died this morning.

He had conducted an insurance business in the Imperial Building for more than five years. He was born in Sarnia and was a member of St. George’s Anglican Church. He was a graduate of Sarnia public schools and the Sarnia collegiate.

Mr. Lukowski has conducted a shoe repair business on Mitton Street for the past three years. Formerly he operated a shop on North Christina Street.

Norman Johnston is survived by his father, Sheriff Albert J. Johnston, and a brother, Bruce Johnston of this city. He resided with his father at 188 South Christina Street.

The funeral will be held on Saturday afternoon at 2:30 o’clock at the family residence 188 South Christina Street. Interment will be at Lakeview cemetery.

RR Crossing Fatalities are Investigated Witnesses – Frightful Injuries

Sarnia Canadian Observer – November 13, 1937 P3

An open verdict was returned by a coroner’s jury last evening at the inquest into the deaths of Norman S, Johnston, aged 32 years, and Fred Lukowski, aged 33 years, who died as a result of injuries received when the car in which they were riding on November 3 ran into the side of a freight train on Michigan Avenue, Point Edward. Twelve witnesses were examined by Crown Attorney H.M. Taylor, Dr. Robert MacKinlay, chief coroner for Lambton County presided.

The Verdict Was:

“We, the jury, find that Norman S. Johnston died between 8:30 and 7 o’clock a.m. on November 4, 1937, at Sarnia General Hospital from cerebral thrombosis, fracture skull and shock, and Fred Lukowski died at 7 o’clock p.m. on November 5, 1937 at Sarnia General Hospital from cerebral edema , shock and hemorrhage due to (1) ruptured kidneys, (2) ruptured pancreas, (3) ruptured spleen, (4) fracture injuries of both Norman S. Johnston and Fred Lukowski were incurred about 10:05 o’clock p.m. November 3, 1937when the automobile in which they were riding collided with the side of a gondola dump car of the Canadian National Railways at the intersection of Michigan Avenue and the C.N.R. tracks, Point Edward, Ont.”

Norman Johnston was a city insurance agent and a son of Sheriff Albert J. Johnston while Fred Lukowski was a shoemaker who operated a shop at the corner of Mitton and Davis Streets.

Medical Evidence

Dr. Douglas Logie, who attended the victims at the accident scene, stated that he found two men in the front seat of the car. Both were unconscious with Johnston, who was behind the wheel, bleeding profusely. He said that Lukowski was removed to the hospital in an ambulance and Johnston was taken there in a private car. After examination at the hospital, it was found that

Johnston had a broken nose, his left eye was crushed, cuts about the face and arms, fracture of the skull and above the left eye and fractures of the left forearm, right wrist and right arm. Lukowski had concussion of the brain and was pale and tender about the abdomen.

The witnesses said that Johnston regained consciousness during the night but next morning, between 6:30 and 7 o’clock he took a coughing spell and died. Lukowski did not respond to treatment and gradually grew weaker and died on Friday night last. Dr. Logie stated that he assisted Dr. G. Scarrow at a post-mortem on both of the bodies.

Dr. Gordon Scarrow stated that the post-mortem in the case of Lukowski revealed severe injuries which were not detected prior to his death. The body was remarkably free from any sign of injury, he said. However, the examination revealed that his injuries were more serious than those of Johnston. He had a fracture of both kneecaps and the left thigh. The kidneys, spleen and pancreas were torn across, hemorrhage in the abdomen, pneumonia in the left lung and concussion of the brain. He said that concussion, hemorrhage and shock were the cause of death. Johnston died from clotting of blood vessels, fracture of the skull and shock.

Conductor Testifies

James Baxter, conductor of the train into which the Johnston vehicle ran, said he was in charge of the switching crew on the train. They had left Point Edward at about 9:50 p.m. and had proceeded to the Imperial Oil dump just north of Michigan Avenue to place four loaded cars in the dump. The train was made up of 16 mixed cars, he said. He stated that the engine and most of the train had crossed the road so most of the cars could be pushed back into the switch which was approximately 150 feet north of the roadway. He was at the switch when he saw the car approaching the track at a high rate of speed. He felt there was going to be an accident and shouted to the brakeman to signal the train to stop and then ran to the crossing waving his lantern in an attempt to warn the driver of the danger. The accident occurred before he could reach the crossing. The Johnston car, he said, struck the fourth car from the rear-end of the train, which was moving about 3 or 4 miles per hour. Witnesses added that he went to the car and then summoned the doctor, ambulance and police.

“Was there any indication of brakes having been applied?” the crown attorney asked.

“Yes, there was a mark 28 feet long on the pavement the next morning,” Mr. Baxter replied.

Thomas W. Dunford, brakeman, stated that he saw the car approach the crossing at a high rate of speed. He also had started to run to the crossing in an effort to warn the driver. He said that he found Johnston pinned behind the steering wheel when he arrived at the car and the other man whom he knew was Lukowski, was slumped in the front seat beside the driver.

The other brakeman, Charles W. Knight, said that he was on the west side of the train and did not see the car approach. He had signaled the engineer to back the train into the siding and then signaled for an emergency stop when instructed by Conductor Baxter.

Did Not See Car

William Barclay, engineer said that fireman H.A. Graham stated that they did not see the car. The engineer was on the opposite side of the train and the fireman was attending to his duties in the engine cab. The engineer estimated his speed at three miles an hour and said that the train was stopped at about 10 feet.

Glen Dennis and Clifford Cooke of Point Edward, who arrived at the accident soon after it happened, said that they took Johnston to the hospital in their automobile.

Chief Constable Gilbert Hummel of Point Edward, who investigated the accident, stated that he was not able to find any skid marks on the road surface the following morning. There was glass on the side of the road, and he said that the heavy steel frame of the gondola dump car which the automobile struck, was bent about three or four inches.

Sketch of Accident Site

Accident November 3, 1937: 10:05 p.m. – Car travelling west on Michigan Avenue crashes into 4th gondola car being backed into the dump line. 16 car train had come from Point Edward and stopped just south of dump line switch. It was just starting to back into dump line when crash occurred.

Bayview Park

Negotiations for Lands at Sarnia WILL ADD TO CANATARA PARK

Application Also to Be Made For Provincial Adoption of Blue Water Highway Sarnia Observer – January 31, 1938

A highway and provincial park development program on which William Guthrie M.L.A, has been working for some time is expected to bring marked improvements to the Sarnia area soon, it was announced today. These include the addition of 50 acres to Canatara Park in exchange for Bayview Park, which is to be added to the provincial park system, and a formal request to the Ontario Department of Highways to take over the Blue Water route.

Have Negotiated

Negotiations have been carried on through Mr. Guthrie, between the Sarnia parks board and the Ontario Department of Highways for the taking over by the latter of Bayview Park. It is proposed to develop the park as a tourist camp in connection with the Blue Water Bridge and other new highway plans in the Sarnia district. The provincial government has negotiated with Canadian National Railway for lands which it will turn over to the parks board as an addition to Canatara Park.

This property includes 12 acres on the west side of the Woodrowe road and the north side of the Point Edward road and 38 acres immediately south of Canatara park and north of an unused C.N.R. line.

72

S

Map

Notes Relating to Map S

Land Assembly 1938

“During the construction of the Bluewater Bridge in 1938, the Ontario Government wished to acquire Bayview Park, in connection with a beautification scheme at the entrance to the bridge. Negotiations were carried on and the Ontario Government purchased from the CNR, the lands from Canatara Park which the board had under lease from the CNR and in addition, the lowlands to the west of the board holdings and on the north side of Michigan Avenue to the easterly line of the Sarnia Road.” Ref: Sarnia Observer Mar 29, 1966, Page 17A.

19161 - Feb 19, 1938. CNR conveyed to the Crown (Minister of Highways) for $8,500, Parcel “A” (38 acres), Parcel “B” (64.25 acres) outlined in pink on Map 5.

19214 - May 9, 1938, Crown conveyed to the City of Sarnia parcels “A” & “B” in consideration of good and valuable considerations and the sum of $2.00

July 18, 1938. Work crews began lifting the CN rails from Blackwell to Woodrowe Road. In September the Parks Board asked the CNR for a lease of the CN right -of-way through the park, looking to the eventual purchase of the land. On Dec 29, 1938, the city leased 6.07 acres of the right-of-way coloured blue on the map.

Park property prior to 1938, coloured green and CNR property after 1938 coloured yellow.

Jan 13, 1938, P3 Already about 300 tons of sand has been placed on city streets this winter. The sand is procured from Canatara Park and is hauled by Board of Works trucks to the city.

Feb 22, 1938, P7 A letter from R.W. Grey, MP, with regards to the council’s request for lease of ordnance land at Point Edward for a water works park was filed. Mr. Grey indicated that the Department of Mines & Resources had investigated the proposal, and it would make a report to the council.

April 5, 1938, P14 The water works commission was authorized by the council to apply to the Department of Mines & Resources for a lease of an additional area adjacent to the city’s water works plant at Point Edward. The purpose is to protect the plant against any encroachments, and it would be beautiful to improve the surroundings as seen from the bridge.

May 26, 1938, P18 Parks Board has set out approximately 14,000 trees in a nursery opposite Bayview Park and just south of the fairgrounds. These include elm, walnut, beech and evergreens and will be set out in local parks in the course of two or three years.

June 4, 1938, P7 C.V. Nisbet The old Indian name for Lake Huron – Canatara means “blue water”

June 21, 1938, P14: Bath House Opened: It was announced today that with warm weather at hand, the bath house at Canatara Park has been opened to the public. It will be in charge of Dick Pearson for the season. At present, George Gough and Billy Pearson are operating the bath house and report a fairly large number of bathers.

June 28, 1938, P3: Summoned for Swimming in Gravel Pit: The warmer water of the SCPC’s gravel pit may be inviting to bathers at Point Edward when Lake Huron is cold, but it is dangerous. Five young villagers will appear for sentence on Saturday for trespassing on company property. The gravel bay is dangerous for bathing in because of the varying depths and to avoid drownings, the company has decided to prohibit its use.

June 29, 1938, P4: Resume Bus Service for Beach: M.J. McKay, manager of the Cities Bus Services Ltd., announced that service to Canatara Park will commence on July 1st .

July 5, 1938, P4: Buses for Park: Commencing tomorrow and continuing every Wednesday during July and August, the city will provide free buses to Canatara Park for children 13 years of age and under.

July 7, 1938, P5: Canatara Park is the Scene of Much Activity: Every day there are numerous picnics and reunions from various parts of the district, with a number booked for the rest of the season.

So Many Children Go to Park More Transportation Needed

Sarnia Canadian Observer – July 13, 1938, P3

Because there are between 500 and 600 children participating in the free bus transportation each Wednesday from the city to Canatara Park the welfare, industrial and transportation committees of the city council have found it necessary to call for addition tenders, it was reported today.

At last night’s meeting of the relief committee, it was reported that more children were taking advantage of the transportation than the committee expected and consequently Charles McFee, who was awarded the contract for the summer, could not be expected to handle the larger number. An average from 250 to 300 had been originally provided for.

It is expected the new tenders will contain similar provisions. The children are picked up at the six parks and the Imperial school each Wednesday afternoon for a visit to Canatara Park. They are brought back to the city in the late afternoon.

July 22, 1938, P3: The Board of Works has completed a new road in to Canatara Park from the lake road under an arrangement with the Parks Board. The new driveway connects with the lake road near the railway tracks and adds a considerable distance to the drive through the park.

Aug 3, 1938, P14: Float is Popular: The large float anchored recently in the lake off Canatara Park has proven quite popular among the bather’s seeking relief from the extremely warm weather of the past few days. The float, which is of barrel construction, is capable of holding

about 20 people and was added to the park facilities under the supervision of the Parks Board during July.

Aug 10, 1938, P12: Bluewater Bridge Edition Second Section: The Parks Board owns the property at the corner of the Point Edward Road (ie: Michigan Ave) and Woodrowe Road (ie: Christina St.). This property extends back to the old CNR right-of-way to Blackwell. This is one of the few pieces of virgin forest remaining in Southern Ontario and is probably the only virgin forest in Lambton County. Improvements and the removal of dead limbs have been carried out in the property, but the board has no intention of doing anything which might destroy the primeval characteristics of the lovely woodlot. (Tarzanland).

Canatara Park Has Developed into Fine Summer Playground

Thousands Have Already Availed Themselves of Its Facilities With Summer Only Half Gone

Sarnia Canadian Observer – Aug. 3, 1938, P3

In the few years of its existence as a municipal project, Canatara Park has developed into one of the finest summer playgrounds and picnic spots in this district. With the summer only half gone, already thousands of people have availed themselves of the splendid opportunities it offers for summer pastiming and before the summer passes into history it is expected that thousands more will visit the park.

Ideal Bathing

Situated scarcely a mile from the city limits, Canatara Park, with 3000 feet of frontage on Lake Huron offers splendid facilities for swimming and picnicking. A sandy beach patrolled daily by a capable lifeguard ensures bathing under ideal conditions and back in the sheltered area of the park, picnic benches have been arranged giving seating accommodation for 700 people. The park now totals almost 260 acres.

People visiting the park are not put to the hardships formerly associated with picnics for a supply of hot running water is kept on hand for the convenience of the visitors. The park prides itself on the adequate and ultra-clean toilet facilities and running water conveniences. A bath house is kept under constant supervision and bathing suits are rented. Refreshments are sold at a confection booth and a first aid kit is kept read for emergency. An outstanding feature of the park equipment is the large tract of green grass cleared of trees and on which are laid out three softball diamonds. Three games of softball can take place at once on this commodious green sward and only picnic crowds are allowed to use the diamonds. Regular scheduled league games are not held at the park.

Paved Approaches

Paved approaches lead to the park – both from the Point Edward side and from the Beach Road. Entering the park from Sarnia, through Point Edward, a person drives along a shaded pavement and cannot help but notice and admire a large flower bed aglow with all the colors of midsummer flowers. Further along on the right may be seen a game of horseshoe pitching and at frequent intervals, people seated around a lunch table munching sandwiches. Bathers are there by the hundreds and there may be a program of races run off the path provided. The drive circles

Little Lake or Lake Chipican and merges with the Beach Rd. at a point just west of the old Grant Trunk Railway crossing.

Millstone Erected

An interesting item to be noted is the millstone erected this summer at the west end of the cleared tract of the park. This millstone was formerly used at the gristmill built at Mooretown in 1853. The mill was dismantled in 1938 and the Parks Board acquired the stone and had it hauled to the park where it has been placed on a pedestal. The Mooretown gristmill was built by James Baby Jr. During the 1860’s the mill was acquired by George Leslie and in 1879 it was sold to William Brown. His son, William Brown Jr. then owned this mill up until his death. In 1936 it was sold and dismantled in January of this year. It is said that Henry Ford made an attempt to secure the millstone for his museum.

POINT EDWARD MERCHANTS WELCOME HOME

Old Boys and Old Girls

Sarnia Canadian Observer – August 4, 1938

We promise you the time of your life when you return to the hometown for the bridge dedication service. Reeve Ross, the Council, every merchant on this page and every resident of the Village are now making plans for your entertainment. We are sorry that we cannot yet give you the definite date as it has been difficult for President Roosevelt to adjust his schedule to the opening ceremonies. As soon as this matter is straightened out notice will appear in ample time in The Canadian Observer.

Recall your childhood days by visiting the old spots on Lake and River. It is true that “Turner’s pond” has disappeared – that the Sarnia Bay with it’s beautiful lily pads in summer and fine ice skating in winter has given away to a modern harbor; part of the Bay area is now a thriving poplar forest and the terminus for the bridge landing –that the old Spanish River Lumber Company where we used to fish, swim, play on the rafts and dodge truant officers is now a part of the harbor which was made out of the Bay – that the ore dock with its long string of gondolas, busy trains and large boats has been moved to Hamilton – that Walt Reid has cut a hole right smack through the old sand hill where the boys used to change their clothes on Sunday swims; this section has been made in to a find land locked harbor which runs almost as far as the railway tracks, part of the old baseball diamond is now covered with cement block and building material and some say if it weren’t for a strong breakwater that a wild north-easter might take the corner of the Village holding the wireless station and Sarnia Water Works down the River St. Clair- that the little lake now goes under the name of Chipican and marks one end of a beautiful park (Canatara) which we used to call the old quarantine ground- that the old grounds have had their face lifted, war has been declared on poison ivy , hunters and dogs. The place now abounds with quail. There have been created also bath houses, refreshment stands and a fine grassy ball diamond.

But what’s the use, come back and see the old places, meet old friends and if you don’t have a good time, it won’t be our fault.

Plan showing parcels A & B – May 9, 1938 Map Sa

Province Took Over Bayview Park

EXCHANGE MADE WITH THE CITY

Extra Land In Canatara Park Transferred – Will Beautify Environs Of The Bridge Sarnia Observer – Aug. 10, 1938

One of the changes which have resulted so far from the construction of the Blue Water Bridge, was the transfer of the ownership of Bayview Park from the Sarnia Board of Parks Management to that of the provincial government. The park, while heretofore controlled by Sarnia was within the municipal boundaries of Point Edward. It is only a short distance from the bridge.

Accorded With Policy

William Guthrie M.P.P. for West Lambton negotiated an exchange of Bayview Park for lands transferred to the parks board to be added to Canatara Park on the shore of Lake Huron. Mr. Guthrie’s efforts were in keeping with the policy of the Hon. T. B. McQuesten, Minister of Highways, to provide parks along the provincial highways for the use of the public.

It was also the opinion of many interested in the new international bridge that facilities should be provided for tourists travelling with trailers to camp out at some spot conveniently close to the bridge. Bayview Park was considered an ideal location for such purposes in case it was decided later to install such a temporary stopping place for tourists.

To Provide Others

Mr. Guthrie also announced that it was the intention of the Department of Highways to provide other roadside parks adjacent to the St. Clair River on Highway No 40 between Sarnia and Port Lambton.

In lieu of Bayview Park, the Board of Parks Management was able to add 50 acres to Canatara Park. This included 38 acres immediately south of Canatara Park and north of an unused C.N.R. line and 12 acres between the same railway line and the Point Edward road. The latter place is bounded on the east side by the Woodrowe road which leads to the lake shore district.

The Railway Right-of-Way Through Canatara

In the summer of 1938, the old main line tracks from Woodrowe Road (Christina Street) east to Blackwell were removed by the CNR. At that time the Parks Board requested a lease from the CNR on the right-of-way west of Woodrowe Road through Canatara Park. Although such a lease was obtained in 1938 by the city, the tracks were not removed since during World War II rail cars were occasionally stored on this short section of the old mainline adjacent to the park.

When the tracks were removed shortly after the war, the Parks Board several times attempted unsuccessfully to purchase this 6-acre right-of-way from the railway. In 1963 the 4.5-acre eastern portion was purchased on which the road to the new Children’s Farm was constructed. As described in Volume 9, it wasn’t until 2000, when the triangular parcel was obtained, that the final section of the right-of-way was added to the park.

An Observer article, map and Parks Board minutes concerning this issue are provided below.

Removing Six Miles of C.N. Track on Old Blackwell Loop

Recalls Days when Old, Wood-Burning Engines Puffed Into

Point Edward – Wrecking Gang at Work

Sarnia Canadian Observer – July 19, 1938 P3

Any suggestion which might be made to have the C.N.R. tracks along the city’s waterfront removed and traffic from the tunnel to Point Edward re-routed by the old belt line circling the city by way of Blackwell, is practically out of the picture now, by reason of the fact that the railway is removing the tracks on the abandoned Point Edward – Blackwell Road.

Perhaps some of the older residents of this district will recall years ago when this road was the main line into Point Edward over which wood-burning engines puffed and panted. The village was the terminal, and it enjoyed a boom until the St. Clair tunnel was constructed and the terminal moved from Point Edward to Sarnia. In recent years the old line has not been used and now the company has seen fit to remove the rails from Woodrowe Beach to Blackwell, a distance of about six miles. Yesterday a work gang and equipment moved into the district and began lifting the rails which would probably be scrapped. It is understood the line has not been used for some time and the right-of-way is thick with weeds.

The former Grand Truck Railway reached Point Edward in 1860 and it is reported there were some 14,000 navies brought out from England to handle the construction work between Point Edward and Toronto.

Map S2

C.N.R. Central Region

City Leases and Purchases from C.N.R. Since 1938

August 30, 1938: It was also moved by J.C. Barr, seconded by Mrs. Hanna that the chairman be instructed to take up with CNR the obtaining of a lease of the abandoned right-of-way along the south edge of Canatara Park west of the Woodrowe Road looking to the eventual purchase of the land.

Sept 13, 1938: From H.A. Palmer, right-of-way agent for the CNR, advising that the right-ofway west of Woodrowe Road had not been retired.

Dec. 29, 1938: City leases 6.07 acres of right-of-way (refer to map S2)

July 3, 1947: Moved by E.L. Bernard, seconded by W.A. Watson that the CNR be asked to sell the old right-of-way at Canatara Park to the Board on the same basis as the right-of-way east of the Woodrowe Road was sold to the Township of Sarnia.

April 12, 1952: Moved by Mayor Nelson, seconded by E.L. Bedard that the chairman initiates further efforts to purchase the CNR right-of-way through Canatara Park.

June 20, 1963: City buys 3.4 acres of right-of-way. (Refer to map V).

March 30, 1964: City amends lease of Dec. 29, 1938, to include only 1.77 acres (i.e. excludes section purchased in 1963).

May Build Shelter at Canatara

Would Protect the Public From Rainstorms Sarnia Observer – Aug. 13, 1938

Norman B. Forbes, architect, is preparing plans and specifications for a shelter which the Board of Parks Management is considering having erected in Canatara Park. W.E. Germain, chairman of the board, stated today that the board may put in the foundation of the new building this year and complete it next season.

Protection from Rain

It is proposed to erect the shelter principally for the convenience of the public during rainstorms. It is planned to put it on a ridge overlooking the bathing beach, a short distance west of the bath house. A veranda for the convenience of older people, who wish to watch the bathers, has been suggested for the north side of the proposed shelter.

The board purchased some brick and stone from the old George Street School which was recently demolished. It is piled adjacent to the proposed site of the shelter for use in the walls. Provision will likely be made in the shelter for a refreshment stand, it is understood.

No Decision Yet

Mr. Germain stated that when the plans are completed the board will meet to decide what action will be taken regarding the construction of the shelter.

Contract Is Let For $6,500 Structure

TO START WORK IN FEW WEEKS

Brick Building Will Be Available for Use In Wet Weather-Will Be Attractive Addition. Sarnia Observer - 1938

The Board of Parks Management last night awarded a contract for the building of a shelter at Canatara Park to Paul James, a local contractor. A number of tenders which had been received by Norman Forbes, the architect who prepared the plans for the shelter, were considered by the board. It is understood that the new building will cost in the neighborhood of $6,500.

Expect Early Star

W.E. Germain, chairman of the parks board stated today that work on the new shelter is expected to start within a few weeks and although the contractor is obligated to put in only the cement work this fall, the building is to be competed entirely by May 29th next, The foundation and a cement floor will be put in first and the rest of the outside structure will be surmounted by an ornamental roof. There will be a veranda 111 feet wide, overlooking Lake Huron and one 8 feet wide facing the park. The shelter will be erected on an elevation just west of the current bath house.

While the shelter will be partially for the convenience of the public during storms, a kitchen will be provided in it for use on special occasions. There will also be washrooms and a large open fireplace. When completed it is expected the building will be an ornamental as well as a useful adjunct to the park.

The contract for the shelter is the last new undertaking on the board’s program for this year, Mr. Germain said. The season has seen many improvements to the park system, including the completion of a new road in to Canatara Park from the east. This connects with the Woodrowe road and in addition to having an asphalt surface has been beautified by the planting of shrubs along the sides.

Additional Acreage

Although the board took over 102 acres as an addition to the Canatara Park this year in exchange with the provincial government for Bayview Park, only part of this is under improvement as yet. This is a section which was under lease by the board prior to the actual transfer of title.

88

Nov 10, 1938, P16: Walls Erected: P.J. James has installed the foundation and erected the brick walls for the shelter being built by the Parks Board at Canatara Park. The completion of the building will be deferred until next year.

March 7, 1939, P5: Jack Newton, secretary of the Parks Board advised the council that the board had instructed the city solicitor to arrange to cancel two leases with Harry N. Phillips referring to the lands near Canatara Park as the land is not now required by the board.

Mar 29, 1939, P16: Wildlife in Park: Many quail and pheasants are reported in Canatara Park and the marshlands surrounding Point Edward.

Apr 21, 1939, P16; Park Improvements: a meeting of the parks board and board of works committee of city council was held today, and the latter agreed to cooperate with the parks board in improving the road through Canatara Park.

May 5, 1939, P3: J. Paul James, contractor, is putting the finishing touches on the new pavilion at Canatara Park which costs $7,000.

May 10, 1939, P18 The softball diamond at Canatara Park, which was under water, is drying out and should be ready for use soon.

May 20, 1939, P3: Ceremony in Park: Scouts from the US and Canada planted two maple trees in Canatara Park

Parks Board Meeting: May 13, 1939

The Board will buy up to 40 chairs and two card tables for the new shelter at Canatara Park.

Sam Crosby will be re-engaged as policeman at Canatara.

G. Ramesbottom will be re-engaged as lifeguard at Canatara.

Gwen Lockhart will be granted the bath-house privileges on the same terms as in previous years.

Members of the Parks Board will meet with the owners of the new dance hall being built on the west side of Canatara Park to discuss the necessary steps to take care of the car parking in the vicinity. (This refers to Starlight Gardens as described in an Observer article below).

Plan Drawing of Canatara Park (Map “T”)

Notes to Map “T”: Canatara Park 1939

This map is based on the first map of Canatara Park, dated April 11, 1939. The east entrance and the road around Lake Chipican and through the central part of the park had been completed the previous year. A laneway to the east beach was used by the city to carry out gravel and another laneway led to the southwest corner of Lake Chipican. Most of the ball field had been built up with fill, but low marshy areas still covered much of the park. (yellow/green) The dune area consisted of two parallel ridges of sand hills, separated by a broad trough where the GTR tracks, and sand removal activities had been located. Forested areas (dark green) were confined to the high ground on the sand and gravel ridges south of the dune area. The west side by Tarzanland was a low swampy area filled with small bushes and dense brush.

The park buildings, marked in orange, include a first aid station, a concession booth, a bath house and a large pavilion. (see next page for pictures and details) A bus stop and turnaround were located near the west entrance of the park.

The CN tracks in the park were used as a siding to store railcars. The west side of the marsh, south of this rail line, was being filled in with oil-saturated clay by Imperial Oil.

The park area included 176.45 acres. In addition, the Board leased 6.07 acres, so the total area owned and leased in 1939 was 182.52 acres.

The Canatara Pavilion: May 1939 – July 1941

In the 1938 – 1939 period Paul James built the pavilion shown in the photo below and the architectural drawings below. The stone, timbre and brick used in its construction were obtained from the old George Street School in Sarnia which had been demolished in the summer of 1938. The pavilion site was where the large beach picnic shelter near the bandshell is located today. As the Observer article below indicates, this structure contained a large central hall, kitchen, concession booth and washrooms, as well as a veranda along the north side overlooking Lake Huron. An Observer photo below, that was taken in May 1939 when the pavilion was officially opened by Mrs. Hanna, shows the five most influential people in the early history of the park.

Unfortunately, the pavilion was destroyed on July 29, 1941, when a storm blew the roof completely off and demolished most of the brick walls. As newspaper articles below from the Observer, London Free Press and Globe and Mail note, many of the people who sought shelter were injured by the collapsing walls and flying glass. Several photos below show the debris around the wrecked pavilion.

Canatara Pavilion: Opened May 1939

Destroyed in storm July 1941

The bottom drawing shows the front of the pavilion that overlooked Lake Huron. The east end contained a small kitchen and concession booth while the washrooms were located at the west end. Most of the building consisted of a large central hall that was 86 feet long and 22 feet wide. In the center of this hall along the back wall was a large fireplace, as shown in the top drawing that depicts the south or inland side of the pavilion.

Fine New Shelter at Canatara Adds Greatly to Conveniences

Has been built of Stone, Brick and Timbers Taken Out of Old George Street School – Is 111 by 46 Feet and Will be Excellent Bad Weather Shelter – Contains Kitchen & Other Facilities

Visitors to Canatara Park, this year, will enjoy the facilities of a fine new fireproof shelter in the event of rain or cold. Completed during the winter, the building is a handsome addition to the convenience of the park.

Constructed of the stone, timbers and brick of the former George Street School, the shelter is 111 feet long and 46 feet wide. Situated on a sandy knoll midway between the picnic area of the park and the beach, it commands a good view of the lake and also of the park area.

Two verandahs have been built along the long north and south sides, and chairs will be provided in which older people may sit in the shade and enjoy the breezes from the lake.

The shelter proper consists of a large room with concrete floor 25 feet by 95 feet, both sides lined with large windows and a fireplace of stone on the south side. The fireplace has a memorial stone obtained at Kettle Point and bearing an inscription of appreciation to Mrs. W.J. Hanna for her assistance in making the container, in which will be kept park available to the city.

Behind the stone is a metal view of the early International Park plan, copies of the Canadian Observer, a history of Canatara park and other city parks, photographs of the city and beaches and of members of the Board of Parks Management.

Kitchen Facilities

At either end of the $7,500 building, are separate rooms, the east end one being equipped with a kitchen and booth space. The kitchen will have an electric refrigerator so that mothers visiting the park with small children will be able to keep the babies milk bottles at a proper temperature. The west end of the building has adequate toilet facilities.

The building which gives every appearance of sturdiness was designed by Norman B. Forbes, local architect and was built by J. Paul James, Sarnia contractor. It blends with the surroundings and all fixtures are of a type which will last for many years.

On Friday, when photographs of the structure were taken, W. E. Germain and Jack Newton, members of the Board of Parks Management intimated that this would be a busy year at

the park in view of the fact that there were already a large number of reservations for picnics. One Strathroy Sunday School had reserved space at the park several weeks ago, Mr. Germain said.

Canatara Park Pavilion Officially Opened Last Night

The handsome new shelter at Canatara Park was officially opened to the public at a brief ceremony last evening. Following the program of addresses and the declaration that the building was open to the public; crowds inspected the structure. Shown in this photograph from left to right are: W.E. Germain, W.A. Watson, Mrs. W.J. Hanna who officially opened the building, James C. Barr, & Jack Newton of the Board of Parks Management. Other members of the board were not present. The stone above the fireplace, secured near Canatara Park, guards a tin box in which historical data relative to Sarnia parks has been placed for safe keeping.

New Shelter at Canatara Park Officially Opened Last Night

Members of Board of Parks Management Present as Mrs. W.J. Hanna Unlocks Door and Opens Building to Public Sarnia Observer – May 31, 1939, P3

The new shelter at Canatara Park officially opened to the public with a brief but appropriate ceremony last evening when Mrs. W.J Hanna unlocked the doors of the new structure. The ceremony also marked the official opening of the park for the season of 1939.

Many visitors came to inspect the new building and avail themselves of the long rows of comfortable chairs on the northern veranda of the shelter, facing the lake where a handful of swimmers were enjoying relief from yesterday’s heat wave. Approximately 150 persons were present for the opening of the shelter.

Welcomed By Board

W.E. Germain, chairman of the parks board welcomed the assembly and pointed out that Canatara Park was acquired by purchase, exchange and lease and it was the last available land suitable for a bathing beach and recreation centre within reasonable distance of the city. Its value has been clearly demonstrated, he said and the completion of the building filled a need that had been recognized by the board for several years.

J.C. Barr, member of the board and the mayor of the city at the time when the land necessary for the park was purchased, hoped that Sarnians and the people of neighboring

communities would avail themselves of the facilities provided. He said Sarnia had been fortunate in 1932 in being able to purchase the land for the park and fortunate also in having such a publicly spirited resident as Mrs. Hanna assist in the acquisition of the park.

Since the original purchase, the board had added to Canatara Park, Little Lake or Lake Chipican and through an exchange of properties with the Ontario Department of Highways, had added all the land north of Michigan Avenue and west of Woodrowe road to the railway leading to Point Edward, establishing a total park area of 260 acres. The shelter, he said, had been paid for out of the annual appropriations of the board and further improvements were contemplated. Mr Barr then handed the keys to Mrs. Hanna.

Recognized Beauty Spot

After unlocking the building Mrs. Hanna said that the park represented one of Western Ontario’s beauty spots. She urged patrons of the park not to destroy wildflowers. If children wished the flowers, they could have them provided they cut them carefully and took them home. She pleaded however, that the plants were not to be destroyed. She referred to the fact that the park had in additions to its many full-grown trees, 19,000 new ones and urged that care be taken to avoid fires which might destroy them. Furthermore, she asked Sarnians and others using the park, to assist in keeping it clean by refraining from throwing refuse paper and other articles about carelessly. She concluded by expressing a hope that many people would find much enjoyment in the park.

The large assembly then inspected the interior of the structure and expressed many compliments to the parks board. Included in the visitors were some Americans who spent Decorations Day in Sarnia and district.

May 31, 1939, p3: (Tourist Section) Canatara Park: “Canatara Park is developing into one of the finest publicly owned playgrounds on Lake Huron. When the area was acquired by the Parks Board several years ago with the assistance of Mrs. W.J. Hanna, the board undertook to convert it into an attractive beach resort. Bath houses were built, picnic tables & benches were placed at convenient points, softball diamonds were laid out & asphalt roads constructed throughout the park. This spring the board constructed a shelter a short distance from the water’s edge.

The popularity of Canatara Park is increasing each year. At first it was used mostly by Sarnians, but last year church picnic parties, family reunions & other organizations from all over Western Ontario & some sections of Michigan spent many happy hours in the park or on the beach”.

May 31, 1939, p3 (Tourist Section) Resort Areas: “Close to Sarnia are several popular resorts, the chief one being Canatara Park, where hundreds picnic every day of the summer. The park has an extensive, safe, sandy beach. It is patrolled by lifeguards. There are four softball diamonds, a modern bath house, tuck shop & an extensive sun pavilion. The park is an ideal spot for picnics with lovely grounds & large shade trees. From Canatara Park one can obtain a magnificent view of the lower end of Lake Huron & freighters passing beneath the Bluewater Bridge into Lake Huron can be easily seen”.

Build Amusement Centre Near Park

Development is Now Proceeding of Project Beside Canatara Park

Sarnia Canadian Observer - June 5, 1959, p5

A program of development has been started on the property of Sarnia Cement Products Company, Limited, at Point Edward, which envisages the transformation of the property into an amusement center, a site for summer & permanent homes, with a private yacht mooring basin and the ultimate construction of a modern hotel.

The principal feature at this time of the amusement center which is to be known as “Starlight Gardens” will be a dance floor and orchestra shell which are under construction at the southeast corner of the property adjoining Canatara Park.

The property, which consists of eight acres, to be landscaped, trees are to be planted, driveways constructed, and lots surveyed. High sand dunes which resulted from the dredging of the bay which form a safe harbor within the property and close to Lake Huron, are to be removed.

Interests co-operating with the Sarnia Cement Products Company are behind the development of the property. The Starlight Gardens are expected to be ready for opening on June 21. Mickey McDougall and his orchestra, which played for three seasons at Wonderland gardens, London and more recently at Port Stanley ballroom, has been engaged to play at the amusement center for the summer.

Crash Near Mouth of St. Clair River

Two Holes Driven into Ship

David P. Thompson and Alva C. Dinkey

Two Vessels Concerned No one Injured

June 21, 1939, p5

The Great Lake freighters David P. Thompson and Alva C. Dinkey collided shortly after dawn today, in the mouth of the St. Clair River and soon afterward the Thompson was put into shallow water on the Canadian side to avoid leakage.

No one was injured in the collision, which occurred at 5:25 a.m., as the vessels attempted to pass each other while the steamship Robert Paisley was turning around in the channel.

Captain A.J. Munroe of the Thompson said it had two holes amidships, one below the water line, but was in no immediate danger. The Thompson was up bound with a load of coal. Proceeded to Detroit

The Dinkey, loaded with iron ore, proceeded downstream to Detroit after asserting that the Thompson was not in trouble.

Coastguardsman at Port Huron said that they did not know the extent of damage to the Dinkey but believed “she must be hurt in the bow, because she left her anchor on the deck of the Thompson”. The Thompson, Dinkey and Paisley all are Cleveland boats.

Sarnia Canadian Observer -

Lying on Shoal

The Thompson is lying on a shoal about 1,000 feet off Canatara Park. Heavily loaded with coal she appeared to be well bedded on a sandbar. She is pointed in a north-easterly direction and is well off her course. By noon she had settled three feet in the sand and was taking on much water.

Captain T. Reid of the United Towing & Salvage Limited of this city left at noon with the lighter Maplecourt to assist the stranded steamer, one of the larger carriers on the Great Lakes. Because of the heavy cargo the Thompson is carrying and also because of the fact the ship has two bad holes amidships on her port side, one below the water line, it will be a difficult task to release her.

Captain T.J. Brown of the Fort Gratiot station of the United States coastguard despatched boats to the scene of the collision but found no-one injured. The Robert Paisley is tied up at the Peerless Cement Company dock. She was swinging around to the dock when the collision of the two other ships occurred.

May Have to Lighten Ship

It appeared likely that the salvage operations will require some time in order to lighten the ship so that she can be refloated and taken to dry-dock for repairs.

Working on Stranded Freighter

Will

be Slow Job to

Release the Thompson Sarnia Canadian Observer - June 22, 1939, p5

Lightening the heavily laden freighter, David. P. Thompson, which was run aground off Canatara Park yesterday morning, following a collision, was proceeding slowly today. The Maplecourt of United Towing and Salvage Limited of this city was engaged in the work of taking off the Thompson’s cargo of coal to enable pumping operations preparatory to refloating.

Work is Slow

The Thompson seemed to be well embedded in a sandbar and the job of removing the cargo was a slow one. The Maplecourt uses a clam-type shovel for such work, and it did not appear probable that the heavy-duty pumps to remove water from the hold, could be put to work much before tonight. One hole in the Thompson’s port side is below the waterline, complicating the efforts to release her from the sandbar.

The Thompson is owned by Pioneer Steamship Company and operated by the Hutchison Company of Cleveland. It is primarily a coal and iron ore carrier and is the second largest boat in the Pioneer fleet of 19 ships being 564 feet long with a carrying capacity of 10,200 gross tons.

Collided Yesterday

The Thompson collided with the Alva C. Dickey, a 580-foot vessel of 10,800 tons, owned by the Pittsburgh Steamship Co. of Cleveland when the two boats attempted to pass in the mouth of the St. Clair River while the Robert J. Paisley of the Morrow Steamship Company was turning around to dock at the Peerless Cement Company’s wharf.

Averted Disaster

The quick action of Captain A.J. Munroe, of Cleveland, early yesterday averted a marine disaster at the head of the St. Clair River when the freighter David P. Thompson was rammed amidships by the Pittsburgh Steamship Co. freighter Alva C. Dinkey.

Witnesses said that Munroe, master of the David P. Thompson grounded his 564-foot vessel on 24 feet of water and flooded starboard ballast tanks to counter-balance the rush of water into the portside through two large holes made by the Alva C. Dinkey, thus preventing his ship from overturning in the river with its crew of 34.

Water gushing through the torn side, making the boat list dangerously, makes it necessary for Munrio to issue emergency orders to abandon ship. Members of the crew had donned life preserver’s and had swung lifeboats in readiness for abandoning the freighter while the boat settled on the river bed and the water filled starboard ballast tanks righted the freighter.

Coastguard Stood By

Coastguards stood by to pick up the crew should the boat overturn. The collision tore two holes, one above & one below the waterline of the David P. Thompson & tore the anchor off the Alva C. Dinkey. The anchor remained on the deck of the Thompson. The Thompson was built in Ecorse in 1907, has a gross tonnage of 7,600 & is 554’ long.

Caption: When the David P. Thompson, large coal and iron ore lakes carrier, collided with a passing vessel at the mouth of the St. Clair River, early yesterday morning, two large holes were driven into the side of the former vessel. The Thompson was grounded on a sandbar off Canatara Park and is shown here with the lighter Maplecourt of Sarnia at her side to assist in her release from the sand bar.

June 27, P3: Divers Work on S.S. Thompson: “Three divers using electric torches were engaged today burning off the ragged edges of the 30’ by 13’ hole in the David P. Thompson, damaged and grounded off Canatara Park. After the edges of the hole have been evened off, 3” planking will be bolted over it & the steamer refloated so that she may proceed to dry-dock at Detroit for repairs”.

June 29....P3: Inquiry into Ship Collision: “Estimates of the damage suffered by the Thompson vary between $75,000 & $100,000. The vessel was damaged over an area approximately 75’ x 15’ on the port side. The collision tore off 3 plates & damaged 10 other plates so badly that they too will have to be replaced. It is expected that temporary repair work will be completed within a week, allowing the Thompson to proceed to Detroit.

July 6, P3 Bound for Detroit Drydock: With temporary repairs completed on the hull of the Thompson, she is being removed to drydock in Detroit.

Park Outings For Welfare Children

Council Appoints Committee to Arrange for Transportation, Lunches

Sarnia Canadian Observer - July 4, 1939, p3

Alderman George Stirrett and George Silk and acting-mayor A.W. Tennant were appointed a committee by the city council last evening to arrange for transportation facilities for welfare children to Canatara Park during the summer.

Ald. Stirrett explained the welfare committee handled the arrangements last year which cost about $200, and he thought the system was satisfactory. Ald. Silk recalled that the Cities Bus Services several years ago transported children free of charge and that various organizations provided lunch for them. Ald. Silk intimated the bus company was willing to do the same thing again this summer if the city or other organizations would provide lunches.

Ald. Stirrett mentioned that the parks board preferred to have the children at Canatara Park on Thursday instead of Wednesday. Ald. Silk mentioned that there would be a six dollar a day charge for the children using the bathhouse and he said Mrs. W.J. Hanna had agreed to pay half of it the city would assume the balance.

The matter was left to the three aldermen to arrange.

July 7, p3; Will Transport Children to Park: Commencing next Thursday the city will transport underprivileged children to Canatara Park. There will be a similar arrangement to that of previous years. The contract for transporting the children is to be awarded to Claire McFee at a rate of $25 a day for 8 days. This means there will be one trip a week for a period of eight weeks. The McFee buses will pick up the children at the various parks & take them to Canatara Park.

July 11, p3: Keep Children Away from Crowds: Dr. H.W. Carter, medical officer of health, stated today that owing to 8 poliomyelitis cases in the city & district, and the death of one patient, parents are strongly advised to keep their children away from crowds such as picnic’s, camps, etc. until further notice. He advised that the proposed free bus trips to Canatara Park, which were to have started this Thursday, be deferred for the time being.

July 13, p18: Fire at Dump: Firemen were called to the city dump near Point Edward this morning when a considerable area of the dump was on fire.

Aug. 15, p12: No Ban at Canatara: Contrary to a current rumor, there is no ban on swimming at Canatara Park & the water there is not polluted, a spokesman for the parks board said today. This rumor, he felt, had kept many people away from the splendid bathing facilities offered at the park.

Vandalism at Canatara Park, Authorities to Take Action

Sarnia Canadian Observer – August 31, 1939, P3

Destruction of property at Canatara Park has taken on extra viciousness of late. There has been an unusual outbreak of vandalism such as tearing out plumbing services, the placing of inverted tacks where children are accustomed to washing their feet after swimming and exhibitions of general destructiveness that have become very annoying.

Bird Life Endangered

Depredations of dogs are endangering the quail and pheasants with which the park has been stocked.

There is suspicion that a gang is concerned in the recent damage done to the property and the board is contemplating measures to discover the identity of the vandals. It is believed that certain irresponsible individuals have been committing acts of destruction in the park for several years and the situation has become so intolerable that drastic steps will have to be taken to put an end to these depredations.

MAP S1 – City of Sarnia

Notes Relating to Map S1

This 1939 map from the city archives shows the 64.25-acre parcel south of the CNR right-of-way acquired in May 1938. The orange dashed line is the tracks which formed the eastern side of the Y on the connecting line between Point Edward & Sarnia. The yellow line probably represents the eastern limit of the dumping ground. The northern part was used by IOL, while the southern section was a municipal dump used by both Sarnia & Point Edward. IOL ceased dumping their oil saturated clay here in 1944-45 period and the municipal dump was closed in early 1952, as the following Observer article notes.

“City Closes Dump Ground”: The dumping ground formerly used by the city & Point Edward on Parks Board property, south of Canatara Park, has been finally closed, it was stated today at the city hall. From now on, Mayor W.C. Nelson stated, it will be unlawful for citizens to deposit waste material in that area.

The city has acquired a small piece of land for dumping purposes at the southwest corner of Murphy Road & Errol Road & garbage will be dumped there for the present. Point Edward will use the Sarnia Township dump.

NOTE: Three years later in 1955, the Sarnia municipal dump returned to this area It was located in the low marshy area between the old dumping ground & Tarzanland. It was closed on Oct. 2, 1967.

Notes Relating to Map U

Map U is a rough map of the Sarnia - Point Edward area drawn by scouts in April 1940.

Changes in the Canatara area since 1906 (Map E) includes:

a) Canatara Park (yellow green) with Lake Chipican Drive running through it.

b) Roadway with SCPC plant off Albert Street.

c) Breakwater & gravel pit - partly on SCPC property (yellow) & partly on Ordnance Reserve.

d) Roadway to Sarnia waterworks & Marconi Station at entrance to lake.

e) Although the map does not show it, a small section of the original GTR mainline tracks remain west of Woodrowe Road (in pencil).

f) The dump siding, also not shown, is marked with a dashed line.

NOTE: Bayview Park (green) has a new approach to Bluewater Bridge being built through it, which was opened in 1948.

Park Activities and Issues: 1940 – 1949

In 1941 a parking lot was constructed in the area where the western section of the large beach parking lot is today. Additional picnic tables were also placed in the western section of the park where most of the facilities were located.

In July 1942 a number of people were injured when the pavilion collapsed during a storm.

In the 1943 – 45 period a large amount of clay was used to raise the ballfield, then known as Watson Field, several feet in elevation.

In the 1943 – 44 period both the Sarnia Cement Products Company and the Polymer Corporation were permitted to remove sand from the dunes at the west end of the park. In 1945 the Shaw Construction Company removed sand & gravel from the eastern end of the park.

In the 1940 – 44 period the Parks Board attempted to stop oil spreading from the sludge dump by both digging a ditch and catch basin in the marsh at the south end of Lake Chipican and building a wall of ashes between the dump and Tarzanland. In 1944 the sludge dump was finally closed.

In 1944 the Parks Board revealed plans to extend the park westward to the St. Clair River by acquiring four parcels of land. To impede this plan, Point Edward officials tried to obtain a lease on one of these parcels.

In 1946 the park office and first aid building were constructed to the north of the ballfield.

Starting in the summer of 1946, free swimming lessons were provided in the park.

In 1947 a ditch was dug from the south end of the ballfield to the south end of the marsh where the Children’s Farm is now located. The ditch was extended northward along the west side of the marsh and ended at a pipe that ran under the sand dunes to Lake Huron. The drainage system was used to lower the water level in the remaining marshy areas in the park.

In 1948 the large shelter in the picnic grounds on the west side of the park was constructed.

In the late 1940’s a new picnic ground was opened up in the area just west of Lake Chipican.

During the 1940’s the Canada Steamship Lines continued to hold the “boat picnics” in the park and the Parks Board still dealt with issues related to the laneway through the McDougall and Phillips property. The city continued to remove sand and gravel from the beach.

These activities and several other issues are described in more detail in the material provided below.

Report City Parks in Good Condition MUCH DONE

AT

CANATARA

Board Added 260 Acres to its Properties at No Added Cost to Rate Payers

Annual Meeting Held

Sarnia Observer - February 28, 1940, P 3

The Board of Parks Management still operates on the basis of one mill on the dollar of assessment despite the fact that the board added 260 acres of land comprising Canatara Park to the parks system and an increased staff is required to carry on this work with safety, Chairman W.E. Germain said in his annual report to the parks board at its yearly meeting last evening.

To Retire Debenture

Mr. Germain said that one debenture will be retired in 1941 and it covers the amount of $2.408.54. The remaining debenture of $1,368.68 will be paid off in 1943. The board’s policy of paying as it goes is working to its advantage, Mr. Germain said.

Completion of the pavilion at Canatara Park has filled a much-needed requirement, Mr. Germain’s report said. With the growing popularity of the park the present faculties may require extension. More tables may be needed and increased parking is one of the problems of the near future. The plot of ground east of the walk to the bathhouse and between the two sand dunes might be worked out for this purpose, Mr. Germain said. He added that the walk to the west of the pavilion should be completed this year if possible.

Parks Board meeting, June 10, 1940: J. Smith was granted bath-house privileges at Canatara. J. O’Connor and J. Christo were engaged as caretakers and G. Ramesbottom was re-engaged as a lifeguard at the park.

Parks Board meeting, August 8, 1940: The Board passed a motion stating: “That all dogs be banned from Canatara Park except when on a short leash not exceeding 6 feet in length and that any dog found running at large in the park may be shot by the Park Police or other authorized person without notice.”

Parks Board meeting, October 11, 1940: The Board received a letter from the Canada Steamship Lines expressing their appreciation of co-operation of the Canatara staff in connection with their boat picnics.

Parks Board meeting, November 14, 1940: The Board received a letter from the City clerk stating: “That the Municipal Council be given all gravel they require on the shore of Canatara Park and in return the Board of Works shall keep in good repair the road from Woodrowe Road

to the entrance on the beach.” (NOTE: the “entrance on the beach” was the walkway that went from the park road at the north end of the ballfield to the beach.)

Canatara Park to be Improved New parking Space Will Alleviate Problems

Sarnia Canadian Observer - March 29, 1941, P 3

Construction of a new parking place for cars and the enlargement of accommodation facilities for picnickers at Canatara Park is being planned by the Sarnia Board of Parks Management. The work will be done this spring in preparation for this summer’s activities at Sarnia’s popular lake shore park.

Safeguard Children

It was announced by an official of the board yesterday that a hard surface parking lot will be built in the gully which runs between the lake and the road through the park, to the east of the cement walk to the lake. The accommodation will not be sufficient for holiday crowds, but it will help alleviate the parking problem on most days.

Tables and Benches

New tables and benches for picnickers for eating are being added and will increase the park’s accommodation to between 900 and 1,000 people. This represents an increase of about 100 over last year’s capacity.

There will be a few additions made to the parks in the city, it was stated, general maintenance and repair, cleaning and painting being the only activities planned this spring. The only piece of new construction being planned is the building of a toilet at Hanna Park on South Mitton Street.

No New Bulbs

Owing to the impossibility of securing the regular supply of new flower bulbs from Holland this year, usual arrangements of new bulbs will not be possible. Although the bulbs used last year will still be in the parks, it is thought that the display will not be equal to that of former years.

Well Known Canatara Park Pavilion Prey to Terrific Windstorm Tuesday

CAPTION: The attractive picnic pavilion built by the Sarnia Board of Parks Management at Canatara Park two years ago was demolished by a miniature tornado which swept a section of the park during a severe electrical storm last evening. The pavilion, shown in the upper picture, was known by hundreds of people of the city and district who enjoyed its facilities each summer. In the lower left picture is shown a view of the damaged structure looking from the northeast. The rest rooms at the west end of the building were left standing as well as a section of the south wall. In the picture at the right is shown piles of debris that littered the premises after the storm which sent six people to the Sarnia General Hospital.

Six People Are Taken to the Sarnia General Hospital –

Structure is Total Wreck Between Sixty and Seventy People Trapped When They Took Shelter from Storm in Two Year Old Structure on Lake Shore

Two Walls, Roof Are Blown in By Heavy Winds

Scores of Trees are Destroyed in City’s Summer Playground by “Twister.” That Swept into Wooded Area from Waters of Lake Sarnia Observer – July 30, 1941, P3

The Sarnia Board of Parks Management, in a special session this morning, decided to rebuild the Canatara Park picnic pavilion which was destroyed by a miniature tornado during a severe electrical storm last night.

Six persons were removed to the Sarnia General Hospital suffering from injuries when the building collapsed during the storm and a score or more of others who received minor cuts and body bruises, were removed to their homes in automobiles.

Released from Hospital

Of the six admitted to the hospital around nine P.M., Ken Wright, 15 year old son of Mr. & Mrs. C.W. Wright, 153 Proctor Street, was permitted to go to his home this morning. The youth suffered a knee injury.

Those still in the hospital include Mr. & Mrs. W.E. Palmer, 387 Cromwell Street, Mrs. H.H. Evans, 208 Proctor Street, Samuel Crosbie, 219 North Mackenzie Street, park policeman, and Aileen Darrach, 287 Devine Street. All were trapped in the pavilion when two walls and the roof were blown in. It was reported there were between 60 and 70 people taking shelter in the pavilion at the time.

Saw Storm Approaching

Bathers on the beach told parks officials today they saw the storm approaching over Lake Huron for a considerable time before it struck. It was dark when the fury of the twister reached shore, but one eyewitness said he saw a funnel-like cloud over the lake for some time prior to the storm. The wind appeared to center over a portion of the park and the beach. Large trees in the park were blown down and the park grounds were littered with branches and leaves.

Sarnia and Point Edward firemen and police rushed to the park and searched the ruins for possible victims who might have still been trapped in the debris. Rescue work was hampered by darkness and the rain but searchers, carrying flashlights and lanterns, combed the ruins until they were satisfied that everyone was accounted for. Civilians and members of the Sarnia Civil Guard aided in the search.

Eyewitnesses said the north wall “appeared to come toward us” and that within a few seconds the wind whipped off the roof. Rest room accommodation in the west end of the building and the west wall were not demolished by the gale. Parts of the verandah roof were hurled 150 yards through the air and landed inside the park.

Canatara Park is situated about two miles north of Sarnia on Lake Huron. It is a popular spot for picnickers in this district. The pavilion was built two years ago. The park was open to the public today.

Graphic Description

A graphic description of the storm was given to a reporter for the Canadian Observer by Clifford Davidson, south Mitton Street, who played a leading role in preventing mass hysteria and who assisted in giving first aid to the injured. Yesterday was Mr. Davidson’s birthday and in honor of the event his mother, Mrs. William Davidson, also of south Mitton Street, arranged a picnic party for him at Canatara Park. Included in the party were Mr. and Mrs. Davidson, Mrs. William Davidson, Mr. And Mrs. Thomas Gutteridge, Maxwell Street, and Eva, Kathleen, Norma and Margaret Davidson. None of the party was injured.

While we were swimming, we saw storm clouds gathering over the lake, Mrs. Davidson explained. One particular cloud drew my attention because it was shaped like a funnel and appeared to be just over the water. It seemed a long time for the clouds to approach and when it got dark, we lost sight of them.

Mr. Davidson added that the funnel-shaped cloud appeared to be in a straight line with the pavilion and with his position on the beach.

In Gay Mood

“As the storm approached people gathered in the pavilion,” Mr. Davidson continued, “in spite of the lightning and the fact that the lights had gone out we were in a gay mood because we thought we were safe from the storm. It hardly seemed possible that the building was in pieces only a few minutes later”.

“As we huddled in the pavilion the strong winds blew in the windows and this was the first indication of the velocity of the wind”, Mr. Davidson explained. “Then sand blew into the building and got into people’s eyes to add to their discomfort”.

“I don’t know how long it was after the windows blew in that the north wall caved in,” Mr. Davidson said. “Our party was in the west end of the building and the north wall seemed to move towards us. The next thing we knew, the roof was lifted over our heads and blown to the south of the building showering the people with pieces of wood, brick & stone. The lightning also struck the east end of the building”.

“By this time the rain was falling in sheets”, Mr. Davidson went on. “People could not see because there were no lights. The hydro wires were sparking because of a short circuit and many of those who were hit by flying fragments became hysterical”.

Gave First Aid

Mr. Davidson said he and Mr. Gutteridge attempted to quiet the crowd and urged them to be careful when leaving the building. The former nurse assisted in the rescue of Mrs. Evans and gave first aid before she was removed to the hospital by a motorist. Mr. Gutteridge rescued Mrs. Evans from the pile of debris.

Mr. Crosbie, the park constable, was in the pavilion when the storm broke. Witnesses said he closed the doors and windows and stood with others in the center of the building. When the crash came, Mr. Crosbie was knocked down and pinned beneath some debris, but witnesses said he managed to extricate himself and at the same time rescue Veronica Langan, Davis Street, who was knocked over by pieces of the roof. With Veronica were her two sisters, Marcella and Margaret, two brothers, Mark and Brian Langan, Theresa Armstrong, Joan Ainalee, Anna Currie and Virginia Mercurio. All of them were injured but were able to go to their homes after receiving medical attention.

Mrs. Robert Darrach, who suffered a leg injury in the crash and who was reported to be residing a little more comfortable at the hospital today, said that “it was terrible.” “When the storm came up we went into the pavilion”, Mrs. Darrach recounted, “we were standing near a doorway when the crash came. We were all knocked to the ground and after we got to our feet, we had difficulty in making our way from the ruins because there were no lights. Outside we stood in a little group hardly knowing what to do” she added. They were part of a church picnic In the party were Mrs. Darrah, Mrs. B.A. Belrose, Mrs. Ardell Walton and Aileen Darrah. They were attending a picnic under the pavilion when they had also been thrown to the floor.

Asked For Help

Mrs. Burwell said she and three other girls managed to pick their way out of the building. They ran down the park road to the Harris residence where they asked for help. Mr. Harris went to the fire hall in the village and summoned the volunteer firemen.

J.F. Strangway, chief of the Point Edward volunteer fire brigade, said 18 men responded to an alarm. The fire siren was not in operation because the power was off, and the men were summoned by the tolling of the village bell. Mr. Strangway said his men immediately started searching the ruins for people who might have been trapped while others assisted in getting the injured into automobiles and to the hospital.

A call for help was sent to the Sarnia Fire Department and four firemen responded with first aid equipment, blankets, axes and lights. The Sarnia firemen assisted the village brigade in turning over sections of wreckage in a wide area around the pavilion to make certain that no one was caught.

Dick Reid, son of Mr. & Mrs. W.D. Reid was at the Starlight Garden dance hall when he heard a crash and knew that something had happened at the pavilion. He said he went to the park and assisted in getting people from the wreckage. He added that he took four or five people to the hospital although he did not know their names.

Accompanied Friends

According to H.H. Evans today his wife went to Canatara Park after supper with Mr. and Mrs. W.E. Palmer. Mr. Evans was working at the C.N.R., here and he presumed they drove to the park where it was much cooler than in the city. He was summoned to the hospital shortly after his wife was brought in.

Jack Collier, park lifeguard, told a reporter for the Canadian Observer that he was in the bath house at the time of the storm. He said he saw a small boat on the beach tumble along the sand shore by the terrific wind for a distance of about 150 feet.

Several bicycles left by children standing against the pavilion were damaged in the storm. The bicycles were turned over to Chief Hummell, who will get in touch with the owners.

The Injured

The injured in the Sarnia General Hospital:

- Samuel Crosbie, 219 North Mackenzie Street, park constable fractured vertebrae and back injuries.

- W.E. Palmer, 387 Cromwell Street, head and face injuries and shock.

- Mrs. W.E. Palmer, 387 Cromwell Street, slight concussion, shock & body bruises.

- Aileen Darrach, 287 Devine Street, body bruises and shock, ligaments of leg torn.

- Ken Wright, 153 Proctor Street, knee injury and shock.

Those injured and removed to their homes:

- Veronica Langan, aged 14 years, 232 Davis Street, head injury.

- Brian Langan, 11 years, 232 Davis Street, cuts & bruises.

- Marcella Langan, 232 Davis Street, cuts & bruises.

- Mark Langan, 232 Davis Street, cuts and bruises.

- Virginia Mercurio, North College Avenue, cuts on head and face.

- Theresa Armstrong, South Mitton Street, cuts.

- Joan Ainslee, South Mitton Street, cuts and bruises.

- Anna Currie, Confederation Street, cuts and bruises.

- Mrs. Frank Burwell, George Street, cuts on legs.

Canatara Park Pavilion Known to Thousands of Ontario Holidayers

Handsome Building Was Completed in the Spring of 1939 –Was Modern Structure

Sarnia Observer - July 30, 1941, P 3

Canatara Park pavilion which was destroyed by a miniature tornado last night was known by thousands of people in various parts of Western Ontario and boat passengers who have enjoyed the facilities of the local park.

Completed in 1939

Completed during the spring of 1939, the pavilion was considered a handsome addition to the convenience of the park. Constructed of the stone, timbers and brick of the former George Street school, the shelter was 111 feet long and 46 feet wide. It was situated on a sandy knoll midway between the picnic area of the park and the beach, and it commanded a good view of Lake Huron and also the park area.

Two verandahs were built along the north and south sides, and chairs were provided in which older people could sit in the shade and enjoy the breezes from the lake.

Large Room

The shelter proper consisted of a large room with concrete floor, 26 feet by 95 feet, both sides lined with large windows and a fireplace of stone on the south side. The fireplace had the memorial stone obtained at Kettle Point and bearing an inscription of appreciation to Mrs. W.J. Hanna for her assistance in making the container available to the city.

Behind the Stone

Behind the stone was a metal view of the early International Park plan, copies of The Canadian Observer, a history of Canatara Park, and other city parks, photographs of the city and beaches and of members of the Board of Parks Management.

Kitchen Facilities

At either end of the $7,500 building was separate rooms, the east end one being equipped with a kitchen and booth space. The kitchen had an electric refrigerator so that mothers visiting the park with small children were able to keep the babies’ milk bottles at proper temperature. The west end of the building had adequate toilet facilities.

Photos of Wrecked Pavilion: July 30, 1941

1. This photo shows the section of the south wall including the fireplace that remained standing after the roof was blown off the pavilion.

2. On the right of this photo are the remains of the kitchen and the concession booth at the east end of the pavilion. In the center is one of the brick pillars that supported the roof of the veranda along the front of the structure.

35 Hurt When Storm Demolishes Shelter

London Free Press - July 30, 1941, P2

A lightning bolt struck the Canatara Park picnic shelter seconds before the new brick building in which 35 persons were sheltered, was torn asunder by a “twister” whirling in from Lake Huron at about 9 o’clock last night. Unable to read this section from binder.

Smashing at the east end of the structure with terrific force, the bolt loosened the girders supporting the roof and when the tornado struck the walls and roof immediately collapsed.

Most seriously injured were Samuel Crosby, 219 North Mackenzie Street, Sarnia, parks policeman, who is suffering a fracture vertebra of the spine & Mrs. H.H. Evans, 208 Proctor

Street, Sarnia. X-rays today revealed Mrs. Evans suffered a compound fracture of the leg when she became pinned beneath an avalanche of falling girders and bricks. Both received extensive abrasions and slight concussions.

It is estimated that 35 people were in the one-story structure when the tornado struck. All received injuries in varying degrees and six were rushed immediately to Sarnia General Hospital. Most of the 35 were cut or bruised.

Four Leave Hospital

Four had recovered sufficiently to leave the hospital today. They were W.E. Palmer, 357 Cromwell Street, C.N.R. engineer, and his wife, Aileen Darrach 15, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Robert Darrach, 287 Devine Street, and Kenneth Wright a boy, of 153 Proctor Street, Sarnia. Hundreds of Sarnians today visited Canatara Park, which is two miles northeast of Sarnia to view the damage. They saw a well-constructed brick building leveled to the ground with the exception of the south wall, and debris scattered within a 200-yard radius of the building.

When the storm struck the park a crowd of picnickers and bathers had already sought shelter in the pavilion.

Jack Collier, Canatara Park lifeguard, watched the “twister” head toward the pavilion from a nearby bathing-house

“The storm came from the northwest at first” he said. “Then it veered sharply a few hundred yards out in the lake and headed directly toward the beach. Suddenly the wind struck and everything seemed to sway with it. I could hear the pavilion falling and the cries of the people inside. Later a number of us went over and helped pull them out.”

Thrown Against Wall

From her hospital bed, Miss Darrach gave her version of the tornado.

“I was in the centre of the building with some other people. The wind started to blow and then the lightning bolt struck the roof almost overhead. The impact threw us against the east wall.

Then the wind seemed to pick the pavilion up and I saw the roof rise and the walls begin to cave in. I can’t get that picture out of my mind.”

It is believed heavy loss of life might have resulted if the largest part of the crowd of picnickers had not started home at the outset of the storm. Earlier in the day hundreds had gone to the park to escape the heat wave.

Throughout the night Sarnia works department employees searched through the ruins for further victims.

The storm was one of a series of violent lightening displays which crisscrossed Western Ontario during the afternoon and night, climaxing a weeklong heat wave. Sarnians today recalled it was similar to a heavy windstorm that struck nearby six years ago, leveling a freight shed and killing several persons.

Urns Untouched

Three large urns sitting on the beach side of the pavilion were untouched by the storm. Not a leaf or blossom embedded in them was broken or removed by the super-gale.

A note of irony about the scene was a brick chimney still standing on the south end of the building. Above the chimney was a stone plaque carrying the inscription; “In appreciation of Mrs. W.J. Hanna, whose generosity made possible the purchase of Canatara Park 1932.

Mel Archer, Canatara Park caretaker who watched the “twister” approach, said it appeared to be travelling “70 or 80 miles an hour” when it hit the pavilion. “After it passed the building it headed directly south,” he said.

Scores of trees in the path of the tornado were torn from their bases and hurled to the ground. The big wind appeared to a 25-yard swath for almost a mile after it passed the beach. One large elm tree bordering the entrance road to the park was uprooted and hurled 10 yards. Dozens of trees lying across the park road impeded ambulances and rescue cars as they rushed to the scene. They were forced to detour and approach the spot from another direction.

Lying in Ruins

When the police reached the scene, they found a pitiful sight. Men, women, & children were lying in the ruins, some pinned beneath the wreckage and others stunned by the lightning bolt. Picnic chairs, tables, masonry and girders were piled about and water from a broken main was flooding the floor.

Today searchers found mute evidence of picnics that ended with disastrous results. Strewn on the floor of the pavilion were cans of fruit and vegetables, sandwiches, bathing suits and towels, broken pop bottles.

In the southeast corner was a toy sailboat, sitting next to a small pool of half-congealed blood. It was undamaged.

Sarnia Board of Works officials expressed the opinion that no investigation would be held over the fatality. “We are satisfied that it was an act of God”, one member of the board said. “The building was constructed within the past two years, and it was solidly built. I don’t think anything could have stood up against that wind.”

Some who went through the experience told how a funnel-shaped cloud, moving with terrific force off the lake, bore directly down upon the 100-foot structure shattering it.

The north wall which fronts on the lake, received the first blow, and went down in a crash of brick and stone. Then under the fierce impact, the wooden roof and the heavy supporting beams shifted a few feet towards the east.

The east and north wall were down then, and the roof fell. The crowd of 40 in the pavilion had clustered together beside the east wall and the roof fell directly upon them.

Pieces Hurled 100 Yards

Fragments of a veranda outside the west wall were hurled more than 100 yards away by the freak windstorm.

Within the cries of the injured mingled with hysterical shouts of those less seriously hurt. There was no one to hear them. The storm had driven those not sheltered in the pavilion to their homes.

As the crowd began to find its way outside, four girls raced a third of a mile to the home of George Harris in Point Edward and summoned Point Edward volunteer firemen. Meanwhile, back at the scene, when those able to work were outside, a search of the debris began for those trapped within or unable to get out unaided.

One by one, the six were carried out and taken away in ambulances. None was trapped. After that, the search went on for more than three hours. Although a number of bicycles were left lying about the neighborhood, officials were satisfied that no one remained undiscovered in the wreckage.

As the roof tumbled, hydro wires began to spark from short circuits adding to the terror of the scene. The lights had already gone out.

Clifford Davidson, of south Mitton Street, Sarnia, who was in the pavilion, described the events for The Free Press. It was his birthday, and he had a group of relatives and friends had gone to the park to celebrate. They took shelter from the storm.

Describes Scene

“Everyone was laughing because they were out of the rain,” he said.” Then we saw a funnel-like cloud coming towards us. It seemed to be coming right in line with where we were standing in the pavilion. It came closer and closer. Then it struck.”

“The whole (west) wall came down, and the roof shifted. Everyone was hysterical.” He said that he and Thomas Gutterridge tried to calm the crowd. As they moved about them, they came across Mrs. Evans, whose leg was broken. They gave her first aid.

The pavilion was erected two years ago on a knoll, overlooking the lake, between the beach and Canatara Park. It was about 100 x 35 feet, containing a large fireplace. Its chief use was as a shelter by picnickers. The park is situated northeast of the city limits.

CAPTION: A combination of lightning and rain last night demolished the two-year-old $10,000 pavilion at Canatara Park, two miles north of Sarnia, and injured many people, six seriously enough to go in hospital. The above scenes taken by a Free Press cameraman show:

TOP: A general view of the building with a small section of the 2-foot brick wall which remained after the storm.

CENTRE: Part of the roof was blown more than 100 yards from the building which is shown in the right of the photo.

BOTTOM LEFT: Two employees of the park who assisted with the rescue work looked at panes of glass which were broken.

BOTTOM RIGHT: The demolished north wall of the pavilion.

INSET: Aileen Darrach, aged 15, who was hurt. She was standing in the middle of the room when the storm struck.

Gale Wrecks Pavilion, 20 Sarnians are Injured

Globe & Mail – July 30, 1941

Sarnia, July 29 (Special) – Five persons were taken to hospital and fifteen others were attended by physicians for injuries received tonight when a near-tornado blew down a bathing pavilion two miles north of here.

More than seventy-five persons were trapped in the building and officials said they were saved from death only by the fact that the wind blew the roof completely off before the building collapsed. The structure was 150 feet by 35 feet in dimension.

At the same time one section of the city received a cloudburst. Cellars were flooded, telephones were disrupted, and Hydro wires in the entire area were downed, plunging the city and district into darkness.

Debris around the wrecked pavilion made it extremely difficult for ambulances to reach the injured. Taken to hospital were Mr. & Mrs. W.F. Palmer, Constable Sam Crosbie, Mrs. H.H. Evans, and Eileen Darrach.

Clifford Davidson, who saw the building cave in, said “the west wall, nearest the lake, appeared to tumble in, then the wooden roof was lifted up, then fell back onto the forty or more people huddling for shelter.

The pavilion is at Canatara Park, operated by the City of Sarnia, at a beach on Lake Huron.

The miniature tornado occurred about 9 p.m. Due to storm interference with power lines, the lights at the beach were out, and everything was in almost total darkness. Women and children were hysterical as the thunder of falling bricks and splitting lumber combined with the roar of the wind just as the pavilion roof fell in.

The photo above was taken on July 30, 1941, the day after the storm demolished the pavilion. It shows one of the large trees, as the London Free Press article notes, that were “lying across the park road and impeded the ambulances and rescue cars as they rushed to the scene.” This view looks east from the park road at the north end of Lake Chipican. The sand dunes are on the left and the marsh that then existed between the park road and Andover Lane can be seen behind the cars. The stop sign that appears over the hood of the second car on the left was for cars entering the park road from the short laneway through the McDougall and Phillips property – See Map “T” above.

Photos of Wrecked Pavilion: August 1941

1. In August 1941 most of the remaining pavilion walls were dismantled and as the photo shows, the bricks were stacked in neat piles ready for reuse. In 1946 many of them were used in the construction of the park office and first aid building. On the left is a portion of the short laneway, bordered by stones, that went from the park road to the west side of the pavilion. Today it goes from the old park road only as far as the bandshell.

2. This view looks north with Lake Huron in the background and shows that the washrooms at the west end of the pavilion were still intact. In the foreground are some of the broken chairs from the pavilion. On the left, the roof of one of the covered benches along the beach can be seen.

3. This photo demonstrates that the drinking fountain at the pavilion still functioned in August 1941.

London Free Press (LFP), Aug. 8, 1941: Plan to Rebuild Pavilion at Park: An estimate of the costs & plans for the rebuilding of the Canatara Park picnic pavilion will be submitted to the city council at its next meeting by the Parks Board. The pavilion was destroyed two weeks ago when a miniature tornado swept an area of the park.

The city council met the Parks Board over the weekend to discuss the rebuilding, which is expected to take place sometime before late fall. It was the opinion of both bodies that the pavilion was essential to the park & should be completed as soon as possible.

The original building was built 2 years ago for about $8,000 & was insured for $5,000.

The meeting last night was to discuss how the project could be financed but it was felt that the Parks Board should lay complete details before the council before the later body consents itself to any financial obligation.

The concrete floor, water and sewer pipes and rest room facilities are still intact which will be a saving on the cost of the new building.

LFP Aug. 20, 1941 Urges Council Give Assistance on Park Space: The parks Board wants the assurance of the council that when the Board rebuilds the Canatara Park pavilion the council will assist in sharing the cost.

Germain said architects plans for a new building have been prepared and the Board desires to go ahead with reconstruction. The cost of the new building is estimated at $7,173. He emphasized the need for a park pavilion. Several Sundays ago the estimated crowd was 10,000 people and there has to be accommodation for them. Mr. Germain added that parking is becoming a problem at Canatara Park & that additional parking spaces will have to be found.

Parks Board meeting, May 6, 1942: J. Collier was given the refreshment and bath house privileges at Canatara.

Parks Board meeting, September 10, 1942: The Board sent a letter to the United Towing and Wrecking Company thanking them for their gift of the anchor now on display at Canatara Park.

Parks Board meeting, January 9, 1943: The Board agreed to sell sand to the Sarnia Cement Products Company (SCPC) for ten cents per yard from an area adjacent to their property, subject to several conditions.

Parks Board meeting, March 4, 1943: The Board authorized J.C. Barr to investigate the possible purchase of the SCPC property.

Parks Board meeting, March 26, 1943: The Board to make an agreement with the Polymer Corp. for the exchange of sand for clay fill in the ballfield at Canatara Park.

Observer March 6, 1943

Report of Annual Parks Board Meeting, March 5, 1943

Restrictions on building due to the conservation of materials for war purposes precluded the possibility of a pavilion being built in Canatara Park under the prevailing conditions, W.E. Germain, chairman of the Parks Board has advised that body in a report on operations during the past year.

A pavilion that served as a public shelter during inclement weather was destroyed by a miniature cyclone late in July 1941, causing injury to many people who were there when they saw the storm approaching.

Mr. Germain reported an improvement made at Canatara Park by the removal of a portion of a hill at the west end of the property, close to the lake. The area is to be further leveled & suitable trees planted. In order to eliminate water on Watson field, it was suggested that fill be applied this year on at least part of the area.

Besides Mr. Germain the other members of the board are J.C. Barr - Vice Chairman, G.N. Galloway, C.J. Driscoll, Mrs. W.J. Hanna, W.A. Watson, and Mayor W.C. Hipple.

Parks Board meeting: May 13, 1943: J. Collier was given the refreshment and bath house privileges at Canatara.

Parks Board meeting, July 8, 1943: Board received a letter from Western Associates Co., advising that all public liability suits in relation to the Canatara shelter had been dropped.

Parks Board meeting, October 14, 1943: Board received a letter from the Canada Steamship Lines expressing their thanks for the courteous treatment given by the attendants at Canatara park at their boat picnics during the summer and are enclosing their check for $300.00 as a contribution to the fund to rebuild the shelter.

Parks Board meeting, January 21, 1944: The Board will engage Margaret Gribble as lifeguard at Canatara Park for the 1944 season.

Parks Board meeting, March 30, 1944: The Board passed a motion that: “No further sand or gravel will be sold from Canatara Park.”

Map “U” – Proposal to Expand Canatara Park

Proposal to Add Parcels: A, B, C, & D to Canatara

Sarnia Observer, February 25, 1944 P3: From remarks made by W. Germain at Annual Parks Board Meeting held February 24, 1944 (refer to Map :U”).

Parcel B: - “I think we should acquire by lease from the dominion government all the lands under control of the ordnance department from the easterly limit of our present lease (i.e.: waterworks area) to the east boundary of their land where it meets that owned by the SCPC. A portion of the excavation where the gravel has been removed is now a sheltered lake. Point Edward has a small portion leased which is used by the Point Edward Boat Club and this should be respected, or other arrangements made to take care of them.”

Parcel C: - “We then come to a strip of land about 300 feet wide, along the CNR right-of-way and running from the ordnance lands to Canatara Park. We took the matter up with the CNR but at the time met with some opposition as it was claimed it might be used as an industrial site. I cannot see this view, but I doubt if this board would want any industry located beside Canatara Park. It is under lease until next August by the SCPC. I think we should press the point and secure this land.”

Parcel D: - This leaves only the SCPC to deal with. This is a matter for the future but this board and new members who may be appointed should keep in view that this property must eventually be owned by the Parks Board. (NOTE: According to Harry Savage, Mrs. Hanna had let it be known to the Parks Board that whenever the SCPC property came up for sale, she was willing to donate money toward the purchase, however when the SCPC decided to sell its property in the spring of 1946, Mrs. Hanna was gravely ill in a Toronto hospital and before anything could be arranged, the SCPC sold the land to Paul James, the contractor who constructed the 1939 pavilion.)

“With the control of that inland water” (i.e.: what is now the Sarnia Yacht Club basin) and the SCPC land, Canatara Park would extend “from the river St. Clair to Woodrowe Road north of the CNR tracks. The future of the park can hardly be conceived now. It would require some money for gradual development. A plan should be made for improvement retaining the present natural condition and adhere to that plan in every portion of work undertaken. A few years would make a good showing.”

For further sections of Germain’s report dealing with Canatara, see below.

Point Edward Attempts to Block Sarnia from Obtaining Parcel “B”

Soon after the Parks Board revealed its plan to extend Canatara Park to the river, Point Edward officials sent two letters asking that Parcel B in the Ordnance Reserve be leased to the village rather than Sarnia. In April another letter was sent that pointed out in no uncertain terms that the residents of Point Edward would be very unhappy if Sarnia ever got control of Parcel B. Federal government officials, not wanting to get involved in a dispute between Point Edward and Sarnia over this parcel, stated that it was not available. Five letters concerning this issue are provided below.

In February 1945, as recorded below, W.E, Germain mentioned that the Parks Board was still interested in obtaining Parcel B and would respect the lease that the Point Edward Boat Club had on a portion of this parcel.

In 1946 the Parks Board dropped the park extension plan when it decided not to purchase the SCPC property for reasons noted above.

Village of Point Edward

Office of the Clerk Treasurer

Point Edward, March 16, 1944 Ontario

Mr. David Ross, Caretaker, Ordnance Lands, Point Edward, Ontario,

Dear Sir,

At a meeting of the Municipal Council of the Village of Point Edward the matter of leasing the land designated as Ordnance property was discussed, and it was agreed that the property known as Ordnance land, lying between Fort Street and the easterly limit of Ordnance Property is desired to be leased by the Village of Point Edward.

Several reasons are hereby submitted as to why we desire this lease:

1. This Ordnance property where the bay now is, adjoins the Point Edward Municipal boundary. It is over two miles from Sarnia.

2. This is the last piece of land that provides an outlet to Lake Huron for the health and pleasure of its citizens and in all fairness should be under the control of the Municipal Council of Point Edward.

3. Point Edward, being so close is in a position to provide at short notice hydro, water, sanitation, police or any other municipal services, and at a minimum of expense.

4. Due to the action of the water erosion of the banks there is a very serious matter for Point Edward and its citizens who own homes in the vicinity. For this reason, it seems a matter of utmost importance that Point Edward should have a say in any developments that take place there.

5. The Sarnia Board of Park Management have by lease and otherwise acquired control of a large extent of land in this locality, much of which has been left in its natural state.

In all fairness they should at least show they are in a position to develop or beautify a majority of their present holdings before being leased further lands. There is a strong possibility that because of this dilatory manner the requirements of navigation may require much of the land they now control.

6. The city of Sarnia was given a lease of the land surrounding its Waterworks plant because of the large investment they had in this plant. No such claim can be put forth regarding the land in question, and now sought by them. They have no interest whatever there.

7. The interests of the Department of Point Edward, and of citizens would be best served by leasing this property to Point Edward.

Trusting this matter will receive your kind consideration.

Respectfully yours,

R.W. Burgess Clerk-Treasurer

March 15, 1944

Ordnance Lands Department

Ottawa, Ontario

Dear Sirs:

On behalf of the Village of Point Edward we do hereby formally request that your department do lease to the Village of Point Edward and the land owned by you lying to the east of Fort Street in the said Village of Point Edward and extending from the Canadian National Railways right-of-way to the water’s edge of Lake Huron.

In connection with this application, we should point out to you the Village desire to use this property for park purposes and it is the last piece of land in this neighborhood of the Village which provides an outlet to the lake for citizens of the Village. If you recollect some time ago the Village made an application to lease the property owned by you lying immediately to the north of the Village and at that time the City of Sarnia also made an application for this property on the grounds that as they had a waterworks plant there, they should have the land surrounding it. You decided to lease the property to the City of Sarnia and as a result the land now being asked for is the only part left available for Point Edward.

We would ask that you give this matter your immediate attention.

Yours truly,

Pardee, Gurd, Fuller & Tayler

ADDRESS REPLY TO CANADA LAND REGISTRY DEPARTMENT OF MINES AND RESOURCES

Dear Sir,

Quote

OTTAWA: APRIL 18th, 1944

Re: Point Edward Ordnance Reserve.

In your letter of the 15th ultimo you applied on behalf of the Village of Point Edward for a lease of all that portion of this reserve lying north of the Canadian National Railway and east of Fort Street.

Reports have been obtained from the other departments interested in the reserve, namely, Public Works, National Defense and Transport. The latter department has pointed out that the expansion of the radio station there is under consideration and on that account, as well as for other reasons relating to radio interference, they would much prefer having the Reserve kept intact.

In view of the reply from the Department of Transport we are not in a position at present to give this matter further consideration. I might add that an application has been received from the Municipality of Point Edward direct and that they are being advised that their application cannot be dealt with at the present time.

Your truly,

J. Dorne Turner

J. Dorne Turner

Messrs. Pardee, Gurd, Fuller & Tayler, Registrar of Lands , Barristers, / Solicitors, etc., Sarnia, Ontario

J. Lorne Turner, Registrar of Lands, Department of Mines & Resources, Ottawa, Ontario

Re: Point Edward, your file 52-4 O.L.

April 24th , 1944

Dear Mr. Turner,

I beg to acknowledge receipt of your letter of the 18th instant and note what you say. In view of the interest of the Department of Transportation, would it be possible to grant the Village a lease of these lands for park purposes on the distinct understanding that it would be subject to the right of the Department of Transportation to come on the property and make such use of it at any time as they might see fit?

I think it very desirable that something should be done for the Village by the department if at all possible and the Village citizens feel that they were not quite fairly treated by the department in connection with the waterworks park and if something could be done for them on this application it would go a long way towards correcting that feeling. Moreover, they are a little bit afraid that there may be an application from the City of Sarnia to extend the waterworks park to take in some of this area and if this were done it would be a very unpopular move in the Village.

Yours truly,

ADDRESS REPLY TO CANADA LAND REGISTRY DEPARTMENT OF MINES AND RESOURCES

Please Quote FILE: 52-4 O.L.

Dear Sir,

OTTAWA: October 17th, 1944

Re: application of the Village of Point Edward To lease part of the Ordnance Reserve For park purpose.

Referring to your letter of the 24th April last and my reply of the 29th June I desire to inform you that all of the unpatented portion of this Reserve subject to the existing leases has

been transferred to the Department of Transport by Order in Council dated the 3rd October, 1944. Accordingly, a future correspondence about this matter should be addressed to the Deputy Minister of Transport, Ottawa.

Mr. David Ross, Wireless Operator, who has been acting as caretaker of the Reserve has also been advised.

Your very truly,

J. Dorne Turner

J. Dorne Turner

H.E. Fuller, Esq., K.C.

c/o Messrs. Pardee, Gurd, Fuller & Taylor, Barristers, Sarnia, Ontario

Sarnia Observer, February 15, 1944, P10

……Mr. Germain’s report then discussed the situations of the city’s parks, one by one. In this process he wrote in part:

Park Was Popular

“Notwithstanding gasoline restrictions and high-water conditions Canatara Park was widely used. The Sarnia Bus Company gave a good service to and from the park during the season and helped the situation a good deal.”

“Outside of the high water on Watson Field the other parts of the park were not affected to any great extent, although it caused some restricted activities. We did protect our road but outside of that we could do very little. The conditions on the ballfield were bad but the continual rains made it impossible to complete levelling off the field which was available to us at no cost other than the charges for the bulldozer and the little extra help required. I believe when this is made level that possibly two thirds of the field will be raised. This should be top dressed and available for use with the opening of the season. If this can be done early enough, we should be able to sow grass seed and assist in restoring the beauty of this portion of the park.”

“The public are asking for a new pavilion and while the loss of the former building was a serious blow to the park, I presume nothing will be done at the present. We have the money earmarked for this fund in the bank. I might say the Canada Steamship Lines made another $300 donation las year for this fund.”

“In accordance with the resolution of the board we sold to the Sarnia Cement Products Company sand for which we received $1,097.40.”

Wall Near Dump

“We have built a wall on the east side of the city dump, for a portion of the way across, starting at the north end. As a whole conditions there are very good, especially that portion used

by the Imperial Oil Limited. In looking over this portion a short time ago it would appear to me that this company have put about all the material in that they should be allowed. I am afraid that when they level off what is now there, they will find they have gone as far east as they should if we value the safety of the trees on our land west of the Blue Water Highway.”

During discussion of the item regarding Watson Field, it was observed by W.A. Watson that the work certainly should be continued and if possible, an outlet should be secured at Point Edward so that the whole area could be drained.

In the matter of the dump, Mr. Watson commented that the oil from Imperial was spoiling one of the nicest groves of trees in the city. On his motion, the board instructed the chairman and secretary to interview the officials of the oil company to arrive at an understanding on the extent of further dumping and to ask that the company discontinue this procedure as it was found that it would further damage the trees.

Dump References in Parks Board Minutes: 1941 – 1944

Nov. 13, 1941: “Take up with City Engineer the installation of tile along the north side of Michigan Ave., to enable the construction of a road along the east side of the dumping area.

Feb. 12, 1942: have interview with the Manager of IOL regarding the height to which the dump area north of Michigan Ave. is being raised.”

Aug. 13, 1942: “have the City Engineer establish levels on the city dump so that the fill can be kept to a proper height for leveling.”

July 8, 1943: “contract Mr. Dauphine of IOL, in an endeavor to prevent the seepage of oil to the north side of the railway track at Canatara Park, or failing that, to discuss the feasibility of building a ramp to act as a retaining wall to prevent the spread of the oil northward.”

Feb. 24, 1944: “discuss with IOL the further dumping of oil saturated clay at Canatara Park & if sufficient territory is now covered that IOL be advised to cease from dumping.”

March 30, 1944: “Board to send letter to the city council requesting that a meeting be arranged between the City Council, the Board & IOL, to discuss the conditions at the city dump.”

(For an account of the meeting, see Observer April 25, 1944, page 151 – below)

Dump Difficulties

Park Board Request is Acceded To Heavily-Oiled Residue Clay From Refinery Damages Trees

Will

Vacate Soon

Matter is Settled to Satisfaction of All Parties

Sarnia Observer – April 25, 1944, P3

After spending the better part of one-hour last evening figuratively “in the dumps,” the Sarnia City Council and representatives of the Board of Parks management and the Imperial Oil Company came to an agreement satisfactory to all parties concerned.

Parks Board Request

The occasion was an informal meeting of the aldermen, called at the request of the park’s commissioners, to confer with their representatives and those of the oil company over the problem presented by the lack of a proper place in which to burn refuse, chiefly the heavily-oil clay used by the Imperial in treating a lubricating fluid. The time had come, the parks board said through its chairman, W.E. Germain, when the ruination of trees in the west side of the city dump was a serious matter. Mr. Germain asked the council to request the oil firm to vacate the property as soon as possible and to leave it in good condition, as guaranteed when permission to use it was granted.

E.E. Dauphine, spokesman with E.L. Bedard for the Imperial Oil, promptly agree to vacate as soon as possible and to have that part of the dump his firm had used placed in usable condition when weather permitted. To emphasize his full cooperation, he added the company’s thanks for the privilege of using the property over a period of years. So that issue was amicably settled, with the understanding that the council would forward a letter formally requesting the Imperial to comply with this arrangement, and Mayor W.C. Hipple volunteering the services of the city to assist the company in finding another suitable place for burning its refuse. In this connection, it was stated by Mr. Dauphine that permission had been granted by the C.N.R. for the use of property which would take care of the problem for the next 14 months.

The ball diamonds at Canatara Park are now available for use after two seasons underwater, the Sarnia Board of Parks stated today. To raise the level of the playing field an average of one and a half feet 18,000 cubic yards of earth were moved from the Imperial Oil Limited’s property in the south part of this city.

June 24, 1944, p10: Noronic Picnic: Passengers from the Noronic were entertained at the usual Saturday picnic by the CSL in Canatara Park at noon today. Buses conveyed the passengers & the ships orchestra to the park & the waiting staff served lunch. They returned to the vessel at 2 o’clock.

June 27, 1944, p3: A teenager drowned while swimming in the Point Edward Boat Club slip. The lifeboat from Canatara Park – manned by Miss Gribble, park lifeguard, Park Constable Jack Collier & Charles Cunningham – was used in the search.

July 15, 1944, p3: Canatara Park Softball Diamond Reconditioned by Sarnia Parks Board: Softball diamonds at Canatara Park are now available to the public after the addition of 18,000 cubic yards of earth which raised the level of the playing field an average of 1 ½ feet. IOL donated and trucked the earth to the park & the Parks Board directed the work of leveling and grading.

The diamonds, which have not been used for two seasons because of water lying in the playing field, are laid out & after the low part to the south has been filled in a third diamond will be added. It is the intention of the board to cover the whole playing field with topsoil & to seed it down as soon as possible.

During the summer Sam Crosbie acts as park caretaker & J. Collins as park policeman.

Sarnia Observer photo – July 15, 1944 Clay being spread over Canatara ballfield.

Parks Board meeting, August 11, 1944: The Board discussed a letter received from the Ontario Agricultural College as to the methods of preparing the ballfield at Canatara Park for grass seeding. It was decided to follow their recommendations.

Parks Board meeting, November 9, 1944: The Board stated that it will keep Lake Chipican in condition for skating throughout the winter, and, if city council will make arrangements with the township council for a supply of water from a nearby hydrant that the Board will flood the ice when necessary.

Parks Board meeting, December 29, 1944: The Board received a letter from the St. John’s Ambulance Brigade pointing out the lack of first aid facilities for their work in Canatara Park and of their readiness to construct a First Aid building suitable for their purpose, provided the Board supplies the necessary plumbing and wiring. The Board will discuss this matter further with the Brigade.

The Board received a letter from the Shaw Construction Co. asking that they be permitted to erect on the east end of Canatara Park a gravel screening plant for gravel removed from the lakebed, the Shaw Construction Co. to supply one load of clay fill for each four loads of sand removed. The Board decided to investigate this matter further. (NOTE, evidently the Board decided to proceed with this scheme as indicated by an item in the April 22, 1945, minutes recorded below.)

“

From W. E. Germain’s annual report:

Sarnia Canadian Observer – February 14, 1945, P10”

….. My own observation in “other cities” has been that on the whole regarding sport areas that Sarnia is much superior in sport parks and equipment to those I visited. The board only takes a very small percentage – 10 or 20 percent – of the gate receipts in order to help sporting organizations. This percentage does not take care of expenses incurred at the particular time. The amount taken at some other cities would come as a surprise when compared with this city. You cannot neglect the large numbers who patronize Canatara park – estimated at about 10,000 on favorable days, nor of those who love flowers.

“In connection with the damage to young trees and our equipment on the various parks would it not be possible to enlist the Boy Scouts and any other boy’s organization to help overcome the damage we must replace. Every dollar we have to spend on this kind of replacement means we have one less for expansion.”

“In my report of last year, I suggested that we open negotiations with a view of acquiring the balance of the old Ordnance Reserve which is not under our control. I think conditions at the present time are opportune for carrying out this suggestion. This would take some time to clear up and we would also require to respect the lease now held by the Point Edward Boat Club.”

“I would like to extend my thanks to the members of the board for their assistance in carrying out our work which has been given whole-heartedly and at considerable personal expense without any remuneration. The employees in both the Park and Forestry departments are

to be commended for the good service rendered by this board under different circumstances. Also, James Newton for his assistance in taking care of our phone calls to his office.”

Canatara Park

“Gas restrictions were not relaxed last year but in spite of this patrons of the park were more numerous, especially on Sunday afternoons, evenings and holidays. The Sarnia bus company deserves commendation for the service given in the handling of their patrons which made it possible for large numbers of city residents to reach the park.”

“You will recollect that over a year ago assurance was given us by the council that we would have at least sufficient fill to complete Watson Field. This was not realized, but we completed levelling as far as possible. About three-quarters of the field was graded and a good piece of work was done by the grading machinery secured from the Polymer Corporation. While we were somewhat later than we had hoped for, the land was seeded, and a good catch of grass was secured. The field will be available for ball games for the coming season and will add to the enjoyment of our patrons. The filling of the remaining portion should be undertaken early if fill can be secured.”

“The wooded area just west of Lake Chipican is being used more each year and the past season has seen this increased. This is really a beautiful spot. If we had water connection, I believe it would have increased patronage. The township has a water hydrant close by and I wonder if their council would permit us to secure water for drinking purposes from this hydrant. The amount of water used would be very small, and we have sufficient piping on hand to take care of it. One of our board might be delegated to see what could be done. This would also relieve a dead end in their water line.”

“Our employees levelled a small area north of the travelled road and just west of the road near the lake front. This was then seeded. The intention was to use this as another picnic spot for small parties as we found the area just west of this was very popular.”

“Parking space for autos is becoming a serious question, and if funds are available, I feel we should develop the area on the lake shore at the west end of the park. This would allow the public to drive to a point where they could sit in their cars and enjoy the lake view.”

“The St. John Ambulance Brigade has been an asset to the park. It has made a request for added accommodation to carry out its work. Members would assist in this under an agreement with the board. While we should meet these people in any way possible, I think we could make another arrangement which might be of more benefit.”

“With the loss of our shelter we were placed in a peculiar position with regard to its replacement which the public very much desires. While we have considerable money for this fund it is doubtful if permission could be secured to erect a new one.”

Parks Board meeting, February 16, 1945: William C. Leckie is given refreshment privileges at Canatara Park.

Parks Board meeting, March 20, 1945: The Board decides to apply to the Minister of Lands and Mines to remove gravel from the shore of Canatara Park.

Parks Board meeting, April 22, 1945: W.E. Germain will arrange with the Shaw Construction Co. for the removal of the gravel piles on the beach in front of the bathing area at Canatara park.

The Board decides to send a letter to the secretary of the Town Planning Commission embodying the Board’s views on the terms of the suggested lease of part of the Ordnance Reserve. (Note: This refers to Parcel B).

Parks Board meeting, July 13, 1945: The Board received a letter from the Town Planning Commission suggesting that in the future correspondence regarding the acquisition of land in the Ordnance Reserve be carried out directly with the department concerned.

Parks Board meeting, October 11, 1945: The Board decides to name the roadway from Woodrowe Road into Canatara Park Lake Chipican Drive.

Parks Board meeting, January 10, 1946: The Board will have a plan drawn up showing the dimensions, lay-out, location and type of construction for a new shelter in Canatara Park.

New Parking Area Mooted for Canatara

Also, Office and First Aid Station Sarnia Observer - May 8, 1946

Future developments at Canatara Park, including the erection of a first aid and office building, and a creation of a parking area at the west end of the park were hinted at in the report of W.E. Germain, chairman of the Sarnia Board of Parks Commissioners, given at the annual meeting last evening at the Sarnia Riding Club.

Shelter Unreplaced

The report indicated that the Board was fully cognizant of the need of replacing the shelter at the park which was blown down in a cyclone four years ago as soon as possible, but that it might be necessary for financial reasons and because of lack of material, to postpone the erection of this structure for some time yet. Mr. Germain stated that a sum of more than $9,000 is available and earmarked for this purpose being made up of insurance and the annual contributions of the Canada Steamship Lines, which uses the park for its passengers during the summer months.

Further improvements contemplated at Canatara Park include their provision of a parking area at the west end of the park with a view of the lake. The chairman suggested that an area from which Polymer Corporation had removed fill might be made suitable for this purpose by some work with a bulldozer and assistance from the city asphalt plant in laying a layer of asphalt over the soil.

Life Guard at Canatara

Parks Management Declares Beach Safe

Sarnia Observer – June 26, 1946 P3

W.E. Germain, chairman of the Sarnia Board of Parks Management declares today that the beach at Canatara Park was perfectly safe for bathing.

The chairman said he made the statement owing to having heard that a number of women were circulating reports to the contrary. He said there were no holes in the sand under the water. Life Guards on Duty

The Parks Board official also stated that Miss Margaret Gribble, lifeguard at the park for four years, has been on duty there since Sunday and that it is her intention of giving free swimming lessons there in the mornings. She will continue on duty until late September.

Miss Gribble is a graduate nurse, having completed her training at Sarnia General Hospital in 1942. Having been an expert swimmer all of her life she immediately was engaged as a lifeguard at the beach and is now entering her fifth year there.

To enhance her qualifications for the saving of bathers in difficulties in the water, Miss Gribble just complete a four-day lifesaving course at the London Y.M.C.A. under the sponsorship of the Red Cross. It is understood she will give her swimming instructions under the auspices of the local branch of that order.

Miss Gribble has a large number of medals and trophies which she has won in swimming competitions.

Learn to Swim

Red Cross Begins Course

At Sarnia’s Canatara Park

Sarnia Observer - June 29, 1946, P 3

Starting Wednesday, July 3, the local Red Cross will hold daily, Monday to Friday, swimming and safety classes at Canatara Park. They will be under the supervision of Margaret Gribble, a registered nurse and a Red Cross lifeguard and instructor.

The classes, which are open to both children and adults, will be held from 10 to 12 o’clock in the morning with a course including 12 to 15 lessons. Practical work in the water will be the major part of each lesson, while lectures and drills will be held before and after every session.

Local officials formed the class so that Canada’s death by drowning, 5,000 during the war years might at least be reduced. A general health examination will be made on each person who takes the course, the charge, if any, to be low.

All applications forms at to be handed in at the Y.M.C.A. by Wednesday, extra forms available at that place. Due to many persons having their holidays at different times during the summer, classes are planned so that several can be completed during July and a like number completed in August.

Those that make a satisfactory showing during the course will receive badges, pins and certificates. There is no charge for the classes and every boy and girl who takes them should be a qualified swimmer at the end of the summer.

Clip and fill out the form below and present it to the Y.M.C.A.

-APPLICATION FORM(Age limit seven and over)

Name of

Participant………………………………………………………………………………………

Address………………………………………………..

Age……………………………………………………………………..

Competitive or life guarding medals held by participant……………………………………………………

Parents’ consent:

In consideration of this acceptance of this application, I hereby release the Canadian Red Cross Society and the Sarnia branch thereof from any and all liability for damages or injuries which may be suffered by……………. By reason of his or her membership in the Red Cross Swimming and Water Safety Classes………………………

(To be signed by father if participant under twenty-one)

Doctors’ certification of fitness

The Rock Garden, One of the Many Beauty Spots in Canatara Park

Aug. 20, 1946 page 12

This is a picture of Sarnia’s most popular summertime picnic spot on Lake Huron. It is, of course, Canatara Park, and the section shown above is the lovely rock garden, near the bus stop and just a short distance from the refreshment booth. The park is resplendent with summer blooms.

Remnants of this rock garden can still be seen just north of the old park road & opposite the children’s playground at the west end of the park. The remains of another rock garden can also be seen just east of the administrative & first aid building. According to Harry Savage these rockeries were the pride and joy of Thomas Knight, the head gardener for Sarnia Parks.

Thousands of Sarnia and District Folk Found Relief from Heat Sept. 27, 1947 page 3

This picture is taken from near the west entrance looking east down the roadway toward where the administration and first aid building is today. The bus loop is on the left and the rows of metal posts on the right were used to restrict car movement.

Sarnia Observer – August 15, 1947 P1

There’s a Refreshment Booth at Canatara – But No Shelter

This picture of the original refreshment booth is taken from the old roadway looking east with the ballfield in the distance. This booth opened in the summer of 1933 & was used until 1951, when it was replaced by another booth on the same site. Among those operating the booth in the 1930’s was C. Paff & E.F. Gough. Today the children’s playground near the large shelter in the picnic grounds on the west side of the park is located near the site of these two former booths.

Canatara Has a Bathhouse – But No Shelter

The bath house was located where the washroom at the northwest corner of the beach parking lot is today. This picture is taken looking north down the walkway to the beach. The bath house was built in 1933 and during the 1930’s was operated by Owen Lockhart. It was used for renting bathing suits & towels as well as changing and checking clothes. Records in 1945 show that the charge for this service was 5 cents for checking clothes or renting a towel & 10 cents for renting a bathing suit. An addition to the bath house was constructed in 1949 & the building was demolished in the early 1970’s.

Attreactive Lake Shore Road Entrance to Park

This picture is taken looking west from Christina Street at the original east entrance which was bordered by a row of catalpa trees. The railway tracks located about 75 feet south of this entrance can be seen on the left. In 1947 the C.N.R. removed these tracks and in Sept. 1952 the stone pillars which served as city gates at the corner of London Road & East Street were moved to their present location on this former railroad right-of-way. A year later the park

entrance was moved south so that it passed between these two pillars. Curbs along the new entrance were constructed of large sandstone blocks once used as a curbing around the old Sarnia city hall. Some of these blocks can still be seen near the entrance today.

Canatara Park Needs a New Shelter

Sarnia Observer - Aug. 2, 1947, P 6

Sarnia is fortunate in having Canatara Park. It is not only a beautiful spot but is easily accessible. Sunday school, family, and all kinds of groups make full use of its facilities, not once, but many times a year. If Canatara Park has any defect it is the lack of a shelter large enough to protect picnickers from rainstorms.

Evidently no civic money is forthcoming for the prompt erection of a shelter. Therefore, the task of raising money to build the much-needed shelter will fall on the Chamber of Commerce. The Chamber has no surplus funds out of which it can, by the stroke of a pen, devote a few thousand dollars to this worthy project.

The Chamber will lead the money-raising effort and it will shortly ask for the full and earnest cooperation of everyone in raising approximately $8,000 quickly, so that a contract may be let for the building of a substantial shelter of good size.

Many times, this year picnickers have been “wet to the skin” when caught in a sudden downpour. It is not right that Sunday school picnics, and everyone in general, should have happy events ruined because Canatara Park lacks some means of giving protection from rain.

All citizens can give expression to their usual generosity by making a gift of money to defray the costs of building “a big umbrella” in Canatara Park.

Sarnia Observer - August 7, 1947

Plea For Park Shelter, And Advanced Swimming Class

Canatara Park is more than picnic grounds for Sarnians on hot summer days. Yesterday afternoon, Harold Miller, Canadian Observer cameraman, snapped a swimming class on the beach and a sign asking for assistance to erect a shelter to replace a structure blown down several years ago in a windstorm. Flanking the substantial poster for the shelter are Mrs. Wm. Frew and Mrs. J.G. ……???

Parks Board meeting, January 8, 1948: The Board is to have the fill at the south end of the ballfield at Canatara Park levelled.

Parks Board meeting, February 26, 1948: The Board decides to proceed with the construction of an open shelter at Canatara Park and that Harry Pippard be engaged to erect the building.

Parks Board meeting, March 11, 1948: The Board gives permission to the Sarnia Red Cross Society to erect a tent at Canatara park near the road leading to the City gravel loading area for use by the swimming instructor.

The Board decides to send a letter to the Chamber of Commerce advising that on their assurance to raise $5,500, a shelter at Canatara Park will be built at a cost of $6,500.

Parks Board meeting, June 10, 1948: The board sent a letter thanking the Board of Works for improving the road at the north end of lake Chipican.

Parks Board meeting, July 15, 1948: The Board engaged Parker Farm Service to spray Canatara Park with DDT using a fog sprayer.

To Transfer Park Shelter

Chamber Will Present Canatara Building Sarnia Observer - Aug. 14, 1948, P 3

The new shelter recently erected in Canatara Park will be formally handed over to the Sarnia Board of Park Management on Wednesday at a brief ceremony by Fred Walker, president of the Sarnia Chamber of Commerce through whose efforts the building was made possible.

To Hold Luncheon

The ceremony will take place during a Luncheon to be held in the shelter to which members of the Chamber of Commerce, the Parks Board, city council and other civic officials have been invited.

Mr. Walker will formally present the building to W.E. Germain, chairman of the Sarnia Board of Parks Management, who will accept it on behalf of the municipality. The shelter has been in use during the present season and has been greatly appreciated by numerous clubs and groups which have used it for their picnics.

Drive for Funds

A drive for funds for the building of this shelter was made last fall by the Chamber of Commerce and renewed this spring. As a result, the building, erected at an approximate cost of $5,000, has been built without any cost to taxpayers.

The shelter was erected to afford some protection from rainstorms for the thousands of citizens who make use of Canatara Park during the summer.

It has been placed in the central wooded section of the park. It is not intended that this shelter shall replace the one built on the lake which was destroyed in a twister several years ago.

However, it is the intention of the Parks Board to proceed with the construction of another permanent structure, as soon as building conditions permit, and material is available. The luncheon on Wednesday will commence at 12:15 p.m.

Shelter is Presented

Canatara Structure Conveyed to Board

Sarnia Observer - August 12, 1948 P5

The Canatara Park rain shelter, recently completed, was formally turned over to the Sarnia Board of Parks Management during a luncheon held there at noon today.

Made Presentation

Fred Walker, president of the Chamber of Commerce made the presentation to W.E. Germain, chairman of the parks board, after welcoming the directors of the Chamber of Commerce, members of the Parks Board, Mayor W.C. Nelson and other civic officials who attended the luncheon.

Mr. Walker said that the shelter, designed to provide protection from the elements for park patrons, had proved itself after a month’s operation. Its constant use has also shown that another shelter will be needed in the near future, as well as a pavilion to replace the one destroyed during a storm several years ago, he said.

At the close of his remarks Mr. Walker presented Mr. Germain with a cheque for $100, which is to be used for providing an engraved tablet, showing the names of “community minded” citizens who contributed to the funds which made the building possible.

Other Speakers

Addresses were also made by Mayor Nelson, Mr. Germain, Carl C. Manore, managersecretary of the Chamber of Commerce, Reeve Fred Tigwell of Point Edward, and W.C. Reeve and Gordon Forbes of Sarnia Township.

Mr. Germain thanked those who had made possible the erection of the shelter and gave an account of the park’s progress since it was acquired by the board through a donation made by the late Mrs. W.J. Hanna in 1932.

Mayor Nelson commended the citizens who made personal sacrifices to build the shelter and said that this sense of civic pride seemed to be spreading and should be encouraged among those who are able to make sacrifices.

Reeve Tigwell expressed appreciation that friendly relations exist between Sarnia and Point Edward.

This photo was taken about 1935 and looks west across the main bathing breach that was then in the western section of the park. Notice the covered benches along the upper beach and the remains of the gravel loading dock in Lake Huron.

This postcard photo from the early 1940’s looks west with the American shore in the background. Notice that the higher parts of the Gladstone wreck still protrude above the surface of Lake Huron.

Canatara Park Photos: 1935 – 1949

This 1938 view is looking east down the park road where it runs north of the present-day Children’s Farm. The tall marsh vegetation to the right of the road is where the fishpond is located today.

This photo was taken in the winter of 1939-40 and shows the view looking south-east from the north end of lake Chipican. At that time there were no houses along Lake Chipican Drive, which was then simply called the park road. Notice the cattail thicket in the foreground and the large birch trees that then existed on the ridge of the east side of Lake Chipican.

This Observer photo from June 5, 1946, shows the beige brick building at the north end of the ballfield under construction. The bricks were salvaged from the pavilion that was destroyed in 1941. Originally it housed both the park office and the first aid station.

This photo appeared in the Observer on July 14, 1947, and illustrates the large number of Sarnians that regularly came to the Canatara beach during the 1940’s to escape the summer heat waves. Notice the MM&R breakwater at the west end of the beach.

This 1947 Observer photo shows the view looking southeast from the northwest corner of the ballfield where the large anchor and one of the softball diamonds was located. The south end of the ballfield was still occupied by a cattail marsh, as can be seen on the right of the photo.

This photo appeared in the Observer on August 1, 1947. The captions under it reads: “Canatara Park is crowded every weekend with hundreds of district residents seeking relief from the summer heat in the cooling waters of Lake Huron. Many of the bathers travel to the popular lake resort by bicycle. Observer photographer Harold Millier has caught a section of the crowded bicycle racks at the park. Joan Mapletoff and Ida Dennis are the attractive girls putting their bikes in place.” The building in the background is the office and first aid station shown under construction in photo 5 above.

This photo appeared in the Observer on May 16, 1947, just a week before Governor-General Alexander was coming to the park. It was taken from the dunes north of Lake Chipican looking southeast and shows that much of the road around the northern section of the lake was flooded. To drain the floodwaters in the park wetlands, which then included not only the Lake Chipican area, but also the south end of the ballfield and the present Children’s Farm site, a ditch was dug through the dunes to Lake Huron.

This January 1948 view looks southeast from the northwest corner of Lake Chipican. An item in the Observer on September 9, 1948 noted that, “Lake Chipican, commonly known to local residents as Little Lake, is situated at the eastern end of Canatara Park and forms one of the beauty spots of Sarnia’s natural playground. Of considerable extent, the lake affords a pleasant vista for persons entering or leaving the park from Woodrowe Road. It is a mecca for skaters in the winter season and usually provides a first-class sheet of ice. It is believed that the River St.

Clair at one time found an outlet from Lake Huron through the territory now covered by the lake. Many new homes have been built overlooking the lake from the east.”

This view looks west across Lake Chipican from one of the houses under construction on the east side of the lake. Notice the large marsh of cattails and bulrushes that then encircled “Little Lake”.