North Gower: A Village History, 1820-2020
A Preview of the Forthcoming (and now available for purchase) RTHS Publication
On Thursday evening, October 19th , members and friends of the Rideau Township Historical Society attended (both in-person and via ZOOM) an event at the Alfred Taylor Recreation Centre in North Gower for an introduction to the forthcoming RTHS publication: North Gower: A Village History, 1820 – 2020.
President Doug Culham opened the evening and welcomed attendees. Sandy McNeice then introduced the book’s authors: Susan McKellar (team leader), Owen Cooke, Bill and Georgie Tupper, and Ruth Wright. After providing an overview of the book, Susan and other authors presented highlights of selected chapters.
Focusing principally on Governance, Military & Defence History, Heritage, Fire Service, and Family Life, the presentations included pictures and illustrations from the book. In addition, RTHS member Robin Craig read a poem about the Craigs, and gave some background on this well-known family in the village.
Following the talk, snacks and beverages were available, and guests were able to view village photos on display, as well as a selection of historical artifacts presented by C. J. Rooney and Bill and Georgie Tupper. Our Publications Director, David (Sandy) McNiece, took orders for the book, which is anticipated to be available before the Christmas season.
The hard cover book, which is quite large at 400 plus pages, would make an excellent Christmas gift for anyone with ties to the North Gower area. The book highlights a journey through 200 years of history, from an obscure crossroads in the wilderness, to the agricultural and residential community within the City of Ottawa that it is today. The book includes lots of local stories, including many that may be unfamiliar to readers.
If you wish to reserve a copy, please email David (Sandy) McNiece – dmcniece@rogers.com – to have your name and contact information added to the pre-order list.
