MELDRUM BAY—The Meldrum Bay Historical Society hosted a book launch last month for Shirley Hoskins’ new book, ‘The South Shore Quarry’s Contribution to Canadian History.’
After doing a re-write in 2000 of Archie Wickett’s 1966 memoir, ‘A history of Meldrum Bay and Dawson Township,’ with augmentations and many photographs, Ms. Hoskins has spent several years researching the history and the local lore about the long abandoned limestone quarry on the South Shore of Manitoulin Island, near the village of Meldrum Bay. She tells us the story of how the stone from this quarry was used in the construction of the locks at Sault Ste. Marie, at the time a vital ink in Canada’s transportation system. We also learn about the men involved in the quarry and its part in the push for westward expansion of Canada.
This book is fascinating reading for its wealth of information about the building of the Soo Locks, quarrying in the late 19th century, and stories about the people involved in the operation, as well as the numerous illustrations and photographs throughout the text.
Ms. Hoskins, who formerly taught English as a second language in the Toronto School system, and has since 2007 been on the faculty of Sheridan College, spends much of the year at her home in Meldrum Bay. She has generously donated 100 copies of the book to the Net Shed Museum, where copies may be purchased during the museum’s season for $15, with all proceeds going to the museum.
If you are interested in purchasing a copy of the book now, please contact the Net Shed Museum supervisor Dawn Marie Wickett, (705) 283-3267. We suggest calling Ms. Wickett and stopping by if you plan drive out to see the Barn Quilt boards at the Net Shed Museum and St. Andrew’s United Church in the village of Meldrum Bay.
