The topic for the May meeting of the Maryborough Horticultural Society was “Dry Stone Walls,” presented by Willa Wick of Harriston. Wick became interested in the building of dry stone walls several years ago. She learned how it was done by taking some courses and has participated in building a number of them.
Dry stone walls are built from stones without mortar. They normally are “double skinned” (two walls beside each other with “through stones” to keep the two walls together). Wick showed slides of a number of places that she had been to study and help build stone walls. Many are found in England, Scotland and Spain as well as several places in Ontario.
Dry stone walls have been built for centuries and many are still standing. Especially in England, Scotland and Ireland stone walls were built as fences to keep sheep or cattle in. The craft was also used to create small arched bridges and many other architectural features. Wick noted that today, especially in some European countries, walls are constructed using this method to prevent erosion or in terracing where land is at a minimum.
Members were very interested in Wick’s presentation.
Jane McDonald, the judge for the Spring Flower Show, gave her remarks on the entries. The number of entries was down and she encouraged members to participate.
A lunch, prepared by Jerry Ottens and Gea Lobsinger was served
The treasurer reported the Society’s Spring Flower and Bake Sale was successful in spite of the cold weather. It netted a profit of $328. Margaret Martin reported she had all the volunteers lined up for the various flower beds that the society looks after.
The next meeting and Summer Flower Show will be held on June 25 at the Moorefield Optimist Hall.
