Celebrating 150 years of Hillary House is a significant milestone. My son Matthew might think that’s a lot of years, just like he told his grandfather on his 75th birthday last week—“That’s too many years!”
This past weekend marked my first official visit to Hillary House. Although I had been on the side porch once before for a photo shoot during my brother-in-law’s wedding (I was in the bridal party), I had never actually been inside. I also found myself in front of the barn for a video shoot, where we were asked to do some silly things. It was fun, but I don’t think I’ll be doing that again—especially on such historic grounds. So, I guess you could say I now have a small personal connection to this place.
I had a great time exploring the inside of the property and snapping a few pictures, but I was also drawn to the barn at the back. As I approached, a young guide caught my attention with some fascinating facts about the barn.
The guide looked to be around 11 or 13 years old, but he was incredibly knowledgeable. When he didn’t know something off the top of his head, he confidently referred to his notes to find the information. I was impressed, and I could tell the rest of the group was as well. It was refreshing to see such passion and confidence from someone so young.
While I was taking pictures, an older man approached the boy and asked him about the place. From what I observed, the man seemed uninterested, asking only generic questions. After the boy finished speaking, the man nodded and smiled at him. The boy may not remember this encounter, but I certainly will. It served as a reminder of how easily we can overlook the value of someone’s knowledge, especially when they’re young. The boy’s confidence and expertise left a lasting impression on me, highlighting how much we can learn from people of all ages.
It was wonderful to see the younger generation volunteering their time for the 150th Anniversary of the Hillary House event. I have to admit, I was a bit worried when I saw a couple of boys running around the house just before the event started. I couldn’t help but imagine them accidentally breaking something important. But to my surprise, one of the boys was actually lending a hand and doing something positive.
As I looked inside the barn, nothing seemed out of the ordinary. I’d seen many barns before, so I wasn’t expecting to be surprised. But then, my eyes landed on something peculiar hanging on the wall—it looked like a bat! What could it be?
Beside the bat-like object, there was a large chain dangling from the side wall, and some barn tools scattered around the floor. I searched the space, hoping to stumble upon a lucky horseshoe, but it was nowhere to be found. Maybe there just wasn’t one here after all?
If I understood the boy correctly, the groundskeeper either slept or lived in the barn. I always struggle to listen and take pictures at the same time—maybe one day my camera will have a voice recording feature to make it easier!
I’m so glad I managed to sneak out that day to visit the Hillary House! I’ll definitely be going back for more photos. But the real reason I went that day was to meet someone special. Stay tuned for my next post to find out who that mystery person was!
COMMENTS
Carol Sharp said: May 17, 2012 at 07:26
“Great pictures, Anna. The “Boy Guide At The Barn” was 13 year old Geoffrey. He did a great job and his family is very proud of him.”
Sonja said: May 17, 2012 at 08:49
“The boy at the barn’s name is Geoffrey and he is a very impressive young man. Had he played his guitar at this event you would have been even more impressed with his talents. Well done Geoffrey!”
Elaine said: May 17, 2012 at 10:28
“There are many hidden treasures in Aurora and we are also fortunate to have individuals who look after the heritage and reach out to volunteers and students to help. It is a with pride to see these photographs and of the barn boy – Geoffrey who did a fantastic job.”
Stephanie and David said: May 17, 2012 at 10:29
“We can guarantee that the “Barn guide” will remember all the kind comments that he received on this day. We know this because he is our son, aka Geoffrey Sharp. He was thrilled to have the opportunity to share his knowledge with local people and looks forward to the next event. Thanks for taking the time to acknowledge his efforts!”
Michael Sharp said: May 17, 2012 at 12:39
“Thank you for your very complimentary comments regarding my nephew Geoffrey, the “Boy Guide”. He is a special young man, and it’s gratifying for his family that others recognize it. We’re proud of him as we are of his siblings, who were also at the event. Emma was a volunteer greeter in Hillary House, and younger sister Abbey attended out of interest. I’m a regular reader of your blog and enjoy your posts. Thanks Again for kindly acknowledging our fine young fellow. (Incidentally, this year also marks an anniversary for our family; it is the 50th since we started “Living in Aurora”).”
Vic and Ann Griffiths said: May 17, 2012 at 15:06
“We are neighbours of the Sharp family and have known Geoffrey since he was little and what a remarkable Auroran he is. Mark his name down somewhere to remember him by as he will still be doing remarkable things in years to come. We are so proud of his spirit and volunteerism and many kids can take guidance from his lead. Good on ya Geoffrey.”
