megram - Index

megram - 55JulOttawa - Index

Day Tripper
Story and photos by Madeline Kallio
Treasures Along
The Bonnechere
Discover the natural beauty and quaint
shops of Eganville and Golden Lake
The region along the Bonnechere River and the lakes
in its path are filled with exciting memories of the
lumber barons, and thankfully much remains of the
early days of these settlements.The delight of this countryside
is the joy of discovery; and so many interesting and
scenic places lie waiting for the visitor to happen upon
them. It would be impossible to list all of the businesses
and attractions in this area, so this article is meant to highlight
only a few. Take the time to travel some remarkable
country roads and meet some remarkable country folks.
Although you will be welcome at any time, the last weekend
in September provides a wonderful opportunity to
also enjoy the incredible autumn colours when visiting the
artists and artisans throughout the community on the
July/August 2008 • 43 • Fifty-Five Plus Magazine
Fishing on the
Bonnechere at Eganville.
Annual Madawaska Valley Studio Tour
(www.madawaskastudiotour.com).The Eganville Tourist
Information Centre (613 628-1594) is a quaint, little log
building that greets you as you enter the town. Stop there
and get introduced to an exciting adventure!
Eganville, the Jewel of the Bonnechere
In 1825, Gregoire Bélanger was the first settler in the
small valley on the Bonnechere River.For whatever reason,
he left the following year and sold his land and shanty to
James Wentworth, who opened a lumbering depot known
as The Farm. John Egan, who was to become one of the
Ottawa Valley’s wealthiest lumber barons, arrived in 1830
and developed the town site, which was known then as