Overlooking the beautiful St Lawrence River, many braved the sweltering heat to attend a centennial celebration for The Glen Stor Dun Lodge home for the aged, on Wednesday, June 20.
“A lot of people have come to celebrate with us, said Norm Quenneville, the facility’s administrator. “It’s exciting and rewarding.”
Among the guests were city dignitaries, including Mayor Bob Kilger, city councillors, as well as representatives from the counties, board members, and Reverend Fred Rennie who gave his blessing.
It all began back in June of 1912 when they constructed The House of Refuge on 11th Street, explained Quenneville, who took over the position of administrator six months ago. Over time, the facility would begin to house more seniors than anyone else, so they decided to rebuilt and move it to this current site in the early 1952.
After four decades would eventually become necessary, he said, for a more modern home, so in 1994 the current building was constructed. The City of Cornwall purchased the land and along with the counties, they operate and contribute to the operation of the Lodge, in which presently 132 seniors reside.
The one hundredth anniversary celebration included three major events, said Quenneville, beginning with the unveiling of a newly constructed cairn, marking the occasion.
A time capsule containing photos and equipment of the day, which will be unveiled in 25 years, was sealed within the monument, followed by a commemorative tree planting ceremony.
All the maple trees on the property have been plagued with diseases and will all eventually have to come down, he explained. “They have been there for ages. They were there even when the old building was here.”
“It is symbolic because the tree of life is the logo of the lodge; it symbolizes growth and future.”
A wine and cheese reception followed the ceremony.
