Public invited to share and hear County stories at South Shore Symposium Saturday

How did Maypul Layn Road get its, somewhat unusual, name? Who built the original Scott’s Mill (not Scott!)

These and other interesting stories are part of the history and heritage of the South Shore.

On Saturday, Oct. 20, the South Shore Joint Initiative (SSJI) invites recent and more established residents to gather at Milford Town Hall to learn and share stories of the unique settlement history of South Shore.

SSJI has recruited five local story tellers and historians to add context and historical perspective to the individual and family reminisces of the participants.

The day’s activities will start with an introduction from a representative of the Mohawks of the Bay of Quinte.

Author Orland French will talk about the unique geography of the County and how it has shaped agriculture.

Historian and author Marc Seguin will explain the South Marysburgh Vortex – and why lighthouses were essential to early shipping.

Sacha Warunkiw will put the audience in the boat with the early European settlers transiting cold Lake Ontario to Upper Canada because they were loyal to the King of England.

Multimedia storyteller and public folklorist, Suzanne Pasternak will tell about the heroes and legends of the small communities that developed along the lake.

Prince Edward Heritage Advisory Committee member Liz Driver will help guests to understand how appreciating history and heritage adds value to life today.

Everyone is welcome and the symposium will give newer residents of the County the opportunity to learn the stories that have shaped the PEC today.

“We are proud of this program” says SSJI president John Hirsch. “A great deal of the time will be given to the participants to tell us all the stories that have been passed down in their families. The presenters will help to put all these stories in context,” he said. “We think it is very important that the stories are preserved and hope to keep a record of what is told at the symposium.”

The Symposium starts at 9 am and continue throughout the day. Participants are invited to bring a lunch. Soup, coffee and water will be available. There is no charge for the symposium, but donations to cover the cost of hall rental and advertising are welcome.