CORNWALL, Ontario – How long were you without power? Twenty long winters ago, that was the question everyone asked. To mark the 20th anniversary of the ice storm of 1998, the Glengarry Pioneer Museum is inviting one and all to the Bonnie Glen Pavilion on February 9th for an “I SURVIVED” party. The evening includes a hearty Italian buffet, swapping tales of the pioneer spirit that emerged across the region and a silent auction with things you may need if and when the ice returns.
The great ice storm that started early in January, 1998, is listed as one of the largest natural disasters in Canadian History. Sections of the St. Lawrence Valley from Kingston to Quebec’s Eastern Townships received up to 100 mm of ice – more than double normally received in those areas in a whole year. Several roads were shut down, hydro poles snapped like tooth picks and massive power outages ensued. Some were without power for close to a month! Rural communities like this one came together to help one another. To this day, those who were involved can’t help but share stories of communal living, cooking over wood stoves, endless board games and the unbelievable ice that turned our lives upside down.
As Christmas approaches, instead of buying another item that may just add to clutter, why not buy tickets to attend this fun evening out; a great cure to the blahs of February. Tickets are $40/person and can be purchased at The Quirky Carrot (Alexandria), The Review (Vankleek Hill), or online at www.glengarrypioneermuseum.ca.
Funds raised will go to support the operation of the Glengarry Pioneer Museum which has been preserving and interpreting the history of Glengarry County for 55 years.
More information will be revealed after the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, but mark your calendars now and keep this fun event in mind as you struggle to find a gift for everyone on your list. For more information, visit www.glengarrypioneermuseum.ca, visit us on Facebook, or call 613-527-5230.
