Summer’s here and that means a busy time for the Marine Heritage Society in Southampton
The Propellor Club, that has evolved over the years to become the Marine Heritage Society (MHS), was founded in 1992 by a group of volunteers who took on the restoration of the historic Chantry Island lighthouse and Keeper’s Quarters.
Today, they still maintain the Island that was officially designated a Wild Bird Sanctuary by the government and is the only entity that is allowed to take tours by boat to the Island each summer. Weather dependent, the tours may reach 30,000 since inception this summer.
Wayne Kaufman (a.k.a. Cpt. Wayne Sparrow) presented a delegation to Council at its May 26th meeting explaining how the MHS has grown. “We estimate that the Marine Heritage Society tours and events have generated eight million dollars ($8M) in economic impact to tourism in Saugeen Shores, all by volunteers since its inception without any financial burden to Saugeen Shores.”
He added that the success is due entirely to the “dedicated volunteers”. Since 1996, the organization has logged hundreds of thousands of hours, not just during tourist season but all year round. During the off-season, the volunteers gather at the Boathouse to craft and build to add to the community’s assets. Marine Heritage volunteers have created solar lighthouses and handcrafted items that depict Chantry Island with many pre-sold.
“The volunteers are passionate about the community and dedicated to making it the best place to live, work and play. We make history come alive. We are grateful to Council, town staff and community for the continued support but, more importantly to the volunteers who have made our organization the envy of volunteer groups across Ontario,” said Kaufman.
Deb Kaufman also pointed out that the Marine Heritage Artisans and Tastes Market is celebrating its 5th anniversary this summer and it continues to grow in popularity and impact. “What began as a small initiative has developed into a successful fundraising event assists in supporting the Marine Heritage projects while also creating a vibrant community experience for residents and visitors alike. Vendors have told us this is the “best” and “friendliest” market they have ever participated in. The market, at the Southampton Boatshouse every Friday throughout the summer, features a wide range of homemade, homegrown and hand-crafted products. Each Friday, visitors can explore over 50 vendors, artists and it is a showcase of the incredible talent and passion in our local area.”
Deb Kaufman, also created the November Christmas in Southampton punch-card program where visitors can collect hole punches. “The program encourages visitors to explore local venues where they are introduced to the wide range of businesses and local organizations that make our community unique.”
“This collaboration not only builds community spirit, it also drives increased foot traffic for a financial impact, through spending and meaningful engagement with our town’s small businesses and cultural hubs,” adds Kaufman. “It’s a wonderful example of how volunteer driven programming can support economic development and pride.”
One of the most ambitious endeavours for the organization has been the Marine Heritage Festival and, this year, marks the 14th anniversary. It is the largest free family-fun event along the Lake Huron shoreline with more than 200 volunteers and generous community groups.
“This event continues to grow,” said Co-chair Doug Goar, “and it attracts over 5,000 visitors. With the wide range of activities, there is something for every age. Starting off the weekend with the Friday Artisans and Tastes Market on July 25th, there will also be a lecture the same day at St. Paul’s Church Community Hall, that is a great new partner in making the hall available for the MHS to add a public lecture with the filmmakers of the award winning ‘All To Clear: Beneath the Surface of the Great Lakes’.
In addition, there will be the Kids’ Bike Rally around Fairy Lake, a corn-roast BBQ and live outdoor entertainment all evening, all at the Bruce County Museum.”
The three-day Festival in Southampton includes activities such as the fun Children’s Gold Rush, entertainment, BBQs, Beer Garden and Fish Fry and much more over the three-days July 25th – 27th.
Be sure to check out all the activities and times in the OVERVIEW.
