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Then and Now

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Then and Now shares historical photos and personal stories of past people, places, and events and connects them to their significance today. They are made possible through the continued support of Dietrich Law as part of our Community Leaders Program.


Fergus-born Doug Rombough lived his dream of playing in the NHL

Fergus-born Doug Rombough lived his dream of playing in the NHL

After making a name for himself playing for St. Catherines, Rombough signed with the Buffalo Sabres, then played for New York Islanders
Escaped American slaves urged to integrate into Elora community

Escaped American slaves urged to integrate into Elora community

Wanted in the U.S. for helping a fugitive slave escape jail, Samuel Ringgold Ward made an Elora stop on Ontario tour
As Second World War raged, investigators sought Elora 'fire bug'

As Second World War raged, investigators sought Elora 'fire bug'

In 1942, there were three suspicious fire set in a matter of days, prompting a community meeting and special constables put on watch
In early days of Elora and Fergus, Christmas presents were simple

In early days of Elora and Fergus, Christmas presents were simple

Children from the late 19th and early 20th centuries wouldn't recognize most of the toys given today
A look at some of the names on Elora, Fergus cenotaphs

A look at some of the names on Elora, Fergus cenotaphs

Engraved names represent people whose hopes and dreams cut short by war
Rivalry between Elora and Fergus included lacrosse melee

Rivalry between Elora and Fergus included lacrosse melee

Several members of the Elora Rocks and Fergus Thistles have been inducted into national and provincial halls of fame
Inventor of AM radio, world's first radio DJ, lived in Fergus

Inventor of AM radio, world's first radio DJ, lived in Fergus

Reginald Fessenden credited with 500-plus inventions, including primitive form of iceberg-spotting radar inspired by Titanic disaster
Abandoned rail lines turned trailways, Wellington has plenty

Abandoned rail lines turned trailways, Wellington has plenty

It is midsummer, the perfect season for hiking and biking through the countryside.
Meet two promising Fergus athletes who fell short of success

Meet two promising Fergus athletes who fell short of success

Unfortunate circumstances plagued the careers of speed skater James Forrester and swimmer Shirley Campbell
Silver communion set is only 'evidence' of legendary love affair

Silver communion set is only 'evidence' of legendary love affair

Legend says Elora was the scene of a secret love affair between Rev. John Smithurst and Florence Nightingale