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megram - dwsummer - Index

Many of the outer buildings no longer exist, and there are only remnants
of the foundations of the log cabin and log house. The deterioration of the
stone kitchen required its dismantling, and the flour mill and sawmill have
long since gone. The stable and barn are still intact; and the root cellar, ash
house and chicken coop are used for storage. However, the main house has
been restored to much of its original grandeur.
Juanita Snelgrove, the great-great-granddaughter of Hamnett Pinhey, is
a neighbour of the site. At 90 years of age, she is the oldest living descendant
of the Pinhey family. For many years, she has been actively involved
with the affairs of the estate. She has been on the board of directors of the
Pinhey Point Foundation, as well as a volunteer for many organizations in
the community. During the summer, she decorates the manor house with
flowers from her garden. Several years ago, when programming was just
beginning on the estate, she appeared, dressed in period costume, during
a ghost walk and announced, “I am Mary Ann Pinhey. Welcome to my
house!” On her 90th birthday in 2007, the estate was closed to the public so
that the family could celebrate in the manor house.
Because of the elevation and country setting, the estate has long been
a favourite location for stargazing. The Royal Astronomical Society of
Canada has held “star parties” every summer at Pinhey’s Point. The site was
chosen because of the reasonably dark skies, easy access, parking and washroom
facilities. Generally, two “star parties” are scheduled each month if
the weather cooperates and the sky is clear.
Children can join the Junior Naturalists’ Club and the Junior
Archaeologists’ Club to enjoy summer programs that teach them how the
settlers in the mid-1800s coped with everyday life, as well as the wealth of the
natural environment that surrounds the estate. Campfire storytelling, heritage
events and geocaching continue throughout the summer. Riverfest on
the last weekend of August brings together exhibitors, artisans and a wonderful
day in the country. Special occasions, such as Thanksgiving and
Christmas, are celebrated in the original way. Museum exhibits are a con-
Due West Magazine • Page 43 • Summer 2008
stant feature of the house, which is open to
the public from mid-May to the end of August,
Wednesday to Friday from noon to 5 p.m. and
Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Tours of the estate are conducted by costumed
guides; alternatively, guests can take a
self-guided tour. The public is invited to come,
bring a picnic lunch, enjoy the tremendous
view and explore the estate. This is our heritage
and belongs to all of us to enjoy.
Events at the estate are posted on the City
of Ottawa website at www.ottawa.ca/museums.
You can also call 613 247-4830 ext. 221 or 613
832-4347 during the open season. The estate
is located at 270 Pinhey’s Point Road, just off
Riddell Drive.