A retirement project turned into historical restoration for one local resident.
Hugh Scholaert purchased Ridge Berry Farm’s several years ago and was faced with conundrum – restore or demolish.
“The whole property had so much history and so much potential, which took us down a road we had not planned on going,” Scholaert said. “It would have made a lot of sense to tear down the buildings but we thought we’d preserve the property as it has rich historical value to Pelham.”
Once the renovations began, surprises soon followed.
“We discovered that the Victorian home is actually built on the structures of two preexisting homesteads. Most of the material in the home also predates the main structure that was built in 1821.”
The home, built by Josiah Ward, was eventually sold to Alandis Crowe. Crowe used the large property to build the first canning factory in the region and connected the township to Upper Canada.
The project undertaken by Scholaert also paints a picture of the beginning of Pelham. With a railroad station across the road, Ridge Berry farms was once a bustling economic sector in the newly established town.
Scholaert hopes to return the property to its former glory, already inclosing the veranda for the tea room this year to extend the operating season late into December.
“We have a lot more plans, but it’s about finding time to getting them done.”
Challenges around the property, including an old septic and the surrounding conservation area, provided a cautious approach to renovations. That, added with the historic element, have kept Scholaert busy creating a point of destination for historic and agricultural tourism.
The restored Victorian home will also showcase glassware and artifacts, including coins found in the buildings foundation. Scholaert also left one room to showcase the previous homesteads base in what he calls a ‘small town museum’.
“It’s amazing how many people don’t know the history of the property or the history of the area and it’s truly fascinating.”
They will be holding an open house from November 6-8, allowing residents to view the restored building. They’ll be keeping the business open longer this year, running their tea and gift shop until Dec. 21.
