Doors Open on Amherst Island
Doors Open Ontario is a province-wide celebration that provides a unique opportunity to explore and enjoy sometimes hidden and always interesting places and spaces in communities across Ontario – all free of charge!
Loyalist Township is excited to participate and host a Doors Open Event this June! Come and spend the day discovering some local history first-hand and celebrate our community’s heritage.
On Amherst Island Participating Sites are:
Neilson Store Museum & Cultural Centre
From 1883 until 1976, the Neilson Store served Amherst Islanders with all their basic necessities. After it closed in 1976, there were multiple changes in ownership until the building, newly renovated dock and grounds were sold to Loyalist Township to become the Neilson Store Museum and Cultural Centre. Come and learn more about the history of the store.
St. Paul’s Presbyterian Church
Although Presbyterians from the Ards Peninsula and County Down in Northern Ireland had arrived in Amherst Island during the 1830s and 1840s, it was not until 1849 that they were organized under the Rev. McLeishe, who conducted the first service under the trees near where worship takes place today at St. Paul’s.
Dry Stone Walls
When Irish settlers migrated to Amherst Island, they brought a unique way of building walls: the technique is called dry-stacking. Using technical knowledge and skills, these Irish immigrants layered stones without the use of mortar. Instead, gravity is the glue that holds these stone walls together. The tradition of constructing and maintaining these walls has continued to this day.
Topsy Farms
Topsy Farms was purchased in 1972 and the owners formed a commune called the Headlands Community. Over time, they purchased machinery, hay, new fencing and farm animals. Today, it is a popular tourist destination offering hiking trails, farmyard activities, events, workshops and classes. Come and see the site for yourself. Also the demonstration site for Amherst Island’s Dry Stone Walls.
Gallery at Rossland Gardens
Nestled amidst the serene landscapes of Amherst Island, the Gallery at Rossland Gardens is a haven for art enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. This intimate gallery showcases a curated collection of unique, original art and crafts sourced from talented artisans across Canada. From custom-made clothing and exquisite jewelry to handcrafted candles, tin musical instruments, and captivating paintings, each piece tells a story of creativity and craftsmanship.
Learn more by visiting these and other sites around Loyalist Township on June 14!