Although Bayfield is a community that’s really been put on the map in the past few decades, the local Lion’s Club and Historical Societies are celebrating it’s historic notoriety as the home of the Penhale Carriage.
They’re holding a launch party Wine and Cheese Night tonight (May 31) from 5-7pm at the Old Town Hall, which will include presentations from Dave Gillians with the historical society who will speak directly to the history of the Penhale carriage works, as well as the son of the carriage’s namesake, Rick Penhale.
Member of the Bayfield Lion’s Club Ian Matthew says that it’s important to recognize the family,
Penhale Carriages were manufactured in Bayfield by hand in the 1970’s – 1980’s. They were sold and shipped all over North America.
Matthew says that one particular carriage created by Penhale is of note,
The Lion’s Club has set a goal of $35,000 to construct a small barn adjacent to the Bayfield Archives to house a historic Penhale Carriage, however they’re well on their way to exceeding that through the generosity of an anonymous donor, who will be matching all donations up to $15,000.
Matthew says that it’s important to commemorate the history for everyone that visits Bayfield,
For more information about the carriage fundraiser, and how you can donate, you can visit their website at bayfieldcarriage.ca
Written by: B. Shakyaver