Aylmer and Malahide

Step back in time to the world of a typical grandmother’s wartime kitchen. Learn about how “Gramma” contributed to the war effort through rationing. Discover what kinds of roles women played during wartime — not just in the kitchens but in the fields. As part of Doors Open, explore this kitchen and try some tasty delights from Canada and Great Britain.

Come and watch a re-enactment of activities from the time of the War of 1812. You will also learn how the war influenced Southwestern Ontario — through its many local battles and skirmishes, and General Sir Isaac Brock’s decisive victory at Fort Detroit. The 1812 Royal Scots Grenadiers participate in re-enactment events throughout Ontario and the United States.

Over the years, many improvements have been made to this community church. In 1923, beautiful stained-glass windows were added to the sanctuary. A Christian Education building was completed in 1956 — which contains an auditorium and stage, offices and classrooms, a kitchen and washrooms. In 1995, the congregation celebrated its 150th anniversary. Then, in 2000, the building itself celebrated 125 years.

The Springwater Conservation Area began in 1971 by the Catfish Creek Conservation Authority. It provides an ideal environment for outdoor education, wildlife observation, nature studies, hiking and general relaxation. It features a spring-fed reservoir that offers swimming, non-motorized boating and fishing. Or choose from one of their hiking trails. Picnic areas also offer ample space for outdoor sports and recreation.

The Pettit family settled in Elgin County generations ago. Murray Pettit bought a farm in 1957 and transitioned to dairy farming. His son Tom (with his wife Kris) continued the family tradition despite setbacks (including two tornadoes). They opened Mistyglen Creamery in 2022 to provide healthy, local farm-fresh milk and food, while continuing to honour their dairy farm heritage.

This fire station was established in 2019 when two smaller stations were amalgamated. Designed to enhance operational efficiency and community service, the station serves as a hub for both emergency response and training. It includes a training room, kitchen, gym, changerooms, a training tower, and a vehicle bay that accommodates various pumpers. Come and see how this station functions.

This museum was started by Andy and Lotty van Kasteren, who collected dairy memorabilia since immigrating to Canada in the 1950s. They built the current structure, which was purchased by Gay Lea Foods in 2008. Located on 40 hectares (98 acres) of Carolinian forest, the site hosts school groups, family reunions, community living groups and more with events year-round.

Come and tour this facility and learn about its proud 132-year history of dedicated policing service delivery to the community and its residents. Working in partnership with the community, they provide the highest quality policing services, building on past successes and implementing future strategies that will result in efficiencies, a reduction in crime, and best practices.

Aylmer’s Old Town Hall is now a beautiful theatre. Its restoration did not interfere with the original Italianate architectural design. On the exterior, you can still see its Florentine windows and brickwork. Poet Pauline Johnson graced the stage here. And Sir John A. Macdonald addressed the residents of Aylmer. This is a wonderful stop for the arts and entertainment.

Housed today in this former Knox Presbyterian Church, the Aylmer Legion Branch 81 has served as a place of remembrance, support and community service since 1926. The extension was added in 1957. Visit the facility during Doors Open and explore their latest exhibit, Service and Sacrifice: The History of the Aylmer Legion and the Local Impact of War.

The Aylmer Baptist Church houses one of Ontario’s oldest Baptist congregations. Initially meeting in local homes and barns, the congregation moved to Aylmer in 1843, constructing a frame chapel at Pine and John streets. This was replaced by a brick building in 1871. In 1950, devastating fire destroyed the church. The rebuilt church was dedicated on November 11, 1951.