Canatara Cabin Restoration Project moving ahead

Canatara Cabin roof being moved by crane onto specially built frame

Grand Bend, ON – Lambton Heritage Museum is excited to share the progress on the Canatara Cabin Restoration Project, marking a significant milestone in the preservation of local history.

The historic Canatara Cabin was moved from Canatara Park in Sarnia to Lambton Heritage Museum in late 2020. Since then, a restoration journey has been underway to safeguard its legacy and contribute to the cultural heritage of the community.

A pivotal phase of the project is now in motion, involving the adjustment of an existing concrete pad on the Museum grounds to precisely align with the footprint of the Canatara Cabin. The roof, carefully propped on the pad during relocation, has been reinforced and now rests on a specially constructed frame, setting the stage for the cabin’s reassembly.

After the roof was moved, work began to cut the concrete pad to new dimensions, and new concrete footings and blockwork were added to support the cabin’s footprint and features, including a stone fireplace. Once this work concludes, an engineer will confirm the adjusted pad can properly support the cabin.

“We are thrilled that the first step towards reconstruction has begun,” said Dana Thorne, Curator/Supervisor with Lambton Heritage Museum. “Now that the concrete pad fits the footprint of the cabin, it is easier to imagine the full cabin sitting in its intended spot. The new foundation will provide sturdy support and help preserve the history of this building for generations to come.”

The restoration efforts have been further elevated with the engagement of John Rutledge, a distinguished architect and heritage restoration specialist. He had been tasked with creating new drawings and specifications to guide the cabin’s reassembly. With these plans finalized, the tender process for reconstruction and restorative work is expected to move forward in the New Year.

While the full cost of the project will be determined through the tender process, the Museum has set a fundraising goal of $100,000 to support the project. With nearly $60,000 raised to date, support is still being sought to help reach the fundraising goal.

Donations can be made directly online through the Museum website, or by phoning the Museum and speaking to a staff member. All donations over $20.00 will receive a tax receipt which can be used as a deduction on 2023 tax filings.

Learn more about the Canatara Cabin Restoration Project on the Lambton Heritage Museum website.

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Please contact:

Dana Thorne
Curator/Supervisor, Lambton Heritage Museum
County of Lambton
519-243-2600 ext. 3151
Email Dana Thorne