The Fergus BIA and Elora Fergus Tourism with the support of the Ontario Artist Blacksmith Association and a grant from the Centre Wellington Community Foundation are adding a Love Lock sculpture to James Square in Fergus.
This historically significant space has garnered much interest in the past year with the addition of a story board and hand forged bench.
At the corner of St. Patrick Street West and Tower Street North, James Square is home to a large granite stone affectionately known as the Kissing Stane. The legend of the Kissing Stane goes back to Victorian times when it was reportedly the one location in Fergus where public displays of affection were tolerated.
Additionally, many townsfolk claimed that to be kissed while seated on the stone would bring good luck.
Two events are taking place in the coming weeks to add the Love Lock sculpture to this space. On Aug. 22, the Ontario Artist Blacksmith Association will be on site forging the sculpture.
From 10am to 3pm, several blacksmiths will demonstrate their forging techniques “in creating this beautiful work of art,” organizers state.
The finished and installed sculpture will then be unveiled as part of local Culture Days celebrations on Sept. 26 when everyone is invited to add their very own love lock.
Love locks are deeply steeped in history dating back 100 years or more.
They are locks upon which loved ones write their names and attach them to an object such as this sculpture.
The key is then thrown away (in this case a sealed box at the base of the sculpture) to signify unbreakable love.
“It is a charming ritual that has taken hold all over the world and Fergus is thrilled to be part of this unique tradition while embracing the love theme in this delightful space in its historic downtown,” organizers state.
