Hunter-Hoodless homestead hosts classic wheels

Brant News

Motorcycles, hot rods, bag pipers and a vintage Ford similar to the one gangsters Bonnie and Clyde used were in St. George on the weekend.

The first annual Classic Car and Motorcycle Show at the Adelaide Hunter-Hoodless Homestead was staged in partnership with the St. John’s Masonic Lodge No. 82 of Paris. Homestead curator Kate Belair says they need to create more awareness of the National Historic Site owned by the Federated Women’s Institute of Canada.

The home is where 19th century trailblazer Adelaide Hunter-Hoodless was born. Belair says the biggest question they ask is, “Do you know Adelaide?” 

“We opened as a museum in 1960 and we still have neighbours who come in and say – ‘We’ve never been here before,’” Belair said.

Hunter-Hoodless born in 1857 is considered the founder of domestic science after her infant son died as a result of drinking tainted milk. Some believe she is responsible for encouraging widespread milk pasteurization, although Belair says there is no documented proof of that. 

Hunter-Hoodless was also co-founder of the Women’s Institute, the YWCA and the Victorian Order of Nurses in Canada. Belair says the historical site on Blue Lake road is one of the best kept secrets and raising funds is an ongoing challenge. That’s why they decided to partner with the Free Masons for the car show. Participants said they were pleased with the venue. 

Randy Marco of Paris brought his “Herbie Junior the Love Bug” Volkswagen.

“I think if it continues it will turn out to be something in years to come,” Marco said.

“We’re trying to help out as many people as we can,” said co-organizer Jim Jackson of the St. John’s Masonic Lodge.

Those who brought cars to the show paid a $5 registration fee and it was hoped a few thousand dollars would be raised for various charities, including the homestead. 

About 25 cars, half a dozen motorcycles and a fire truck were on display, despite Saturday’s on and off rain showers. 

Belair says they hope more people come out to tour the Adelaide Hunter-Hoodless Homestead as it celebrates the fourth annual Summer Fete Garden Party on Sunday, Aug. 10.

An outdoor rock music festival is also set for Saturday, Aug. 23.

Hunter-Hoodless homestead hosts classic wheels