Changes are coming to Stonewall’s panorama.
The kiln restoration project has been redesigned with a new vision. Increasing costs rendered it unfeasible to continue with the original plans to restore all three historic kilns. In the revised plan, the south kiln has been restored and the other two kilns will be removed. The new vision also includes enhancements to the site for all to enjoy.
Last year, restoration work was completed for the south kiln. At the same time, discussions continued about concept designs and project schedules. Council considered feedback from residents, engineers, architects and the Save the Kilns Committee.
Now the second phase of the kiln project is set to begin this month, which will start with removing the two remaining kilns that are in poor condition. The town has contracted Rakowski Cartage and Wreckage to remove these two kilns and to prepare the area for the next stage of construction.
Landscaping will begin after the kilns are removed with a goal of finishing enough of the site to safely remove the fencing and reopen the area to the public. The extent of the work will depend on how much funding is available.
Looking ahead, future phases could include donor recognition features, a potential amphitheatre and additional community gathering spaces.
Merle Balsillie, a member of the Save the Kilns Committee, said it’s unfortunate that the restoration project has turned into a demolition for two of the kilns due to rising costs.
“The goal of saving the kilns was to keep the town’s signature landmarks and turn it into a community space. It was made more special by the presence and history of the three kilns but unfortunately that didn’t happen because of the eroding and crumbling state of the other two. It never would have been a reality because it would have been kept as a fenced-off inaccessible area. It was also putting the restoration of the southern kiln at risk of damage so it wasn’t really feasible,” she said.
“The demolition of the two kilns is probably the worst part of the project, but if we don’t do that, then we’re not going to be able to move forward and create a space for everyone to enjoy. I’m looking forward to having a historic site where memories can be made for many generations to come — and that’s what it’s all going to be about at the end of the day.”
The modified project still aims to pay homage to local history.
“When you look at it from 140 years ago, it was a site where people came to work to make a living and create the community that we have now. If it wasn’t for all that hard work of all those quarry workers, we wouldn’t have had that hole in the ground that got developed into something beautiful,” Balsillie said.
“It would have been nice to have all three kilns there, but at least we have one that will be restored to its natural state — and people will actually be able to go up to it again and touch it, not like it has been for about 20 years. As disheartening as it is to lose the other two, I think what we’ll gain is going to compensate for it. We’re going to have a fantastic space there for everyone to enjoy. I’m hoping we get a nice amphitheatre in there — that would be the icing on the cake.”
The Town of Stonewall and the Save the Kilns Committee thanks all donors, supporters and community members for their continued commitment to the project.
