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Heritage Wall Restoration Workshop, Amherst Island
September 21 @ 9:00 am – September 22 @ 4:00 pm
$200
Dry Stone Canada is proud to partner with The Hitchins Family to offer this 2 day walling workshop at Hitchins Farm on Amherst Island.
About Amherst Island
Amherst Island is a small island located in Lake Ontario, Ontario, Canada. The island has a rich and fascinating history that spans centuries, dating back to before the arrival of European settlers.
The First Nations people, primarily the Anishinaabe and Haudenosaunee, were the first inhabitants of Amherst Island. They lived on the island for thousands of years, fishing and hunting the abundant wildlife in the area. Evidence of their presence can still be found on the island in the form of arrowheads and other artifacts.
Today, Amherst Island is a popular tourist destination, known for its stunning scenery, rich history, and unique wildlife. The island is home to a variety of bird species, including several types of owls and hawks, making it a popular destination for birdwatchers.
And it has a great collection of stone fences built in the early 19th century. And it is on one of these walls we will be restoring a section of.
Our Host
The Hitchins farm is located at the corner of Emerald 40 ft and 2nd Concession. It is situated on one of the highest points on the island and offers a lovely inland view of the lower pastures. It also has one of the nicest examples of the stone fences. The owner Gary passed away in 2020 and his wife, Anne Marie, a decade earlier. The farm is now operated by Gary and Anne Marie’s daughters Tracy and Heidi.
Schedule and Preparation
Times
Saturday
8:30 – 9:00 Welcome
9:00 – Instruction and field work
12:00 – Lunch
13:00 – Review and field work
16:00 – End of day 1
Sunday
09:00 – Review work and continue
12:00 – Lunch
13:00 – Review and continue
16:00 – Final Photo and end.
*Lunch and snacks are included
Required Equipment
- Safety glasses
- Safety boots (if you have them)
- Gloves (don’t bring expensive gloves, they get shredded just as quickly as the cheap ones)
- Appropriate clothing – We work in all weather conditions
Directions and Accommodations
How to Get There
Amherst Island is accessed by ferry. The mainland dock is in Millhaven. The ferry leaves the dock on the 1/2 hour. Fee is $10 roundtrip.
Where to Stay
There are a number of B&Bs and airbnb’s on the island. Kingston is 30 minute drive from Millhaven.