With the help of volunteers, community members and your generous donations, over the years we have been able to rebuild and restore many elements of the O’Hara Mill Homestead.
“Below are stories of perseverance and preservation, summarizing some of the most recent restoration projects undertaken by the O’Hara Volunteer Association. ”
1. One Room Schoolhouse
The Schoolhouse project began about 5 years ago, when a good portion of the loose cement block foundation was replaced with 1800's barn foundation limestone. More recently, an area of the floor that was proving to become particularly soft, was removed to reveal, significant rot in the joists and floorboards. Further inspection revealed that it was extensive, potentially compromising the structural integrity of the original building. The decision was made to replace the floor completely and add protective measures against future damage.
The old flooring was completely removed, revealing the earthen floor and loose cement blocks. From there, a new vapour barrier, joists and a subfloor were installed, before the final layer of new pine flooring was laid down and painted to replicate the original design.
Throughout this process, the exterior foundation was also restored with new limestone, ensuring that the Schoolhouse would yet again, be able to stand the test of time.
The labour for this project was provided by volunteers Joe Kaehler, Walt Kincaid, Ben Kourtekas and Dave Little. We cannot Thank You enough for your time, guidance and skills.
2. Footbridge: Creek Crossing
Traversal of Lois Wishart Way, a 1km trail from the public parking area to the Log School House, requires fording Deer Creek above the Mill Pond. For decades visitors have been crossing via stepping stones. However, during Spring runoff and some heavy rainfall events, it had become difficult to safely cross the creek safely and sometimes not possible at all.
In 2018, we partnered with Peter Ross’ shop class at Centre Hastings Secondary School and together built a large foot bridge that creates a safe and sturdy crossing for visitors in any season. In class, students built steel beams, cut the components for the wooden decking, posts and rails, before installing with volunteers on location.
Turns out it’s a wonderful spot to now stop, enjoy the quiet and bask in nature’s beauty.
@lexii._loo via Instagram
3. Democrat Carriage
The Project: Our records indicate that this Democrat was donated to O'Hara Mill in 1968 by an Ernest Leaven.
After years of extensive use, and time sitting in storage, it was in dire need of a complete overhaul. Everything was disassembled. Parts were cleaned, replaced and painted. Spindles were refit, cracks were repaired, seats were reupholstered. With the careful work and dedication of volunteers, the buggy is completed restored and regularly used for photo shoots and special events at O’Hara.
For more pictures and details on the restoration, click here.
The History: The “democrat” was a simple buggy which served as personal transportation from 1870 onward. It was popular for quick trips between towns and would carry small loads or luggage in the bed.This wagon design has three leaf springs: one (double) over the front, and two over rear axles. These fairly light springs, plus a horse-hair stuffed leather cushion, made for a comfortable ride.However, because it has no top or cover, in cold weather the driver and passengers would use heavy lap robes and sometimes a metal foot warmer, filled with fire coals. Of note, unlike many utility wagons (delivery, farm, freight), there are no brakes. The lead horse provided the force to stop, as well as to go.
