By Ken Hirter
This month’s Walkabout finds me on Stuart Avenue next to the new GO station. For years I have always been in awe of beautiful architecture here and Hamilton it is an architectural treasure trove. The Workers Art & Heritage Centre (WAHC) stands in all its glory with the pillars by the entrance door.
Their Mission Statement: Serving to preserve and promote the Culture & History of ALL working people.
It was conceived in the late 1980’s by a dynamic group of labor historians, artists, union and community activist who got together to discuss the need for a place to discuss where workers history could be celebrated.
A brief history: The building itself is known as Custom House which was built in 1860 to handle trade flowing through Hamilton Harbour and fanning out into Upper Canada.
Over the years the building did house many different companies. Custom House sadly sat deserted until the WAHC was able to purchase the building in 1996. Over 1.5 million went into the restoration of this majestic historic building.
EXPLORE-ENGAGE-ACTIVATE
Upcoming Calender Event:
“Work it !: Youth and Adult Arts program runs February 03-June 02 2018.
Did you know that Custom House is on the Haunted Hamilton list? It is haunted with the spirit known only as the “Dark Lady” and is telling her story…….”Dark Lady Laughed, and lit the candles one by one” Boo!!!!!!
For the Ghost Tours at Custom House please visit their website www.ghostwalks.com or call 855-8GHOST (844-6787) which features a photograph of the Workers, Art and Heritage Centre/Custom House on their website.
For information on the Workers, Arts & Heritage Centre please visit their website @wahc.museum.ca or call 905-522-3003
And please, look for some new exciting changes to my Walkabout series starting in the spring.
Till next month, take care of you and those around you. Thanks
