Two hundred years ago, settlers from Lord Selkirk’s failed Red River Settlement in Manitoba returned to Upper Canada, and took up newly surveyed land in West Gwillimbury, west of the Holland River.
They became the nucleus of what is now called the Scotch Settlement. Many of their descendants still live, and farm, in the area.
On Sunday, June 16, the Bradford West Gwillimbury Local History Association will celebrate the bicentennial of the founding of the Scotch Settlement, with a special event at the Auld Kirk from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
The Auld Kirk, located at 3380 Line 6 Bin radford West Gwillimbury, was built in 1869 by the families of the Scotch Settlement, but it traces its roots back to the first log church built by the settlers, in 1822.
Once a Presbyterian Church, it is now the property of the Town of Bradford West Gwillimbury, and a designated heritage site.
'The Afternoon at the Ault Kirk' will feature music, a cemetery tour, a presentation of the story of the Scotch Settlers, and historical displays. Guests of all ages can enjoy old-fashioned games and light refreshments.
Official greetings will be presented at 2 p.m. inside the Auld Kirk, with a closing hymn in the church at 3:55 p.m.
Admission is free, but donations toward the preservation and upkeep of the Auld Kirk will be gratefully accepted.
