|
GEORGINA: THE SIBBALD TOUR |
Susan Sibbald and her descendants have played a central role in the
development of Georgina. Enjoy this tour to experience their influence
first-hand.
Susan Sibbald’s story, and our tour, begins at Sibbald Point Provincial Park….
Eildon Hall Museum at Sibbald Provincial Park
In 1835, Susan Sibbald left her family estate in Scotland and settled
along the shores of Lake Simcoe. She was determined to bring Old World
luxury and refinement to Georgina, her efforts resulting in the
beautiful manor she called Eildon Hall. Today, this home is preserved
in Sibbald Point Provincial Park, and provides a rare glimpse at the
genteel lifestyle of the aristocratic settlers who made Georgina their
home in the early 19th century. Costumed interpreters, treasured
heirloom, and priceless family stories bring this period of history to
life.
Location: 26071 York Road, Sutton (2 kms north of Highway 48)
Season: July and August
Phone: 905-722-8061
Web: www.ontarioparks.com
….marvel at the adjacent church, historical and beautiful…
|
|
|
|
St. George’s Anglican Church |
A devout woman, Susan Sibbald became the driving force behind the
construction of a church for her adopted community. Many local notables
contributed to the effort: Thomas Mossington designed the building,
William and James Bourchier provided lumber, Sibbald and her neighbour
John Comer donated the land. Donations even came from Charlotte Simcoe,
the daughter of former Governor John Graves Simcoe, in England. The
result, completed in 1877, is arguably the most beautiful church in
Georgina, and certainly the one that best encapsulates the history and
character of the area. Visitors, take notice of the bell. It was
presented by the widow of Sir John Franklin, the ill-fated explorer, to
commemorate his crossing of Lake Simcoe during an early voyage of
Arctic discovery.
Location: Adjacent to Sibbald Point Provincial Park
Services: Held only during the summer
….drive west along the shore to see, and perhaps stay at, a former manor home…
|
|
|
|
The Briars Resort and Conference Centre |
A century and a half ago, the Briars was one of the most elegant
estates on Lake Simcoe. Built in 1840, it was the private home of
retired Royal Navy Captain William Bourchier. It was sold in the 1870s
to Dr. Frank Sibbald, one of Susan Sibbald’s children. It’s still in
the family today. Now, however, the Briars is one of Ontario’s premier
year-round resorts and conference centres. In addition to a relaxed
atmosphere, warm hospitality, beautiful rooms and fine dining, the
Briars offers a host of activities, ranging from golf and a full spa,
to swimming, hiking, and tennis.
Location: 55 Hedge Road, Jackson’s Point
Phone: 905-722-3271
Web: www.briars.ca
Email: briars@ils.net
…..and complete the day with rafter-raising theatre entertainment…
|
|
|
|
Red Barn Theatre |
In 1949, Canada’s oldest professional summer theatre was born in this
very barn. Like so much in the region, the Red Barn Theatre has a
Sibbald connection: it was once the home of Frank Sibbald’s prized
Holstein cows. Since then, it has seen the likes of Wayne and Shuster,
William Shatner, and Harry Belafonte performing on its stage. And
despite its rustic exterior, the Red Barn is a modern, full-facility
theatre.
Location: 991 Lake Dr. East, Jackson’s Point
Season: June to September
Hours of Operation: Matinee 2pm, Evenings 8pm
Rates: Adults $25, Seniors/Students $20, Matinees/Tuesdays $20
Phone: 905-722-3249 or 1-888-RED-BARN
Web: www.redbarntheatre.ca
Email: info@redbarntheatre.ca
|
|
|