Grand Opening 150th Celebration

Southampton's 150th Anniversary has officially begun.  The opening ceremonies began late Thursday afternoon with the lake and the setting sun creating the perfect backdrop and Town Crier, Neil Menage, ringing in the celebration.
 

Former Mayor, Arthur (Art) Eby extends official welcome

Hundreds of people filled the main street, Millard Blvd., to take part in the opening ceremonies hosted by Arthur Eby, the last mayor of Southampton before it, according to Eby, was forced to amalgamate under the Harris Government, with Port Elgin and Saugeen Township under the name of Saugeen Shores.

MP Paul Steckle (R), MPP Carol Mitchell and County Warden, Milt McIver watch ceremonies

Several dignitaries, including MP Paul Steckle, MPP Carol Mitchell, County Warden Milt McIver and several of Southampton's past mayors, attended the opening.

Saugeen Shores' current Mayor, Mike Smith, who was born and raised in Southampton, pointed out the things that have remained constant in Saugeen Shores.the town.  "First of all, the river and lake have always been here and, because we built a hospital and Town Hall, we hold our respnsiblities toward the community as being very important."

Of the past recent seven mayors of Southampton, six were in attendance; Dr. Don Mercer, Maurice (Mo) O'Dwyer, Lloyd Hale, John Shute, Art Knechtel and, emcee, Arthur Eby (absent was Doug Kreutzweiger).

Saugeen drummers perform as former Chief, Vern Roote & dignitaries watch

Former Saugeen First Nation's Chief, Vern Roote gave an aboriginal blessing for the celebration and also presented indigenous entertainers that included drummers and dancers.   Roote recounted his days as a teenager on 'the reserve'.  "I was 15, living on the reserve and needed a job.  I'll never forget Walter Rogers who owned the local gas station in Southampton and who gave me that first job.  I'll also never forget Dr. Don Mercer who was our family doctor and who looked after our people for many years."  Roote went on to say that, "Our people want to be part of the celebration because we feel we are part of the community."

The opening ceremony was followed by an evening filled with music that included the Southampton Jazz Band and the Celtic group, Waterside.

The celebrations will continue throughout the weekend winding up on Sunday with the Festival of Lanterns at Fairy Lake.

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Hundreds line street for official opening

Volunteers, Shirley & Jim Irwin

Southampton Jazz Band performs on main stage

'Meet Me at Flag' opening a success

Evening events emcee,  John Divinski

Jenny Amy of Chantry Breezes in 1800s fashion

150th opening faces