Wellington North is celebrating 25 years of amalgamation!
The Township of Wellington North was formed in 1999 with the amalgamation of the Town of Mount Forest, the Village of Arthur, the Townships of West Luther and Arthur, as well some of the outlying areas in the Townships of Peel and West Garafraxa. Stretching over 526 square kilometres, it is now home to over 12,500 people. Wellington North is expected to grow to approximately 20,500 people by 2051 (an increase of more than 64%).
The Township will be present at several events throughout the year, and are also planning some events to celebrate the occasion. Learn more about some of the events below.
August 29, 2024
Wellington North Celebrates 25th Anniversary Art Contest Winners
Wellington North, ON – In celebration of Wellington North's 25th Anniversary, the Township is proud to announce the winners of its highly anticipated Art Contest. The contest attracted a wide range of talented artists from across the region, all of whom showcased their creativity and passion for our community.
After much deliberation, the judges have selected three outstanding winners whose works will be featured in prominent locations throughout Wellington North. Each of these artists has demonstrated exceptional skill, vision, and dedication, capturing the essence of our community through their unique perspectives.
Elizabeth Laros: Elizabeth's winning piece is a puzzle-shaped map of Wellington North, with Mount Forest raised to emphasize its elevation. The artwork symbolizes the unity of the township and features iconic landmarks like Arthur United Church, the Arthur water tower, and the Kenilworth Schoolhouse. Elizabeth has also included a hidden Wellington North logo, inviting viewers to engage in a fun community challenge.
Natalia Skorupska (age 11): Natalia, a new resident of Mount Forest, collaborated with her art teacher to create a nostalgic painting inspired by a 1913 postcard. Her acrylic sepia-toned artwork depicts Murphy’s Mill and the old iron bridge at the south end of Mount Forest, capturing the area's historic charm.
Jennifer Baia: Jennifer’s design, titled “North7,” highlights the diverse aspects of Wellington North’s communities. Through her artwork, she celebrates the region’s strong patriotism, farming culture, Mennonite heritage, the Fireworks Festival, and the area’s beautiful landscapes.
Artwork and Descriptions from the Artists
The winning artists will receive a $1,000.00 prize, which will be presented at the September 23rd, 2024, at the 7:00 p.m. meeting of Council, and their artwork will be reproduced and displayed at either the Mount Forest & District Sports Complex, Arthur & Area Community Centre, or the Kenilworth Municipal Office. Township staff are currently finalizing the best locations and sizes for these displays to ensure they are prominently featured for residents and visitors to enjoy.
In addition to the permanent display, the winning pieces will be showcased at the upcoming Volunteer & Newcomer Celebration on September 12th in Mount Forest. This event will provide an opportunity for the community to come together and celebrate the incredible talent and creativity of our local artists.
The Township of Wellington North extends heartfelt congratulations to all the winners and participants of the 25th Anniversary Art Contest. Your contributions have made this milestone year even more special.
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The Township hosted a BBQ and Open House at the Municipal Office (7490 Sideroad 7W, Kenilworth) on Friday, June 7 from 2:30-4:30pm.
More than 200 people from across the Township attended this family-friendly celebration, which included memorabilia on display, a cake cutting, the dedication of a Time Capsule (see more information below), a "touch-a-truck" activity and an opportunity to socialize with staff and members of council.
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What better way to take a snapshot of life in 2024 than by "freezing" it in time?
The Township of Wellington North dedicated a time capsule at the Municipal Office in Kenilworth on June 7, 2024.
The time capsule, built by Jack and Betsy Benham, contains several treasures, including letters from local residents and students, photos, keepsakes, and other interesting pieces. Council, Perth-Wellington MP John Nater and Senator Rob Black also contributed letters addressed to future residents, which will remain sealed in the time capsule until 2049!
The time capsule will be on display at the Municipal Office in Kenilworth until the 50th Anniversary Celebrations, and will serve as a constant reminder to remember where we have come from as we move forward.
Plans are underway for the return of the Mayor's Charity Bonspiel in November 2024.
More details on this event will be released in the coming months.
The Township of Wellington North, in conjunction with the Wellington North Cultural Roundtable, will be running a social media campaign throughout 2024 called "Fun Facts and Folklore."
This campaign will highlight some interesting facts and fun stories from Wellington North's past.
Have a fun fact or folklore you think residents would be interested in? Email mwilson@wellington-north.com.