The NOTL Museum’s Heritage Garden Party returns on Friday September 12, to be hosted at one of
Niagara-on-the-Lake’s most distinctive heritage homes. The spacious Georgian home at 83 Gage Street
is the home of Peter Howe and Judy McLeod. Nestled in the heart of the Old Town, it occupies a full
one-acre treed lot. Peter Howe purchased the property in the 1980s as a ‘family home’, and many locals
will remember it for being the home of his parents, Margherita and Norm Howe, for more than twenty
years.
This is the third year for the Heritage Garden Party, one of the community’s most popular ways to
celebrate its cultural and built heritage. As a major fundraiser for the Niagara-on-the-Lake Museum,
celebrating its 130-year anniversary this year, funds raised support the Museum’s ongoing
programming, exhibitions, and future expansion plans.
The property at 83 Gage has a rich and storied past, representing much of Niagara’s unique history. First
surveyed in 1791, the original landowner was William Claus, Deputy Superintendent for Indians Affairs,
(1796-1826), and a key figure in British/Indigenous diplomacy. His son, John Johnson Claus, inherited the
property and likely built the current house around 1830.
The next owner was James Lockhart, merchant, banker, ship owner, and secretary/treasurer of the
Niagara Harbour and Dock Company. In 1838 he sold it to Lt. Colonel William Kingsmill, a veteran of the
Napoleonic wars and Sheriff for the Niagara District. Kingsmill in turn passed the property on to his son,
John D. Kingsmill, who unfortunately was forced to remortgage several times. The house continued its
colourful history by being ‘host’ to several Confederate refugees following the US Civil War and was
used as a private hospital during WWI and the Spanish flu epidemic.
“Community sponsorships and creative partnerships are the heart of this event,” says Committee Chair
Betty Knight. “When you have enthusiastic partners, planning an event like this is less a chore and more
of a joy.” As in previous years, Niagara Finest Hotels are providing the food; Konzelmann Winery is
offering wine and a welcoming sparkling; and Niagara College is creating a signature cocktail. Plus, the
committee has engaged an impressive list of sponsors: Woodwinds Foundation, Royal Henley
Retirement Community, Simon Curtin & Aleksandra Gorodezky, MAC Inc., Leeanne Weld of Johnson &
Daniel, Carol & Mike Clarke, and Enns Wash and Shine.
Stunning in its black and white simplicity, with original architecture and pristine gardens, 83 Gage will
be the perfect backdrop for a Heritage Garden Party. Guests will have the chance to meet characters
from NOTL history, play ‘quoits’, enjoy music provided by JADE Entertainment, and learn more about the
connections to Niagara-on-the-Lake’s strong marine history, from steamboats to sailboats. And as a nod
to James Lockhart and the legendary Niagara Harbour and Dock Company, guests are encouraged to
wear their best nautical attire. Tickets are limited and selling fast, so book early.
The Heritage Garden Party is a rain or shine event, Friday September 12, 3 -5pm.
For tickets, go to: www.notlmuseum.ca Tickets: $125.