Skip to content

Annual lunch and art show to restore Beaverdams Church

One of the most historic buildings in Thorold needs a face lift

The Friends of the Beaverdams Church are preparing for the final stage in restoring the iconic 1832 building's exterior.

The well-worn clapboards on the rural lakeside church have taken a beating through the decades from wind, snow and rain, and the Friends have been fundraising to replace it with new wooden siding, at an estimated cost of about $90,000.

According to Donna Cowan, “While we are well on our way toward meeting the expense, we need a final financial push before making the commitment. This year only, the new funds raised will be matched by the generosity of The Ontario Paper Thorold Foundation, so now is an excellent time to help the cause.”

To that end, the hardworking Friends are hosting their annual How Great Thou Art luncheon and art show to help achieve their goal on Sunday, May 5. As in previous years, local artists, offering everything from oil paintings and water-colours to photography and other media, will be on display and for sale.

Art-lovers, heritage supporters, and fans of community culture are invited to peruse creations from 14 local artists and enjoy a delicious chicken luncheon, along with a Silent Auction table, and 50/50 draw.

New this year, a specialty table called 'All Creatures Great and Small', will feature one-of-a-kind handmade bunnies, puppies and kittens, created especially for the Beaverdams Church project by seamstress Beverly Interisano of Beverley’s Bears, who will be present at the luncheon.

Each bunny, puppy or kitten costs $30, and pre-orders for Creatures will be taken before the show and available in time for Easter. Call Donna Cowan to order at 905-227-7556.

Tickets for the lunch and art show cost $35, and are available by calling Donna at 905 227-7556, or Melanie Battell at 905 227-2174. Tickets must be reserved before April 24, 2019.

The event kicks off at 11 a.m. at Club Capri, 36 Cleveland St., Thorold, with lunch served at 1 p.m. The menu includes chicken with grilled vegetables, rolls, butter tea, coffee, and dessert. Vegetarian and gluten-free options are available.

Cowan said donations to the restoration cause will also be gratefully received at the event or via mail, addressed to:  Friends of the Beaverdams Church, 0 (zero) Marlatt's Road, P.O. Box 70, Thorold, ON L2V 3Y7.