Heritage Symposium returning to Smiths Falls this October

How much do you know about the history of Smiths Falls and area?

The Smiths Falls Municipal Heritage Committee is inviting residents to learn more at their annual Heritage Symposium, set to take place next month.

The Heritage Symposium focuses on expanding the local community’s knowledge of heritage preservation and the importance of heritage protection within the community. Each year’s event explores heritage preservation and conservation themes through presentations, discussion, and tours.

This year, it’ll be held Monday, Oct. 28 at The Station Theatre (53 Victoria Avenue) from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

“The Symposium is a great way for the Municipal Heritage Committee to share heritage with the community. In this year’s event we will learn how our heritage landscapes and buildings can be a catalyst for community and economic development and help drive the evolution of a community in a way that enhances what makes us unique in the first place” noted Karl Grenke, Manager of Development Services.

The 12th annual Heritage Symposium – Saving the Past for the Future will feature dynamic speakers like Andrew Jeanes, Cultural Consultant for the Ministry of Citizenship and Multiculturalism, Meaghan Rivard from Stantec Consulting retained for the Smiths Falls Heritage District Study, and John Fenik, former Mayor from the Town of Perth and current editor/owner of Westport’s Review-Mirror.

“We are excited about this year’s symposium – discussions will centre around the proposed Heritage Conservation District study preliminary findings for Smiths Falls, and how an identified Heritage District has proven beneficial in other areas of the province” says Dorothy Hudson, Committee Chair.

Registration is $25 ($15 for students). Those wishing to attend can RSVP/Register by contacting Marie Elmsley at melmsley@smithsfalls.ca or call 613-283-4124 Ext. 1136 by Oct. 16.