By Marilyn Williams
Lifestyles 55 has been following this story for the past 10 years. We were very pleased to receive this note from Marilyn Williams, Secretary, of the Kennedy House Renewal Committee. Congratulations to all!
Well, after 10 years of meetings, presentations to Ministers, written proposals, and dozens of letters, we are so pleased to be able to tell you that our efforts have met with success: a tearoom operation at Kennedy House will reopen soon.
A quick recap: The Kennedy House Renewal Committee was formed by the Board of Red River North Tourism in 2016, soon after closure of the House by the provincial government due to structural concerns. The RM of St. Andrews supported our ideas and passed a resolution to allow the Committee to advocate for the House on behalf of Council. It took several years to convince the government of the day that this structure was an economic boon to the region as well as a critically important part of area history.
Repairs and upgrades to bring the facility up to code were done in phases. We were graciously invited to witness much of the refurbishment by Parks and Conservation staff, an opportunity we eagerly accepted. We are grateful for the care and respect shown to the heritage of the building by project leaders, Republic Architects, and the sensitivity they demonstrated throughout the final stages of interior finishing.
As the project moved forward it became clear to the Committee that there were possibilities for other uses of the House such as telling the Kennedy’s story; showcasing area Indigenous and Métis art, culture, and craft; welcoming visitors to the region; and for meetings by small meeting groups of local not-for profit organizations.
For several summers, Red River North Tourism offered walking tours of the Kennedy House grounds, sharing the extraordinary lives and contributions of Captain William Kennedy and his wife Eleanor. Both were leaders in the community in their day, influential politically, socially, and in their contribution to the local economy. RRNT has always promoted the lovely gardens on the property and included them in signature programs such as the Garden & Art Tour held each July, and of course it will continue to do so.
Now, the Province has leased the facility for use as a tearoom once again and it will open to the public very soon. Red River North Tourism will post information on social media and on our website as it becomes available. The tearoom has joined RRNT as a member and we look forward to a summer of success and the return of visitors.
For members of the Kennedy House Renewal Committee this truly has been a labour of love. We thank all who have supported our efforts and acknowledge all the work done by trades, government, and so many others, in supporting a positive outcome for this truly historic structure.
It is our fervent hope that a focus on Métis heritage may be a component in the future of the facility. In the meantime, we celebrate the return of this important attraction to our community and welcome everyone to enjoy historic Kennedy House once again.
Thank you for your continued interest and support over the past decade. We know Kennedy House will have a long and storied future equal to its past. So, please come and enjoy it!
Marilyn Williams is the Secretary of the Kennedy House Renewal Committee.
To find out more check out heritagetearoom.ca
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