June 14, 2012 Chisholm Centennial Celebrated

Chisholm Township has several Centennial events on its agenda for 2012 but the main event took place Saturday June 2 at the Township Office and the Public Works Department.  The 25^th anniversary of the Chisholm Volunteer Fire Department coincided with the Centennial and was celebrated on the same day. 

The Saturday Event 

There was a large turnout for the June 2 event in spite of some occasional drizzle..  A large tent set up in the office parking lot was used for displays of antique tools, family histories. Local musicians entertained.  

The Township Office and Council Chambers provided additional space for other displays and lunch.  The fire department attached to the office provided space for Fire Department displays and activities. The Friends of the  OPP from their Museum in Orillia along with the firefighters provided lots of activity for the guests.  

The Callander Legion Pipe Band and Chisholm Fire Department and some guests preparing for the official opening of Centennial event.

The Callander Legion Pipe Band played a short concert and led the firefighters and guests to the newly established beautification project at the front of the office for opening ceremonies. The firemen unveiled a new flag and flagpole along with a relocated unique antique piece of fire equipment. 

Councillor Teresa Miller and Chair of the Centennial Committee was MC of the event and Mayor Leo Jobin brought greetings.  M.P. Jay Aspin also brought greetings from the government. The Town Crier Hugh Smith read a proclamation and Peggy Smith the Township’s Poet Laureate read a special Centennial poem. After lunch a beautiful memorial stone cairn was dedicated. 

The Cairn Project 

Shane Hughes Masonry with Dad Brad and brother Kirk volunteered to build a memorial cairn with a brass plate celebrating the Centennial.  It was built with volunteer supplies from several businesses and donations from families. 

Teresa Miller introducing the Rev. Teresa Jones (R) for the dedication of the Memorial Cairn. Shane Hughes the mason (L), The Town Crier Hugh Smith, Mayor Leo Jobin and MP Jay Aspin.

Rev. Teresa Jones provided a beautiful interactive dedication ceremony for the cairn which will be a permanent memorial of the Centennial. 

Many volunteers helped make the day a success.  The Chisholm Bus Line provided a shuttle bus from parking at the Public Works Yard and a volunteer driver made many trips to the main event. A fine display of antique cars and tractors drew crowds to the Public Works Department. 

Centennial Book and Pins 

A Brief History of Chisholm Township has been prepared and has sold well as has a beautiful Centennial  pin. Both are available at the Township Office and at the Country Market Store on Alderdale Road. ($3 each). 

The Fire Department 25^th Event 

The Clear Springs Golf Course was the site of a June 2 evening of food, music, and recognition.  Gifts for Fire Department members, including watches for 5 original members were provided.  Various dignitaries including MPP Vic Fideli were present.  The Swamp Donkeys entertained for the evening.  All in all a memorable day for Chisholm Township.