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The Citizen, 1995-05-31, Page 52Page 29 - - - - Stops Along '1 Fie Way '95- - - - Area museums tell history of Huron Huron County Museum Originally used as a school house in 1856 the Huron County Museum has come a long way from its humble beginnings. The museum, located on 110 North St., Goderich, has undergone extensive renovations since it first opened in the summer of 1950. In an effort to modernize and re-develop the museum organizers poured 4.5 million into an expansion project. The addition of over 30,000 square feet has allowed for modern exhibition galleries and professional support spaces. Exhibits feature the early history of the Canada Company and the Huron Tract, as well as highlighting significant individuals such as John Galt, "Tiger" Dunlop and Colonel Anthony Van Egmond. Other exhibits depict agricultural heritage, military history, and pioneer life. Huron Historic Gaol This National Historic Site, with its unique octagonal shape, once served as the Huron County Jail. The prison functioned from 1842 until 1972, when all inmates were transferred to larger regional facilities. The Gaol, located on 181 Victoria St. Goderich, was designed by Thomas Young. At the time of construction the building was seen as a model of a humanitarian prison. In early years the building contained several important services. In addition to the Gaol, and the House of Refuge, the building also housed the county courts and council chambers. Apple Park Sculptures molded from cement, metal, and fieldstone are the main attractions at Laithwaite Apple Park. For four generations the statues have amused and captivated visitors. Created by George Laithwaite as a hobby during uncertain economic times, the figures represent everything from politics to cartoon characters. The original statues are situated on a grassy lawn, amongst hundreds of trees. While in the area, visitors are welcome to visit the Apple Park farm market. Located just east of Goderich on Highway 8, it offers butter, apple cider, honey, maple syrup and seasonal fruits and vegetables. Marine Museum Dedicated to the men and women who made their living on Lake Huron, the Marine Museum is of rich historic significance. Goderich Harbour is the ideal home for this sailors' tribute. Displays encased in the wheelhouse of the "SS Shelter Bay," symbolize the trials and tribulations of marine life. The Great Storm of 1913 is amongst the favorite museum exhibits. Visitors will learn how this natural disaster killed over 250 sailors during a 48 hour period. The Goderich Harbour is also home to the salt mines, which bring in ships from all over the world. Visitors may view the loading of salt and wheat. as the vessels fill their holds. For sunlovers, a leisurely swim can be enjoyed at any of the three public beaches. Picnic and recreational areas are available along the extensive boardwalk. Van Egmond House The Van Egmond house provides a rare glimpse into the 19th century. As well as being one of the oldest houses in Huron County, it is directly responsible for the growth of Egmondville. This Georgian manor was built by Constant Van Egmond and his wife Anne Johnston. The couple also played an important part in the opening of the Huron Tract, a one million acre piece of land owned by the Canada Company. - Located on London Road, Egmondville, the Van Egmond house has been restored to its original form. Wingham Museum This Museum is a timeline of people and events that have shaped Wingham and the surrounding area. Found in the former post office on 273 Josephine St., the museum is divided into rooms of significance. The "Doc Cruickshank Room" displays the past of early Canadian broadcasting, while saluting local television and radio stations. The "Industrial Room" depicts the history of Wescast Industries, founded in the 1920s and still expanding today. Each room features artifacts and displays with a rich history to support them. Century Agriculture Centre Housing everything from ancient farm equipment to dolls, this centre represents the life-time antique collection of Bob and Betty Batty. Pieces of the extensive collection are kept in an 1855 log cabin, which was moved from Dungannon. Pioneer lifestyle is experienced first hand in this one room dwelling. The centre, located in RR1 Clinton, also has a large display of antique horse equipment in the attached harness shop. School on Wheels Discovered abandoned in a Toronto railyard, this original CNR car is the only remaining one of seven such railway schools. Earlier this century the car was used to bring education to isolated children and adults in the Northern Ontario wilderness. The car was transported to Clinton for restoration where it is now located in a beautiful park. The School on Wheels serves as a memorial to Clinton Native Fred Sloman, the "Dean of School Car Teachers." Beginning in 1926, he lived and taught in this car for many years. Folmar Windmill Sitting on a small lakeshore, surrounded by trees, the Folmar Windmill is a living testament to just how far society has come throughout the years. Located just outside Bayfield off County Road 13, it is the only wind driven sawmill and gristmill in North America. Onlookers receive demonstrations of how nature's energy can efficiently cut heavy logs using two large wind powered gang saws. They may also view massive hardwood beams and wooden gearings upstairs in the windmill, or they can stand beside the 74 foot wind sails outside. Visitors may enjoy lunch at a nearby picnic area or watch a video presentation at the snack bar. Gingerbread Doll Museum Featuring a collection of over 4000 dolls, the Gingerbread Doll Museum certainly lives up to its name. Located on Howick St. Wroxeter, the museum opened in 1987. It houses an extensive collection of dolls gathered by the Hamilton family dating from 1840 to the present. The dolls originate from all over the world, although many have been donated by local families. At this unique museum visitors can trace the history of dolimaking, and view numerous related items such as cradles, buggies, and children's toys. Beaches, marinas dot Huron lakeshore Life's a beach Sand, surf and shade trees — there's no better summertime recipe for fun. Huron County sports numerous beaches from its southernmost tip at Goderich to Amberley in the north. Beaches and marinas dot the lakeshore. Water and sand lovers can find hot spots starting at Grand Bend in the south to Amberley Beach in the north. Moving up the coast are Port Blake Beach, Stanley Twp. Beach, Cameron St., Glass St., Howard St. and South Pier Beaches in Bayfield, Black's Point Road Beach, St. Christopher's Cove, St. Christopher's and the Main Beach in Goderich, Point Farms Provincial Park, Port Albert Beach, Kintail Beach and Ashfield Park. Boating enthusiasts can drop anchor at marinas in Bayfield and Goderich. Heaven on earth The beautiful beaches of Huron County are an exciting attraction for people of all ages.