The suggestion was relatively simple: Renovate and repurpose Shakesides into a small “Nature Interpretive Heritage House” to meet the intent and bequest of Hamilton Mack Laing. (He did not wish to aggrandize himself, but to educate and inspire future generations to appreciate nature)
Shakesides could become a focal point for small, changing educational nature displays tied to the seasonal changes – in Mack Laing Park itself, the estuary, Brooklyn Creek, other local woods and the Valley in general.
This would bring to life such real life experiences as observing Barred Owl owlets scaling up a tree, stopping by the nature house to get more information, and hearing a brief presentation on the life of such creatures.
Movable, simple markers and material could highlight nature in the park – eagles, ducks, salmon fry, fawn lilies, trillium, nettles, mushrooms, etc. This would be more effective than a static billboard, or a website seen by few and forgotten quickly.
A recent demonstration was the spotting of a Barred Owl in Mack Laing Park on May 31. The MLHS erected a temporary info sheet on a tripod to draw attention to the nest, and this attracted a great deal of attention.
The Nature Heritage House could also include some Mack Laing books, articles, and other items as part of the changing or permanent features, thus doubling the interest in the adventure and enriching the experience manyfold.
The Museums in Comox, Victoria, Manitoba, Ottawa and the USA would continue to hold the permanent chattels and papers of Mack Laing.
The project would be a simple and economical “restoration”. The main floor of Shakesides would be weather-proofed to eco-friendly standards and then renovated to today’s building code for Small Public Use, with grandfathering of some “heritage features” if desired. There would be an outside wheel chair access ramp, energy-efficient windows and insulation, electric baseboards, a wheelchair accessible bathroom and a small kitchenette.
No need to budget for large operating costs. In addition, many of the materials, labour and professional consulting services could be secured either pro bono, or at little cost. The MLHS has received many offers. The nature house concept is supported by a consensus of local environmental groups.
Explore this site for more information about Mack Laing and the Mack Laing Heritage Society.
-30-
Leave a Reply