On December 4, 2024, the Glengarry Historical Society Speakers Series hosted Mackie Robertson at the Lancaster Legion for a homemade turkey supper and a wonderful presentation about the Heritage Homes of Glengarry. Robertson introduced the audience to 20 historical homes, five from each of the four historical Glengarry townships: Lancaster, Charlottenburg, Kenyon and Lochiel. To be included in his presentation each home must have been more than 100 years old, have been lived in during those years and was currently being lived in, and, most importantly, that it had an interesting story to tell.
One example is the Kinloch Farmhouse, built in 1849. This stone house was built by Alexander Kinloch who came from Midlothian Scotland and who was a master mason and carpenter. He was the builder hired to build the former St. Andrews Presbyterian church, now the United Church in Martintown as well as the adjoining manse.
An interesting feature of the Kinloch Farmhouse is the beautiful stone outbuilding which boosts gun slits. These were necessary because during that time Upper Canada was under American threat. Beside the blockhouse is a 25-foot-deep cut stone well with stone steps that descend in a spiral to the bottom of the well. Today, the current owners have lovingly and thoughtfully upgraded the original interior to preserve the beauty and the character of this historical home.
Another example is the Madden house in Alexandria which was built between 1902-1903 by the Deaver family. The Deaver family were respected general merchants who specialized in cheese and subsequently became the largest cheese dealer in Glengarry during the 1920’s. It was bought by the Maddens, and at that point a decision had to be made whether to save it or to demolish it. Luckily the Maddens chose to save it. They beautifully restored it in 2018-19, with both original elements and modern touches.
Mackie introduced each home with photographs of what it looked like 100 years ago and what it looks like now. The audience was clearly appreciative of the care and love that went into preserving these lovely historical homes.
This evening was a sold-out event and was enjoyed by more than100 local history lovers. The next speaker in the Glengarry Historical Society Speaker Series will be Jack Hanna. His presentation is titled: Dougald MacGillivray; a local farmer turned WW II hero. There will be family members on hand and a display table of some of his most prized items. This will take place on Wednesday, January 8th at 7 pm, at the Michel Depratto Hall of the Glengarry Sports Palace.
For non-members, tickets are $10 and for members, tickets are $5. Light refreshments and treats will be available.
Mackie Robertson is available as a guest speaker for any event you might have. He can speak on many topics of local history, travel and theology. He can be reached at [email protected].
