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THE LAIDLAW HERITAGE VILLAGE
A Community Project of Coboconk
and Area
Several yeas ago, the community members of Coboconk
and area made a commitment to save their 89 year old Train Station from
certain demoliition. Thanks to the spirit, dedication and financial support
of many, including the Township of Bexley, service clubs, sits atop Coboconk's
Legion Park, officially named Laidlaw Heritage Villiage...But we're not
finished yet!
WHERE WE'VE BEEN...
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In 1872 The Toronto Nippissing Railway ran a line
from Scarborough to Coboconk, the end of the line.
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The railway accelerated the export of lumber and
lime to Southern Ontario and brought needed products into the once inaccessible
"North".
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More importantly, it introduced a rush of people
who would later provided economic stability for the area: tourists
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The railway's ownership eventually passed into the
hands of the Canadian National Railway which terminated the run to Coboconk
in 1965 and lifted the tracks.
THE STATION
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Coboconk's first train station was constructed in
1872.
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In 1908, that station was struck by lightning and
burned down.
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A new station was built, featuring a unique two story
section where the station master and his family would live
WHERE WE'RE GOING...
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Immediate needs are to pour a basement floor and
to install a heating system. These renovations are critical for the
station to survive the winter without structural damage from frost and
ice.
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Other projects include completing the summer kitchen,
restoring and repainting the exterior, and landscaping.
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Ultimately, the station will serve as a heritage
museum and tourist information center to benefit all members of the community
and to increase awareness of the area's rich culture and history.
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The station will ultimately be the focal point of
the "Laidlaw Heritage Village".
HOW CAN YOU HELP!
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Volunteer! Activities are ongoing.
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Participate in fund raising efforts.
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Donate. Every dollar goes directly into the station!
Income tax receipts are available.
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Spread the good news-not every community can say
they've helped to preserve a piece of Canadian history!
Contact:
For more information, phone
Laidlaw Heritage Village Board
(705) 454-3851
(705)438-3636
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Web space provided by:
Nexicom
Maintained by:
Anne Panter
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