Norvic Lodge, Christie Lake

Norvic Lodge

Victor Lemieux and his wife Noreen (McGlade) Lemieux were owners and operators of Norivc Lodge.  Like the other properties set along the shores of Christie Lake, they had a beautiful shoreline, framing their homey, rustic lodge.

Victor, son of Jeremie Lemieux, and Margaret Hannah James, was born and raised in the tiny village of Fournier, in the township of Prescott-Russell.  The village is situated near the communities of Vankleek Hill, St. Isidore, and Plantagenet, a largely French-Canadian settlement. Victor’s father was a Lumberman, and his mother cared for the large family.

Victor’s wife, Noreen, grew up in the town of Perth, Ontario, the daughter of Arthur McGlade. The McGlade family were early settlers from Perth, originally from County Armagh, Ireland.  Catherine McCarthy McGlade, Noreen’s mother, was also from an Irish pioneer family, from County Cork.   Noreen’s parents were married in Toledo, Ontario, October 16, 1899.

Norvic Lodge Boathouse, 1956

Noreen ‘Neen’ ‘Neena’ McGlade Lemiuex, Co-Owner, Norvic Lodge

Dining Room

at Norvic Lodge

Dining Room, Norvic Lodge, overlooking Christie Lake – c 1960

Working at

Norvic Lodge

Memories of working at Norvic Lodge in 1960, as told by Judy (Stafford) Ryan:

“The Lodge was ‘Norvic” named after the owners – Noreen and Vic.  She was called Neena, ‘Neen’, and they had a daughter Judy,  – about my age at the time.  The Lodge was on Christie Lake.

 I was the only one in our family who had the job there, but because I also had a two week job at the Optometrist in Perth, while his secretary was on vacation, at the beginning of the Summer (Dad got it for me), my sister Jackie (Stafford) Wharton, went up to the Lodge, and held my job for me for that two week period.  I think Dad was also the one who got me the job at the Lodge.  Mother did not want me to go as she figured I would get into trouble.

We were paid $10.00 a week which was given to us at the end of the Summer.  We made great tips from the Americans, who stayed in the cabins – I could make up to $100.00 a week, depending on whether or not the cabins were full that week.

Our cabin was at the top of a hill away from the vacationers.  Our day started at 7:00 a.m.  We had to be down the hill to the Lodge in uniform, to set up the dining room for breakfast, take breakfast orders, serve it, clear tables and help wash dishes, etc.  We then went back up the hill, changed into shorts and t-shirts and cleaned all the cabins – made beds, dusted, vacuumed, cleaned bathrooms, changed towels, etc.  Then, back up the hill, back into uniform, to do the lunch thing. 

We were supposed to have a couple of hours off each afternoon, to do what we wanted.  However, part way through the summer, the lady who did the laundry left, and that was added to our jobs, without extra pay.  So after lunch, we would have to do the laundry – sheets, towels, etc. and hang them out on a line to dry.  Once a week, we would have to strip the beds, but changed the towels often. 

On days when we didn’t have to do the laundry, I would take the canoe, and a good book, and head for a small uninhabited island, and read for a couple of hours.  I knew that no-one could get to me there. 

Between 4:00 and 5:00 p.m. we were back down the hill, in our uniforms, to set up for dinner, etc., etc. 

After everything was done, and cleaned up for the evening, we had time to ourselves, if we had any energy left.  I worked with a girl by the name of Claudette, and she was a real party girl, and as there was a party at some cottage every night, we went out most nights, along with the guy who worked at the Lodge store and gas bar, and he was allowed to use one of the motor boats, and that is how we got to the other cottages.

Just before I arrived to work at the Lodge that summer there had been a bad boating accident, and I think one or two people had died.  The only way I found out about it was I saw a mangled boat with blood on it, stored in behind the lodge, when I was out walking one day, and asked the guy at the gas bar what happened.

That Summer was the first time I saw death!  There was a delightful family from Pennsylvania. there – three generations – Grandfather, parents, and two younger children.  I was serving breakfast this one morning, and the Grandfather, who was always so friendly and animated, told me about the different birds he had heard singing that morning, and during the conversation, he keeled over at the table.  I ran into the kitchen and got Vic (Lemieux) – told him the old man ‘fainted’.  Vic got the son to help him carry the Grandfather into the Lounge, behind the dining room, and they put him on the couch.  I remember going ahead and serving the other guests, and noticed people coming and going to the Lounge.   Nina told me later that the old guy had died, probably instantly, and I was really shocked and upset.  That is one of those memories that is permanently etched in your memory, especially when you are only 15.”

Norvic Lodge ad – 1971

Ad – 1962

Waterskiing

at Norvic Lodge

Waterskiing Show 1963

Christie Lake Surfers

What became of Norvic Lodge?

Norvic Lodge closed many years ago, and so we are left with our memories of this special place – the home-cooked meals, Vic, Neena, the peaceful lake, the great fishing, and the excitement of the water-skiing shows will stay with us always.

***

Arlene Stafford-Wilson

Honorary Life Member, Lanark County Genealogical Society

Member, Association of Professional Genealogists

Lanark County Pioneer Families Humanitarian Award

Historical Society of Ottawa -Francois Bregha Storyteller Award

Author of : “Lanark County Christmas”, “Lanark County Comfort”, “Lanark County Collection”, “Lanark County Calling”, “Lanark County Classics”, “Lanark County Connections”, “Lanark County Calendar”, “Lanark County Chronicle”, “Lanark County Kid”, & “Recipes & Recollections” and “Lanark County Kitchen: A Maple Legacy from Tree to Table”

http://www.staffordwilson.com

Christie Lake – Memories Along the Shores

We found tranquility, along the shores of this clear blue beauty.  A sanctuary of peace and contentment, a place where pink sunsets slid into still waters, and the melodious call of the loon marked the end of another perfect day, at Christie Lake.

It was also a buzzing social hub –  a gathering place for familiar faces, and new friends as well. Who could forget the laughter of the youthful parties at nearby cottages, or on Big Island? On warm summer evenings the shores were dotted with bright campfires, sputtering, crackling, shooting flames into the starry night skies. The rock and roll of our time echoed across the lake, with its steady beat, and powerful lyrics. Our music celebrated sweet young love, with a dash of social commentary, unique to those unforgettable times – the 1960s and 70s.

Where is Christie Lake?  Ottawa, the closest large city, is about an hour east, and the pretty town of Perth, is a quick, 15 minute drive.  The Stafford house, where we spent the idyllic days of our youth, was just a mile away, a quick bike ride up the Third Line; although it felt a lot farther on those hazy humid dog-days of summer.  By the time my friends and I rounded the corner near Jordan’s, the lake was in sight, and moments later our bikes had been abandoned, and we’d jumped joyfully, off the bridge, into the cool, clear, water.

Bridge at Jordan’s – photo:  Kathy Irvine

Christie Lake is one of the three largest lakes on the Tay watershed, along with Bob’s Lake, and Otty Lake.  It’s been said that the original name for the lake was Myers Lake, and that was way before my time; but I do remember the old timers referring to it as ‘Christy’s Lake’, or ‘Christie’s Lake’, and that it was named for John Christy, native of Scotland, the first settler on the lake.

After John Christy’s arrival, the second family living on the lake were the Allan’s. The original spelling of the lake was “Christy’s Lake”, but it was changed by the Geographic Board of Canada, to “Christie” on April 10th, 1908.

John Christy, his wife Isabella (Wright), and daughter, sailed on the ship ‘Eliza’, from Scotland, on August 3, 1815 and arrived first, in Quebec City.  Like many families arriving late in the year, they spent the first winter near their port of arrival. By 1816, the Christy’s settled at concession 2, lot 2 in Bathurst Township.

1871 Census of Bathurst Township

John Christy – 1824-1909 son of pioneer John M. Christy

Alexandrine Victoria (Christy) Whillans  1839-1924

youngest daughter of pioneer John Christy, first settlers at Christy’s Lake

Feb. 19, 1924 p. 7,  ‘Ottawa Citizen’

“Victoria Whillans, was the youngest daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. John Christy, first settlers at Christy’s Lake, Ont., after whom the place is called.”

Walter Christy 1870-1942

Grandson of pioneer, John Christy

Jan. 22, 1942, p.12 ‘The Ottawa Citizen

George Christy – 1868-1949

Grandson of pioneer John Christy

George Christy gravestone, Johnston’s Corners cemetery, south Ottawa, Ontario

The Canadian Barks Works

A small group of men from Perth:  Thomas Aspden, Alexander Morris, William Morris, Captain John Manion, and John Hart established the Canadian Barks Works at Lot 2, Concession 3 of Bathurst Township. It was located along the north shore of Christie Lake, on Gravely Bay, as it was thought there would be a good supply of hemlock trees to sustain the business. The purpose of the mill was to extract tannin from hemlock bark, to be used in leather tanning. The tannin was used locally at a tannery in Perth, and in the beginning of operations there was also enough to export to the U.S. The company closed in 1874, due to a shortage of hemlock in the area.

The Canadian Barks Works at Christie Lake  (1868-1874) photo: ‘Perth Remembered’

Jordan Family

and the Descendants of pioneer George Jordan & Isabella Stewart

The Jordan family were among the early settlers to the area, having lived in the region continuously since the 1800s, when pioneer settler, George Jordan, arrived from Scotland, and settled at the foot of Christie Lake.

Pioneer Settler, George Jordan,

born Yetholm, Roxburghshire, Scotland

George Jordan 1830-1908

1908 death certificate of Scottish pioneer, George Jordan – early settler to Christie Lake

George Jordan (1830-1908) and his wife, Isabella Stewart, were parents to John Jordan (1865-1950), and it was John, who first established the business of vacation cottage rentals.

John’s son, John Robert Jordan and his wife Martina Miller (1868-1940), continued the legacy, expanding the business and keeping with tradition.

1911 Census of Bathurst, Lanark County

2nd last column is year of birth, last column is age when the census was taken

Year: 1911; Census Place: 1 – Bathurst, Lanark South, Ontario; Page: 3; Family No: 19

John Robert Jordan and Martena (Miller) Jordan

John Robert and Martena Jordan had a large family of four sons and three daughters:

(babies Donald and Martena, died in infancy)

George Edwin Jordan (1896-1977)

Arthur Miller Jordan (1897-1968)

Calvin Jordan (1899-1981)

Helen ‘Pink’ Muriel Jordan (1901-1987)

John Robert Jordan (1905-1965)

Sarah ‘Sadie’ Isabella Jordan (1910-1999)

John Robert Jordan and Martena Jordan, sadly, lost two babies,  Baby Martena, born when her mother was age 41, and the second was Baby Donald, born when his mother was age 48:

     

Death certificates for baby Martena Jordan, and baby Donald Easton Jordan

George Edwin Jordan  1896-1977

George Edwin Jordan  & Charlotte (Keays) Jordan

Children of George Edwin Jordan and Charlotte ‘Lottie’ Jordan

Donald ‘Don’ Jordan  

Keith Jordan

William ‘Bill’ Jordan

Jean (Jordan) Bell

Evelyn (Jordan) Irvine

Evelyn (Jordan) Irvine, with her daughters, and Jean (Jordan) Bell’s children – 1972 – photo: Kathy Irvine

Charlotte ‘Lottie’ (Keays) Jordan seated, at Christie Lake – her daughters Evelyn (Jordan) Irvine, and Jean (Jordan) Bell standing,  1973                  photo: Kathy Irvine

Dec. 8, 1977 p. 14, ‘The Perth Courier’

George Edwin Jordan –   WWI military recruitment record:

George Edwin Jordan – Canadian Expeditionary Forces record: Library and Archives Canada: RG 150, Accession 1992-93/166, Box 4968 – 47  Item Number: 493833

“He received his education locally and served in the First World War”

Arthur Miller Jordan 1897-1968

“Pallbearers were four nephews, Donald, Keith, Bob and Alan Jordan; two neighbours, Wilbur Noonan and Gordon Stiller.”

Arthur Miller Jordan married Edna Ritchie in 1920

Children of Arthur Jordan and Edna (Ritchie) Jordan:

Phyllis (Jordan) Stewart

Shirley (Jordan) Weldon

Helen (Jordan) Rintoule

Joan (Jordan) McNaughton

Calvin Jordan 1899-1981

married Marion Palmer in 1934

Calvin and Marion had three daughters:

Isobel (Jordan) Paul

Frances (Jordan) Dixon

Mavis (Jordan) Woolham

He was President of the Lanark County Federation of Agriculture, and for many years, a member of the Board of Calvin United Church

March 25, 1981 p.2 ‘The Perth Courier’

Helen ‘Pink’ Jordan, Marilyn (Dixon) Jordan, Bob Jordan, and Sadie Jordan at the Jordan Homestead, Christie Lake, photo: Carolyn Jordan

Sadie Jordan, Librarian, Toronto Public Library

‘The Perth Courier’, Sept. 19, 1930, pg.1

‘The Perth Courier’, Mar. 6, 1931, p.2

When Sadie graduated from the Perth High School in 1929 she was awarded the prestigious Carter Scholarship, for her academic excellence. Sadie enjoyed a successful career as a Librarian with the Toronto Public Library, and while she lived in Toronto, she attended  Bloor Street United Church,  300 Bloor Street W., Toronto, ON.

Helen Jordan  – 1901-1987

Helen Jordan had a distinguished career in the field of Nursing.  She trained at the North Bay Hospital, graduating in 1927.  She was promoted to Supervisor of Nursing in 1931.

In the spring of 1932, Helen Jordan was appointed to the position of Superintendent of the Queen Victoria Memorial Hospital, in North Bay.

Helen Jordan, Superintendent

Queen Victoria Memorial Hospital, North Bay, Ontario

‘The Perth Courier’, April 22, 1932, p.1

Helen Jordan –  “Known to her friends, as ‘Pink’

‘The Perth Courier’, April 21, 1982, p.9

“….she joined the Canadian Army Medical Corps as a Nursing Sister.”

War Veterans, who were members of Calvin United Church, Bathurst Township, Lanark County

‘The Ottawa Citizen’, Jan. 21, 1987 p.46

Bridge at Jordan’s Cottages – 1973 – photo:  Stafford family

John Robert Jordan

John Robert Jordan (1905-1965) married Mary Elizabeth Scharf (1909-1995) in 1933

John Robert Jordan and Mary Jordan, at Christie Lake  – photo: Carolyn Jordan

John Robert Jordan and Mary Jordan had five children:

Robert ‘Bob’ Jordan

Alan Jordan

Lloyd Jordan

Harold Jordan

Betty (Jordan) Miller

Bob Jordan, his wife Marilyn (Dixon) Jordan and their three children, Carolyn, Darrell, and baby John in 1966, at the Jordan ancestral homestead –  photo: Carolyn Jordan

Christie Lake, aerial view – photo: Carolyn Jordan

John Robert Jordan passed down the business to his son, Alan Jordan, and he and his wife Audrey (Conroy) Jordan have continued the tradition for many decades.  Their son, Paul Jordan, is now co-owner.

Jordan’s Cottages

John Jordan established Jordan’s Cottages.

Ad for Jordan’s Cottages – ‘The Perth Courier’  –  July 8, 1943 p.4

Ad for Jordan’s Cottages – “The Ottawa Journal” – July 28, 1948 p. 24

John Jordan, his wife Mary Jordan, Robert ‘Bob’, Betty, Alan,  front:  Harold and Lloyd.    photo:  Carolyn Jordan

‘The Ottawa Citizen, Dec. 3, 1995 p.36

Betty (Jordan) Miller and her brother Alan Jordan, at Christie Lake  – photo: Carolyn Jordan

(Audrey (Conroy) Jordan, Alan’s wife, and George Jordan (Keith’s son) photo: Carolyn Jordan

Dock at Bev (Miller) Ferlatte’s home, Christie Lake      photo: Carolyn Jordan

Fire at Christie Lake bridge – 1940

July 19, 1940 ‘The Perth Courier’

“The Jordan home was ever a hospitable one, where the head of the household always found time to engage in friendly conversation and to perform some kindly act or unselfish deed.”

John Jordan –   1865 – 1950

September 28, 1950 – ‘The Perth Courier’

John Jordan & Martina Miller’s son – John Robert Jordan operated Jordan’s Cottages after his father passed away.

John Robert Jordan’s marriage to Mary Scharf in 1933:

postcard – 1956

Sunset, at Christie Lake                              photo:  Kathy Irvine

Jean  (White) Jordan and Donald ‘Don’ Jordan boating on Christie Lake

(Donald –  a grandson of John Robert Jordan) photo: Janice (Jordan) Gordon

John Jordan, President of the Christie Lake Fish and Game Club

seeks to restore Pickerel to the area

 Ottawa Citizen, Nov. 24, 1962, p. 12

Bill, Keith and Don Jordan, brothers, along the shores of Christie Lake,     photo: Janice (Jordan) Gordon

front: Evelyn (Jordan), her mother Charlotte ‘Lottie’, (Keays) Jordan her brother Don Jordan, front of boat – Don’s daughter Janice, sitting beside Evelyn’s daughter Sandy.   1960s.   photo:  Janice (Jordan) Gordon

April and Meagan Bell, Sandy Errett, Karen Ronald, Janice (Jordan) Gordon,Patti Jordan, Kathy Irvine, seated in the chair a friend –  2006,   photo:  Kathy Irvine

Janice Jordan and Patti Jordan, at Christie Lake, 1963 – (daughters of Don Jordan & Jean (White) Jordan)

Seated on a boat at Christie Lake, Don Jordan with his daughter, Janice Jordan – photo: Janice (Jordan) Gordon

William ‘Bill’ Jordan,  Jean (Jordan) Bell & her husband Robert ‘Bob’ Bell – photo Janice (Jordan) Gordon

Sarah ‘Sadie’ Jordan (1910-1999)  at Christie Lake – photo: Janice (Jordan) Gordon

(Sadie –  youngest daughter of John Robert Jordan)

Another perfect sunset on  Christie Lake                                                                                                        photo: Kathy Irvine

Christie Lake – Famous for Fishing!

Oct. 23, 1941 p.2 – ‘The Perth Courier’

“Pickerel – 9 1/2 pounds, caught in Christie Lake by James Brady.”

“Northern Pike, 14 1/2 pounds, caught in Christie Lake by H.M. Gore”

Harold and Irma (Miller) Knight at Christie Lake,      photo:  Janet Knight

CPR Train, Christie Lake, 1959

Patti Jordan and Arlene Stafford-Wilson boating at Christie Lake – 1976, photo: Janice (Jordan) Gordon

(Patti –  Great-great-granddaughter of Scottish pioneer settler George Jordan (1830-1908)

Christie Lake – Island                          photo: Janice (Jordan) Gordon

Christie Lake Summer Fun on a paddleboat                                     photo: Janice (Jordan) Gordon

Christy – Allen Reunion – 1954

First Christy-Allan Reunion

was held in 1954

“Out of neighbourly fairness, the two original families drew lots to decide after whom the lake would be named.  It was Mr. Christy, of course, who drew the longest straw.”

‘Ottawa Citizen’, July 4, 1955, p.21

Jordan Family Reunion

photo: Janice (Jordan) Gordon

Jordan Family Reunion –  2009

photo: Janice (Jordan) Gordon

Cavanagh’s General Store

Visitors to Christie Lake often picked up their food and supplies at Cavanagh’s store, in DeWitt’s Corners.  A full line of groceries, barbecue supplies, ice, was available.  It was a gathering spot, for meeting up with neighbours and friends, and catching up on the local news.  Cavanagh’s was also the local polling station, where neighbours could vote for their favourite political candidate.  This store was the heart of the ‘Corners’, and the place to go, before heading up to Christie Lake.

left – Peter Mullins, center Earl Conboy, (Bill Cavanagh with his back to the camera) photo: JoAnne (Cavanagh) Butler

Cavanagh’s Store – 1947-1985

The store opened on June 3, 1947 – carrying groceries, confectioneries, and tobacco products. Along with groceries and everyday sundries, Cavanagh’s store also sold gas supplied by Esso, a branch of Imperial Oil.

“In 1947 they moved to DeWitt’s Corners,

and re-opened her family’s general store,

under the name of  ‘Cavanagh’s Fine Foods'”

Locals and cottagers, along with campers at nearby Christie Lake, were all pleased to hear that there would be a general store in the area, and they would no longer have to drive to Perth, to pick up daily necessities.

Cavanagh’s store, DeWitt’s Corners      photo:  JoAnne Cavanagh Butler

Helen (DeWitt) Cavanagh, James ‘Jim Cavanagh, and their dog, Shep – photo:  JoAnne Cavanagh Butler

Cavanagh’s General Store, DeWitt’s Corners     photo: JoAnne (Cavanagh) Butler

Familiar sights at Cavanagh’s store:  their dog Shep, and the Millstone  –  photo: JoAnne (Cavanagh) Butler

Three DeWitt Sisters, at Ederney Cottage, Christie Lake

l to rt. Josephine (DeWitt) Lenahan,  Helen (DeWitt) Cavanagh,  Vera (DeWitt) Brady standing in front of the original family cottage on Station Bay, Christie Lake.          Photo: JoAnne (Cavanagh) Butler

James ‘Jim’ Cavanagh named the cottage “Ederney”, the place in Ireland where his family was from.

Jim and Helen (DeWitt) Cavanagh operated the popular neighbourhood store for nearly four decades, until they retired in 1985.

‘The Perth Courier’, April 3, 1985, p.18

The DeWitt family, Helen’s ancestors, lived in the area for generations, going back to pioneer Zephaniah DeWitt. The first DeWitt land record was Bathurst Con 2 Lot 11, on 1st January 1823.

JoAnne (Cavanagh) Butler, water skiing on Christie Lake, with Mary Dineen (McIntyre)             photo: JoAnne Cavanagh Butler

lt to rt:  Bill Cavanagh, Michael Switzer, Peter Mullins   photo: JoAnne (Cavanagh) Butler

(Peter Mullins family’s cottage was located exactly at the site of the former Christie Lake Bark Company.  According to Peter, “Growing up, there were many logs in the water. A few are still there.”)

‘The Perth Courier’, August 4, 1982, p.22

“Helen was dearly loved by all who knew her,

and was an asset to her community”

Jan. 16, 1920, p. 6 ‘The Perth Courier’

“Monster-size Fish Caught At Christie Lake”

July 29, 1927 p.1 – ‘The Perth Courier’

“12 pound Pickerel caught at Christie Lake”

Oct. 22, 1937, p.1 ‘The Perth Courier’

Christie Lake:   The Floods of 2017

Heavy spring rains in the region, as well as a lack of good water management practices, are said by locals to have caused the flooding in 2017.  It was widely discussed at the time, that Parks Canada, governing body of  local lakes, was partly to blame in allowing its reservoir at Bobs Lake to become too high. It was said that logs were removed from a control dam at Bobs Lake, upstream, causing water levels to rise in Christie Lake. The flood was the worst that could be recalled in the past century.

Alan Jordan wades through the waters that flooded Christie Lake in 2017

Alan Jordan (left) and his son Paul Jordan, May 11, 2017 – owners of Jordan’s Cottages

High waters cause flooding in 2017 – Jordan’s Cottages

Sundown at Christie Lake                              photo: Kathy Irvine

Arliedale Inn

The Marks family of Christie Lake were known for their vaudeville shows, and traveling theatrical entertainment.  Thomas Marks, one of the brothers, turned the family home into a hotel, and named it after his daughter ‘Arlie’.

There were seven Marks brothers:  Robert, Tom, Alex, Jack, Joe, McIntyre and Ernie. Two of their sisters-in-law performed with them: Kitty, wife of Ernie, and May Bell, wife of Robert.  There were also two sisters Nell and Libby who did not perform on stage.

Seated:  L. to rt,  May A. Bell Marks, George Marks, R.W. Marks, Gracie Marks.

Standing; Joe Marks, Alex Marks

The Marks family presented melodramas for the most part, but also performed some comedy as well.

When their time for performing had come to an end, most of the family returned to the Christie Lake farm of their childhood. Robert continued to perform on stage until his late 70’s and then retired to the lake. He converted the barn where they had rehearsed into a summer hotel and was owner and operator until his death in 1936 at the age of 86.

Joe also retired to the farm where he died in 1944 at the age of 82.

Tom returned to Christie Lake when he retired, and converted the old house into a hotel and called it Arliedale, after his daughter Arlie. He passed away in 1935,  at the age of 81 years old.

Ella Marks, her husband Tom, and daughter, Arlie Marks and dog, Buster.

‘The Perth Courier’, Jan 18, 1935, p.4

Death of Mrs. Marguerite (Farrell) Marks –  mother of the Marks Brothers

April 15, 1921, “The Perth Courier” p. 8

Arliedale Inn, Christie Lake

Dance at Arliedale Inn – July 1931

“…a lingering twilight, as though the sun had stood still just below the horizon.  It was just the sort of night that beckons youth and beauty.”

‘The Perth Courier’ – July 10, 1931, p.1

‘The Perth Courier’ – August 7, 1931, p.1

Ottawa Citizen, July 20th, 1949 p. 31

Rochester Democrat & Chronicle, May 26, 1968, p.137

“The Perth Courier”, Jan. 31, 1979, p.1

Norvic Lodge

Victor Lemieux and his wife Noreen (McGlade) Lemieux were owners and operators of Norivc Lodge.  Like the other properties set along the shores of Christie Lake, they had a beautiful shoreline, framing their homey, rustic lodge.

Victor, son of Jeremie Lemieux, and Margaret Hannah James, was born and raised in the tiny village of Fournier, in the township of Prescott-Russell.  The village is situated near the communities of Vankleek Hill, St. Isidore, and Plantagenet, a largely French-Canadian settlement. Victor’s father was a Lumberman, and his mother cared for the large family.

Victor’s wife, Noreen, a girl who grew up in the town of Perth, Ontario, was the daughter of Arthur McGlade, a labourer. The McGlade family were early settlers from Perth, originally from County Armagh, Ireland.  Catherine McCarthy, Noreen’s mother was also from an Irish pioneer family, from County Cork.   Noreen’s parents were married in Toledo, Ontario, October 16, 1899.

Noreen  ‘Nina’ (McGlade) Lemieux

Memories of working at Norvic Lodge in 1960, as told by Judy (Stafford) Ryan:

“The Lodge was ‘Norvic” named after the owners – Noreen and Vic.  She was called Nina, and they had a daughter Judy,  – about my age at the time.  The Lodge was on Christie Lake.

 I was the only one who had the job there, but because I also had a two week job at the Optometrist in Perth, while his secretary was on vacation, at the beginning of the Summer (Dad got it for me), my sister Jackie (Stafford) Wharton, went up to the Lodge, and held my job for me for that two week period.  I think Dad was also the one who got me the job at the Lodge.  Mother did not want me to go as she figured I would get ‘into trouble’.

We were paid $10.00 a week which was given to us at the end of the Summer.  We made great tips from the Americans, who stayed in the cabins – I could make up to $100.00 a week, depending on whether or not the cabins were full that week.

Our cabin was at the top of a hill away from the vacationers.  Our day started at 7:00 a.m.  We had to be down the hill to the Lodge in uniform, to set up the dining room for breakfast, take breakfast orders, serve it, clear tables and help wash dishes, etc.  We then went back up the hill, changed into shorts and t-shirts and cleaned all the cabins – made beds, dusted, vacuumed, cleaned bathrooms, changed towels, etc.  Then, back up the hill, back into uniform, to do the lunch thing. 

We were suppose to have a couple of hours off each afternoon, to do what we wanted.  However, part way through the summer, the lady who did the laundry left, and that was added to our jobs, without extra pay.  So after lunch, we would have to do the laundry – sheets, towels, etc. and hang them out on a line to dry.  Once a week, we would have to strip the beds, but changed the towels often. 

On days when we didn’t have to do the laundry, I would take the canoe, and a good book, and head for a small uninhabited island, and read for a couple of hours.  I knew that no-one could get to me there. 

Between 4:00 and 5:00 p.m. we were back down the hill, in our uniforms, to set up for dinner, etc., etc. 

After everything was done, and cleaned up for the evening, we had time to ourselves, if we had any energy left.  I worked with a girl by the name of Claudette, and she was a real party girl, and as there was a party at some cottage every night, we went out most nights, along with the guy who worked at the Lodge store and gas bar, and he was allowed to use one of the motor boats, and that is how we got to the other cottages.

Just before I arrived to work at the Lodge that Summer there had been a bad boating accident, and I think one or two people had died.  The only way I found out about it was I saw a mangled boat with blood on it, stored in behind the lodge, when I was out walking one day, and asked the guy at the gas bar what happened.

That Summer was the first time I saw death!  There was a delightful family from Pennsylvania. there – three generations – Grandfather, parents, and two younger children.  I was serving breakfast this one morning, and the Grandfather, who was always so friendly and animated, told me about the different birds he had heard singing that morning, and during the conversation, he keeled over at the table.  I ran into the kitchen and got Vic (Lemieux) – told him the old man ‘fainted’.  Vic got the son to help him carry the Grandfather into the Lounge, behind the dining room, and they put him on the couch.  I remember going ahead and serving the other guests, and noticed people coming and going to the Lounge.   Nina told me later that the old guy had died, probably instantly, and I was really shocked and upset.  That is one of those memories that is permanently etched in your memory, especially when you are only 15.”

 – an excerpt from the book,  “Recipes & Recollections: Treats and Tales from our Mother’s Kitchen”, ISBN 978-0-9877026-0-9

May 10, 1962 – ‘The Perth Courier’

Norvic Lodge – Christie Lake Surfers – summer of 1963

obituary of Victor Lemieux, ‘The Ottawa Citizen’, Mar. 17, p.24

Grave of Victor and Nina Lemieux – St. John’s cemetery, Perth, Ontario

Red Cedar Inn

Red Cedar Inn was the official summer residence of the Marks family of entertainers.

“Mr. and Mrs. R.W. Marks are enjoying their beautiful cottage, Red Cedar Villa and will give an “at home” in the near future.”

‘The Perth Courier”, June 23, 1899

“The pickerel are biting fine

and large catches daily is the rule.”

Red Cedar Villa (also known as Red Cedar Inn)

 “James is a great admirer of the lake and its beautiful scenery, and always calls on his friend Joe to have a chat and a drink of Mrs. Marks’ noted buttermilk.”

Christie Lake news – July 14, 1899

“The season at Christie’s Lake House opened much earlier this year than usual.”

Christie Lake news – June 1, 1900, page 1

‘The Ottawa Citizen’, July 3, 1924 p.6

‘The Ottawa Citizen’, June 26, 1941, p.24

Robert W. Marks  1855-1937

‘The Ottawa Citizen’ Sept. 23, 1970 p. 33

Christie Lake Camp

Christie Lake Camp was established in 1922 by Judge John F. McKinley, of Ottawa.  The Judge believed that instead of punishing delinquent boys, he could offer them a chance to leave the temptations of the city, discover the great outdoors, and learn some new coping skills.

“………giving the boy responsibility, handling him with friendship, teaching him the general principles of good citizenship and doing so with the help of the open air.”

Judge John F. McKinley

Boys Enjoy Camp at Christy’s Lake

July 20, 1923 – ‘The Perth Courier’

Splendid Results Attained

From Boys’ Camp at Christy’s

November 16, 1923 – ‘The Perth Courier’

The boys arriving from Ottawa,  on Colonial Coach bus lines

The boys at their dock, below the main building

In 1958 Dr. Dan Offord became Camp Director. Christie Lake Kids programs were
under the guidance and direction of the late Dr. Offord, who was a well-known  child psychiatrist. Dr. ‘Dan’, as he was known, was a volunteer summer Camp Director for 47 years.

Dr. Dan Offord, volunteered at Christie Lake for 47 years

Tremendous efforts went into fund-raising, over the past several decades, in order to maintain and repair the buildings and grounds at Christie Lake Camp.

In 2001, Dr. Dan’s work in research, at Christie Lake Camp, earned him the Order of Canada.

Dr. Dan Offord died at the age of 70, in 2004.

Heading up to the main building for lunch at the Christie Lake Boys’ Camp

Learning to paddle a canoe at Christie Lake Camp

Singing around the campfire, at Christie Lake Camp  – 2013

By the year 2000, approximately 400 boys and girls aged from 9 to 14 arrive every summer to learn outdoor skills and, build their self-esteem

Camp Opemikon – Scout Camp

The land was purchased in 1937, and the camp opened in 1938.  Camp Opemikon has served the camping needs of the Scouting family for many years.

Cabins at Camp Opemikon      – photo: Jason Chute

Canoes at Camp Opemikon – photo: Jason Chute

Special thanks to: Janice (Jordan) Gordon, Kathy Irvine, Carolyn Jordan, JoAnne (Cavanagh) Butler, and Judy (Stafford) Ryan, for sharing their photos and memories, of this very special place.

Discover more about Christie Lake, and learn about the parties and pastimes of the 1960s and 1970s, at this popular vacation spot, in the story, “Stranded on Christie Lake”, one of the stories in ‘Lanark County Chronicle: Double Back to the Third Line”

“Lanark County Chronicle”

Read the story of Arliedale Lodge, Christie Lake, playground of the rich and famous, and home to the famous vaudeville players – The Marks Brothers:  “Lanark County Comfort: Homespun Tales to Warm Your Heart”

.

Arlene Stafford-Wilson

Member, Association of Professional Genealogists

Honorary Life Member, Lanark County Genealogical Society

Lanark County Pioneer Families Humanitarian Award

Author of : “Lanark County Christmas”, “Lanark County Comfort”, “Lanark County Collection”, “Lanark County Calling”, “Lanark County Classics”, “Lanark County Connections”, “Lanark County Calendar”, “Lanark County Chronicle”, “Lanark County Kid”, & “Recipes & Recollections”, and “Lanark County Kitchen: A Maple Legacy from Tree to Table”

http://www.staffordwilson.com

Arliedale Lodge, Christie Lake

Playground of the Rich

and Famous

Once known as ‘the playground of the rich and famous’, Arliedale Lodge was owned and operated by Tom Marks, and his wife Ella, and named for their only child, Arlie.

Arlie Marks with her dog, Buster

The famous Marks Brothers

Tom Marks, owner of Arliedale Lodge, made his fortune as a member of his family’s musical theater group, known as The Marks Brothers.

The Marks Brothers were one of the most remarkable theatrical families in Canadian history, performing comedy skits and melodramas . Incredibly popular on the vaudeville circuit, the seven brothers played across Canada and the U.S. throughout the latter part of the 19th century and into the 1920s.

Born and raised at Christie Lake, near Perth in Eastern Ontario, they played to packed venues until moving pictures ushered in the sad demise for touring repertory companies.

“As prosperity increased the brothers sprouted diamonds like lights going on in a building. The men and their wives as well; we all had them, on fingers, arms, watch-fobs —everywhere. Tom wore a triple-stone ring with a five-carat diamond in the middle and a four carat stone on each side of it. It was never off his finger, on stage or off. If playing a tramp, a farmer or a cop, no matter what—the ring illuminated every gesture on stage.”

Kitty Marks, June 21, 1958 in an interview with Macleans magazine

Famous ‘Marks Brothers’ theatrical group – Tom, Alex, Joe, and Bob

Arliedale Lodge

Grand Opening

June 14, 1922

“The most modern summer hotel in all of Lanark County.”

Grand Opening, Arliedale Inn, June 9, 1922 p. 4, “The Perth Courier”

Warm summer evenings were spent enjoying live music and dancing, chef-prepared cuisine, and the latest fashionable cocktails on the verandah.

In 1922, Tom and his wife, Ella Marks, opened ‘Arliedale Lodge’, and the who’s-who of Perth, and distinguished guests from far and wide flocked to the resort. Many of the guests were members of theater companies, musicians, dancers, performers and they returned to the lodge each summer for fun-in-the-sun water sports, fishing and boating. Warm summer evenings were spent enjoying live music and dancing, chef-prepared cuisine, and the latest fashionable cocktails on the verandah.

1920s Cocktails

Flappers from the entertainment industry sipped drinks on the verandah and mingled with the famous Marks family

Friends, popular musicians, performers, and distinguished guests from across Canada and the U.S. flocked to the lodge each year.

Advertised as “the most modern summer hotel in Lanark County, with the main line of the C.P.R. railway, just 100 yards from the door.”

Canoes and motor boats were available to guests at Arliedale

An article from “The Perth Courier” captures the mood and magic of Arliedale Lodge in the 1920s and 1930s:

“They were all merrymakers, and here was the time and place for fun and fancy. On a slight elevation facing the main front porch of Arliedale, about 100 yards away the dancing platform had been placed, the waxed surface glistened in the bright Delco lamps and Burns’ Orchestra syncopated the latest hits of the dance world. When the show was over there were many pledges made to return again to the breezes and beauties of this attractive and inviting part of famous Christie Lake.”

Popular songs of the 1920s, in the heydays of Arliedale Lodge: “Yes Sir, That’s My Baby”, “Bye Bye Blackbird”, “Rhapsody in Blue”, “My Blue Heaven”, “Yes, We Have No Bananas”, “Sweet Georgia Brown”, “Singin’ In the Rain”, “I’m Looking Over a Four-Leaf Clover”, “Let’s Do It, Let’s Fall In Love”, “Ain’t We Got Fun”, “Five Foot Two Eyes of Blue”

Arliedale dance schedule – June 30, 1922, p. 8, “The Perth Courier”

“Evenings were a time to socialize. After dinner, elegant ladies appeared in their fashionable flapper gowns, faces glowing, kissed by the sun; and well-bred gentlemen mingled on the verandah, enjoying drinks and cigars, and telling tales of the biggest fish caught, or the fastest boat ride across the lake.”

Many people were curious about the famous guests at Arliedale, and so Tom Marks began to submit a weekly list to the local newspaper, naming the guests, who were often from prominent families, and wealthy members of high society.

August 4, 1922, p. 8, “The Perth Courier”

Death of Tom Marks

“Thomas H. Marks, noted trouper of a bygone generation, and one of the Marks Brothers of old-time vaudeville fame, has taken his last curtain call.  He died at his home, Arliedale Inn, Christie Lake, on Saturday, aged 81 years, and those of his audiences who survive him will be hushed with regret at the disappearance of a figure once familiar on the boards across the entire continent.”

“The Ottawa Journal”, May 11, 1936, p.9

Arliedale Lodge is Sold

Following the death of Arliedale Lodge owner, Tom Marks, the resort, including 33 acres of property was sold to local auctioneer, Clayton Hands, and his business partner, Richard Newson.

“The Perth Courier” September 5, 1963, p. 8 (25 years ago)

1938 Owners Clayton Hands

& Richard Newson

June 16, 1939, p. 5, “The Perth Courier”

July 7, 1939, p. 5, “The Perth Courier”

Richard Newson and Clayton Hands built a baseball diamond at Arliedale, and began to host softball games on summer weekends.

July 28, 1939, p.5, “The Perth Courier”

1957-Owners

Neil and Verla Stewart

In the spring of 1957, Neil and Verla Stewart purchased the resort and surrounding property, and changed the name from ‘Arliedale Inn’ to ‘Arliedale Lodge’.

Neil Stewart, who served as President of the Christie Lake Hunters and Anglers Association focused on a more sporting aspect to the lodge, focusing on sport-fishing, as well as pheasant-shooting.

“Pheasant shooting has never been too good in the wilds about Ottawa. But now, Neil Stewart, who operates Arliedale Lodge at Christie Lake, 12 miles west of Perth, has set up a pheasant shooting ranch. Here, for a fee, pheasant are almost a sure thing if you can hit them on the wing.”

Nov. 17, 1960, p. 19, “The Ottawa Citizen”

1969 Owners

Bill and Anna Groom

Anna and Bill Groom owners of Arliedale Lodge 1969-1971- photo courtesy of Kathy Groom Stewart

Bill and Anna Groom purchased Arliedale Lodge in July 1969.

“Arliedale Lodge had 1,000 feet of lake frontage, including a sandy beach. The weekly rate in the 1970s was $70.00, which included three meals daily. On the exterior there was a large wrap-around verandah with chairs and a lounge. Guests played horseshoes, darts, and croquet on the lawn.”

quote from: Kathy Groom Stewart – who worked at her parents’ lodge.

In December of 1971, Bill and Anna Groom sold Arliedale Lodge to Michael P. Schafer Sr., and for many seasons the lodge stood vacant…

What happened next to the popular summer resort on beautiful Christie Lake?

Discover the history and the mysteries of this legendary resort, built on a peaceful lake in Eastern Ontario.

From the earliest days of the famous Marks family and their distinguished guests hosting the who’s-who of the entertainment industry, and the many owners throughout the years.

Read the shocking rumors, learn about a mysterious fire, and what became of this fashionable resort at Christie Lake.

“Arliedale Lodge: Playground of the Rich and Famous”, one of a collection of stories in the new book, “Lanark County Comfort: Homespun Tales to Warm Your Heart”.

Arlene Stafford-Wilson

Member, Association of Professional Genealogists

Honorary Life Member, Lanark County Genealogical Society

Author of : “Lanark County Christmas”, “Lanark County Comfort”, “Lanark County Collection”, “Lanark County Calling”, “Lanark County Classics”, “Lanark County Connections”, “Lanark County Calendar”, “Lanark County Chronicle”, “Lanark County Kid”, & “Recipes & Recollections”

www.staffordwilson.com

http://www.staffordwilson.com

Book Review – from “The Lanark Era”

The Book Nook, 60 Gore St. E., Perth, ON, For information: 613-267-2350

To order:

Lanark County Comfort; Home spun tails to warm your heart – Arlene Stafford-Wilson

http://www.staffordwilson.com

2021 Release – “Lanark County Comfort”

Book Launch: Saturday, September 11th, 1 – 3 p.m.

at The Book Nook, 60 Gore St. E., Perth, Ontario, Canada

For information: 613-267-2350

Table of Contents:

Chapter 1 – Oakes Bakery: Tasty Treats in the Town of Perth

Chapter 2 – Pant Barn Dances: Blue Jeans & Rock and Roll

Chapter 3 – Famous Folks of Flower Station

Chapter 4 – Perth’s Millionaire Bachelor

Chapter 5 – Calvin United Church 125th Anniversary

Chapter 6 – Arliedale Lodge, Christie Lake

In this collection of short stories the author invites you to visit some extraordinary places and meet some fascinating people who left their mark in Lanark County. Come to cottage country and visit Arliedale Lodge on Christie Lake, playground of the rich and famous, where the legendary Marks Brothers hosted unforgettable parties. Meet the Oakes family, and discover the tragedies and triumphs of their much-loved bakery in Perth. Spend an unforgettable evening at a Pant Barn Dance, meet the rock and roll bands, and find out what went on behind the scenes at these legendary concerts. Celebrate with the members of a 125-year-old country church at an old-fashioned strawberry social and learn the secrets of the popularity and longevity of this special place. Take a Sunday drive into the Lanark Highlands, meet the fascinating folks of Flower Station who may have uncovered the secrets of the fountain of youth. Meet Perth’s millionaire bachelor, discover a legal scandal that rocked the town of Perth, and find out who inherited his fortune.

About the Author:

Arlene Stafford-Wilson grew up on a small farm in Lanark County. Former Newsletter Editor and long-time member of the Lanark County Genealogical Society, Member of the Association of Professional Genealogists, and mother of one son, Alexander, she and her husband, Kevin, live in Ottawa, a few blocks from Parliament Hill.

New Book is # 9 in the series of Lanark County Books

A summary of each book can be found on the link below:

“Lanark County Kitchen: A Maple Legacy from Tree to Table”

“Lanark County Comfort” Previews:

Chapter 1

Oakes Bakery:

Tasty Treats in the Town of Perth

Win Oakes – photo courtesy of Kristine Oakes

photo: courtesy of Shirley Oakes

Discover the tragedies and the triumphs of this well-loved Perth business. What was it like to work there? Stories and anecdotes from members of the Oakes family and from former staff-members. Re-live the glory days, follow the drivers on their delivery routes, and visit behind the scenes with the talented bakers. Read about that fateful night in 1947 when a local police officer discovered a fire at the bakery that could have ended it all……

Chapter 2

Pant Barn Dances

The Pant Barn 51 Foster Street, Perth, ON

Discover the unforgettable concerts, the rock and roll, and go behind-the-scenes with the bands, all the special memories – With stories and anecdotes from Perry Weagle, and former staff of The Pant Barn and the Perth Community Center. The story that captures the memories – “The Legendary Pant Barn Dances”, part of a collection of short stories in new book, “Lanark County Comfort: Homespun Tales to Warm Your Heart”

Chapter 3

Famous Folks

of Flower Station

Discover the fascinating people, their unique qualities, and their achievements, in the story: “Famous Folks of Flower Station”. Meet the people who may have uncovered the secrets of the fountain of youth – like Jennie ‘Granny’ Majaury – who walked every day, smoked a pipe and lived to be 104. Another famous resident Irene Crosbie who gave birth to 18 children, worked in her family’s store, and lived to be 95. You’ll read about Joe Lalonde, known as the ‘husky young woodcutter from Flower Station’. Nothing could stop Joe from joining the army and serving his country. Winnie Closs, another famous resident, was a newspaper columnist for over 50 years, wrote her columns in long-hand, and lived to be 91.

Chapter 4

Perth’s Millionaire Bachelor:

Who Inherited His Fortune?

The story of John McLaren, Perth, Ontario’s whiskey baron, and eligible bachelor millionaire, is one of the town’s most intriguing tales. Inventor of the ‘Mickey’, McLaren amassed a fortune during his lifetime, and when he died, unmarried and childless, there was a great deal of interest in who would inherit his money.

Read about the McLaren fortune, the scandalous court case that rocked the town of Perth, and the people who tried to claim a share of his millions. The story, “Perth’s Millionaire Bachelor” is one of a collection of short stories in the new book, “Lanark County Comfort”

Chapter 5

Calvin United Church:

125th Anniversary

2021 marks a milestone in the long rich history of this very special place. To commemorate this 125th anniversary, the history of Calvin United Church is part of a collection of short stories in the book, “Lanark County Comfort: Homespun Tales to Warm Your Heart”.

The story begins from the earliest days before the present church was constructed, and takes the reader through the unsettled times of the first and second world wars, the changing ways of the 1950s -1980s, and into the present days with the challenges of the world pandemic.

Recollections from former and current members, thoughts and insights from current minister, Rev. Micheline Montreuil, as well as stories and memories of many of the members throughout the history of the church.

Discover the social clubs and ladies’ auxiliaries, learn about the lively debating clubs, the romantic box socials, the infamous car races, the strawberry socials, and some of the church’s most distinguished members.

Calvin United Church, Tay Valley Township, Lanark County, Ontario, Canada

Chapter 6

Arliedale Lodge

Christie Lake

Playground of the Rich and Famous

Arliedale Lodge, Christie Lake

Discover the history and the mysteries of this legendary resort, built on a peaceful lake in Eastern Ontario. From the heydays of the famous Marks family and their distinguished guests, hosting the who’s-who of the entertainment industry, and the many owners throughout the years. Read the shocking rumours, learn about a mysterious fire, and what became of this fashionable resort at Christie Lake.

Lanark County Comfort; Home spun tails to warm your heart – Arlene Stafford-Wilson

Will also be available at The Bookworm, Perth, ON 613-264-7257

or at:

http://www.staffordwilson.com

The Stafford House – the author’s childhood home, and inspiration for many stories

“Come join me in a kinder, gentler place, set against a backdrop of peaceful green meadows, under tall sprawling maple trees, and enjoy some good old fashioned Lanark County comfort.”

http://www.staffordwilson.com