Written By Olena Riznyk
AILSA CRAIG – Twenty-five years ago, a group of Ailsa Craig residents came together to keep the community’s old town hall open. Today, the building is still in use and the plan they created is still working.
Friends of Ye Olde Towne Hall held an open house on September 19 as part of its 25th anniversary year. The day included a barbecue, tours of the building, the group’s annual meeting and live entertainment.
Built in 1906, the building has served as council chambers, a library, fire hall, theatre and community meeting place over the years.
When Ailsa Craig, Parkhill and the surrounding rural areas became North Middlesex, the building was no longer needed as the town hall. Local residents came together with a plan to manage it and keep it open for the community. “Most organizations last two or three years,” board member Gerry Barbe said. “This is actually 25 years.”.
Inside the hall, photographs collected over the past 25 years show concerts, dances, children’s programs and other events that have brought people through its doors.
Today, the hall is used for community programs, concerts, private events and rentals. A small group of board members and volunteers also puts time into organizing activities, taking care of the building and keeping it running.
Over the years, they have continued to put money and work back into the building. Barbe said the Friends receive $5,000 a year from North Middlesex and put that money back into improvements. The group also covers costs including water and insurance.
Now, the Friends are also thinking about who will become part of the hall in the years ahead.
A recent community survey showed interest among younger adults in having more things to do in Ailsa Craig. Barbe said he would like to see younger people bring their own ideas, help plan activities, volunteer and become involved with the board.
This summer, 19-year-old Ruby worked with the group and helped with Instagram. Barbe said he would like to see more young people like her become involved and bring their friends and ideas with them.
New housing is also bringing more residents into Ailsa Craig, and Barbe said the group is looking for ways to connect with people who are new to the community.
After 25 years, Ye Olde Towne Hall has a long history in Ailsa Craig. Barbe would like to see more people become part of its future by bringing their own ideas and getting involved. “That business plan that was put together 25 years ago is still working,” Barbe said.
