Another great year for Doors Open Aurora…

August 21, 2013 · 0 Comments

…thanks to community volunteers
By Vanessa Hicks
Program Manager, Heritage Planning
Town of Aurora

The 8th annual Doors Open Aurora event took place Saturday, August 17 and featured 16 sites of natural, architectural and historical significance. DoorsOpen_Blue

The beautiful sunny weather made for a great day of exploration for both local visitors and guests from neighbouring communities.

Doors Open Aurora volunteers were eager to help individuals plan their day and provide expert knowledge and guided tours full of history.

At Merlin’s Hollow, visitors marvelled at the garden tour led by Deirdre Tomlinson. Despite the time of year, many were surprised to see the garden in full bloom with vibrant colours.

Horton Place also intrigued guests with its Italianate architectural style that graced both the interior and exterior of the property.

Approximately 40 people took part in David Heard’s “Vision to Virtue Aurora: The Little Town that Did” walking tour. David enthusiastically shared stories of Aurora’s unique 150 year history while guiding participants through the community.

Volunteers at Hillary House kept everyone entertained with a variety of fun activities which included croquet and lawn bowling.
At the Charles Henry Sheppard House, visitors toured the grounds of the estate and learned about the Windfall Ecology Centre while appreciating the picturesque forest landscape.

The Aurora Public Library participated this year by featuring displays that highlighted the different buildings that the public facility once occupied.

Visitors here also heard from Jacqueline Stuart, who shared her knowledge of historic artefacts. At the Aurora Cultural Centre, guests were invited to explore the various art displays and learn the history of the former Church Street School building.

The Town of Aurora Heritage Advisory Committee would like to extend their gratitude to The Auroran for featuring all of the Doors Open Aurora articles over the past few weeks.

Sincere thanks also to everyone who opened their homes, businesses and institutions to the public and encouraged the community to experience Aurora’s rich cultural heritage.

Most of all, thank you to the volunteers who assisted in making this year’s event such a resounding success!