History, culture on display

09/24/2005

BY Vincent Ball
EXPOSITOR STAFF / BRANTFORD

14 sites offer free tours today during Doors Open Brant

There will be lots to see, do and learn during this year’s Doors Open Brant.

Jodi Chamberlain, marketing director at the Lynden Park Mall and one of the organizers of the event, say she’s excited about today’s celebration of Brant’s history and cultural diversity.

“There’s a lot going on. “I’m looking forward to visiting the Brantford Club and I think a lot of other people want to visit too.”

“It’s been a part of our community for years but a lot of people have never had a chance to see it. Open Doors Brant gives them that opportunity.”

Open Doors Brant is an invitation to visit 14 sites in Brantford, Brant County and Six Nations/New Credit. The sites demonstrate the area’s cultural treasurers and architectural legacies.

The heritage sites are open for free tours from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

INCLUDED SITES

Sites included in this year’s event are: Brantford City Hall, 100 Wellington Square; Edgar Farm Studio/Gallery, 925 Rest Acres Rd., RR# Paris; Holmedale Business Centre, 85 Morrell Street; Riverview Terrace, 104 Brant Ave.; St. George Old School, 39 Beverly St. W. in St. George; Six Nations Veteran Park, Chiefswood Road and Fourth Line, Ohsweken; The Brantford Club, 98 George St.; Brown Residence, 22 High St., St. George; Hamilton Place Conservatory, 165 Grand River St. N., Paris; Paris Presbyterian Church, 164 Grand River ST. N., Paris; S.R. Drake Memorial B.M.E. Church, 165 Murray St.; Shriner’s Club of Brantford, 525 Colborne St.; Talking Cockshutt, an exhibit of Cockshutt tractors, implements and memorabilia in the city hall parking lot, 100 Wellington St.; Victoria Park, 65 Market St., Brantford.

Doors Open Brant also marks the official opening of the Holmedale Business Centre located at the site of the former Harding Carpets building on Morrell Street.

“A lot of work has gone into the Holmedale Business Centre and I think a lot of people will be really impressed with what’s been done there,” Chamberlain said. “They’re going to have lots going on including tours and games for the kids.”

Every site will have distinctive programming, children’s activities and/or guided tours.

Doors Open Brant takes place rain or shine. Guides are available at each heritage site and the Brantford Visitor and Tourism Centre. People can also visit www.doorsopenbrant.ca for more information.