Leeds and the Thousand Islands marks 25 years since amalgamation
Against the backdrop of the Township of Leeds and the Thousand Islands municipal office, residents, council members and township staff looked skyward Monday evening as a new community-inspired flag climbed the flagpole, marking 25 years since the municipality’s amalgamation.
The ceremony celebrated more than the unveiling of a commemorative flag. It also marked a milestone in the township’s history, recognizing the communities that came together a quarter-century ago while looking ahead to the next chapter.
The centrepiece of the event was the official raising of the township’s 25th Anniversary of Amalgamation commemorative flag by local resident and former township councillor John Paul “JP” Jackson, whose winning design was selected through a community voting process.
As the flag unfurled in the summer breeze outside the municipal office on Prince Street, attendees applauded the community-created design that township officials said reflects both the municipality’s history and the pride residents continue to share in calling Leeds and the Thousand Islands home.
Mayor Corinna Smith-Gatcke said the ceremony was ultimately a celebration of the people behind the community.
“This celebration is a reflection of the people who make our township such a strong and welcoming community,” Smith-Gatcke said. “The anniversary logo is meaningful because it was created by a resident and voted on by the larger community and reflects the pride we all share in our community.”
The ceremony included remarks from members of council, recognition of Jackson’s contribution and an overview of the public design competition and voting process that led to the selection of the anniversary flag.
Following the official unveiling, residents gathered to congratulate Jackson, discuss the artwork and celebrate the milestone together while enjoying commemorative chocolate bars created by local chocolatier Ridgway Confections.
The flag will remain flying at the township’s administrative office for the remainder of the municipality’s 25th anniversary year.
The flag raising is one of several initiatives recognizing the anniversary. Last month, the township planted 25 silver maple trees in parks throughout the municipality to commemorate the milestone.
Township staff also encouraged residents to continue participating in anniversary events planned throughout the year as Leeds and the Thousand Islands reflects on its past while looking toward its future.
The Township of Leeds and the Thousand Islands came into being on Jan. 1, 2001, through the amalgamation of the former townships of Front of Leeds and Lansdowne, Rear of Leeds and Lansdowne, and Front of Escott.
Keith Dempsey is a Local Journalism Initiative reporter who works out of the Brockville Recorder and Times. The Local Journalism Initiative is funded by the Government of Canada.