Fenelon Falls Curling Club Celebrates 130 Year Anniversary
On September 30 the Fenelon Falls Curling Club celebrated its 130 year Anniversary. A Past President’s dinner was held at the club, with 13 Past President’s in attendance. The curling club has the distinction of being the oldest club still in operation in Fenelon Falls.
In 1892, curlers in Fenelon Falls moved from an outdoor skating rink into their own building located at the present location of 41 Bond Street West. Looking back at historical information of the County of Victoria, the population in Fenelon Falls at that time was 1,312 citizens with a thriving lumber and farming community. The original curling club burnt down in 1930 and was rebuilt, only to be rebuilt again in 1963.
Through the years, the curling club has evolved and now offers ten club leagues, a business league, as well as Learn To Curl and youth programs. All ages and abilities are encouraged to take part in curling and social events at the club.
In his remarks, Mayor Doug Elmslie acknowledged and thanked the past and present volunteers. Their dedication and hard work over the years are the reason for the club’s success. Mayor Elmslie also recognized that many of the volunteers are also active with a variety of other organizations in Fenelon Falls. He remarked that municipal government depends on and values volunteers, as they are the backbone of a community.
The curling club is proud to host events annually as part of Santa Day and Moonlight Madness. During the spring and summer, club volunteers run the Bocce and Euchre Leagues, which are open to everyone, not just club members. The Grove Theatre has made the club their home base for rehearsals in the summer, and the club has enjoyed being able to support their growth.
Throughout the evening a historical video presentation of the club was enjoyed by all. Guests were served a delicious gourmet meal, thanks to the talents of Karen Jepson and Darlene Young. The icing on the cake was literally a spectacular 130 year celebration cake created by Kirsten Meehan, Kawartha Cakes.
The curling club looks forward to the current season now getting underway. If anyone is interested in exploring curling or getting more information on our leagues and programs, please contact info@curlfenelon.ca. We welcome and encourage all ages to come join the “most fun club” in Fenelon Falls.
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Reference for picture of Past President’s:
Past President’s in attendance were Bill Beggs, Glen Sheehey, Norm Hewton, Mary Carr, Mike Murdock, Jim Youngman, Monika Urben, Jackie Petre, Doug Elmslie, Gerry Armstrong, Gail Allman, Brent Simpson and Marc Lemieux. Barb Jenkinson, past ladies League Convenor was also in attendance.
