Selkirk History Faire
August 23, 2008 - Wallaceburg, ONT

Doug Robinson and Dorothy Knight

      Selkirk History Faire - The Re-enactment of Lord Selkirks' Landing at Baldoon Ont.
Aug.23rd,2008, ----Wallace Day----- was a beautiful, hot and hazy day.  But it was not to deter the re-enactment of Thomas Douglass',(Lord Selkirk), landing at Baldoon, located just west of the town of Wallaceburg, Circa1830.  This area was chosen for its rich and fertile lands.   Some 15 families settled here on the banks of the Syne River.  Later some settlers relocated to the forks of the Sydenham River and made up the community of Wallaceburg, in honour of Sir Wm Wallace, Scottish hero and patriot.
      During the enactment, canoes of the French voyaguers lined the shore and the settlers also arrived by canoe.   They proceeded to make temporary homes by pitching their tents, digging fire pits, with tripod and suspended iron pots and kettles for their stoves.   The men were knowlegable in various trades, set up demonstrations in rope making, furniture and wood working and toys for the children.  Ladies proceeded to making candles and the houshold items they would need.
      The voyageurs displayed pelts of bear, beaver, muskrat and ermine.  They would skin the animals and dry them on pelt board to strech and dry.  Children played with simple items; 2 balls tied together, each with a stick to catch the balls, a game too dangerous for today's children!!!   The local "store" displayed the nescessities: blankets, simple clothing, food, beeswax candles.  The men also demonstrated the canons and a musket loader.  Corn on the cob was boiling in a huge covered pot.
      During the walk-about, marvelling at the fortitude and perservance of these harty settlers.  We were entertained by highland and Irish dancing, celtic music, the Chatham Pipes and Drums and a story of the Saltire by Doug Robinson, history buff and storyteller.  Later that afternoon, moose tongue was served for supper.  Needless to say, we didn't stay for supper!
      It was a wonderful learning experience. - Dorothy Knight, Ontario Convener and CWS Commissioner for Canada.