A local gas station has donated $60,000 to the Saugeen Amphitheatre Restoration Project.
Tuggy’s Gas and Variety made the donation with a giant cheque December 19th.
Restoration project organizers say, “Tuggy’s is such valuable business in our community. They are continuously helping community groups, and projects thrive. We are incredibly grateful for your kindness and support.”
The restoration project is taking place in the village area of Saugeen First Nation along Highway 21. The amphitheatre site’s large drystone wall entrance is easily spotted on the south side of the road. The amphitheatre overlooks the Saugeen River with sweeping views from high above the river valley.
It’s a gathering place and a historical landmark. The First Nation says, during the 15th century, the Three Fires Confederacy (the Saugeen Ojibway Nation) defended it against European encroachment. Treaty 72, or the Midnight Treaty, was signed at the site in 1854. Saugeen First Nation says it resulted in the surrender of 500,000 acres of their land. They note, the area also has Indigenous burial sites.
Drystone walls, walking paths, gathering areas and gardens are being installed by the amphitheatre and along the riverbank with a focus on the restoration of indigenous plant knowledge and medicines.
The gardens called the Gzhe-Mnidoo Gi-Ta-Gaan (Saugeen First Nation Creators Garden) will be designed around an interpretation of the Seven Grandfather Teachings.
In partnership with the Skills and Partnership Fund of Canada, Saugeen First Nation has signed on for a three-year collaboration with the Saugeen Shores based Backyard Boys Landscape Construction Inc. Through that partnership, six young men from Saugeen First Nation are gaining hours toward their masonry certification to Ontario standards. This is the first job site.
Fundraising for the project continues. If you would like to donate, visit https://saugeenfirstnation.com/amphitheatre-restoration/
You can also follow the project on Facebook.