Byron
Villager MAY 2025 ISSUE 100
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Page 2 Byron Villager May 2025
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Byron Villager in 2015, I was inspired to follow it with the Lambeth Villager and Hyde Park/Oakridge Villager in 2016, the Wortley Villager in 2016, and the Komoka/Kilworth/Delaware Villager in 2018. Since then, my little company from Byron, Ontario, has grown to publish twelve community magazines each month. In business, we often don’t discuss pride, yet I start each day with pride in the company I built. Supporting one another and continuing to champion our local businesses is essential to keeping our community strong. I want to credit my amazing team for their unwavering passion, dedication, and hard work. Creating the Villager magazines each month is truly a team effort—it takes a village to bring the Villager to life! It’s a privilege to work alongside such a passionate and talented group of people and I’m continually inspired by what we create together. I am incredibly grateful for the support, enthusiasm, and kind words I have received over the past ten years. It is through the incredible support of the community and my wonderful advertisers that I can publish the Villager each month and deliver it free to your mailboxes. It is my hope to continue informing and entertaining you through the Villager magazines for many years to come. With immense gratitude, Barb
The Byron Villager, 100 Issues and Going Strong!
After a career in corporate marketing, I wanted to pursue something truly meaningful to me. When I reflected on what mattered most, family, close friends and the enchanted little village of Byron, where I grew up, stood out. I raised my boys in Byron, and while they grew up in a different time, they share the same fond memories of this special place.
I have always had a deep appreciation for history— understanding where we come from provides a strong sense of direction for where we are going. My publishing journey began with a desire to make a positive impact and celebrate the magic of this community and its long history. I wanted to create something that elevates lives and makes a difference, and I remain dedicated to making a lasting impact. Byron is a truly magical community and I know many who grew up here would agree. There is strength in numbers and the power of this community lies in its ability to bring people together from all walks of life. Local publications like the Villager magazines serve as a vital thread that helps weave the community together. These magazines not only provide a platform to share stories about neighbours, but they also foster deeper connections and understanding. While national news covers broad issues, hometown coverage holds a unique significance—it drives conversations, serves as a public record and highlights the stories happening in our own backyards. There is an urgency to document and share the experiences of longtime Byron residents. Their stories—whether emotional, fascinating, heroic, humorous, or even tragic—deserve to be told. Most of these accounts have never been published in books or on the internet, yet they hold immense value. They may not make national headlines, but they are no less impactful or important. As our city grows and new residents call Byron home, a local publication that shares stories of both past and present offers comfort and grounding. While Byron holds a special place in my heart, I soon realized that many other communities share this same deep connection to their own histories. After launching the
100 Women Who Care – London & Area 100 Women Who Care - London & Area is a group of women who each commit to a $100 donation at four meetings per year - donating the entire amount to a worthy local charity. No work. No fundraisers. Just the fun of giving and immediate impact! 100 Women x $100 = $10,000 donated locally. The next meeting is May 27th.
Please visit the website at www.100womenwhocarelondon.com or visit Facebook @ 100+ Women Who Care – London & Area for more details.
Proudly Canadian Villager Publications is a proudly Canadian-owned and operated company, deeply committed to supporting our local communities. We’re ALL and ONLY about your LOCAL artisans, entrepreneurs, events, service organiza - tions, businesses, people and places. Creating jobs for fellow Canadians, we use all homegrown resources to write, design, publish, print and deliver your Villager magazines each month. With every issue, we celebrate the spirit of Canada.
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Page 3 Byron Villager May 2025
Byron Bridge Getting New Life This Summer The Byron Bridge turns 60 this year, and the City of London is giving it new life by repairing parts of its infrastructure to help keep it in service for another 10 years.
Built in 1965, Byron Bridge is the major artery connecting the Byron neighbourhood to Oxford Street and areas in north and east London. Today, the bridge supports an average traffic volume of 21,000 vehicles per day, plus a significant number of cyclists and pedestrians. The bridge also supports a water main and sanitary sewer system. An inspection of the bridge in 2023 found that the girders had deteriorated severely and recommended the bridge be repaired to extend its life until it can be replaced. Replacing the Byron Bridge is part of a larger project that includes road upgrades recommended by the City of London’s Mobility Master Plan. “We plan to replace the bridge within the next decade, coinciding with the
View of the deterioration of the Byron Bridge girders
Artwork by Brad Boug See more of Brad’s art at Art with Panache, London, Art Emporium, Port Stanley and Tillsonburg Station Arts
Byron Villager Issue #100 May 2025 Your local community connector. The 100% locally owned and produced Byron Villager is published ten times a year with thousands delivered free to area residences, set out at local venues, and posted online at www.villagerpublications.com Publisher & Editor: Barb Botten P.O. Box 134, Lambeth Station Ontario N6P 1P9 Barb@villagerpublications.com 519-282-7262 Content Managers: Lynne WIlliams, Barb Botten Graphic Artist: Jon Botten Cartoonist: David Botten Copyright @ 2015 Villager Publications. All rights reserved. This magazine or any portion thereof may not be reproduced or used in any manner whatsoever without the express written permission of the Publisher. Information presented has been compiled from sources believed to be accurate at the time of printing however the Publisher assumes no responsibility for errors or omissions. We’d love to hear from you. Contact Barb at Barb@villagerpublications.com
Byron Bridge, looking north
expansion of Boler Road from two to four lanes,” explains Andrew Denomme, Transportation Design Engineer with the City of London. “That project will enhance capacity and traffic flow and improve sidewalks and bike facilities in this corridor and across the Thames River.” The Mobility Master Plan is the City’s long-term plan to prepare London’s mobility system (e.g., roads, transportation, multi-use and pedestrian access, etc.) to accommodate the change and growth expected between now and 2050. The plan recommends expanding Sanitorium Road and Boler Road to four lanes from Oxford Street West to Commissioners Road West. “The immediate repairs to rehabilitate the current Byron Bridge will start after this school year finishes and through the summer to minimize the impact on traffic,” adds Andrew. “Traffic will be reduced to one lane, but temporary signal lights will control traffic flow during construction.”
Along with repairing the girders, the bridge deck drains will be repaired and extended to redirect runoff water away from the girders, preventing further deterioration. The 2023 inspection also identified needed repairs of the water main insulation. These repairs will be completed at the same time. Construction should take eight weeks to complete. Two weeks before the project starts, Byron residents will be notified, by mail and social media, of the planned construction and anticipated transportation impacts. For more information and updates, visit www.london.ca or follow the City of London on X (Twitter,) Facebook and/ or Instagram @cityofldnont. Photos courtesy of the City of London
Map showing where construction will be happening this summer
Page 4 Byron Villager May 2025
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ASK US ABOUT INSURANCE FOR HOME, AUTO, COMMERCIAL, OR FARM WORRIED ABOUT SPRING FLOODING? Different insurers have different ways of covering high water problems. Coverages and costs will vary with the specific location of your house, surrounding terrain and nearby water features. What kind of policy should I have for high water in the Spring Cathy Fallowfield Registered Insurance Broker Director of Operations Flood Insurance may be needed if your home is near lakes, rivers or ponds, to insure your property against storm surges, tidal waves and similar major events. Overland Water Insurance covers sudden water events such as heavy spring rains or a river overflowing its banks in a spring thaw. Andrea Coutu Registered Insurance Broker Jessica Cornelis Registered Insurance Broker Cindy Haywood Registered Insurance Broker Terry Young Registered Insurance Broker SPRING FLOODS HAPPEN YEAR ROUND NOW Different insurers have different ways of covering high water problems. Coverages and costs will vary with the specific location of your house, surrounding terrain, and nearby water features. INSURANCE SHOPPER DELAWARE/KOMOKA/KILWORTH/MT. BRYDGES YOUR NEIGHBOURHOOD SOURCE FOR EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT INSURANCE Flood Insurance may be needed if your home is near a lake, river, or pond to insure your property against storm surges, tidal waves, and similar major events. Overland Water Insurance covers sudden water events such as heavy spring rains or a river overflowing its banks in a spring thaw. Enhanced Water Damage Insurance combines coverages for multiple types of water problems, such as ground water, overland water, exterior water, and sewer lines. What kind of policy should I have for high water in the spring ASK US ABOUT INSURANCE FOR HOME, AUTO, COMMERCIAL, OR FARM URANCE ADVISORS IN YOUR NEIGHBOURHOOD RIED ABOUT SPRING FLOODING? Different insurers have different ways of covering high water problems. Coverages and costs will vary with the specific location of your house, surrounding terrain and nearby water features. D DELAWARE/KOMOKA/KILWORTH/MT. BRYDGES YOUR NEIGHBOURHOOD SOURCE FOR EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT INSURANCE URHOOD SOURCE FOR EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT INSURANCE As your local insurance specialist, we know the lay of the land in your neighbourhood. We can help to assess conditions affecting your home and compare your options from 12 top Canadian insurers. ASK US ABOUT INSURANCE FOR HOME, AUTO, COMMERCIAL, OR FARM What kind of policy should I have for high water in the Spring Flood Insurance may be needed if your home is near lakes, rivers or ponds, to insure your property against storm surges, tidal waves and similar major events. BROUGHT TO YOU BY Enhanced Water Damage Insurance will combine coverages for multiple types of water problems such as ground water, overland water and sewer lines. water, exterior water and sewer lines. INSURANCE SHOPPER YOUR NEIGHBOURHOOD SOURCE FOR EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT INSURANCE DELAWARE/KOMOKA/KILWORTH/MT. BRYDGES FREE NO OBGLIGATION QUOTE DELAWARE/KOMOKA/KILWORTH/MT. BRYDGES BYRON AND AREA DELAWARE/KOMOKA/KILWORTH/MT. BRYDGES THE INSURANCE ADVISORS IN YOUR NEIGHBOURHOOD Patty Crawford Registered Insurance Broker Jessica Cornelis Registered Insurance Broker RANCE ADVISORS IN YOUR NEIGHBOURHOOD D DELAWARE/KOMOKA/KILWORTH/MT. BRYDGES GIVE US A CALL TODAY. 519-652-3201
Aviva Abex April Echelon Intact Pal RIED ABOUT SPRING FLOODING? Different insurers have different ways of covering high water problems. Coverages and costs will vary with the specific location of your house, surrounding terrain and nearby water features. SURANCE SHOPPER WARE/KOMOKA/KILWORTH/MT. BRYDGES Travelers Cansure Group One Wishing you the very best this holiday season! Economical/Definity Forward Insurance Yarmouth Mutual Victor Insurance What is the difference between “Flood Insurance” & “Overland Water Coverage” RRIED ABOUT SPRING FLOODING? • Cover windows with plastic • Check your insulation in your attic and basement • Replace worn weather stripping OUTSIDE TAPS • Bleed the lines of your outdoor faucet ENERGY EFFICIENT What kind of policy should I have for high water in the Spring Flood Insurance may be needed if your home is near lakes, rivers or ponds, to insure your property against OURHOOD SOURCE FOR EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT INSURANCE nsurance specialist, we know the lay of the land in your neighbourhood. o assess conditions affecting your home and compare your options from n insurers. OUR HOME A SPRING TUNE-UP! season to check out your home’s exterior, from roof shingles to azing to dryer vents. Use the handy “Home Maintenance Checklist” bsite to make sure your home is safe and sound. 2681 Gideon Drive, Delaware, Ontario Cathy Fallowfield Registered Insurance Broker Director of Operations Cathy Fallowfield Registered Insurance Broker Director of Operations Cindy Haywood Registered Insurance Broker Cindy Haywood Registered Insurance Broker Overland Water Insurance covers sudden water events such as heavy Spring rains or a river overflowing its banks in a Spring thaw. Enhanced Water Damage Insurance will combine coverages for multiple types of water problems such as ground water, overland water, exterior water and sewer lines. Terry Young Registered Insurance Broker Cindy Haywood Registered Insurance Broker Terry Young Registered Insurance Broker Jessica Cornelis Registered Insurance Broker Jessica Cornelis Registered Insurance Broker Registered Insurance Broker Director of Operations Terry Young Registered Insurance Broker Flood Insurance may be needed if your home is near lakes, rivers or ponds, to insure your property against storm surges, tidal waves and similar major events. Overland Water Insurance covers sudden water events such as heavy Spring rains or a river overflowing its banks in a Spring thaw. Cathy Fallowfield Registered Insurance Broker Director of Operations Cathy Fallowfield Cindy Haywood Registered Insurance Broker r Cathy Fallowfield Registered Insurance Broker Director of Operations ive, Delaware, Ontario N0L 1E0 • Tel: 519-652-3201 • Fax: 519-652-2710 -363-4304 • Email: crawfordanddanyluk@cmmgbrokers.com To advertise here please contact Barb@villagerpublications.com URANCE SHOPPER WARE/KOMOKA/KILWORTH/MT. BRYDGES Cathy Fallowfield Registered Insurance Broker Director of Operations Terry Young Registered Insurance Broker Jessica Cornelis Registered Insurance Broker What is the difference between “Flood Insurance” & “Overland Water Coverage” RRIED ABOUT SPRING FLOODING? Cindy Haywood Registered Insurance Broker rdanddanylukinsurance.com • 519-652-3201 Toll Free: 1-800-363-4304 March - Crawford.indd 1 S A “WAIVER RECIATION” preciation coverage nsurer’s right to deduct from the value of your settling a claim for ge caused by a peril u are insured.
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Drop into our office for a free flood preparation brochure or call us and we will mail it to you Coming soon: Look for our flood preparation brochure filled with tips and guides on what to do before, during, and after a flood. BROUGHT TO YOU BY
Jessica Cornelis Registered Insurance Broker Jessica Cornelis Registered Insurance Broker
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Axiom Mutual AM Fredericks Premier Group SPRING FLOODS HAPPEN YEAR ROUND NOW Different insurers have different ways of covering high water problems. Coverages and costs will vary with the specific location of your house, surrounding terrain, and nearby water features. INSURERS THAT WE CAN GET QUOTES FROM Max Insurance Burns & Wilcox WORRIED ABOUT SPRING FLOODING? Different insurers have different ways of covering high water problems. Coverages and costs will vary with the specific location of your house, surrounding terrain and nearby water features. Cambrian Special Risks Signature Risk Partners South Western Group Oegema Nicholson & Assoc. Special Risk Insurance Managers Sports & Fitness Insurance Canada SPRING FLOODS Different insurers have different ways of covering high water problems. Coverages and costs will vary with the specific location of your house, surrounding terrain, and nearby water features. What kind of policy should I have for high water in the Spring Email: crawfordanddanyluk@cmmgbrokers.com THE INSURANCE ADVISORS IN YOUR NEIGHBOURHOOD WORKING SMOKE ALARMS SAVES LIVES! Cindy Haywood Registered Insurance Broker www.crawfordanddanylukinsurance.com 519-652-3201 UPDATING YOUR HOME? UPDATE YOUR INSURANCE! Terry Young Registered Insurance Broker Fax: 519-652-2710 Is Your Home Ready For Winter? HOW DOES ACCIDENT WAIVER PROTECT ME It is an auto insurance benefit that may prevent insurance rates from increasing as a result of a driver’s first at-fault accident. It can be added to a policy to protect those with a good driving record. Tel: 519-652-3201 Andrea Coutu Registered Insurance Broker Page 5 Byron Villager May 2025
Test yours every month. Replace the
Flood Insurance may be needed if your home is near lakes, rivers Patty Cathy Flood Insurance may be Overland Water Enhanced Water Damage 2022-02-16 2:53 PM
3 WAYS
The V63 was a continuation of a Cadillac line introduced in October 1924. The updated version came with loads of choices for the buyer, including eight body style options that could seat from two (the Coupe) up to seven people (Sedan or Limousine).
The Chicken Coupe Deville Officially, it’s a 1925 Cadillac V63 Coach but Steve Plunkett calls it the Chicken Coupe Deville.
There were two dozen colour choices in new-to-market, quick-drying DuPont lacquer paint made specifically for car bodies. And the buyer had their choice of ten upholstery designs. Depending on the body style and accessories chosen, retail prices at the time ranged from about $3,000 to $4500 US, which converts to nearly $54,000-$80,000 today. Research shows that Steve’s was shipped on December 5, 1924, to Don Lee Cadillac
This large, luxury car was abandoned in a chicken coop in Orange, California. The farmer who owned the car parked it there in 1941 and it sat until 2005 when he went into long-term care. It’s in remarkably good condition for being left to the elements and chickens for sixty-four years. Steve bought it in 2007 and it’s been the ultimate barn find in his Cadillac Salon since he opened that building in 2009. The vehicle is unrestored
in Los Angeles, the west coast distributor for all Cadillacs, where it cost $3185 US. Its modern and innovative features include an anti-theft gear shift, window blinds, a light under the hood and a cigar lighter on retractable cable. It also has Bausch and Lomb optical headlight lenses. All that, powered by 80 horsepower from a 314 cubic inch V8 engine.
and complete, in perfect working order, and has its original fitted trunk and dual exhaust. Cigarette butts predating World War II are still in the ashtray. Steve will start the car for astonished visitors. It’s connected to a ventilation system that removes exhaust gases. The wood floor is in perfect condition. A Fisher Body stamp is still visible on the front right. (Fisher was the official coach builder for GM, Cadillac’s parent company.) It also has wooden running boards and a steel body frame. This model was outfitted with an onboard compressor for inflating tires because bad roads, wood-spoked wheels, and thin rubber resulted in flat tires being a common problem a hundred years ago. The tool box holds the original tools and fabric covered compressed air hose. The rear lights, emerging from the middle of a spare tire, are unusual, especially the puzzling blue light.
For fifteen years, Steve Plunkett turned his love of cars into the Fleetwood Country Cruize-In, an even that supported local Charities and raised over $1.7 million. “Taking a passion that I love and creating and event that benefits so many people has been a blessing,” says Steve. The event attracted thousands of people and cars from across North America. When not at home on his estate on the outskirts of Byron, Steve tours invitational car events and shows across North America, showcasing his classic cars.
“Backup lights were still optional into the 1960s,” says Steve. “Even in 1925, Cadillac was ahead. The clear was the backup light. Red, the tail light. What on earth is the blue light? That’s the earliest brake light colour.”
Page 6 Byron Villager May 2025
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Page 7 Byron Villager May 2025
An update from Anna Hopkins Our Ward 9 City Councillor
difference. Whether you attended meetings, sent emails, or called to share your thoughts, your voice matters. Public participation holds us, as elected officials, accountable—and it shapes better outcomes for everyone. I’d also like to recognize the developers and builders who go the extra mile to hold information sessions and respond to community concerns. Our city is at its best when neighbours, builders, and staff collaborate, compromise, and work together in good faith. As a Candidate for Ward 9 in this year ’ s Munici will be a number of conversations that I will be constituents. Lastly, with Mother’s Day around the corner, I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to all the mothers in our community. Whether you’re celebrating with flowers, a heartfelt card, a meal at her favourite spot, or simply by finishing that project she’s been waiting on, what matters most is time spent together. As always, I welcome your thoughts, questions, and feedback. Please feel free to reach out to me at ahopkins@london.ca or
A Note of Gratitude from Councillor Anna Hopkins
As the first buds begin to appear on the trees and spring’s earliest blooms brighten our neighbourhoods, I’m rem- inded of the strength that comes from renewal—and the incredible resilience of our community.
When we come together, we uplift one another, strengthen our shared purpose, and spark inspiration to continue striving for the best possible future. Simply put: we’re stronger together. Ward 9 continues to lead the way in growth across our city. From infill developments and four-units-by-right projects to new subdivisions, change is all around us. The provincial mandate to build 47,000 new units by 2031 has made clear the urgency of increasing housing supply. Most residents I speak with agree—housing is needed, especially deeply affordable housing. I want to sincerely thank everyone who participated in the recent Council meeting regarding the Boler/Byron Baseline zoning application for a six-storey, 62-unit building. Your thoughtful engagement, your patience with the process, and your continued willingness to be involved truly make a
visit www.annahopkins.ca to sign up for my newsletter and stay in the loop. Take care of one another,
Did You Know? Villager Publications serves 12 communities in Lon- don and the surrounding area with our monthly, community-focused magazines. Each issue is local- ly printed and delivered through Canada Post, with additional copies available at local pickup locations. You can also read the latest six issues online at www.villagerpublications.com. Interested in supporting local communities through advertising? Want to share a story idea, event, or someone doing something great in your neighbour- hood? We'd love to hear from you!
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Page 8 Byron Villager May 2025
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Where the Roots Run Deep Beulah Frezell’s roots in By - ron run deep—her great-great- great-grandfather, Jesse Corn - wall (who later changed the family name to Cornell), was one of the early settlers in the area. In 1816, Jesse purchased 200 acres of land located at the corner of what we now know as Southdale Road and Colonel Talbot Road. However, before he could officially receive the deed, he was required to fulfill several conditions: he had to clear a portion of the land, build a log house, and complete nec- essary roadwork to support the growing settlement.
In 1970, Ron and Beulah purchased their own home on Helena Montague, a quiet street still nestled within the community they loved. Beulah continues to live there to this day. She often reflects on how ideal the location was at the time—close to Ron’s place of work and to their children’s schools. Ron was the owner and operator of Paul’s Barbershop, a well-known local spot that once stood where the Shawarma House is located today. All three of their children—Debbie, Donna, and Mark—attended Byron Northview Public School and later continued their education at Saunders Secondary School. It was a close-knit community where neighbours knew each other and families often crossed paths through school events and local businesses. Beulah herself worked just across the street from the barbershop at the Park Shop, a ladies’ and children’s wear store located next to McKelvey’s. The shop, owned by Doris Roger, offered much more than retail—it was a place where clothing was custom- made from patterns. Beulah and Mrs. Roger often worked side by side at the sewing machine, creating dresses for customers. In fact, Mrs. Roger even made Beulah’s wedding dress in that very shop while Beulah made the flower girls’ dresses. She worked at the Park Shop to save money for her studies at London Bible College, where she would later earn a Bachelor of Religious Education. After graduating, she took her knowledge and passion on the road, traveling to rural communities to teach religious education—a testament to her commitment to faith and education. Over the decades, Beulah has witnessed remarkable changes in Byron. From a quiet farming village to a vibrant and growing suburban neighbourhood, she has seen the landscape and community transform before her eyes. Her remarkable memory and deep connection to Byron’s past have made her a valuable resource in piecing together the town’s rich history. She fondly recalls taking her children to the Byron pool to learn to swim and hosting her wedding reception with Ron in the basement of the Cobblestone Inn—now The Hermitage. She also remembers the early days of the Byron Baptist Church, when the congregation held services in the old Byron Schoolhouse. With only a pot-bellied stove to heat the space, those gatherings were humble but full of spirit, until the church building was eventually completed on Glenrose Drive.
That land would go on to sup- port many generations of the Cornell family. It was worked for agriculture, including cattle, sheep, various crops and types of fruit and provided both a livelihood and a legacy. The family farm remained a constant in their lives and stood as a symbol of endurance and hard work through the years. Beulah herself was born on that farm on May 1, 1937, to parents Basil and Mary Cornell. She was raised surrounded by the same fields, pastures and orchards that her ancestors had once tilled and planted and her early years were shaped by the rhythms of farm life. On June 25, 1960, Beulah married Ron Frezell at the Byron Baptist Church. The couple spent their first year of marriage in a small apartment on Boler Road before returning to the Cornell homestead, where they lived for the next nine years. That period was filled with memories of family life on the farm, surrounded by familiar land and family traditions.
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Page 9 Byron Villager May 2025
Byron Through The Years
Now, as we reflect on the passage of time, let us take a visual jour - ney through Byron’s past with before-and-after photos. Through stories like Beulah’s and the memories shared by long-time resi - dents, we honour the legacy of some of the people and places that shaped this beautiful town into the community we cherish today. We strive to gather the most accurate and meaningful informa - tion about the history of Byron, piecing together the past through the memories and stories of those who lived it. While we do our best to ensure the details are accurate, much of what we know relies on personal recollections—those cherished mem - ories that breathe life into history. Yet memory can be a fragile Now, as we reflect on the passage of time, let us take a visual jour - ney through Byron’s past with before-and-after photos. Through stories like Beulah’s and the memories shared by long-time resi - dents, we honour the legacy of some of the people and places that shaped this beautiful town into the community we cherish today. We strive to gather the most accurate and meaningful informa - tion about the history of Byron, piecing together the past through the memories and stories of those who lived it. While we do our best to ensure the details are accurate, much of what we know relies on personal recollections—those cherished mem - ories that breathe life into history. Yet memory can be a fragile Byron Through The Years
thing; over time, dates, names, and places may become blurred or reshaped—not out of carelessness, but simply through the natural passage of time. These stories remain invaluable, of - fering a rich and personal perspective that no record alone could provide, even if some details have faded over time. We also recognize that there are many more stories, people and businesses that have played an important role in shaping our com - munity’s history. While not all could be included in this issue due to space, their contributions are no less significant. I will continue gathering stories in the years ahead and look forward to shar - ing more of Byron’s rich and varied history with the community. thing; over time, dates, names, and places may become blurred or reshaped—not out of carelessness, but simply through the natural passage of time. These stories remain invaluable, of - fering a rich and personal perspective that no record alone could provide, even if some details have faded over time. We also recognize that there are many more stories, people and businesses that have played an important role in shaping our com - munity’s history. While not all could be included in this issue due to space, their contributions are no less significant. I will continue gathering stories in the years ahead and look forward to shar - ing more of Byron’s rich and varied history with the community.
The Byron branch of the London Public Library started in 1935 in the basement of a church and a permanent structure was built in 1955 at the same location where it sits today. The Byron branch of the London Public Library started in 1935 in the basement of a church until a permanent structure was built in 1955 at the same location where is sits today.
The old wooden bridge at Centre Street (now Halls Mill Road) spanning the Thames River was built in 1895, replacing previous wooden bridges lost to flood damage. This bridge would last until June 1904 and was located downriver from the current bridge location. In the mid-1960s, the one-lane truss bridge connecting Boler Road to Riverside Drive was replaced with a deck bridge, and Boler Road was rerouted onto the new bridge. The old wooden bridge at Centre Street (now Halls Mill Road) spanning the Thames River was built in 1895, replacing previous wooden bridges lost to flood damage. This bridge would last until June 1904 & this bridge was located downriver from the current bridge location. In the mid-1960s, the one-lane truss bridge connecting Boler Road to Riverside Drive was replaced with a deck bridge, and Boler Road was rerouted onto the new bridge.
The London Ski Club was incorporated in 1949 as a non-profit organization. By 1979, the London Ski Club had grown immensely and plans for expansion were put into motion. New slopes were added, providing skiers with more vertical inclines and sharper turns. The Byron Ski Hill was served by three T-bar lifts throughout the 1970s and 80s, and one was replaced by a quad-chairlift in the early 1990s. A second expansion took place in 1990, which included the construction of a new chairlift and a state-of-the- art snow-making machine. A single quad-chairlift replaced two T-Bars in 2003. Today, Boler Mountain is a year-round destination.
In the early 1950s, a popular place to be was Gray’s Coffee Shop owned by Helen and Marty Gray. The counter was on the west side of the establishment, while a variety store occupied the east side. In 1968, Marty sold Gray’s to Sophie Wilson, his longtime employee. After Gray’s Coffee Shop closed, the Golden Flame restaurant opened and operated until about 1979, when plans for the new building to house Canada Trust was constructed. Park Lunch was owned by Earl Armstrong and his wife, Lillian. Park Lunch was known for its mouth-watering penny candy.
The Byron Fire Station was built in 1954 right beside the Byron Library and was operated by volunteer firefight - ers. The current station, Station 12, was built in 2000 and is staffed by four platoons, each with four firefighters. The crew handles a wide range of emergencies, including structure fires, vehicle collisions, medical calls, technical res - cues, and public assistance. Byron also has a Technical Rescue Team specializing in low-slope and high-angle rescues. Fire safety education is also a key part of the job. Byron firefighters regularly visit schools, participate in community events, and provide fire truck tours. They’re always willing to answer questions from neighbours who stop by.
The Byron Shell Station lessee from 1958 to the mid-1960s was Byron resident, Clare Scalfe. It was taken over by a man named Biggar until 1967. Then, Gary DeGraw became the new owner until 1986. Gary loved to work. He had a strong work ethic and was the epitome of ‘true grit.’ While operating the Byron Shell Station in 1972 -1973, Gary ran the ‘Pop Shoppe’ on Wharncliffe Road. Gary’s son, Darryl, took over the operation until Bill Vine stepped in. Wayne Howie bought the company in 1994 and has run it as Byron Automotive with hard work, integrity and heart ever since.
What Happened to Tecumseh?
No one really knows for sure. There is nothing like a mystery to keep people guessing, even now, 212 years later. There are as many stories about Tecumseh’s final moments and the location of his body as there were survivors of the Battle of the Thames. Originally, there were few indications that Tecumseh’s death would become the most controversial incident of the Western Theatre of this particular American Invasion in 1813. None of the victorious Americans in that battle, General Harrison, Governor Shelby, or even Colonel Richard Mentor Johnson, the Kentucky leader of the ‘Forlorn Hope’ charge, mention Tecumseh’s death in their reports or letters. General Harrison viewed the bodies of several dead Natives on the battlefield, but they were so badly damaged that he could not say for sure if Tecumseh was among them. Thus, he refrained from announcing Tecumseh’s death in his official dispatch of October 9, 1813. Governor Shelby was fighting in a different sector of the battle, so he wasn’t a witness to Tecumseh’s death. Colonel Johnson was so badly wounded that he was delirious. He knew that his last action was to shoot a Native with his pistol, but whether or not that Native was Tecumseh, he could not tell and never claimed that it was Tecumseh. No matter. When he ran for Congress in 1820, representing Kentucky, and later, when he became Vice President from 1837 until 1841, the political machine did his speaking for him. The American political machine has a penchant for extolling the virtues of a candidate’s enemies in order to make their candidate’s victory over them even more illustrious. A gullible public, hungry for sensationalism, ate it up. General Harrison fared even better. He ran for the office of President of the United States and won the election in 1841, largely because of his victory at the Battle of the Thames over Tecumseh. Tecumseh’s exploits got the full treatment. His legacy was so great that the General who burned Atlanta during the American Civil
War carried the name William Tecumseh Sherman. No likenesses of Tecumseh appeared during his lifetime. Nevertheless, there are statues of him at West Point and also a rather poor likeness of him at the US Naval Academy, to name a few. So what did happen to Tecumseh’s body? It is likely that his followers melted with it into the forest in the late afternoon shadows of that day. Where they buried him, no one would say and even if they did, it would have to come through a white man’s translation in order to reach us. Our monument to Tecumseh can be found at the edge of the battlefield, 14249 Longwoods Road (4 km east of Thamesville). Meanwhile, during the battle, General Proctor and his entourage were seen riding furiously away towards the village of Moraviantown with the Kentuckians in hot pursuit. Moraviantown, that quiet, peaceful, God-fearing village, was totally unprepared for what was to follow. (To be continued...see page 24)
NEW SEASON. NEW STORIES. Your Guide to Summer Theatre!
www.psft.ca (519) 782-4353
DUMP GUYS MAY 21 - MAY 31 BY SIMON JOYNES LIARS AT A FUNERAL JULY 16 - AUGUST 2 BY SOPHIA FABIILLI
Hits of the Grand Ole Opry OPRY GOLD JUNE 3 - JUNE 14 LEISA WAY'S featuring The Wayward Wind Band THE KITCHEN WITCHES AUGUST 6 - AUGUST 23 BY CAROLINE SMITH
DORIS AND IVY IN THE HOME JUNE 18 - JULY 12 BY NORM FOSTER goldfish AUGUST 27 - SEPTEMBER 13
PortStanley FestivalTheatre 2025 Summer Season
BY STEVE ROSS WORLD PREMIERE
“The Kitchen Witches” is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf of Samuel French, Inc. www.concordtheatricals.com Season Subscriptions Available
Page 14 Byron Villager May 2025
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REBATES ARE BACK! Call or Click today to learn more! STARK & CO. Painting and Trim Specializing in residential interior and exterior painting and the removal and replacement of baseboard trim. Kaedon J. Stark (519) 872-0347 StarkPaintingAndTrim@Gmail.com Workers with Pride! CALL, TEXT OR EMAIL FOR A FREE QUOTE & CONSULTATION Stark.PaintingTrim StarkPaintingTrim Georgia Kortas, lawyer at Thomson Mahoney Delorey LLP welcomes your inquires for legal services in estate planning, estate administration, real estate (residential / commercial) and business law. Georgia can be reached at: Thomson Mahoney Delorey LLP 145 Wharncliffe Road South, Nicole donates a portion of the profits from each book to support DfG’s work, a commitment that aligns with Nicole’s own social enterprise, Prosperity and Purpose, which creates impactful change locally and globally by empowering women and advocating for their economic sustainability. “The connection between my books and DfG is about human potential,” Nicole adds. “When we realize our potential, our lives can expand with creativity, fulfillment, and meaning.” For more information about Nicole, visit www.prosperitypurpose.ca. To learn more about DfG, visit www.daysforgirls.org. Photos courtesy of Nicole Versaevel The Black Walnut Bakery Cafe has locations at 134 Wortley Road (under reconstruction) and 724 Richmond Street. They offer breakfast and lunch (quiche, frittatas, sandwiches, etc.) baked goods, coffee, tea and and cold drinks. Learn more at blackwalnutbakerycafe.com and by finding them on Facebook. create menstruation kits and sell them to people in their community. In places where there is no local social enterprise, volunteers from DfG bring kits for distribution. Nicole will lead a wellness retreat to Guatemala this November, during which they will distribute kits. Between January and April of this year, Nicole published three books: Growing Yourself Up: Tales in Living and Loving, Life By Design: A Blueprint for Purpose and Meaning, and Breathe: Practices for Calm and Clarity. All three books guide readers toward developing self- awareness, self-leadership skills, and the confidence to reach their full potential. Nicole with midwives who work for the maternal health clinic in the rural town of San Juan La Laguna, Guatemala Kung Fu & Tai Chi School EXPERIENCE MARTIAL ARTS AND WELLNESS BOOK A TRIAL CLASS AT https://kungfu-taichi.ca Dedicated classes for children • Day Camps Classes for teens, adults and seniors. Black Walnut Update by J. Bruce Parker With Spring upon us and its promise of re-birth and new growth, a fine example in the village is the beginnings of the framing of the Black Walnut Bakery Café which was destroyed by fire in April of 2023. (226) 998-8703 Enhance Physical Health, Confidence and Self Esteem with Sifu Carlos Ferraz 190 Wortley Rd. Martial Arts and Wellness Programs in the Heart of Wortley Village Mandy Etheridge, who co-owns the business with her brother Ed, expressed hope for a reopening in October of this year. And things seem to be on track. I can almost smell the coffee brewing.
Local Author Empowers Women’s Health Imagine a menstruating girl or woman not having access to the products and information she needs to manage this natural process. This situation may seem unfathomable in today’s world. Yet, it’s a reality for millions of women across the globe. For Byron resident and author Nicole Versaevel, learning about this gap in women’s health was a call to action. “When I learned about girls who can’t attend school because they don’t have access to menstrual products, I knew I had to do something,” explains Nicole. “Then I learned about Days for Girls (DfG) and began volunteering.” DfG has chapters in countries around the world, including Canada. Nicole volunteers with the London chapter, which meets monthly to produce washable, reusable menstrual kits. AlvegoRoot Theatre Trivia Night Manor Park Memorial Hall, 11 Briscoe Street For ticket information and to learn more about AlvegoRoot’s 2024 season, visit www.alvegoroottheatre.com Nicole’s mission has always been to help women discover their purpose and confidently chart their own path. As a former midwife, she spent much of her career empowering women, guiding them through transformative journeys, and helping them tap into their inner strength. DfG empowers women and girls to live healthier lives by increasing access to menstrual supplies, shattering the stigma associated with menstruation through education, and advocating for menstrual health, reaching over 3.5 million women and girls in 145 countries. The DfG model also enables women to develop and run social enterprises in their own country. Local women learn how to Mother's Day Gifts Mother's Day Gifts Nicole Versaevel Morrisey appointed inaugural Artist in Residence at the St. Paul’s Cathedral Old South artist Catherine Morrisey has been appointed as the inaugural Artist in Resident for 2026 – 2026 at the St. Pauls Cathedral. “This residency offers Catherine the opportunity to create works showcasing the beauty of London, its surroundings, and the cathedral’s community, reimagining the church through her artistic vision,” read the church announcement. “Catherine will undoubtedly utilize this residency to inspire, encourage, and teach others, fostering an appreciation for art-making.” St. Paul’s is located at 474 Richmond Street. Learn more about Catherine at CatherineMorriseyFineArt.ca What’s Happening at Landon Library Submitted by Ashleigh Hickey Cursive Writing (Ages 8+) January 20, 2024 10:30 am – noon (Registered) Come learn the benefits of cursive writing and try your hand at some pangrams with Dez, a local archivist. PA Day Creativity Break (Teen) February 2, 2024 3:00 – 4:30 pm (Drop-In) It’s time to be creative! Drop by your local library to take a break and create. Craft supplies may vary, chill vibes only. STEAM, Saturdays (Family) February 3, 2024 10:00 – 11:00 am (Drop-In) Drop-in to explore a variety of Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math related activities! Visit LACC and The Catty Shack on Facebook! Velofix mobile bike repair is now servicing London & surrounding areas. Mother's Day Gifts Mother’s Day Gifts Your Perfect Match awaits you at The London Animal Care Centre and The Catty Shack! Bringing people and pets together www.accpets.ca
C atty S haCk THE
London Animal Care Centre: 121 Pine Valley Blvd., (519) 685-1330 The Catty Shack: 756 Windermere Rd., (519) 432-4572 JEWELLERY HOME DECOR CLOTHING AND MUCH MORE IN STORE.... JEWELLERY HOME DECOR CLOTHING AND MUCH MORE IN STORE.... 174 1/2 WORTLEY RD. SHOP LOCAL
Save Time – Ride More with Vélofix Mobile Bike Repair SHOP CANADIAN AND SUPPORT LOCAL 174 ½ WORTLEY RD, LONDON ON SHOP CANADIAN AND SUPPORT LOCAL 174 ½ WORTLEY RD, LONDON ON
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Need Bike Repair or Maintenance? NOW YOU KNOW A GUY! Tom Panabaker
SHOP CANADIAN AND SUPPORT LOCAL 174 ½ WORTLEY RD, LONDON ON
Nowadays excellent customer service is considered as the biggest merit that a company can earn. It is the attribute that people value more than good price of a product or even more than its quality. Byron Pizza has always exceeded in customer service and now we’d like to recognize these valuable employees.
London, Ontario N6J 2K4 T: 519-673-1151 ext 251 E: gkortas@londonlawyers.com
519-237-HEAT (4328) jaydensmechanical.com Wortley Villager Jan-Feb 2024 •
Sophia To advertise here, please contact Cathy@villagerpublications.com Book your appointment now at www.velofix.com
Page 15
Page 14 Wortley Villager • May 2025
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Page 15 Byron Villager May 2025
Byron Legion May 2025 Calendar | 1276 Commissioners Road West (519)-472-3300 Monday to Friday 12pm – 10pm, Saturday 12pm – 12am, Sunday 1pm – 7pm
Ken Payne Memorial Garden Ken was one of the founding organizers of the Byron Optimist Sports Complex, and he, along with several others, was on the building committee back in 1977. This group’s vision was to create a space where children and adults could engage in sports and community activities. A memorial garden dedicated to Ken’s legacy has been created at the Byron Sports Complex. A ceremony will be held on May 31st at 1 pm to honour his lifelong Byron Optimist and volunteer in the Byron community. Ken touched thousands of lives through his love of sports and his dedication to connecting the community.
Looking for a New Shed this Spring?
Let us make the Custom Made, Locally Built Shed Your Back Yard Deserves! Hand Crafted – Custom Built Mini Barns • Work Sheds • Play Houses Pool Change Rooms
Since 1974 10055 Carter Rd.
Space Needed for Small Sailboard Near Beach: Port Stanley
Page 16 Byron Villager May 2025
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Show Your Byron Pride! For many years, Byronites have shown their pride! From tshirts to pins to banners, the Byron spirit has always been alive. Wearing apparel or displaying a flag with “Byron” on it isn’t just about fashion—it’s a way of celebrating our close-knit, vibrant and welcoming community that we’re lucky to be part of. Whether you’ve lived here your whole life or just recently joined the neighbourhood, showing your Byron pride brings us all a little closer together. So go ahead—rep Byron loud and proud! You can purchase local Byron clothing and mugs from N6K Apparel, a company that Grant Thomas started to support this community. Visit www.n6kapparel.com
In 1960, when London was wooing Byron to agree to the annexation process, Byron was promised a high school and hockey arena. Many Byron parents went to bat. Soon after annexation in 1961, a high school was built in Oakridge and soon after that, a hockey arena was built in Oakridge, thus causing the rivalry between Byron and Oakridge, especially when the teams faced each other on the field or ice. This rivalry lasted for decades (and still does for some..) Merle Randolph Tingley (1921-2017) was better known as “Ting,” and was, for over forty years, the much-loved London Free Press political cartoonist.
Laura Medina Agent Bus: 519-204-7277 laura@lauramedina.ca Laura Medina Insurance Agency Inc. 440 Boler Rd. Suite 208
London, ON N6K4L2 www.lauramedina.ca
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Page 17 Byron Villager May 2025
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