Efforts continue to forge forward to restore Stonewall’s historic kilns, thanks to a generous donation from the local quarry operators.
On Wednesday, Sept. 27, the operators made a monumental donation of $1,175,000 towards the initiative.
“I am so proud of my fellow quarry operators from Glacial, Heidelberg, Lafarge and Maple Leaf for making such a substantial contribution and investment in a project that represents the history of our town and our industry,” said Merle Balsillie of Standard Limestone Quarries.
“As quarry operators in the RM of Rockwood, this is a great opportunity for us to be a part of the largest heritage project in our region that preserves our humble beginnings and shows the progress that we have made over the years. To get five quarries that are competitors to join together to donate over $1 million makes me proud to be a part of the Rockwood Quarry Producers and how significant this is to our community.”
Stonewall Quarry Park is an important part of the community and its history, she added, and it’s now a place where many memories are made.
“The kilns are an integral part of the landscape that serves as a monument to the men that worked in the Stonewall quarries from the 1880s to the 1960s — and a tribute to the men and women that work in the quarries today,” Balsillie said.
“This project would not be a reality if it were not for the people involved in the Stonewall Heritage Committee and the commitment from the Town of Stonewall, with the support from former Mayor Clive Hinds and our current Mayor Sandra Smith and their councils.”
As co-chair of the Save the Kilns committee, Balsillie also expressed appreciation for the committee’s ongoing dedication while acknowledging the hard work of quarry workers from days gone by.
“The past five years that our committee has worked so hard to bring this project to a reality pales in comparison to the work day of a quarry worker from the days when the kilns were still in use,” she said.
On behalf of the Town of Stonewall, Mayor Sandra Smith shared gratitude for the sizeable contribution.
“We are pleased the Rockwood Quarry Producers stepped up in such a meaningful way. We would like to thank co-chair Merle Balsillie, who has been a true champion of this initiative, for leading the charge along with co-chair Dale Oughton in engaging the producers and educating the on the importance of preserving the kilns,” she said.
“This donation is very significant as it is the largest one received to date.”
The total expected cost of the two-phase restoration project is around $6 million, with a projected completion date in 2024.
For more information about the Save the Kilns committee and its fundraising efforts, contact co-chair Dale Oughton at savethekilns@stonewall.ca or call 204-806-4250. All donations flow through the Interlake Community Foundation to the Town of Stonewall for the kilns restoration project, and charitable tax receipts will be provided for direct donations to the campaign of $20 or more. Visit interlakefoundation.ca to learn more.
Tribune photos by Lana Meier
