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Colborne's 150th an overwhelming success

It's not over yet, but it's safe to say the Colborne 150th Celebration is a monumental success. the team of organisers under the patient and persistent leadership of Cramahe Township Councillor Pat Westrope created a fitting weekend of activities to commemorate the founding of the former village by the Keeler family in 1859.

There has been something for everyone. There were games in the park and games on the golf course, a parade which stimulated, amused, and even brought pangs of fond memories, and a spirited opening ceremony in Victoria Square.

There were wonderful historic displays in several locations. Colborne United Chhurch housed an impressive quilt diplay which presented a social history lesson. And the doll house created by Joan Harnden was exquisite in its beauty and its detail. At Old St. Andrew's Presbyterian the story of Colborne was told in photos and print.

There were more topical displays at the homes of the three reunions which coincided with the 150th celebration.

Service groups and churches pitched in to make sure everyone was well fed. Some who ate at the Colborne Legion on Friday savoured the first-ever "Colborne Dogs".

In a summer when the weather has been uncooperative, it reluctantly relented on Friday night. A shower held back the movie under the moon, "Hotel for Dogs", - but not for long. By 9 p.m. everyone was cuddled up and watching the big screen.

If the weather holds for Sunday, crowds will be outdoors to participate in a gospel hour, and the commemoration of the historic curfew bell, tastefully mounted in the park near where it once rang. And when it's all over everyone with a sweet tooth will share the gigantic birthday cake.

If you were there it will be one of those events in the life of a community where you can say, I was there." And if you weren't, you will always wonder what you missed.