Hope for church still standing
Group wants to save historic Uxbridge site

Feb 7, 2006
By Jeff Hayward, durhamregion.com Staff Writer

UXBRIDGE -- The future of a historic church in Uxbridge is unclear, but a group trying to save it is confident it will stay.

The Lucy Maud Montgomery Society, made up of about 50 members, is continuing its efforts to raise $200,000 to purchase the original Leaskdale Presbyterian Church, which was ministered by the husband of the famous author. The church congregation is well into building a new church nearby, and does not seem focused on the fate of the current site, according to society member Councillor Kathy Wasylenky.

"We're working on getting something in writing (about preserving the church)," said Coun. Wasylenky. "They (congregation) don't seem terribly anxious."

Coun. Wasylenky noted that the society has raised $50,000 to date, and continues to push to reach its fundraising goal to save the more than 100-year-old building.

Malcolm Smith of the Presbyterian Church confirmed that an agreement with the Lucy Maud society has not been made in writing.

"Our intent is to sell the church to the historical (Lucy Maud) society as soon as possible," said Mr. Smith, adding there is no specific deadline for the society to complete the deal.

He said the church has received other offers for the original site, and that the purchase will help offset the cost of the new church, which he expects completed by July.

Asked what might happen if the Lucy Maud society cannot produce the required funds, he said, "I'm confident we can reach an agreement" but added that the congregation might have to look at "creative solutions" in the future.

The Lucy Maud society had previously made known its intentions to restore the site, possibly using the church for display space, a performance venue, or extra parking space for the manse museum, where Ms. Montgomery resided.

Mr. Smith said that some members of the church are interested in keeping the current site intact.

"They've been saving their nickels and dimes," he said of the church members. He added they have expressed interest in making use of the original building from time to time for events.

Coun. Wasylenky said the society had its first fundraising meeting of the year about two weeks ago.

"We're looking at approaching smaller businesses (for donations)," she said.

She also added the society is looking for events to raise money and awareness, including a "tea and garden" party it is considering for the summer.

In the meantime, Coun. Wasylenky said the original church is still being used for services while the new site is being constructed. She added the society is looking for ideas -- such as acknowledging donators in writing inside the church -- to help raise involvement.

"I believe we have first right (to the church)," said Coun. Wasylenky. "I'm confident this will come together."

For more information, call 905-852-5284 or 905-852-7493.

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