Resident’s ideas for “outdoor museum” and more well received by committee

View of historic Murray Street in Amhersburg.

A local resident with ideas for Amherstburg went before the economic development advisory committee and his ideas were well received.

Kurt Reffle presented numerous ideas to the committee during the Nov. 26 meeting, noting many of his ideas were reported on in an article published in the River Town Times in September.

Reffle noted he has contacted business owners, community groups, non-profit agencies and other residents about some of the concepts he has for events and activities in the town.

“My ideas already have good community support,” said Reffle. “I was told to start small and dream big.”

A key point in his ideas is the “Outdoor Museum” project. Saying that other towns are a larger version of what Murray St. is to Amherstburg, Reffle envisions photos and descriptions put up at important sites around the downtown core describing what was once there.

It would be similar to the art installations around the downtown core that were put up by Art Windsor-Essex (AWE). Reffle suggested using the Marsh Historical Collection and its vast resources to get photos about the town and its history.

“We have lost much of our bricks and mortar,” he said.

Photos and descriptions could be placed “everywhere there is a bench,” adding other locations could be utilized as well.

Other ideas include additional festivals and events during Open Air Weekends. Reffle suggested a rumrunners theme along Murray St., an 1812-themed weekend in the Open Air footprint and King’s Navy Yard Park involving the Park House Museum, First Nations and Fort Malden National Historic Site of Canada during the latter’s Living History Festival, a 60’s dance party along Richmond St., vintage bicycle shows, murder mysteries and more.

Reffle said there are business owners who are supportive of his ideas but noted that lists on online websites showing top towns to visit often exclude Amherstburg. 

“We have to show we’re still a vibrant community,” said Reffle.

Vice chair Alan Buterbaugh said some of Reffle’s ideas are “phenomenal” and noted the importance culture has on economic development.

“I think your ideas are absolutely worth considering,” Buterbaugh told Reffle.

Councillor Linden Crain, who is a council representative on the economic development committee with Councillor Diane Pouget, asked what role Reffle sees the town playing in his suggestions.

Reffle indicated the tourism department could help implement ideas, with sponsorships and grants being pursued to help pay for them.

“Our town is very good at finding grants,” he said.

Committee member Michael Deneau added he was also appreciative to Reffle for his suggestions. Deneau added not many towns have resources like the Marsh Historical Collection and it would be a good idea to utilize them.

“I commend you for your ideas,” Deneau said to Reffle.

Resident’s ideas for “outdoor museum” and more well received by committee

By Ron Giofu