The Petch log house has undergone a significant transformation. On August 4th, 2011, the house was dismantled in the late afternoon, and all logs and components were carefully relocated to a storage facility on a nearby farm for restoration. The future holds a promise of a rejuvenated and enhanced appearance for the historic log house.
Restoring the house will require exceptional skill, just as it did to construct it in the 1840s. This endeavour is sure to become a significant historical event in the future.
I had the unique opportunity to photograph the Petch house before its designation and dismantling, which was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. I first entered the house in early spring after having visited it numerous times from the outside. Witnessing the gradual deterioration, particularly of the logs on the corners, was a poignant sight to capture through my lens. The house seemed to be slowly reclaimed by nature, with wildlife standing guard over its fading beauty.
Finally, I had the opportunity to photograph the interior once more when the Town proceeded with the disassembly. I was granted permission to enter, equipped with my camera, safety boots, and hard hat. As the roof was removed, the interior logs were exposed to natural light, revealing the stunning textures of the wood logs.
On August 3rd, 2011, I positioned myself across Leslie Street to observe and document the dismantling of the walls down to the floor. Accompanying me that day was my son, Matthew, which made it imperative for us to maintain a safe distance from the site due to the presence of heavy equipment.
For a glimpse of the Petch house captured at various stages of disassembly by Peter Van Nostrand and his team, along with assistance from the town on August 3rd, 2011, and additional content, please visit The Friends of Petch House Restoration website.
I hope everyone has enjoyed following along on my photographic journey of the Petch log house over the past few months. Before you continue on, I would like to draw your attention to something that I have recently realized – the background. Surrounding the Petch house were nothing but trees, lush green trees as far as the eye could see.
As I conclude this chapter of my photography project, I look forward to sharing more of my work with you in the future. Stay tuned for updates, as there may be a brief hiatus before my next project begins.
Thank you for joining me on this journey, and I appreciate your continued support. Until next time, take care and stay inspired.
COMMENTS
mike mccartney said: August 29, 2012 at 14:07
“Hi I have enjoyed reading your postings and pictures of the Petch House. I’ve tried searching the web for more history on this house but have had no luck. A little bit of what I do know I learned from my family. The Mills family bought the property in the early 70’s, when it stood on Leslie Street, and started what turned out to be a very large Thoroughbred horse breeding operation called Aurora Meadows. My uncle Alfred Mills who lived in it for many years told us that the original log cabin was apparently the scene of the last Indian/Settler skirmish in the area and was actually able to show us an arrowhead that was embedded in one of the logs. Not sure how historically accurate this is but thought you might find it interesting. Cheers! Mike”
