Chatsworth Community Celebrates Opening of New Pavilion

A significant milestone for the Chatsworth community was marked on Sunday, as hundreds gathered to celebrate the official opening of the new Chatsworth Agricultural Society Patterson Pavilion. Located at the former arena grounds where Highways 6 and 10 intersect, the event featured music, food, activities for children, and a ceremonial ribbon-cutting.

Community leaders expressed enthusiasm for the pavilion, which they believe will serve as a vital hub for social gatherings. Joanne Anderson, president of the Chatsworth Agricultural Society, highlighted the community’s loss of its arena eight years ago, which left residents without a central gathering space. “This is what we always thought we wanted to come back to in this area, so it is amazing to have this building here now,” Anderson said.

The journey to the pavilion’s construction began nearly two years ago when society members sought approval from the municipality. Following this, a pavilion building committee was formed to oversee the project. On Sunday, committee members, including Cathie Mustard, Garrett Dier, Connor McCauley, and Pliny Loucks, received applause for their significant contributions.

The community’s support has been instrumental in bringing the pavilion to fruition. Over $300,000 has been raised through donations, with the pavilion insured for $500,000. Anderson noted, “The community has been behind it 155 percent or more. In the first weeks of fundraising, we had a big chunk of the money and we knew then it was a go.”

The pavilion, measuring 40 feet by 80 feet, features a striking red steel exterior, exposed posts and beams, and a stamped concrete floor. Translucent curtains allow natural light to enter while providing shelter from the elements. The facility also includes washrooms and a full-use kitchen, which will be completed in the coming months.

Beyond its construction, the pavilion is seen as a catalyst for further development in the area. The site had been vacant since the demolition of the 55-year-old arena in 2019 due to structural issues. While there were previous plans for a multi-use community hub, a recent motion to proceed was rejected by the township due to funding concerns. Nonetheless, Terry McKay, Deputy Mayor of Chatsworth, assured attendees that the idea is not entirely abandoned.

During the opening, Paul Vickers, Member of Provincial Parliament for Bruce-Grey-Owen Sound, expressed his commitment to collaborating with the community to explore future opportunities. The public was invited to sign a large thank-you card for local residents Joan and Jim Patterson, in recognition of their financial support for the pavilion. “When the opportunity came to help with this building, it was the perfect fit for us,” Jim Patterson remarked.

Building committee member Sharrie Brick shared her pride in seeing the pavilion filled with people. The Chatsworth Agricultural Society is already preparing to host future events, including Halloween festivities on October 26, 2023, and Christmas celebrations on December 20, 2023.

Once the kitchen is operational in early 2024, the pavilion will be available for rent through the Township of Chatsworth’s website, further establishing it as a focal point for community gatherings. This new facility not only signifies a physical space for the community but also represents a renewed sense of togetherness in Chatsworth.